DEAR MISS MANNERS: My wonderful partner and I will soon be attending his son’s wedding. This will be the first time he’ll see a lot of his former in-laws and friends since the divorce a few years ago, when they pretty much ghosted him.

He’s actually on good terms with his ex-wife now, but was hurt that most of those in her circle pinned him as the bad guy and unceremoniously cut him out of their lives. Therefore, he has no desire to exchange pleasantries with them.

Is there a good response to the inevitable (and fake) “Hey, how have you been?” or “Good to see you” greetings these people will give upon seeing him? Something between an equally fake reply and saying what he really feels?

GENTLE READER: “Thank you for coming.” This is not only cordial, but reminds these guests that your partner is also a de facto host — and that they should tread lightly on his territory.

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