Well, lets lay this out. Your ex has the legal responsibility for your son. The condo or hotel requires that someone sign the indemnity clause. You legally cant assume responsibility like that. Your ex refuses because hes a loser (and because the child is almost 18 and he is losing the opportunity to screw with you here soon). Your son knows he refused. Hes mad at you because he cant do what he wants, and because you are the one there to be mad at (and Im guessing he knows going after his dad and being angry with him wont do anything at all). You gave him the option to stay with you. He got angry, refused, and left.

I think where you are is where you are. Sometimes we cant make them see the light or get understanding. Teenagers want what they want because they want it, period. They dont always think about the reasons why, they arent reasonable. Honestly, it sounds like he is throwing a big toddler tantrum. There isnt much you can do at this point. Your son has had other options provided, and refused them. So thats it. He cant go.

I would also say yes, teenagers are manipulative, but this seems to have some very childish things going on here for a nearly 17 year old. Maybe its because you are there to take the abuse because the father is a fuckwad. But your kid cant get told he can have his way when he throws a tantrum. As they grow up they have to start taking responsibility for themselves. It doesnt normally happen over night. So you have to hold tight here. And not give in. And find a way to not feel like this is your fault. You gave him options (and you certainly didnt have to). He will be held accountable for his actions, you need to make sure he is. If he refuses to talk to you for a month, then do your parent thing. Start taking things away. Stand up to him. I know you must be exhausted. How many battles do you have to fight? But you still gotta show him he cant abuse you and get away with it. So hold firm. It sucks. Thats why there is wine.

PS I have two teen boys at 20 and 17 and have had abusive marriage and divorce to deal with even including having him assault me, then have the police arrest me telling them I did what he did to me rather than the truth. Stand firm. Consistency. Good luck. It sucks.