"You've always wanted a child, Tracie. I need an heir."

Her mouth worked, but no words came out.

"You'll be financially secure for life. Your child will want for nothing. All I've worked so hard for will be in good hands-yours."

She shifted her gaze to the table, to where Sherman clutched her hand in a desperate attempt to save what was so dear to him. And wouldn't she if their situations were reversed? Those shirt-tail relations of his would squander everything. Sherman didn't deserve that. He was asking for her help. He could have cinched it all by telling her she owed him for all he had done for her. But he didn't. He sat there clutching at the lifeline she presented.

"Are you suggesting artificial insemination?"

"By a trusted source. Someone who's discretion I trust as much as yours."

"Have you talked to him yet?"

"No."

"Who is it?"

She watched his Adam's apple bob as he swallowed.

"Galen Walters."