The kids started school. The private academy that Mr. Ex doesn’t want them to attend; the school that is going to turn our children into little “killers” (leave that for another post).
Mr. Ex decided that he was going to meet us at the school. He called me the night before to tell me to be there early because he wanted to make sure he was able to spend some time with the boys before school started. Typical Mr. Ex barking orders at the last minute. But, this was not about me, it was about my kids so I agreed.
I got the boys ready and we had breakfast and we were off. Mr. Boyfriend didn’t attend and we explained to the boys why he wasn’t going. Obviously the reason he didn’t go had everything to do with Mr. Ex being there and since we know that Mr. Ex is unhappy about the school choice we figured it was best to keep things simple. The morning started out great.
We got to the school and the boys were excited and happy and smiling. We got out and took photos and videos. Talked to other parents and waited for Mr. Ex. He showed up late. Which of course meant he didn’t have that “extra time” with the kids. Somehow that ended up being my fault.
Here’s the great news (add sarcastic tone) Mr. Ex showed up with Mrs. Ex and then he did this:
He introduced Mrs Ex to all the parents and teachers like this: This is my wife, Mrs Ex, #1 & #2’s stepmother.
I wasn’t prepared for that. It hurt so much to hear the words “stepmother”. Am I crazy? They’re married. Of course she’s the stepmother. I didn’t flinch at the “Mrs. Ex”, at the “my wife”, but when he said “#1 & #2’s stepmother” I absolutely lost my balance.
I tried to hide it but I know that the parents who know me saw right through me. I felt embarrassed.
We took the boys to their respective classrooms and the morning ended. Mr Ex said something to me when we were walking out which I didn’t hear because I was lost in thought, sadness, anger, so many emotions all wrapped up into one.
Why did those words sting me?