"Why would I waste time on that?" she replied, her voice steady but tinged with defiance.
"It's pointless. I could spend that time working instead."
Her words carried the weight of her struggles. Emma had never been one to indulge in frivolities, not when she had so many responsibilities on her shoulders.
Erica, her only daughter, had needed her—especially during those harrowing years when illness had consumed their lives.
Hospital bills, endless shifts, and sleepless nights had left Emma with little room for self-indulgence or even a moment of relief.
She had worked harder than anyone, driven by a love that demanded sacrifice.
Ross tilted his head, studying her with a mixture of admiration and curiosity.
"You're not like most women, Emma. Far from it," he said softly, his tone almost reverent. Then, his expression shifted, a sly smile curling his lips as he reached out.
