My husband’s children have always disliked me, but my husband, Jack, stood by me when he saw their cruelty. This led to a valuable lesson for them and eventually, an apology.

Jack, a 43-year-old father of three, was devastated when I met him two years after his wife passed away. I’m 53, and our relationship initially faced strong resistance from his kids. After being together for nine years and engaged for four, his children still did not accept me, even though I wasn’t trying to replace their mother.

When I moved in, his kids were in college, but they still made me feel like an intruder. Their disrespect intensified when Jack proposed. I kept this from Jack to avoid conflict, knowing how hard he had worked to provide for his children.

Our small wedding ceremony was peaceful, as his children claimed they had other commitments and didn’t attend. We splurged on a honeymoon in the Bahamas, where his kids unexpectedly showed up. They mocked me, trying to ruin our honeymoon.

Jack overheard their insults and erupted in anger, surprising everyone. “ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!” he shouted. He reprimanded them for their entitled behavior and disrespect, especially during our honeymoon. Jack called security to escort them out and immediately cut off their financial support.

The following months were tough for his kids, who had to learn the value of hard work and respect without their father’s financial aid. Eventually, they apologized. “Dad, I’m sorry,” they said. Jack, emotional, accepted their apology, and they began rebuilding their relationship.