I am the woman who knows his favorite foods, tends his wounded knees and feelings, and valiantly keeps my mouth shut over his choice of wardrobe. That place is reserved for his mother. Billy isn't as sure of my love as my other children. It's not true, but it affects our relationship all the same. Sometimes we dance around each other like two porcupines, scared of our own razor-sharp emotions.
All mothers have foul moods from time to time.
A reasonably good stepmother doesn't have this luxury. A bad day for a stepmother can usher in a week of insecurity for a stepchild. They say that love is the answer, but I'm not sure I know the question. The fact that I love Billy is a wonderful thing. Billy loves me too.