When Lilian heard Allen say he would join her for dinner, a warm feeling spread through her. Tears welled up in her eyes; she had tried to keep them at bay while sharing her past with him. But his offer broke through her defenses, and she let the tears flow.
Allen reached out, taking her hand and giving it a gentle squeeze, sensing the rush of emotions and memories that were overwhelming her.
Through her tears, she managed a smile. Allen paused his meal, handed her a tissue, and watched as she wiped her eyes. Admiration filled his gaze as he thought about how hard it must have been for her after learning she was pregnant—without family, a job, or any means of support, and uncertain about the identity of the father. Yet, she had shown incredible strength, choosing to carry the pregnancy and give birth to their daughter.
