Amelia's chest rose and fell in quick, panicked breaths, her eyes wide and shimmering with tears that refused to fall. "What are you saying? Maddie's father?" Her voice cracked like she'd swallowed a shard of glass. She barely managed to stay composed as she asked, "We don't need him, Nick. We don't."
Nick's voice was firm but soft as he tried to reason with her, "Amy, it would be better though, wouldn't it? Maddie's biological father might have a better chance of matching." He wasn't giving up easily, his tone calm but insistent.
"No!" Amelia's shout was sharp, raw. "Don't tell me what I need, Nick! Don't you dare!" She was shaking, hands clenched in tight fists at her sides.
