Chapter: 1979

His silence stretched between them, his penetrating gaze unchanged.

After what felt Like an eternity, Jonathan finally broke the silence.

"Alright, let's have another child."

"You mean it?" Joy exploded across Bethany's face as she flung her arms around his neck, pressing an excited kiss to his cheek. "Thank you, Jonathan."

Jonathan's fingers threaded gently through her hair. "I know you're doing this to spare me from regrets."