“I understand," Raegan replied with a nod.

Erick continued to comfort her, "There's no need to rush at this moment. After all these years, I doubt Davey will suddenly act against our mother. He might have noticed something, though. So, let's wait a bit longer and see what he's really up to."

Raegan realized Erick's words made sense. According to their father, Davey's connection with their mother was complicated by emotions. So, Davey wouldn't harm their mother rashly.

But Davey was unpredictable. If they didn't plan carefully, everyone involved might end disastrously because of an impulsive move. Of course, that included their mother.

Erick asked casually, “Did you see Mitchel yesterday?"

Raegan thought back to that embarrassing moment and nodded.

Fearing Raegan might overthink it, Erick quickly clarified, “He came here for the transportation project..."

“I'm aware," Raegan interrupted.

“Stefan told me about his confession to you yesterday", Erick said, changing the topic.

Stefan's sincere expression flashed across Raegan's mind. At the thought of this, her face flushed slightly.

She remained silent, so Erick probed, "What do you think?"

Raegan was about to respond. But before she could say something, Erick rephrased his question, "Are you seriously considering it?"

"I haven't decided yet," Raegan replied truthfully.

Raegan's past with Mitchel had left her timid, wary of repeating the history and experiencing the suffering again. Plus, she had Janey and two more babies on the way, rendering her felt she couldn't afford to be reckless on the matter of being involved in a relationship.

Stefan was Erick's pal and a man of proven character. Raegan reasoned that from the perspective of a stepfather for her children, he would be a great choice.

“Raegan, if you're undecided, don't let others’ opinions sway you. Focus on what's best for you. Neither your children nor us should influence your decision," Erick said earnestly.

Raegan was stunned for a moment. Judging from Erick's tone, it seemed he didn't want her to be with Stefan. She couldn't help asking, “Why? Didn't you want to set me up with Stefan before?"

Erick raised an eyebrow. “I can't even judge my own feelings clearly. So, my recommendation didn't say much. Stefan is a good man. But you can't consider him just because of that. Do you understand what I mean?"

Raegan was silent.

Erick stared at her, studying her expression. With the multiple years before Raegan reunited with the Fosters, he couldn't quite discern the cause of her indecisiveness. His main concern was her happiness, and he believed marriage was not about fulfilling tasks or simply finding a father for her children. Raegan deserved more than just settling down.