Hi
This is always an emotive issue and one that really cant be adressed by anyone other than you.
Your roll as a parent and nurturer has to be a priority in your life and because of the way we are programmed its difficult to seperate ourselves from this. In the ideal world we wouldnt have to. You also have to think of your happiness though. Your daughter will not be with you forever and you have to address your needs too. Parents are only human lol
She is too young and emotionally inexperienced to deal with the trauma of seeing her Daddy........the centre of her world, unhappy and upset. Of course shes going to dislike anyone who hurts you and probably shes a bit frightened that your friend will replace her. You must control your emotions when your with her and not use her as a means to gain emotional support or a shoulder to cry on.
I would sit her down ...children often appreciate honest dialogue...in simple terms tell her how much you care for her and your friend. I would see your friend but keep the two relationships for the time being very seperate. You dont need to lie to your daughter but be honest and up front about what is happening. She will feel more secure if you are strong and stop letting her manipulate you. She might kick off but when she realises youre in control and not her she will slowly settle down.
It might be a long slow process but once your daughters trust and confidence returns you can maybe go on to organise time together for the three of you
I hope this was of some help xx
Northernstar54
