David enters the room.
"Guess you must have one hell of a case. I've been looking all over for you and this is the last place I thought you might be. Actually Lauren told me you might be here. You told her you had a full day and you wouldn't be home until late."
He pauses noticing that Bruce isn't getting up and Amy doesn't look like she is going to explain anything. He notices that there isn't a file or any paperwork in front of them.
"So can I talk to you Amy?"
"Maybe tomorrow," answers Amy.
She can not believe the nerve of David McClaren. He takes off after just making up, to leave her in need without so much as one phone call and he just waltzes back in her life. Or tries to. She decides this time it's over for good.
"Well am I interrupting something?" asks David.
"Apparently," responds Bruce, "She said she would talk to you tomorrow."
David looks menacingly toward Bruce. Bruce returns the icy look. David does not realize the tension that Bruce has built up inside of him. The situation is tense. Bruce is not aware of the Amy and David's reconciliation a week ago. He is still under the impression that David has continuously strung Amy along. He has no awareness of David's confession of love to Amy.
"Well Amy, if you are in the middle of something, maybe you can call me later. I would really like to talk to you," replies David.
He is hurt. Resentful toward Bruce, confused by Amy's coldness. He really wants to know what is going on. He didn't plan on returning to this.
"Gee David, if you wanted to talk so bad, you could've called any of these last 7 days. I think I'll just wait to talk to you tomorrow. After all, what's one more day?" responded Amy coldly.
Bruce stood up and started walking toward David, hoping to shoo him out.
"Ok Amy. I don't know why you're upset. You're obviously mad at me. I thought we had straightened things out. You know I got that call. I know who Kelly's killer is. I had to tell her family what was going on. Did you expect me to call you while this was going on? To call you from Kelly's family's home? We discussed that things wouldn't be easy for us. What's going on? Talk to me," pleaded David.
Bruce looked back at Amy. She didn't look very forgiving. He thought to himself how this was exactly the type of thing he didn't want to be involved in. But he wanted closure with Amy. So he patiently waited. He so wanted to kick McClaren's ass.
Amy stands up. The men can tell a speech is about to take place.
"David, this isn't the time or the place. Not that I think there will ever be a time or a place. You still refer to Kelly as your wife. You professed to be in love with me but you left without looking back, without so much as a phone call. I'm happy that a murderer might be brought to justice, but I am through taking a backseat in your life. I told you I need someone who is there for me. Call it selfish, but that is what I need. You are not ready to move forward. I am. Goodnight David. I hope you finally find the closure you are looking for and move on in your life."
David moves toward her, tries to lean in to kiss her, but Amy turns away. Bruce watches in anguish, then relief.
David's eyes well up with tears. He timidly responds to Amy,
"Everything I've been doing is so I can move on with my life. I want to move on with you. I thought you understood. I thought you wanted the same thing. We said it would be a lot of work. How can everything change in a week?"
David sees that Amy is not bending.
"... Well at least Lauren and Victor will be happy,"
he tearfully jokes as he looks to the floor. He turns away and walks out without looking up.
Bruce closes the door after McClaren leaves. He feels a little guilty, like a home wrecker. He always saw the prosecutor side of McClaren. Such a snide, know-it-all, ass. Now he seemed like he really had feelings for Amy. Bruce thinks he might've misjudged him. Then he remembers how sad Amy has been during their so-called relationship and realizes that Amy is a grown woman. He knows that she has to do what is best for her. He looks at her and sees that she is troubled. Not necessarily sad, but ruffled by David's visit. He walks toward her.
"Hey, you alright?"
Bruce tries to lift up Amy's face, to look into her eyes. Amy grabs his hand and leans into him. Bruce closes his arms around her and holds her snug.
"I think so. David drives me nuts. Really. He has put me on such an emotional rollercoaster. I am so tired, I can't do it anymore. It probably sounded really selfish. His wife was murdered and I don't want to compete with her. But I think I'm entitled. Don't you think I'm entitled? Don't I deserve to have a significant other that feels like I am the center of his world? Is it really too much to ask? I mean Kelly had David. Mia has you. Why can't I have someone?" asks Amy.
She sounds as if she is in a lot of pain. David has tormented her once again. He has forced her to be selfish. She hates to show ugly characteristics. She didn't want Bruce to see her that way. She definitely didn't want him to be subjected to all that happened. For him to know that she and David had just made up last week. For him to hear David tell her he loves her. She was afraid, knowing the kind of man Bruce is, that it would scare him off.
