Conversations with an 11-year-old

RJ: I want a stepdad.
Me: Um, well, that would mean I have to get married to someone.
RJ: Yeah, so.
Me: I'm not even dating anyone. And there isn't a man on this planet that wants to marry me. I'm sorry, but you'll have to wait a while longer to get a stepdad.
RJ: (makes a bit of a sad face and looks out the passenger window)

Driving to work the other day, RJ springs this conversation on me. It broke my heart to see him become so sad. I asked why he all-of-a-sudden wanted a stepdad, and his response always led back to because he'll play with me and teach me MEN stuff. He's been coming to work with me every day and helps bff@work out a lot. Bff@work is a very "manly" kind of man. From his actions to his words, he's all man. RJ has apparently taken a liking to that. Thankgoodness! The next challenge will be getting someone to accept my having an 11-year old. It's hasn't worked yet. :-(

A few minutes later he says, "do you think i could ever live with you?"  Immediately I wanted to say YES! COME LIVE WITH ME RIGHT NOW! But, I live realistically, and know that probably wouldn't be the best thing for him right now. Certainly not mid year. And definitely not the year before he starts junior high. (oh gosh...he's gonna be in junior high next year? I don't seem old enough to have a kid in junior high.)
Anyway, I explained to him that I would LOVE for him to live with me full time. Certain things would have to change, but I would be willing to do whatever it takes to make them. I also explained to him that The X would never in a bazillion years, allow him to live with me. But, I was in love with the idea that he at least thought about it.