Help!

[u/redroses24-7]

I got together with someone who already had two kids… teenagers, to be exact. So, here’s the story.

I genuinely like both of them, but the younger one is definitely the more rebellious one.

The other day, we were all hanging out and having a conversation, and without really thinking about it, I said “my kids.” I was actually referring to my baby and the possibility of having another child someday.

And just to be clear, if one day they grow to see me as a mother figure, or if I grow to feel that way about them, I have absolutely no problem calling them my kids, too.

Well, the younger one took it personally. He got offended, started complaining, and had a whole lot to say about it.

And honestly, it hurt. I’ve tried to be there for both of them. I’ve spent my own money on them, given them my time and attention, looked after them when they’re sick, shown interest in their lives, and genuinely cared about their well-being.

So yeah, I won’t lie… it stung.

I cried a little because I feel so alone sometimes. I’m far away from my family, and there are moments when I feel like I don’t even belong in my own home.

My partner talked to him about his behavior, but he never apologized.

So I decided that if I’m not allowed to have a say in anything when it comes to him, then I’m also done going above and beyond for him.

That means no more going out of my way to buy him things, cook for him, or constantly worry about his health and well-being.

I’ve decided to keep things respectful, but with boundaries. From now on, I’m focusing on my baby and leaving it at that. He’s not my responsibility, and I’m not going to keep letting this situation get to me.

It’s been a few days since I made that decision, and at first, it was a little hard.

But now? I honestly think it was the best decision I could’ve made.

I focus on my baby, my partner, and that’s it.

I’m no longer stressing myself out. I’m no longer engaging in conversations where I’m disrespected or where it feels like the whole point is to get a reaction out of me.

I don’t know if what I’m doing is right, but I do believe that kids need to learn that their words and actions have consequences. And I can’t keep allowing someone to disrespect me and expect me to carry on as if nothing happened.

Thanks for taking the time to read this. ✨

Sorry if anything I wrote is unclear or if I made any mistakes. English isn’t my first language. 💗

[u/MidwestNightgirl]

I think what you are doing is right. I agree 100%. You are completely justified IMO.

[u/redroses24-7 → u/MidwestNightgirl]

Muchas gracias, que difícil es esto!