Dear Annie: I’ve been in a relationship for three years with “Maddy,” a wonderful woman who has only one child, “Joseph,” a 40-year-old who is a total mama’s boy (putting it lightly).

Joseph refuses to have anything to do with me. He has never once come to visit us at our home. Maddy goes to see him every year and usually stays a month.

This year, she’s planning to stay six weeks. I’d love to go with her, but I’m not allowed because Joseph doesn’t want me in his house. So, I stay home each time. He shows me no respect or even interest. He doesn’t seem to care at all how either of us is doing, really. Maddy simply accepts his behavior and tells me to get over it because he’s her only child.

I understand their connection, but I think she should think about me and my feelings, too. What should I do about this dilemma? I’m starting to think that maybe she should just stay with her son instead of me. — Unfortunate Boyfriend

Dear Unfortunate: If the relationship is going to work, she’ll need to meet your concerns with more than a, “Get over it.”

Let her know, in a non-accusatory tone, that it hurts when she doesn’t seem to take your feelings seriously. Make it clear that this is a major issue for you, without issuing ultimatums.

Hopefully, she will work toward a compromise that shows she values your relationship. If nothing changes, then it might be time to move on.

Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].