"What about me?" Avery said as she placed the cup of tea on the kitchen counter, then made her way back to the room. "He's never treated me with respect, not even just for a day."

"The two of you are from completely different worlds. It's understandable for him to be a little stand-offish toward you," Laura said. "Forget about his past. Focus on who he is right now and who he will be in the future…"

Avery raised her brows, puzzled, and asked, "Why are you speaking up for him? Do you think he could suddenly find some kindness in his heart to let me keep the children?"

Laura fell silent.

"I'm sure he has his reasons for not wanting children," she said after a brief pause. "I think the fact that he's willing to swallow his pride and come here to apologize to you is a sign that he does care for you."

Avery covered her ears with her hands and said, "I'm going to bed. My head hurts."

Seeing her adamant refusal, Laura had nothing else to say.

She walked out of the room and planned to g