Azlynn’s P.O.V.

Hayley’s hopeful eyes shattered my heart. I had once promised her to marry her daddy to be the forever family. My precious honey was just a kid, oblivious to the challenges of real life. It was so hard to explain that love and hate were more complex than they seemed to be.

Crouching down to be at her level, I spoke softly.

“To whom I love or marry will never affect our relationship, my precious honey. I am your mommy and nothing can change it.”

“Pinky promise?”

She raised her tiny finger, seeking confirmation. I laughed and joined my pinky with her.

“Pinky promise, my precious honey. I...