"Amy, I know it wasn't pleasant dealing with McClaren just now, but didn't you hear what I said before he showed up? Mia doesn't have me. You do. I have officially written Mia off. Granted, she is Rebecca's mother. Nothing can ever change that. She doesn't have a place in my heart any longer. You're taking it all up. I know I told you that I believe in black families. I really do. But I can't deny how I feel about you. How you make me feel. It would be a perfect world if Mia was half the woman you are. But it isn't a perfect world and it doesn't really matter. I don't care that you're white. You could be polka-dotted and my feelings for you won't change. You are the center of my universe Amy Gray. Well not completely; You have to share it with Rebecca, but you know that is a different love entirely. I expect it's the same for you and Lauren. So how does that sound?"
Amy felt as she completely melted in Bruce's arms. She lost track that they were still in her office. She felt so warm and at peace that it was like they were the only two people in the planet. She had a twinge of fear, thinking that she might be dreaming. But her feet hurt badly from the long day that passed and it reassured her that it wasn't a dream. Bruce had completely swept her off her feet. Her Prince Charming finally showed up. How funny. He'd been there all along. She thought about what he said, sharing him with Rebecca. That made sense. It wasn't asking for too much. She knew that Bruce had the same views regarding children. Their kids meant the world to them. She loved Bruce and she loved Rebecca. She knew how important his daughter was to him. She knew that he understood the same about her and Lauren. Amy let out a large sigh of relief. She felt as if everything finally was right in her world.
"It sounds like heaven."
Bruce kidded, "Wow, are you becoming religious? Who said perfection wasn't obtainable?"
They both chuckled but held each other tight. Amy looked up into his eyes. She knew she was safe with him. He would never try to hurt her. She wanted to desperately kiss him. Bruce could read Amy's eyes.
"Not here, not now. I wouldn't want to jeopardize your career. God forbid there is another private eye watching. Everything will work out soon, I promise."
"I love you Bruce. I never realized how much. I always knew that I needed you in my life. I was afraid to reach for you in a romantic sense. I was scared that it would ruin our friendship. It was hard to keep you as a friend. I was sure I'd lose you forever if I tried to be more than friends. But I knew I was in love with you from the start. And those feelings have grown so much. In the beginning, I loved how you protected me and watched out for me. You made me feel safe all the times I was vulnerable. Then you became the rock I could always lean on. You were always there to wipe the tears away. When my world was cold and dark, you were the light that warmed me up and showed me the way. I have my doubts about religion, but I know you are a gift from a very special source. I haven't felt this way since I gave birth to Lauren. I can't imagine life without you Bruce."
She nestled her head in his chest and held him tight. She didn't want to let him go. Tears streamed from her eyes. For a change, they were tears of joy.
Bruce was touched deeply by Amy's words. A tear streamed from his eye. He felt a tremendous peace. Yet, he felt so foolish that he waited this long to approach her. He could've been a hero and saved Amy from her wedding fiasco. But reality is that it wasn't the right time. If they had pursued anything before, it would've jeopardized their careers. He even wondered if David McClaren and Mia were necessary evils for them to realize what they meant to each other. Bruce thought that he and Amy both learned patience from these dead end relationships; it gave them a better appreciation for each other. It may have been a long, difficult course of events but it all worked out in the end. He felt all was right in the world at last. Then his cell phone rang.
They let each other go. Bruce walked to the couch, picked up his blazer and got his cell phone out. Amy stood by his side, watching him with concern. She hoped nothing was wrong though she could sense something was. "All can never be right with the world for too long." she thought. Bruce answered the phone,
"Hello... Winnie? What's the matter? What do you mean she's waiting for me at my place? Tell her to get a hotel room. I'm sorry Winnie; I don't mean to yell at you. I just don't care about what she wants anymore. I'll talk to her when I get a chance, not at her convenience. I can't believe she is calling you at this time. Winnie, I'm sorry you are in the middle of this. She has my cell phone number, she can call me. Tell her not to call you anymore. Thanks for watching Rebecca, I'll see you tomorrow. Huh? Oh, yeah, she can spend the weekend with you. Does she know about Mia? Well, she is right. It's her decision. She isn't obligated to be at anyone's whims either. Call me if you need me. I might get away this weekend. I think it's long overdue. Get some sleep. Love you, sis and thanks."
