CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND ELEVEN – THE NEXT DOOR APARTMENT

"What if... what if I moved into the apartment next door? That way, Kayla wouldn't have to be shuttled back and forth. We could both be there for bedtime stories and morning cuddles." Deonna was silent for a long moment, processing the idea. "That's... actually not a terrible idea," she admitted reluctantly. "But Logan, are you sure you're ready for that level of commitment? It's not just about the fun parts. It's late-night feedings and tantrums and..." "I know," Logan interrupted. "And I want all of it, Deonna. The good and the bad. I want to be a real father to Kayla." Deonna studied his face, searching for any sign of insincerity. Finding none, she nodded slowly. "Okay. We can try it. But Logan, I need you to understand something." "What's that?" "This is about Kayla. Just because we're living close doesn't mean... it doesn't change anything between us." Logan's expression flickered with something Deonna couldn't quite name – disappointment? Resignation? – before he nodded. "