The Kiss that Sparked it All (Ellinor and Theo) novel Chapter 2830

“I swear, Imogen, if I'd known you were at the hospital, I wouldn't have dragged you into this mess. It could have been a scandal, and there is no need for the whole world to know about it."

Imogen turned away, feigning anger, and silently wiped away a tear. "Would you believe me if I said it? It's so easy to find out the truth, yet you make me explain it over and over. In the end, you just don't trust me.

Of course, no one can be as important as your daughter in your heart.

Yes, I get it. It's a matter of the Tanners, and how dare I meddle, right? But I've been a stepmom for years now, don't I have the right to care about Regina? Mr. Tanner, if you can't even grant me that much, then I've got nothing more to say."

"Come on now, please. I've never said such a thing. Aren't you just throwing a fit here? It's just... when I saw Regina in disarray, in the same room as another man, it hit me hard as a father. You've got to understand that..."

He let out a deep sigh. "Ever since her mother passed, I've been under so much pressure. I’ve been so afraid that I wouldn't raise her right. And now that she's grown, she's gotten herself into trouble."

Hearing this softened Imogen's heart, and she gently smoothed the lines of worry from his forehead. "I know how tough it's been for you, and I understand why you married me. But now that we're together, I don't want you stressing over these things.

Regina is an adult, and her choices are her own. We can guide her, but we can't control her decisions, you see?

Francis, it's time to let go."

Francis nodded thoughtfully. "I know, but how can a parent easily let go, especially since Regina is different from others. She lost her mother so young. You suggested we settle her down soon, but after giving it some thought, maybe she should stay with me a little longer."