Withholding any sort of response is manipulative and abusive. It is classic narcissistic behaviour and it is part of their campaign to control and destabilise. I'm married to one and have been subjected to this sort of manipulative sulking on and off for way too long.

Standing outside it and seeing it for what it is - a manipulative way to keep you feeling bad about yourself and thus in their power - is vital to breaking free and reclaiming yourself. Don't blame yourself, you are not stupid and you are worth listening too. Everyone has a story to tell, a unique human story. These two people in your life have major problems and if you can, just remind yourself of this. The problem is theirs. Best wishes to you.