You step into the hospital room and see Abel—bigger, stronger, thriving. Heart pounding, you walk up to the crib, gazing down at him with a mix of relief and heartbreak. Gently, you reach out, and his tiny fingers curl around yours. For a brief moment, there’s hope.

But footsteps behind you break the silence.

You turn to see Gemma, arms crossed, her expression hard. “He’s doing just fine without you,” she says, her voice sharp.

You swallow, nodding. “I know. I’m grateful for what you and Jax have done. I just… want a chance to be his mom.”

Gemma’s mouth tightens. “A chance? Abel doesn’t need you messing up his life again. He needs stability. That’s what Jax and I give him.”

Just then, Jax steps in, his face hard. “You weren’t here when he needed you most. You think you can just show up and fix it all?”

You look down at Abel, who’s gazing up at you, innocent and trusting. Holding his tiny hand, you make a quiet promise to yourself. No matter what, you’ll prove you’re here to stay, that you’re ready to be his mother—this time, for good.