Forrest looked down at the swaddled baby and confessed, “It was all my fault. If I had..."

“Forrest, we need to leave the past behind. We can't dwell on what's gone," Laura murmured as she gently stroked her daughter's cheek.

"Promise me you'll take good care of our little one."

Forrest gave a solemn nod. "I promise."

“If the time comes when you marry and find that raising this child isn't convenient, remember that you can always count on Mila," Laura added thoughtfully. "She and I are close friends, and she'd love her like her own."

Forrest met her gaze. "I'll raise the child. It's my call what happens next."

His curt reply implied she needn't elaborate.

Besides, he really didn't like what Laura said.

Of course, he'd care for their child - his flesh and blood.

Besides, how could she presume he'd ever marry?

Marriage was never on his radar.

What was love anyway?

A recipe for pain.

He was done with it.

Finding a woman to share his life?

Unthinkable.

Physical needs were needed, but love was unnecessary.

Laura understood. Since she had decided to let Forrest raise their daughter, she shouldn't interfere anymore.

Her eyes lingered on the baby's tiny, pursed mouth. So small, so soft.

A pang of sadness twisted in her gut.