That night, as Ivik and I were already in bed, we held each other tightly, finding peace in each other's presence. Ivik was brushing my cheek with his thumb; his touch was gentle and comforting. He was smiling, as though he had finally found the missing piece of his heart.

"Are you sure about giving a chance to Sierra?" Ivik asked.

"It's not about her, Ivik," I said, giving him a small smile. "It's about the kid. No matter how troublesome his mother is, the child is innocent and deserves a chance at a better life. We can't let our personal feelings get in the way of doing what's right...