“We can make this work for everyone,” Rebecca said against my ear.

“We can be a blended family.”

I stood stiff in her grip, holding the yellow knitted hat pressed against my hip.

“Lily has already lost Paul,” Rebecca said, stepping back and looking into my face with wide, clear eyes.

“She can’t lose another parent.”

“Are you sure about that?

Are you really willing to let me be part of her life?”

“Paul just wanted peace for all of us,” Rebecca said, turning down the steps.