Bruce hung up and faced Amy.
"You think you could get away for the weekend?"
"What about Mia? Shouldn't you see what she wants?" "I will...eventually. She is the mother of my child so I can't ignore forever. But I will ignore her now. You are my priority now. And I think we both can use some time away. I didn't expect Rebecca to be occupied this weekend. Did you have plans with Lauren?"
"Nooo. She left today to spend the weekend with Michael. I was going to catch up with Vincent, but he's living with me now, so I can catch up with him whenever. Plus I'm sure he would rather pal around with Kyle rather than with me. -The family noticed I was brooding... Where could we sneak off to?
Amy's eyes were lit up and her smile beamed. They were both getting their things and straightening up.
"I don't have a clue but go home and pack for the weekend. I'm sure we can find a nice remote location that we won't run into someone."
"We can always spend the entire time in a hotel room," Amy said in a sly manner.
"Slow down tiger. Sex seems to ruin most of your relationships. I was planning on the long haul." Bruce light-heartedly teased her in return.
"All right, I want to make love not war!" Amy joked back.
They were both at the door. They paused and gazed at each other, just as the cleaning lady opened the door.
"Sorry. I didn't know you were working late Judge Gray."
"Yep, but we were just leaving."
Bruce and Amy looked at each other. They were trying to contain their laughter.
"Amy, er, Judge Gray. Call me when you get home and are settled. It's late and I want to make sure you get there ok."
"Sure Bruce I'll do that. Don't forget to look into those plans of yours."
"Right. Yeah, let me walk down to the parking garage with you."
They walked out of the office, down the corridor to the elevator. They both felt giddy.
"You think she suspected something."
"Nah, you played it well."
They got into the elevator.
"So you want me to call you when I'm all packed?"
"Yeah that's what I'm thinking Mizz Gray. I'm going to the airport after I'm packed to rent a car."
"What's wrong with your car? We could use mine."
They got out to the parking garage and walk toward Amy's car.
"You forget. We are going for secrecy here. Just until I no longer work for you, Judge Gray."
"I see Mr. Van Exel. You are very wise."
"So why don't you figure out where you'd like to go while I get the car?"
Amy gets in her car and puts down her stuff in the passenger seat.
"I already know just the place. I'll try to make a reservation then call you. Goodnight Bruce."
"Goodnight Judge Gray."
Bruce closes her door and walks to his car. He gets in and watches Amy drive off. He gets out his cell phone and calls Amy.
"Yes, Bruce"
"Don't forget to ask for double beds. We wouldn't want to rush into anything." Bruce says very sarcastically.
"Gotcha. Double beds. I might just book two rooms with double beds. We can play it really safe." Amy chided in return.
"And I don't think I got the chance to tell you something before, directly."
"What's that?"
"I love you."
"I love you too, Bruce. I'll call you later. I need to charge my phone."
"Ok, do that and I'll be waiting for your call."
Bruce hangs up. His phone rings.
"Wow, that was fast! Mia?! What do you want? ... I have plans. I'm going to be out all weekend.... No Mia. I'll talk to you next week; I'm not canceling my plans. I'll be more than happy to talk to you then....What?!!... Mia, you know we used a condom and I don't remember it breaking. I also remember you were dating other men. Damn Mia, I barely got to see you. I don't believe the one time we did something, especially with protection, you would get pregnant. After all this time?.... Yes, we have to talk. But it won't be this weekend.... Yeah, I will discuss it with my girlfriend, AFTER I know something definite.... Say what you want Mia. I don't trust you and I'm not in love with you anymore. For Rebecca's sake, I hope we don't have another child together. I'm through with you."
He hung up. Bruce's heart sank. He was sure it couldn't be his baby, he took precaution. Nonetheless, he was frantic just thinking about the possibility. "Not now," he thought. This would put his relationship with Amy on hold, if not end it. He just confessed his love to her, but she would learn that he had sex with Mia not long ago. He had no idea how she would take that. It had a ring of dishonesty to it. Not to mention, she just told him she wanted to be the center of attention. He would be compelled to honor his obligations, and he couldn't have Amy as his universe. He would have to take care of Mia if he was the father. His thoughts spun around. It gave him a headache. But he was home. He went to pack.
