He’s not quite as bad as all that. He’s an ass, but he’s self aware enough to at least see when he’ll be perceived as the unreasonable one and back off. I honestly don’t have much of a relationship with him at all at this point, beyond saying hi and bye. My family has what most would consider a big get together every week, my nine siblings mostly showing up with their double digits of kids, all hanging out and having dinner. Without that, I lose a rather large portion of my small introverted social circle.

Mostly, I’ll stick with going when I’m comfortable and leaving when I feel disrespected. It’s shitty, but it’s something. And I can continue growing my circle elsewhere too. Joined a game night group, I see my friends from next city over every now and again. I’ll do okay.