Ryder arrived at the park, his heart racing with anticipation. He had been thinking about this moment for what felt like an eternity. He had to make things right with Emma. He had to tell her how he felt.
As he walked through the park, he saw Emma sitting on a bench, looking beautiful. She was holding a small bundle in her arms, and Ryder's heart melted. He couldn't wait to meet his child.
Ryder approached her slowly, not wanting to startle her. Emma looked up, and their eyes met. Ryder felt a jolt of electricity run through his body. He knew he was in love with her.
"Hey," Ryder said, trying to sound casual.
Emma smiled, and Ryder's heart skipped a beat. "Hey," she replied, her voice soft.
Ryder sat down next to her, taking in the sight of his child. The baby was sleeping peacefully in Emma's arms, and Ryder felt a pang of sadness. He had missed out on so much.
"Can I hold her?" Ryder asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Emma looked at him, a hint of uncertainty in her eyes. But then, she nodded, and handed the baby over to Ryder.
As Ryder held his child in his arms, he felt a sense of wonder and awe. She was so small and fragile, yet so full of life. He looked up at Emma, and their eyes met.
"I'm sorry," Ryder said, his voice filled with emotion. "I'm so sorry for everything. I was a fool, and I didn't realize what I had until it was almost too late."
Emma looked at him, her eyes searching. "What do you want, Ryder?" she asked, her voice soft.
Ryder took a deep breath. "I want to be with you," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "I want to be a father to our child. I want to spend the rest of my life making up for my mistakes."
Emma looked at him, her eyes filled with tears. "I don't know, Ryder," she said, her voice trembling. "I'm not sure if I can trust you."
Ryder's heart sank, but he knew he deserved it. He nodded, understanding. "I don't expect you to trust me right away," he said. "But I promise you, Emma, I'll do everything in my power to make things right. I'll be here for you and our child, no matter what."