"Guess you must have one hell of a case. I've been looking all over for you and this is the last place I thought you might be. Actually Lauren told me you might be here. You told her you had a full day and you wouldn't be home until late."
He pauses noticing that Bruce isn't getting up and Amy doesn't look like she is going to explain anything. He notices that there isn't a file or any paperwork in front of them.
"So can I talk to you Amy?"
"Maybe tomorrow," answers Amy.
She can not believe the nerve of David McClaren. He takes off after just making up, to leave her in need without so much as one phone call and he just waltzes back in her life. Or tries to. She decides this time it's over for good.
"Well am I interrupting something?" asks David.
"Apparently," responds Bruce, "She said she would talk to you tomorrow."
David looks menacingly toward Bruce. Bruce returns the icy look. David does not realize the tension that Bruce has built up inside of him. The situation is tense. Bruce is not aware of the Amy and David's reconciliation a week ago. He is still under the impression that David has continuously strung Amy along. He has no awareness of David's confession of love to Amy.
"Well Amy, if you are in the middle of something, maybe you can call me later. I would really like to talk to you," replies David.
He is hurt. Resentful toward Bruce, confused by Amy's coldness. He really wants to know what is going on. He didn't plan on returning to this.
"Gee David, if you wanted to talk so bad, you could've called any of these last 7 days. I think I'll just wait to talk to you tomorrow. After all, what's one more day?" responded Amy coldly.
Bruce stood up and started walking toward David, hoping to shoo him out.
"Ok Amy. I don't know why you're upset. You're obviously mad at me. I thought we had straightened things out. You know I got that call. I know who Kelly's killer is. I had to tell her family what was going on. Did you expect me to call you while this was going on? To call you from Kelly's family's home? We discussed that things wouldn't be easy for us. What's going on? Talk to me," pleaded David.
Bruce looked back at Amy. She didn't look very forgiving. He thought to himself how this was exactly the type of thing he didn't want to be involved in. But he wanted closure with Amy. So he patiently waited. He so wanted to kick McClaren's ass.
Amy stands up. The men can tell a speech is about to take place.
"David, this isn't the time or the place. Not that I think there will ever be a time or a place. You still refer to Kelly as your wife. You professed to be in love with me but you left without looking back, without so much as a phone call. I'm happy that a murderer might be brought to justice, but I am through taking a backseat in your life. I told you I need someone who is there for me. Call it selfish, but that is what I need. You are not ready to move forward. I am. Goodnight David. I hope you finally find the closure you are looking for and move on in your life."
David moves toward her, tries to lean in to kiss her, but Amy turns away. Bruce watches in anguish, then relief.
David's eyes well up with tears. He timidly responds to Amy,
"Everything I've been doing is so I can move on with my life. I want to move on with you. I thought you understood. I thought you wanted the same thing. We said it would be a lot of work. How can everything change in a week?"
David sees that Amy is not bending.
"... Well at least Lauren and Victor will be happy,"
he tearfully jokes as he looks to the floor. He turns away and walks out without looking up.
Bruce closes the door after McClaren leaves. He feels a little guilty, like a home wrecker. He always saw the prosecutor side of McClaren. Such a snide, know-it-all, ass. Now he seemed like he really had feelings for Amy. Bruce thinks he might've misjudged him. Then he remembers how sad Amy has been during their so-called relationship and realizes that Amy is a grown woman. He knows that she has to do what is best for her. He looks at her and sees that she is troubled. Not necessarily sad, but ruffled by David's visit. He walks toward her.
"Hey, you alright?"
Bruce tries to lift up Amy's face, to look into her eyes. Amy grabs his hand and leans into him. Bruce closes his arms around her and holds her snug.
"I think so. David drives me nuts. Really. He has put me on such an emotional rollercoaster. I am so tired, I can't do it anymore. It probably sounded really selfish. His wife was murdered and I don't want to compete with her. But I think I'm entitled. Don't you think I'm entitled? Don't I deserve to have a significant other that feels like I am the center of his world? Is it really too much to ask? I mean Kelly had David. Mia has you. Why can't I have someone?" asks Amy.
She sounds as if she is in a lot of pain. David has tormented her once again. He has forced her to be selfish. She hates to show ugly characteristics. She didn't want Bruce to see her that way. She definitely didn't want him to be subjected to all that happened. For him to know that she and David had just made up last week. For him to hear David tell her he loves her. She was afraid, knowing the kind of man Bruce is, that it would scare him off.
