Marry Kayla

In her room, Kayla was lost in her thoughts, the past swirling around her like a relentless storm. "Why is he back? What does he want from me?" she murmured, her voice echoing softly in the solitude.

Despite her confusion and concern, a sense of reassurance washed over her as she realized Richmond was more than capable of protecting both himself and little Audrey. Resolved, she freshened up, deciding to head downstairs for a bite to eat.

As she emerged from her room, she encountered Richmond stepping out with Audrey, who was crying. Instinctively, Kayla reached out, her arms open to take the infant. Richmond, without hesitation, handed Audrey over. He watched them for a moment before following behind, his thoughts a tangled web of emotions.

In the kitchen, Kayla's gentle hands expertly prepared Audrey's food. Richmond observed quietly as Audrey's cries turned into joyful giggles, an affirmation to Kayla's nurturing touch. The sound of an engine broke his reverie; Aiden, his best friend, had arrived.

Richmond greeted Aiden warmly, and they settled into the living room, their conversation weaving through business and personal matters. But their attention was soon captured by a sound unfamiliar in Richmond's home these days – a loud, happy giggle.

They turned to see Kayla, her face illuminated by a bright, genuine smile as she played with Audrey. Richmond felt a warmth spread through him at this rare sight. But as soon as Kayla sensed their eyes on her, her smile vanished, replaced by a guarded expression. Richmond felt an inexplicable disappointment, though he masked it well.

Aiden, ever observant, watched Richmond's reaction closely. Leaning in, he made a suggestion that struck a chord. "Why don't you marry her? Audrey needs a mother," he said, his words serious and thoughtful.

This simple suggestion ignited a memory in Richmond, a remembrance of Anna's last wish, and his promise to fulfill it.

For a moment, Richmond was caught in the turmoil of his thoughts. Anna's wish, a promise made in a time of grief, now resurfaced with a new perspective. The idea of marrying Kayla, once unthinkable, now seemed like a path that could lead to fulfilling Anna's wish, and perhaps, to a new beginning for them all.

As Richmond pondered this, Kayla continued to care for Audrey, her presence a calming, nurturing force in the household. The possibility of a future that included Kayla in a more permanent role slowly began to take root in Richmond's mind.