Laura took a deep breath before answering.

“Then I’ll wait,” she said calmly. “Real love doesn’t force, shout, or make demands. It’s built every single day. Your father has loved me since before you were even born… and he never abandoned you. He isn’t going to start now.”

“What if you leave him so he can be with only me?”

“Impossible.” Laura smiled. “Neither of us can walk away anymore. We love each other too much. But if you ever need space, I’ll respect that without having to leave your fathe