Hi scout -

I agree with the others. Perhaps letting it sit a bit before you answer will help take some of the emotional sting out of the initial reaction.

I f it were me, i would stay away from anything involving the word "fairness" - that's emotional bait. It plays into the ridiculousness of what they call "time of possession" in football. My F and M did this for 20 years after their D.

If I were you, I would stick to the facts.

I'm sorry you feel that way.
I was unaware of an agreement with your M.
As per our original agreement, the changeover was to happen at 5pm.
If 5 pm does not work for you, 4pm will be fine.

Try not to think of this compromise as a metaphor for your whole situation. It is only one interaction. You're dealing with someone who isn't making rational sense and is preprogrammed to blame you for it.

Take care, scout - stay strong smile