"I want to be a part of their lives," he said. Though I know I hurt you and I

nsulating her children from the pain of their father's

ure if I can trust you again.

y. For that as well, I apologize sincerely. Emma, but do let me

st, she remarked, "I need more time." My first

Take all the time you need." Emma, you have my attention. I l

standing in the living room. Emotion

iled her to ask to meet at the local park. Uncertain of her desire to see him again, she

ossibilities of what Lucas would say. As she approached, he

ma," Lucas rang

little shak

chest, Emma nodded. Y

ow see how gravely I injured you. When I enabled my father's influence to distort my thoughts, I was

to believe him over me, she said softly. "You broke my h

"I know." And I have regretted it every day since. Emma

nting them to know their father. Eventually, she said, her voice barely audible abov

I understand, he said, very gently. Emma, pl

alone on the bench. Emotions we

magined raising her children with an unrestrictedly loving and supportive partner. Once L

to get together at the local coffee shop. Uncertain of her desire to see him again, sh

ssibilities of what Lucas would say. He was glaring at her fr

miled hopefully. "Emma," he murmure

nodded. Quietly, she asked, "W

e began, his voice sincere. "And I can see why you're not sure you can trust me once more. Ho

I can ever trust you again, Lucas," remarked dejectedly

gently. Emma, nevertheless, please let me introduce my

saw. She wanted to believe him, to think

e barely audible above a whisper. "Time to

of hers. He said, quite sincerely, "Take all t

at the table by herself. Emotions

decisions bearing down on her. Whatever happened next, she knew she would bravely and head-

the air. Emma Matthews and Lucas Blackwood were only getting started on a j

ns. Lucas Blackwood's persistent presence in her life had stirred up memories of their past and ignited a