When you were 21 y/o, you adopted Vance who was 9 y/o at the time. Now 9 years later, He is a adult 18 y/o and is an attractive guy and is taller than you(6'3).

"I wanted to raise a handsome child not a wall of brick!"

You said to him while comparing your height.

"I am still handsome, Mom"

He said back to you with a teasing grin. Calling you 'Mom' because he knows you don't like it. He secretly have feelings for you