“But you can’t ignore everyone because there might be issues. You deserve better.”

He bit back a growl. Not only was she making sense, she wasn’t going along with his plans. Sure, she didn’t know the plans per se, but that didn’t matter. She was leaving when he wanted her to hang around and be there for Kyle until Adrien sorted out his life. Besides that, Adrien hated change. She’d thrown him a curveball and he didn’t know how to deal. Give him an oral issue, an infected molar or lost crown and he could find a solution. In his life? No chance. He wanted the status quo back.

“Hey, you need to give yourself more credit and try harder with Kyle. Things will work out,” she said. “Why don’t you go to that support group? I’m sure they could give you tips for forging a relationship with Kyle.”

“How do you know?” He’d seen the fliers for the support group but had doubted its effectiveness.

“Because I can’t help you forever. You need to be a dad. Stop being scared, like I said. This could be what you need to get you going in the right direction.” Kelsi patted his shoulder. “The group is there to listen and a new man could be the partner you deserve.”

“You going is not what I need,” he blurted. “I can’t do this on my own.” No support group, parenting tip or change would help.

“You have to force yourself to try with Kyle and to not be like your mother. She isn’t his parent—you are.”

He hated when Kelsi was right. “I’ll still need a nanny. I can’t stay home with Kyle and still keep regular hours here at the office.”

She hugged him. “I know it’s scary. Getting married is exciting and scary as hell to me. I’ll be living with Mike. What if we’re not as compatible as I want? I don’t want to be divorced ever.” She shook her head. “You can handle Kyle for the weekend. You’ll take him to preschool on Monday and if you have to reschedule a few appointments, the world won’t end. Just explain to your patients there are a few quirks you have to fix with your life and they’ll understand.”

“Kelsi.” She made things seem so easy.

“I’m not turning down Mike or a trip to Vegas.”

He had to stop being selfish. He could handle being a dad, even if he was afraid. “I’m sorry. Have a great time and enjoy the vacation. You deserve to have your dreams come true. Congratulations and I’m thrilled that you’re happy. Thanks for working with me and Kyle. You helped us a lot and you’ll be hard to replace.”

“Thank you.” She clapped him on the shoulder again. “Take a breath. You can do this.”