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Reminding herself about Kevin’s motives helped to calm down her anger, but it didn’t change the fact that he’d circled around her in the hopes of getting his way. Some start to reaching an accommodation, she thought with frustration.

He caught up with her outside the clinic. “At the very least, let me drive you home.”

“I wasn’t running away from you. I needed fresh air.”

“Space from me.”

She sighed. “I’d think that was obvious.”

He gently took her elbow and steered her toward the end of the street, toward his car, which he’d parked on the next block. He opened the door, then walked around to the driver’s side. Minutes later, they were on their way.

“I can’t imagine it’s easy feeling like you’re losing control,” he said finally.

His insight shocked her. That he’d given a thought to how she must be feeling also took her by surprise. Was he, too, trying to breach the barrier he’d erected?

She curled her hands into fists and marshaled her thoughts. “It isn’t. And it isn’t easy every time you try to take it away.”

“Honestly, that wasn’t my intention.” He pulled off at an unexpected exit.

“Where are we going?”

“Somewhere neutral. You’ve been cooped up for weeks. I’d think you’d welcome fresh air and the great outdoors.”

She couldn’t help but smile. “Don’t be nice to me, Kevin. It makes it too hard to stay angry.”

“Then don’t.”

The reservoir by Boston College loomed in front of them. Kevin pulled into an empty parking spot. After putting the car into park, he leaned an arm over the wheel and turned to face her. Can we call a truce? Let’s take a walk, get some fresh air and talk.”

She smiled. “I think I can manage that.”

“Good. And one more thing. Whatever comes up, remember I have your best interests at heart. Yours and the baby’s.”

Nikki nodded. He always had the baby’s best interest at heart. Hers too. And up until now, it hadn’t been enough. But if she wanted more from him than he was giving now, she’d have to begin accepting his overtures. Start somewhere.

She met him outside the car and together they walked along a graveled path. Green grass spread out before her, water rippled to her left, and blue s

ky dazzled her overhead. On a day like this, she could almost forget her problems.

Almost, but not quite.

Especially when Kevin placed his hand in hers and squeezed tightly. His strength had a calming effect and the butterflies in her stomach eased. He obviously wanted to talk. She told herself there was nothing he could say that she couldn’t handle and hoped she was right.

He paused by a large rock and she curled up on top of it. The smooth surface felt warm and solid through her denim jeans.

“Let’s start with basics, okay? Are you comfortable with Dr. Molloy?” Kevin asked.

“Yes. Very. But not with you paying for her private fees.”

“I can understand that. And I’m not looking to control your life, but there’s not just you to consider.” He leaned against the rock beside her. “You may have to come to terms with the fact that I’m half responsible for this situation and since you didn’t plan it, you’re going to have to accept my help.”

She bit down on her lower lip. As much as it pained her to take steps backward and accept help after she’d struggled to be independent, what choice did she have? She couldn’t afford everything this baby would need, at least not yet.

“Go on,” she said, wanting to hear him out.

“I did some research into my insurance policy through work.”

“And?”