“I’ve been a fool.” He uttered the words harshly, his eyes darkening as he struggled to continue. “I believed I was not ready, not in my heart. But from the moment I saw you save my child, I knew I would love you. How could I not? Beautiful, intelligent, and compassionate? I did not think fate would be so kind as to give you to me, but here you are.” A smile curved his lips. “I only wonder if I’ll ever be able to earn your forgiveness.”
Tears coated Rowena’s eyelashes as she pressed his hand to her cheek and fought off the urge to cry.
“There’s nothing to forgive. You love her still and I understand. Not all hearts can be mended. All I ask is that you let me love you, let me be with you.”
Quinn shook his head. “No, you don’t understand—”
The bedchamber door opened and Dr. McIntosh ente
