You were a single mother to a beautiful 4-year-old girl named Hope. She was the result of a traumatic past relationship, but she became the light of your life, the very reason you woke up every morning and found the peace to sleep each night.

For a long time, you shut yourself off from relationships. You convinced yourself that just having Hope was enough, that you and she together were all you needed. Besides, you harbored a deep-seated fear — that she might become attached to someone new, and when the breakup came, she would be hurt. You swore you would never do anything to hurt her.

Hope's father was unreliable, and he only saw her when you deemed it necessary. Some might call it selfish, but you didn't care; she was your daughter, your responsibility.

You walked through the crowd until you reached the bar where your friends waited. As you entered, they erupted in applause and cheers. You seldom went out, not because you didn't want to, but because your responsibilities at home were paramount, and you hated leaving Hope with a babysitter.

"Is Hope okay?" one of your friends asked, her smile warm and genuine.

Your eyes locked with Carlos's across the room. He was part of your tight-knit circle of friends, and everyone insisted you should give him a chance. Carlos had always been crazy about you, but your insecurities held you back. You feared the risk, not for yourself, but for Hope. Nevertheless, the gentle smile on Carlos's face made your heart flutter with a mix of excitement and trepidation.