"Amy, I know it wasn't pleasant dealing with McClaren just now, but didn't you hear what I said before he showed up? Mia doesn't have me. You do. I have officially written Mia off. Granted, she is Rebecca's mother. Nothing can ever change that. She doesn't have a place in my heart any longer. You're taking it all up. I know I told you that I believe in black families. I really do. But I can't deny how I feel about you. How you make me feel. It would be a perfect world if Mia was half the woman you are. But it isn't a perfect world and it doesn't really matter. I don't care that you're white. You could be polka-dotted and my feelings for you won't change. You are the center of my universe Amy Gray. Well not completely; You have to share it with Rebecca, but you know that is a different love entirely. I expect it's the same for you and Lauren. So how does that sound?"
Amy felt as she completely melted in Bruce's arms. She lost track that they were still in her office. She felt so warm and at peace that it was like they were the only two people in the planet. She had a twinge of fear, thinking that she might be dreaming. But her feet hurt badly from the long day that passed and it reassured her that it wasn't a dream. Bruce had completely swept her off her feet. Her Prince Charming finally showed up. How funny. He'd been there all along. She thought about what he said, sharing him with Rebecca. That made sense. It wasn't asking for too much. She knew that Bruce had the same views regarding children. Their kids meant the world to them. She loved Bruce and she loved Rebecca. She knew how important his daughter was to him. She knew that he understood the same about her and Lauren. Amy let out a large sigh of relief. She felt as if everything finally was right in her world.
"It sounds like heaven."
Bruce kidded, "Wow, are you becoming religious? Who said perfection wasn't obtainable?"
They both chuckled but held each other tight. Amy looked up into his eyes. She knew she was safe with him. He would never try to hurt her. She wanted to desperately kiss him. Bruce could read Amy's eyes.
"Not here, not now. I wouldn't want to jeopardize your career. God forbid there is another private eye watching. Everything will work out soon, I promise."
"I love you Bruce. I never realized how much. I always knew that I needed you in my life. I was afraid to reach for you in a romantic sense. I was scared that it would ruin our friendship. It was hard to keep you as a friend. I was sure I'd lose you forever if I tried to be more than friends. But I knew I was in love with you from the start. And those feelings have grown so much. In the beginning, I loved how you protected me and watched out for me. You made me feel safe all the times I was vulnerable. Then you became the rock I could always lean on. You were always there to wipe the tears away. When my world was cold and dark, you were the light that warmed me up and showed me the way. I have my doubts about religion, but I know you are a gift from a very special source. I haven't felt this way since I gave birth to Lauren. I can't imagine life without you Bruce."
She nestled her head in his chest and held him tight. She didn't want to let him go. Tears streamed from her eyes. For a change, they were tears of joy.
Bruce was touched deeply by Amy's words. A tear streamed from his eye. He felt a tremendous peace. Yet, he felt so foolish that he waited this long to approach her. He could've been a hero and saved Amy from her wedding fiasco. But reality is that it wasn't the right time. If they had pursued anything before, it would've jeopardized their careers. He even wondered if David McClaren and Mia were necessary evils for them to realize what they meant to each other. Bruce thought that he and Amy both learned patience from these dead end relationships; it gave them a better appreciation for each other. It may have been a long, difficult course of events but it all worked out in the end. He felt all was right in the world at last. Then his cell phone rang.
They let each other go. Bruce walked to the couch, picked up his blazer and got his cell phone out. Amy stood by his side, watching him with concern. She hoped nothing was wrong though she could sense something was. "All can never be right with the world for too long." she thought. Bruce answered the phone,
"Hello... Winnie? What's the matter? What do you mean she's waiting for me at my place? Tell her to get a hotel room. I'm sorry Winnie; I don't mean to yell at you. I just don't care about what she wants anymore. I'll talk to her when I get a chance, not at her convenience. I can't believe she is calling you at this time. Winnie, I'm sorry you are in the middle of this. She has my cell phone number, she can call me. Tell her not to call you anymore. Thanks for watching Rebecca, I'll see you tomorrow. Huh? Oh, yeah, she can spend the weekend with you. Does she know about Mia? Well, she is right. It's her decision. She isn't obligated to be at anyone's whims either. Call me if you need me. I might get away this weekend. I think it's long overdue. Get some sleep. Love you, sis and thanks."
