Organising a birthday party for DS10. He is part of a group of friends at school - mixes in well with most. However there is one child whose name often comes up if something has upset DS (let's call him Jack). DS describes Jack as being 'hard on him' and from what I can gather, Jack isn't always the nicest to DS.
DS said today that he was thinking of not inviting Jack to his party but was worried that Jack would still hear about the party and then make hard work for DS, querying why he wasn't invited.
I've suggested some ways around this to DS (saying not enough numbers or explaining that he wants people there that are always good friends to him) but he's worried they will all stoke up more trouble for him and he is adamant he won't lie. I suggested blaming it on me and telling Jack he'd told me to text Jack's parents with the invite but DS is adamant he won't blame me and also sees this as lying.
He's going between wanting to cancel the party to avoid any problems, or just inviting Jack. I don't think he should have to do either as neither option make DS happy.
Any ideas on how to help DS navigate this?!