Family boundaries and celebrations: Why exclusion from a dinner plan led to a difficult decision regarding a birthday event

high-profile Boston clients in the last two years. He owed me favors, and while he might find my request peculiar, professional courtesy dictated he comply.

“When should I inform them?” he asked.

“I’ll text you in exactly five minutes,” I said. “I’d like to observe from somewhere discreet.”

He guided me to a small, shadowed alcove near the kitchen entrance.continue reading …