Please wish D3 a HA PPY BIRTHDAY! !! from S5 and I.
I'm still confused (maybe reflecting your confusion) about your take on MIL's role. What is fearful about her presence? Is it that you're expecting a battle over D3, or that this signals 'needed support' for an upcoming D?
Stay focused on the R, UD, rather than the M. The MIL's role might actually be a positive in that she could be a great person to help you both by watching D3 while you spend time out, hopefully together in the long run.
How has MIL been in the past regarding your M to her daughter? Supportive, antagonistic, interfering but well-meaning.
