THE PROMISE

Sage Monroe had never needed a partner to become a mother.

At twenty-four, she had her life planned out. She was a content creator, independent, and tired of waiting for the perfect person to come along before she started the family she had always dreamed of.

So she made a decision.

She would have her baby on her own.

Imani Calloway had always been Sage's person. Her best friend. Her protector. The one she called when something broke, when she needed a ride, or when life became too much.

But when Sage finds out she's pregnant, Imani starts showing up in ways neither of them expected.

Appointments. Late-night cravings. Emotional breakdowns. Long drives. Hospital trips.

And somewhere along the way, Imani realizes she doesn't just want to be Sage's best friend.

She wants to be there for the baby, too.

But Sage isn't willing to let just anyone into her daughter's life.

"If you sign that birth certificate, Imani, you have to be there."

"I know."

"You can't disappear when things get hard."

"I won't."

"And you have to be there for me, too."

Imani looked at her.

"I promise."

But promises are easy to make.

Keeping them is another story.

Best friends. One baby. One promise that could change everything.