DEAR ABBY: I'm getting married this summer. I want to send an invitation to my brother, but I don't want his live-in girlfriend to come. We used to be friends until I realized she was lying to me and using me. Now she's with my brother, who is 23 years older than she is, which caused a rift in my relationship with him. We barely talk anymore.
I know I should be more understanding because it's my brother's life. He enjoys her company. But I find her hospitality fake -- just like the smile she puts on. She's not welcome at my wedding.
I want my brother there, but I'll feel terrible if he feels alone. What's the best way to handle this? Should I tell him verbally that only he is invited and not send an invitation? -- WANTS A HAPPY WEDDING IN MASSACHUSETTS
DEAR WANTS A HAPPY WEDDING: Telling your brother with whom you are no longer close that his live-in girlfriend isn't welcome at your wedding is sure to go over like a lead balloon. If you want him to be there, accept that his girlfriend is part of the package deal. You can bank on the fact that he would feel alone without her, so plan on seating them some distance from your table at the reception. It will make her presence less painful for you.