"I accept you," Hazel stammered, looking directly into Francisco's eyes.

"So, let her decide what she wants," she added, hoping to steer the conversation in a more favorable direction.

Francisco exhaled loudly, then answered, "I know Max likes her. But the problems they had, I'm not fully aware of."

Hazel felt a surge of courage. She had managed to change the topic successfully. Walking slowly, she traced her fingers along his cheek, saying, "I can help."

Francisco ...