My Secret World Falls Apart When My Little Can't Take It Anymore

I’ve been Mommy for almost three years now. When I came out as trans a couple of years back, the idea of being someone's protective and nurturing parent figure really appealed to me. I'm in my early twenties but carry this old soul vibe that people often find endearing. My little is younger than me but much more emotionally immature, always needing guidance and discipline, something I’m very comfortable providing. We met through a mutual friend who thought we’d be good together, and boy was she right! In the beginning, it was great. He loved the structure and care Mommy provided, and I thrived in this role where I could nurture and love someone unconditionally. We were close, very close, more than just a dynamic but also companions through life's ups and downs. But then things started to shift. My little began feeling smothered by the rules, even though he set them himself. He would cry out for affection one minute and push me away the next, confusing both of us. I tried being more lenient, adjusting my approach, but nothing seemed to work as well as it did before. One night, after a particularly stressful day at work, I found myself enforcing some old rules about curfews and chores that we hadn’t really followed in months. My little was already on edge from family drama of his own, something I know he tries hard to hide from me. It ended with us both crying out loud, him feeling like a burden, me feeling helpless. After that night, things haven't been the same. He’s pulled away, stopped calling as often and seems distant whenever we do speak. There's no resentment or anger, just sadness in his voice when he tells me he needs to focus on himself right now, an admission I’ve both supported but also fear losing him. I’m not sure what this means for our future together. Maybe it’s time for a break where we can figure out if either of us still wants the dynamic that once brought us so much joy or if something new is needed. Writing this out makes me realize how much I’ve internalized his pain and struggle, even now, just typing feels like grieving. I know deep down he’s hurting too, but maybe right now isn't about us fixing everything. It's more about giving each other space to heal before deciding if we can come back stronger or let go gracefully.