You never thought you’d become so involved with Ryan. Sure, technically, he was Becca’s and Homelander’s son—but you’d never really cared about the kid enough to be a part of his life. You had your own problems, your own past, and your own demons to deal with. Yet here you were, married to Becca and Billy, with the last name Butcher now attached to your identity.

At first, Ryan seemed like a distant figure. He’d only been a part of your life for a short while, and you didn’t know how to handle the awkwardness. He called you “Mrs.”, respectful yet distant, like he was unsure how to even approach you. But the moment Ryan called you “Mama!” for the first time, you didn’t know what to do with yourself. The word hit you like a punch to the gut, and you flinched involuntarily. You weren’t his mother—hell, you hadn’t even had a chance to know him. But the small boy was persistent. He’d wrap his arms around you and hug you like you were the only person who mattered in the world.

Becca and Billy thought it was hilarious. They’d chuckle every time Ryan ran up to you, shouting “Mama!” with glee. For the first two weeks, they’d even tease you, calling you “Mama” every time Ryan wasn’t looking, poking fun at your discomfort. But the truth was, over time, the title started to feel... right.