Chapter 21 Ryans living room was quiet except for the faint sound of Damien playing outside.
Debby lay on the couch, her small body still under a blanket.
Her pale face seemed even smaller with the IV line running into her arm.
Amelia sat nearby, her hand resting on Debbys as she watched Ryan pace across the room.
He stopped abruptly, turning toward her.
Amelia, he started, his voice low and hesitant.
I need to say this.
Ive failed you.
Ive failed them.
But I cant leave things like this.
I want to make it right.
Amelia didnt look at him.
She stared at Debby, stroking her hand gently, her expression unreadable.
You think you can just decide that now? After everything? Ryan took a step closer, his hands clenching at his sides.
I know its not that simple, but I want to be here for themand for you.

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Ill do whatever it takes.
Amelia finally turned to him, her eyes sharp.
You dont get to say that like it erases the past.
You walked away, Ryan.
You made choices, and we paid the price for them.
He nodded, guilt pressing down on him.
I know.
But Ive changed.
I see what I lost, and I cant walk away again.
Why now? Amelia snapped, her voice rising.
Why should I believe anything you say? You dont just get to come back and play the hero because its convenient for you.
Ryans gaze flickered to Debby, then back to Amelia.
Because I know I was wrong.
Because I love them.
And because I still love you.
The words hung in the air, heavier than anything else he could have said.
Amelia stiffened, her jaw tightening.
She didnt reply, her silence stretching long enough to feel like an answer.
This is your last chance, Ryan, she said finally, her voice flat.
If you want to be part of their lives, you have to prove it.
Im not doing this for youIm doing it for them.
If you mess this up, youre done.
I wont, he said, his tone steady.
Before he could say more, a voice called from the doorway.
Ryan.
Amelia turned sharply as Brenda stepped into the room.
Her hair was messy, her makeup smudged, and her coat hung awkwardly on her shoulders.
Her gaze moved between Ryan and Amelia, lingering on the couch where Debby lay.
What are you doing here? Amelia demanded, standing protectively in front of Debby.
Brenda ignored her.
She walked straight up to Ryan, her voice trembling but loud enough to command the room.
You need to hear this.
Before anyone could stop her, Brenda grabbed Ryans face and kissed him.
Ryan immediately pulled away, his expression furious.
What the hell are you doing, Brenda? he demanded, wiping his mouth as if to erase the moment.
Brenda smirked, her hand resting on her stomach.
Im pregnant, Ryan.
And this time, its yours.
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