13 years ago, my dad introduced us to a woman who is not much older than me. Eventually they married. She was a wonderful woman, however we have always had a very difficult relationship with my father. I had many conversations with my step mum where I had to reassure her that she wasn't responsible for the relationship between me and my dad. My dad had a massive chip on his shoulder about the age difference. I used to tell him that despite they way he introduced her (brought her along to my daughter's first birthday without telling me anything beforehand), I've never had a problem with his relationship and never would.
Sadly she died of cancer a week ago. I had a very difficult conversation with my dad where he says both my brother and I have been distant from him, and he thinks this was because of his wife. He's said the same to my brother.
Now my brother says he won't go to the funeral. Work trip. I'm absolutely gobsmacked. And I'm feeling pretty furious towards him right now - feel like he is bailing on a difficult situation. I think I can understand that feelings run high in these situations, but AIBU for being angry with my brother?