My boyfriend Matt’s mom, Diane, has always been subtly hostile toward me, hiding sharp remarks behind polite smiles. At Matt’s birthday dinner, I dressed up, brought a thoughtful gift, and expected a nice evening with his family. But Diane had saved the seat right next to Matt for herself. When I sat down beside him, she smirked and said, “Scooch, sweetie,” forcing me to move down so she could sit between us.

The whole family laughed, including Matt. I felt humiliated but stayed quiet until I couldn’t take it anymore and left early. Matt called and texted angrily, saying I’d embarrassed him and overreacted. Diane later texted, calling me “sensitive” and “joking.”

I realized Matt wouldn’t stand up to his mom. So, I invited them to dinner at my place and set two tables: one large one for the family, and a small table just for Matt and Diane with a sign, “Mom and her treasure seats only.”

Diane laughed, but Matt was clearly uncomfortable. Later, he broke up with me over text, saying I couldn’t take a joke. I finally felt free no more scooching, no more shrinking. Just peace.