Page 58 of Rogue’s Reckoning

The truth is, I'm torn. Watching Rogue interact with Wren was both heartwarming and terrifying. He was so gentle with her, so attentive. It was a side of him I'd almost forgotten existed. But the memory of his betrayal still stings, making it hard to fully trust his intentions.

That night, after Wren is tucked in bed, I sink onto the couch, my head in my hands. The feel of Rogue's lips on my cheek lingers, along with the familiar scent of him that brought back a flood of memories.

"Little Flower," he'd called me. The old nickname sent a jolt through my heart that I wasn't expecting.

I grab my phone, needing to talk to someone who understands.

"How did it go?" Natalia asks as soon as she picks up.

I sigh heavily. "It was... complicated. Wren loved him, of course. And he was great with her. But, Nat, seeing themtogether... it brought up so many feelings I thought I'd dealt with."

"Oh, Will," Natalia says softly. "That's understandable. It's a big step, letting him into your lives."

"I know," I reply. "And part of me wants to believe he's changed, that he could be good for Wren. But another part is screaming to run, to protect us both from getting hurt again."

"What does your heart tell you?" Natalia asks gently.

I pause, considering her question. "I don't know," I admit finally. "I'm scared, Nat. Scared of trusting him, scared of denying Wren a chance to know her father. I just don't know what the right thing to do is."

"Maybe there isn't a 'right' thing," Natalia suggests. "Maybe it's about finding a balance, taking it slow, and seeing how things develop."

I nod, even though she can't see me. "You're probably right. I just... I need to be careful. For both our sakes."

After we hang up, I find myself staring at the few photos I have of Rogue and me from before everything fell apart. We looked so happy, so in love. Could we ever find our way back to something like that? Do I even want to?

As I get ready for bed, I make a decision. I'll continue to let Rogue see Wren, but under strict supervision. I need to see that he's truly changed before I can even consider letting him have a bigger role in our lives.

It’s beena month since Rogue met Wren and he’s been great. Each time, Wren's face lights up when she sees him, and it both warms my heart and terrifies me. It started with visits at the playground or soft play, I didn’t want him knowing my address—the place that is mine and Wren’s sanctuary—But it wasn’t always feasible to go, so now we’ve moved to having the visits at my home.

Rogue is always respectful of the boundaries I've set. He never pushes for more time or tries to explain to Wren who he really is. But I catch him looking at me sometimes, his eyes filled with a mixture of longing and regret that makes my heart ache.

I’m sitting on the sofa watching Wren show Rogue her latest art project when she suddenly asks, "Rogue, do you have any kids?"

The question catches us both off guard. Rogue's eyes meet mine, silently asking for guidance. I give a small nod, curious to hear his response.

Rogue kneels down to Wren's level, his voice gentle. "I do have a daughter," he says softly. "She's about your age, actually."

Wren's eyes widen with interest. "Really? What's her name? Does she like to draw too?"

I see Rogue swallow hard before answering. "Her name is Wren," he says, his voice thick with emotion. "And yes, she loves to draw. She's very talented, just like you."

Wren doesn't seem to notice the significance of his words, but I feel my breath catch in my throat. The way Rogue looks at our daughter, full of love and pride, makes something shift inside me.

Later, after Wren has gone to bed, Rogue lingers at the door. "Thank you," he says quietly. "For letting me be a part of her life, even if she doesn't know who I really am yet."

I nod, unable to find words. Rogue steps closer, his hand reaching out as if to touch my face, before he catches himself and lets it fall back to his side.

"Little Flower," he says softly, "I know I have no right to ask this, but... is there any chance for us? To try again, I mean?"

I look up at him, seeing the hope and fear warring in his eyes. Part of me wants to say yes, to fall back into the comfort of his arms. But the scars from our past are still too fresh.

"I don't know, Rogue," I whisper honestly. "I'm not ready for that. Not yet."

He nods, disappointment flashing across his face before he schools his expression. "I understand," he says softly. "I know I have a lot to make up for. I just want you to know that I'm here, Willow. For both of you. Whatever you need."

I feel tears pricking at my eyes and blink them back. "Thank you," I manage to say. "For being so good with Wren. She really enjoys spending time with you."

A small smile tugs at Rogue's lips. "She's amazing. You've done an incredible job with her, Willow. I'm in awe of you both."

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