My son turns 11 next Month. He's had a hard year. I had to put him in therapy because his babysitter had been abusing him. It's been tough to get him in a place where he even wants hugs anymore. My ex had this long term girlfriend of 6 years named Star and my son adored her. It honestly stings.... A lot. He would want to be over his dad's house just to be around Star. I'm surprised my ex even dated her because he typically doesn't like plus sized women but that doesn't matter. Star sews and he made my son a Coraline themed doll. My dad was not happy she made my son a doll. But when he started therapy he took that doll with him. He would not see his therapist without it. Star and my ex broke up and Star would message time to time to check up on him and I did ignore her. I told my son he can have whatever he wants for his birthday and he said he wanted to see Star. I'm sorry man .. that fucking hurts. I know people will be in there high horse but it does hurt hearing my son say he wants his dad's ex girlfriend. Not even a step mom for his birthday. I get it. Right thing to do is message Star and ask if she wants to see him for his birthday. But why can't I be enough. We could do something together that he wants. But he wants Star. And they hurts me..I feel I'm allowed to feel hurt.