for his kids, highlighting the challenges and emotional complexities of blended families. The stepmom never had a connection with her stepson. It’s pretty complicated; I’m a stepmom to 5 wonderful kids. I became their stepmom when the oldest was just 9 years old, and over time, I adopted all of them—except for one, Nick. From the beginning, Nick made it clear that he didn’t want me to be his mother, and I respected that. However, once Nick turned 18, he left no doubt that he didn’t care about me at all.I