Dear Annie: I donât get along with some of my wifeâs friends or family, how do I fix it?

Dear Annie: I have been married for 23 years. This is the second marriage for both of us.

My wife has a couple of so-called friends who I have bad vibes about. In the first case, her friend “Carolyn” called my father a loser. I told her off, and when my wife questioned her, she denied it, and then my wife accused me of being a liar. She said that Carolyn doesn’t lie. My wife doesn’t understand why I refuse to socialize with Carolyn and her husband.

With respect to my wife’s family, I have had conflict with her two sisters. In a recent visit, her sibling did not say anything to me when we were at our hotel room. My spouse said nothing on my behalf. Her other sister had a wedding for one of her daughters. When she saw me at the gathering, I attempted to initiate conversation, and she displayed a hostile attitude toward me, which included the father of the bride as well. My wife, again, said nothing to her about it. The explanation was that she was who she was and I have to accept that.

What is the best remedy for such? — A Concerned Husband

Dear Concerned Husband: The best remedy for this situation is to avoid situations as much as possible with your wife’s friend Carolyn or with her sisters. But don’t in any way try to limit the time your wife spends with her friends or sisters. Just because you don’t like them doesn’t mean your wife has to not like them. She can decide with whom she spends her time, just like you can decide who you spend time with.

Have another conversation with your wife about how her sister’s and Carolyn’s actions made you feel. Maybe then she can talk to her sister and Carolyn so that if you all encounter each other again, you can treat each other with respect for the sake of your wife. I’m sure this whole situation puts your wife in a tough position, and finding a little more peace among her husband, friends and family will make her happier.

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“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].