Navy Seal Dad. Metsy Hingle

ahead and give it to me straight. I can take it.”

      Rachel winced. Despite his glib comeback, she’d caught that flash of hurt in his eyes. And it made her feel lower than the belly of a snake. “I’m sorry. I’m not trying to be cruel. I’m simply trying to be honest with you. We both know that marriage and fatherhood were never in your plans. You made it clear to me two years ago that being a SEAL comes first for you, that there isn’t room for anyone or anything else in your life. All I’m trying to tell you is that I understand. So you don’t have to worry about me or about P.J. or that I’ll try to make any demands on you—financially or…or otherwise. I love P.J. And I can support him and provide him with everything he needs.”

      “But that’s where you’re wrong, darling. And while I don’t doubt that you’re the best mother in the world, there is one thing that you can’t give him.”