Rafael and Akilah had it all figured out. Graduate high school. Go to college. And for Rafael, being more attentive to Akilah.
Getting pregnant wasn't part of that plan.
Akilah’s keeping the baby whether he wants her to or not. But Rafael doesn't want to be like the dad who left him before he could remember him. At the same time, he's terrified he'll turn into the stepdad that abused him.
Considering his history, Rafael's not sure he can do it. Given that even Akilah starts to doubt him, he's not sure he should even try.
Maybe his dad did have a good reason for leaving Rafael and his mom behind. Maybe that reason is good enough for Rafael to do the same before he can give his kid even a vague memory of him.