When children are involved, there is always heartache. It could be from losing custody in a divorce, or them simply growing up and moving away. For you, it sounds like the relationship with this woman's kids, was initiated more for her benefit and than yours. That's okay, you still got to love the children and spend time with them. You gave those kids a precious gift - your love and time and in return they gave you their love and affection. She can never take that away. Now, its time for you to continue to be an adult, consider this like a divorce, but without visitation, and move on to help other kids.

Just a bit of advice: Dry your tears, slap on a smile and pretend it doesn't hurt. Don't talk about it to yuor coworkers, that just feeds the gossip mill at work.

To handle the situation, I put hurt behind me by writing about it. I would create a story about the kids with a happy ending. Then I would go out and find somewhere I could volunteer those hours formerly spent with her kids, in doing things for underprivileged children - maybe like a big-sister program. You'll know what will work for you in healing.

I wish you the best.