Take a step back

“Be honest, direct and firm about what being in the middle is doing to you,” says Burn. Say, “I love you both, but this is tearing me apart, so I have to back away.” Why it works: “You’re making a clear statement that’s emotionally honest, and they do care about you, so they will usually be respectful of that boundary.” It may take some repetition (“I told you how uncomfortable this makes me”), but your plea will help you feel less bitter.