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Two years ago, OP’s husband left her for her best friend of 15 years, and they got married. Despite OP’s love for her husband, the affair wasn’t a surprise, as her mother-in-law had predicted it on their wedding day. The most painful part was the betrayal by her best friend, whom she considered a sister. Since then, OP has maintained no contact with both of them and has established boundaries regarding their children.
Recently, their 16-year-old daughter asked if she could call her stepmom “mom” to avoid confusion with a half-sibling on the way. Although OP personally disliked it, she allowed her daughter to make that choice. This decision sparked criticism from her other children and her mother-in-law, who accused OP of alienating the stepmom. However, OP defended her honest and open policy with her kids, emphasizing that personal preferences shouldn’t dictate their choices.
Scroll down till the end to read the full story.
OP’s husband left her for her best friend after 20 years. Despite her love for him, the affair wasn’t a surprise. The betrayal by her best friend hurt the most.
via Reddit
OP cut off contact, using a third party for kids. She avoids events with her ex and ex-friend, and birthdays are celebrated separately.
via Reddit
OP’s 16-year-old daughter asked to call her stepmom “mom” for the half-sibling’s sake. OP allowed it despite personal feelings.
via Reddit
OP allowed her daughter to call the stepmom “mom” despite personal discomfort. She won’t be upset with her for doing so.
via Reddit
OP’s MIL criticized her for not accepting the stepmom title. OP values honesty, allowing her kids choices despite personal preferences, like piercings.
via Reddit
OP doesn’t forbid her son’s piercings. Later, she allowed her daughter to call the stepmom “mom,” respecting her choice over personal feelings.
via Reddit
OP emphasized her no-contact with the grandmother and the importance of not sharing her number. She clarified the stepmom’s history with the kids.
via Reddit
Perhaps the youngest’s attachment explains her calling the stepmom “mom.” OP clarifies she blames both her husband and sister for the affair, thanking supporters.
via Reddit
OP notes a sister’s betrayal is as hurtful as a husband’s. Regarding her daughter’s attachment, the stepmom has been present since she was one.
via Reddit
Post-affair, OP’s youngest maintains a connection with the stepmom. OP maintains no contact with the ex, ex-MIL, and ex-best friend.
via Reddit
Now that you have read the story, it’s time for you to see what Redditors had to say about this. Read till the end to see what are other people’s opinions on this. Don’t forget to share your own opinion at the end of this article.
Your daughter’s choice to call her stepmom ‘mom’ is her decision, and you handled it with respect and understanding.
Admirable parenting!
It’s your daughter’s choice to address her stepmom. You’re fostering independence and understanding within your family dynamics.
I agree.
All of the people think it is NTA.
What are your thoughts on this story? What would you do, or how would you react if you were in OP’s position? You know that your feedback means a lot to us; therefore, we want you to share your thoughts in the comment section below. For more such articles, keep visiting Defused. Have a nice day!
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