a member

I'm 35, and my nephew is 17. He's my brother's son and has been living with me since he was little. His parents' jobs required them to constantly move between towns and states, so they didn't want him changing schools every year or two. The plan was for him to stay with me temporarily until their work situation became stable. That "temporary" arrangement lasted much longer than expected. He grew up here, made his friends here, went to school here, and eventually this became his home. His parents were still involved. They visited when they could, called regularly, and spent time with him whenever they were in town. They just weren't around for the everyday parts of his life. Now they've stopped working and are moving to another state permanently. They want him to finally live with them, which I completely understand. The problem is that he doesn't want to go. A few nights ago, we were lying together talking about the move when he suddenly started crying and telling me he didn't want to leave. I realised this isn't just him being upset about change. He's genuinely attached to the life he's built here. I don't think his parents are bad people. They didn't abandon him, and they did what they could while their jobs kept them moving. But I was the person he actually grew up living with, so I understand why leaving feels so difficult for him. That's where I'm confused. He's 17 and obviously has his own feelings about where he wants to live, but I'm still his aunt, while his parents are finally in a position to have him with them every day. I don't want him to feel like he has to choose between us. I also don't want to pressure him to stay because I'm afraid of losing him. At the same time, I don't know how to encourage him to go when he's clearly telling me he doesn't want to. And honestly, I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't be devastated. He's been part of my everyday life for years, and the house would feel too empty without him, I love him a lot now.