I must say, the way you handle my daughter is fascinating.
You think so? Blushes slightly
Yes, I do. You have a way of making her feel secure and loved, even when I can't be there for her. It's impressive, Riley.
Thank you, Jackson. That means a lot coming from you.
Don't mention it, Riley. Just know that I appreciate everything you do for my daughter. She means the world to me, and you've become an important part of her life. But enough about that. How have you been? What have you been up to lately?
shrugs nonchalantly Oh, you know, the usual. Just trying to keep my head above water and make sure Lily doesn't get into too much trouble. She's a handful, that's for sure. But I wouldn't trade her for anything. She's my world too.
smiles warmly You're an amazing person, Riley. Your dedication to Lily is truly admirable. It's clear that she adores you, and so do I.
I blush deeply Jackson... Are you saying...?
steps closer, placing a hand on Riley's cheek I'm saying that I've developed feelings for you, Riley.
I sigh, closing my eyes I feel the same way, Jackson.
leans in, capturing Riley's lips in a passionate kiss I've wanted to do that for so long, Riley.
eyes still closed, smiles Me too, Jackson...
deepens the kiss, pulling Riley closer Riley, I want you to know that I'll always protect you and Lily. No matter what happens, you both will always be safe with me. pulls away slightly, looking into Riley's eyes I love you, Riley. And I'm not afraid to say it.
gazes back at Jackson, eyes shining I love you too, Jackson. And Lily does as well.
holds Riley's hands gently Riley, I don't know what the future holds, but I want you by my side. Will you be my partner, both in raising Lily and in life?
Of course, Jackson. I would love nothing more than to be your partner. For Lily, and for us.
smiles affectionately Riley, I'm so glad you said yes. You've brought so much joy into my life, and I can't imagine being with anyone else. kisses Riley softly Thank you for choosing me, Riley. I promise to cherish and love you both now and forever.
Blushing deeply You're welcome, Jackson. I'm honored to be a part of your life. And for Lily, it's a dream come true.
looks into Riley's eyes, his expression serious Riley, there's something you need to know. It's about my past, and it might change everything.
What do you mean, Jackson? What's wrong?
takes a deep breath Riley, before I met you, I was involved in some shady business dealings.
Shady business dealings? What kind of dealings, Jackson?
pauses, choosing his words carefully Riley, I was involved in some illegal activities.
Nervously Illegal activities? What are you talking about, Jackson?
reaches into his jacket and pulls out a small envelope Riley, this is a letter I received yesterday. It's from someone from my past, someone who claims to have evidence against me. They're threatening to expose everything unless I pay them a hefty sum of money.
eyes widen in shock Threatening you? What?! Jackson, we need to go to the police!
No, Riley. Going to the police won't help. These people, they're dangerous. They know things about me that no one else should know. I can't risk involving the authorities. We need to handle this ourselves.
feeling scared Handle it ourselves? Jackson, we can't just confront them alone! This sounds dangerous!
Riley, I understand your concerns, but we don't have a choice.
scared, yet determined Okay, Jackson. If you think it's the only way, then we'll handle this together. But promise me you'll be careful.
grips Riley's hand tightly I promise, Riley. I won't let anything happen to you or Lily.
stares at him, tears in her eyes Please...be careful, Jackson. I can't bear the thought of losing you.
pulls Riley into a tight embrace, resting his head on her shoulder I know, Riley. I know. But don't worry, I won't let anything happen to us.
tears streaming down her face I trust you, Jackson. Just...please come back to us, okay?
wipes away Riley's tears gently I promise, Riley. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you and Lily safe. I won't let anyone get in the way of our happiness. Let's face this together and show them that they can't intimidate us. We have each other, and nothing can break us apart. kisses Riley's forehead I love you, Riley. And I love Lily too.
sniffles, wiping away her tears I love you too, Jackson. And Lily...she's the light of our lives. We'll get through this, no matter what.
stands up straight, determination in his eyes Riley, we can't let fear dictate our lives. We need to take action and confront these people head-on.
swallows hard, nodding You're right, Jackson. We can't run forever. We need to face this head-on. But...can we at least tell the police about the letter? It might help to have some backup.
pauses for a moment, contemplating Riley's suggestion You're right, Riley. Having some backup from the authorities couldn't hurt.
voice trembling Let's...let's go to the police station, Jackson. Just...just to be safe.
nods, taking Riley's hand You're right, Riley. We'll go to the police station and fill out a report.