“Then prove it.”

He was crying now.

“Jennifer, please. Don’t give up on us.”

I stood.

“I need some space. I’d like you to stay somewhere else for now.”

He looked stunned.

“Where am I supposed to go?”

I met his eyes.

“That’s something you’ll need to arrange.”

Dakota quietly stood.

“I should leave.”

I looked at her.

“Thank you for finally telling me the truth. But please understand that I’m not ready to step into a parental role in Lily’s life.”

She nodded.

“I understand.”

After Dakota left, Tony packed a small bag.

At the front door, he turned toward me.

“Is our marriage over?”

I looked at him for a long moment.

“I don’t know.”

He swallowed.

“I love you, Jennifer.”

I nodded slowly.

“Then show Lily what love means. Be the father she needs, whether or not our marriage survives.”

He looked down.