I learned what manipulation was as a child because my mom was very manipulative. I thought I could always see through it. Now, I'm not so sure.
I think SD has manipulation in her genes. I've noticed that when SS talks about BM, it's just talk. He'll tell me about what he has at BM's or what he does there, etc. I never like hearing about it, but with him it's just talk. With SD on the other hand, I swear she'll say things just to irk me. For example, Wednesday she seemed to be in a really good mood. I was feeling friendly so I thought I'd make conversation.
Me: you seems to be in a good mood!
SD: yup. It's hump day. Plus it's the week that we get to see mom. And (random name)!
Me: is that your dog?
SD: uh, our REAL dog (said with attitude)
Me: as opposed to a fake dog?
SD shrugs and then keeps singing this annoying song trying to get me to pay attention to her.
Where did the random attitude come from? It seems like anytime I try to be friendly, she'll bring up BM like she's trying to piss me off. I try my best to not let the topic of BM get to me. I even try to smile and ask questions because I know they love her, and I want them to know I'm not trying to replace her. It's easier to do with SS than with SD.
I think SD does the same thing to BM- brings me up to try and get a rise out of BM. Why though? With me I stop paying attention to SD. You want to act like a brat, I don't want to be around you. What attention does she get out of BM? Is it a power trip? To know she can manipulate our emotions with what she says? It's so frustrating! How do I respond to it!?