to ask if he's OK? Or would this be overstepping?

[GuinnessLover]

Close friend of mine has three children, two from previous relationship, one with partner of about a year. Youngest was unexpected (she had the coil but still got pregnant). His middle son was v upset today because of a small argument he had with his younger brother. Completely understand that he was upset, as his brother broke his new toy (by accident). He went to go and comfort his son as he ran off, but his partner literally got up and stood in front of him and said 'no, leave him on his own, he can't just get upset over something as stupid as a toy. Stop being soft.' He's mentioned feeling trapped to another friend and the way she physically prevented him from going to his son has just stuck with me a little. Am I worrying over nothing? Or should I bring it up with him? Not sure if it's just me being daft or not. Worried about him. We've been friends for 10 or so years.

Speak to him about your concerns, you'll know from how he responds whether it's something to be worried about? If no concern, at least they'll know you've got their back and if there is something of concern they'll appreciate you noticing and hopefully feel able to open up?

Thanks for your response. It's really hard to tell if it's worrying or not and having been in a controlling relationship myself I feel like I am oversensitive and sometimes see things as controlling when they're not

I would say with the best will in the world that preventing someone from comforting their child is controlling behaviour. Doesn't sound like this is projection, but I don't know these people or their circumstances. Speak to him and draw conclusion from the response