I forcefully wipe away the tears threatening to spill. I'm sure Kessler can hear the tiny heartbeat. I feel a mix of emotions—regret for lashing out at her in anger, and the feeling of my heart breaking all over again.

Just when I thought I wanted to go against all odds and give Kessler and me a chance to break down the walls I've created around me.

I struggle to make sense of it all. I glance at Kessler, his expression unreadable, With a shaky breath, I gather my resolve.

I calmly turn to Kessler and Annie, and say, "Shut the door behind you, I need to take a nap."...