Determined Resolve

Daniel’s POV

I paced around my apartment, my thoughts in turmoil after Emma’s revelation. She had come back only to take Lily away, and the loneliness gnawed at me. I had spoken to Emma, my once best friend and lover, but her mind was set on forging separate paths. I was sick of hearing it, angry at her for wanting to take Lily. She didn’t have the right. She belonged to me. And so did Lily.

Somehow, I found myself standing in front of Emma’s parents’ house. I knocked, my heart pounding in my chest. The door opened, and Emma’s mother, Karen, appeared, surprise evident on her face.

“It’s not your typical day to come see Lily. What are you doing here?” she asked.

“Did you know Emma is taking Lily with her?” I demanded, my voice tight with anger.

Karen looked at me calmly. “What’s so unusual about that? She is her mother, and Lily is supposed to be raised by her. I’m proud of Emma for her decision.”

I clenched my fists, frustration boiling over. “Why are you so against me? You