Bruce hung up and faced Amy.
"You think you could get away for the weekend?"
"What about Mia? Shouldn't you see what she wants?" "I will...eventually. She is the mother of my child so I can't ignore forever. But I will ignore her now. You are my priority now. And I think we both can use some time away. I didn't expect Rebecca to be occupied this weekend. Did you have plans with Lauren?"
"Nooo. She left today to spend the weekend with Michael. I was going to catch up with Vincent, but he's living with me now, so I can catch up with him whenever. Plus I'm sure he would rather pal around with Kyle rather than with me. -The family noticed I was brooding... Where could we sneak off to?
Amy's eyes were lit up and her smile beamed. They were both getting their things and straightening up.
"I don't have a clue but go home and pack for the weekend. I'm sure we can find a nice remote location that we won't run into someone."
"We can always spend the entire time in a hotel room," Amy said in a sly manner.
"Slow down tiger. Sex seems to ruin most of your relationships. I was planning on the long haul." Bruce light-heartedly teased her in return.
"All right, I want to make love not war!" Amy joked back.
They were both at the door. They paused and gazed at each other, just as the cleaning lady opened the door.
"Sorry. I didn't know you were working late Judge Gray."
"Yep, but we were just leaving."
Bruce and Amy looked at each other. They were trying to contain their laughter.
"Amy, er, Judge Gray. Call me when you get home and are settled. It's late and I want to make sure you get there ok."
"Sure Bruce I'll do that. Don't forget to look into those plans of yours."
"Right. Yeah, let me walk down to the parking garage with you."
They walked out of the office, down the corridor to the elevator. They both felt giddy.
"You think she suspected something."
"Nah, you played it well."
They got into the elevator.
"So you want me to call you when I'm all packed?"
"Yeah that's what I'm thinking Mizz Gray. I'm going to the airport after I'm packed to rent a car."
"What's wrong with your car? We could use mine."
They got out to the parking garage and walk toward Amy's car.
"You forget. We are going for secrecy here. Just until I no longer work for you, Judge Gray."
"I see Mr. Van Exel. You are very wise."
"So why don't you figure out where you'd like to go while I get the car?"
Amy gets in her car and puts down her stuff in the passenger seat.
"I already know just the place. I'll try to make a reservation then call you. Goodnight Bruce."
"Goodnight Judge Gray."
Bruce closes her door and walks to his car. He gets in and watches Amy drive off. He gets out his cell phone and calls Amy.
"Yes, Bruce"
"Don't forget to ask for double beds. We wouldn't want to rush into anything." Bruce says very sarcastically.
"Gotcha. Double beds. I might just book two rooms with double beds. We can play it really safe." Amy chided in return.
"And I don't think I got the chance to tell you something before, directly."
"What's that?"
"I love you."
"I love you too, Bruce. I'll call you later. I need to charge my phone."
"Ok, do that and I'll be waiting for your call."
Bruce hangs up. His phone rings.
"Wow, that was fast! Mia?! What do you want? ... I have plans. I'm going to be out all weekend.... No Mia. I'll talk to you next week; I'm not canceling my plans. I'll be more than happy to talk to you then....What?!!... Mia, you know we used a condom and I don't remember it breaking. I also remember you were dating other men. Damn Mia, I barely got to see you. I don't believe the one time we did something, especially with protection, you would get pregnant. After all this time?.... Yes, we have to talk. But it won't be this weekend.... Yeah, I will discuss it with my girlfriend, AFTER I know something definite.... Say what you want Mia. I don't trust you and I'm not in love with you anymore. For Rebecca's sake, I hope we don't have another child together. I'm through with you."
He hung up. Bruce's heart sank. He was sure it couldn't be his baby, he took precaution. Nonetheless, he was frantic just thinking about the possibility. "Not now," he thought. This would put his relationship with Amy on hold, if not end it. He just confessed his love to her, but she would learn that he had sex with Mia not long ago. He had no idea how she would take that. It had a ring of dishonesty to it. Not to mention, she just told him she wanted to be the center of attention. He would be compelled to honor his obligations, and he couldn't have Amy as his universe. He would have to take care of Mia if he was the father. His thoughts spun around. It gave him a headache. But he was home. He went to pack.