18-year-old plans birthday trip with parents and siblings, stepdad complains of being excluded: 'We’ve built a real family over the years'

In this story, a man had been happily married to his wife for eight years and become a stepdad to her three teenage children. He felt like they all got along well, with the kids splitting their time between living with them and their biological father.

His stepson was soon to turn 18, and for his birthday, he wanted to organize a trip to celebrate. The kids began to plan a weeklong vacation that only included them and their biological parents, excluding their stepdad.

While the stepdad wanted to be reasonable and respect their wishes, he felt insecure about being left out and about his wife spending a lengthy amount of time with her ex. 

When he spoke to the children about it, it transpired that his wife had been convinced by them to accept the arrangement. He still wasn't happy with what has happening.