CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTEEN – KEEPING A HANDLE

Logan listened intently, his expression a mix of concern and understanding. When Deonna finished, he reached out, hesitantly taking her hand. "Deonna," he said softly, "I had no idea you were carrying all of this. I'm so sorry I didn't see it sooner." Deonna shook her head. "It's not your fault. I've been trying so hard to prove I can handle everything." "But you don't have to," Logan insisted. "We're partners in this, remember? If you need to step back from work, or if you need more help with Kayla, just say the word. We'll figure it out together." Deonna felt tears prickling at the corners of her eyes. "And Emma? Logan, I need to know where we stand. Where she stands in your life." Logan squeezed her hand. "Emma is a part of my past, nothing more. I'm sorry if I've been insensitive about her presence. From now on, I'll set clearer boundaries. You and Kayla are my priority, always." As they continued to talk, hashing out their fears and hopes, Deonna felt some of the tension beg