: Stepparents often feel like guests in their own homes.
| Metric | v0.01 (Fantasy) | v0.02.alpha (Reality) | |--------|----------------|----------------------| | Conflict frequency | Zero | 3-5 minor disputes/week | | Stepparent role | “New mom/dad” | “Trusted resident adult” | | Child cooperation | Enthusiastic | Cautious / transactional | | Couple alignment | Perfect harmony | “We fought, debriefed, and didn’t break up” | | Household mood | 24/7 joy | 60% neutral, 20% good, 20% tense | Blended Family -v0.02.alpha-
: Children may struggle with "loyalty binds," feeling that bonding with a stepparent betrays their biological parent. : Stepparents often feel like guests in their own homes