Share

Chapter 702

Author: Rosie Steppe
last update Last Updated: 2024-12-01 19:00:00
I was completely caught off guard. Instinctively, I ducked my head, twisting to avoid him.

But Wayne was stronger, and when he was this determined, there was no way I could break free.

"Rea, why is it okay for them, but not for me?" he rasped, his voice hoarse with anger and frustration. "I love you just as much as they do—maybe even more."

I couldn't think clearly, let alone explain anything. All I wanted was to shove him away, to escape, but I didn't have the strength to fight him off.

His lips brushed the top of my head, then slid to my cheek. When he nuzzled against my neck, I felt the weight pressing on my waist vanished as Wayne was shoved back.

"Mr. Johnston," Xander's voice cut through the tension. "Things between men and women should be consensual. Forcing them? Well, that kind of ruins all the fun, don't you think?"

His tone was nothing like Hayden's. I didn't know how Xander had managed to transform himself so completely, but hearing his voice right then felt like a li
Locked Chapter
Continue to read this book on the APP

Related chapters

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 703

    "Don't move," he rasped, his voice dropping all the fake softness he'd been using. It came out raw, almost jagged.So, the voice was an act too. Smirking, I leaned in closer. "You're so cool to the touch... feels amazing..."Before he could respond, someone stepped out of the restaurant, their gaze flicking toward us. Without a second thought, Xander scooped me up and made a beeline for his car.Even as he carried me, I kept up my game. I nuzzled against his chest like a needy kitten, going as far as tugging at the buttons on his shirt with my teeth.His whole body went rigid, his heartbeat hammering under my cheek. Heat radiated off him like his self-control was barely holding together—if it even existed in the first place.So much for all that composed, cool-guy energy. Total myth.Finally, Xander carried me to his car. As he leaned down to set me in the passenger seat, I looped my arms around his neck, leaning forward to press a kiss against his throat.Okay, yeah—I'll admit

    Last Updated : 2024-12-02
  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 704

    By the time Xander dropped me off at home, I'd already shut my eyes, pretending to be asleep.What else was I supposed to do?Let him, under a fake name, take me to bed for a night of passion? No way.I couldn't let myself give in. It would only fuel his arrogance, making him think that no matter what identity he hid behind, as long as he had that face, he could have me whenever he wanted."Still want me?" Xander's voice brushed against my ear as he carried me.There was something dangerously playful about him.I didn't answer. But when he set me down on the bed, I wrapped my arms around him and pulled him down with me.It had been too long. I'd been alone for too long. Tonight, I just wanted him to stay—even if nothing happened.He didn't push me away. Instead, in the stillness, I heard his low whisper. "I'm sorry. Just wait a little longer..."So, there it was—his reasons, spoken but still vague.Fine. I'd wait.I'd wait until the day he finally admitted it, until the word

    Last Updated : 2024-12-02
  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 705

    The jerk was messing with me.Refusing to let him win, I kept chewing, swallowing with dramatic flair.Then, smirking, I raised a hand and used one finger to tip his chin up. Leaning in close, I murmured, "I've already done that with you—does it really matter?"Xander's eyes darkened, but before he could react, I pulled back, spun around, and dodged toward the bathroom to wash my hands.He'd ruined a perfectly good meal with that jab.Even so, it wasn't the same kind of sour feeling I got when dealing with Wayne. Thinking of Wayne brought back the memory of his behavior last night, and I felt a wave of disgust creep over me.Things between us were going to be painfully awkward now. I couldn't keep using him for information either; the risk of him flipping the game on me was too high. If I kept pushing, I'd lose control before I could get what I needed.And then there was Xander. Wayne wouldn't just let him off the hook—not after last night. Xander had disrupted his plans and bru

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03
  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 706

    That was a good question.Honestly, I wanted to hear him say it, too.Even though I knew he was Hayden, even though I was sure down to my core, I still longed for him to admit it out loud. Just one word from him would change everything.Xander glanced at me, his eyes locking onto mine for a beat before he replied to Cole. "I'm just myself. You should already have all the answers about my identity, shouldn't you?"Cole chuckled, twice. "Well, good luck with that."Then the line went dead.Xander went right back to his breakfast like nothing had happened. Meanwhile, I could barely touch mine."Why aren't you eating? It's going to get cold," he said casually, like the phone call hadn't just thrown a massive warning in his face."Cole was warning you," I said, my chest tightening. "He's trying to tell you you're in trouble."Xander didn't even blink. "I know.""And you're not scared?" I asked, anxiety creeping up my spine in his place.He picked up a napkin, folding it neatly. "

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03
  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 707

    Just when I thought he was going to take one of the rings off—maybe to give it back to me as some kind of answer—he surprised me."But they look good on you. Unique, too," he said, letting go of my hand.I blinked, stunned by his reaction, before a small laugh slipped out.He still wouldn't admit it.I understood why he might hide his identity. It was probably for his safety, a way to protect himself. But why couldn't he be honest with me? Did he not trust me? Or was he trying to protect me, too?It didn't really matter. As long as I knew who he was, that was enough."If you're free today, come with me to see someone," I said, recalling my promise to Yuna. "You know, I need you to pretend to be Hayden."He didn't hesitate. "Alright," he agreed easily.Then he gestured toward my untouched breakfast. "Hurry up and eat."I smiled faintly, digging in. He'd gone out of his way to make this, and it was exactly how I liked it. Skipping it wasn't an option—especially since I'd barely

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03
  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 708

    I got what Xander meant—if I wanted to see Demi, tonight was my chance.When we reached the preschool, Yuna was outside, leading games with the kids. The scene was pure magic—laughter, joy, no stress, just living in the moment. Honestly, preschool might be the happiest time in life.Xander and I stayed back, watching quietly. But kids being kids, their curiosity soon turned to us—especially Xander. One cheeky kid called out to Yuna, "Miss Hart, is that your new boyfriend?"Leave it to kids to say whatever's on their minds.Yuna laughed, shaking her head. "He's not my boyfriend. He's my brother."The kid didn't buy it, rallying the others to chant, "Boyfriend! Boyfriend!"Yuna sighed, trying to laugh it off as Xander and I stepped forward with the gifts we brought. That shut them up—mostly. One bold kid still grinned and said, "Thanks, boyfriend!""These little brats are too much," Yuna joked, walking over to us, her smile lighting up her face.Then her gaze landed on Xander. My

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03
  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 709

    The promise of more gifts had the kids scattering like a flock of birds, rushing toward him with hands outstretched. Their boldness made it clear—Wade was no stranger here.I sat up, smoothing my hair, still messy from the kids' ambush, and wiped my face, damp with their kisses.Wade approached, handing me a tissue. "These kids can be a handful.""They are, but they're adorable," I said with a smile. "Being around them makes you feel young again."My gaze drifted to where Xander and Yuna stood a little ways off, deep in conversation."Sometimes they drive you crazy," Wade said lightly. "They've brought Yuna to tears more than once."I turned to him, catching the shift in his tone. His eyes flickered with guilt before he quickly looked away.I knew what he was trying to avoid, but I couldn't help but ask, "Have you figured out how you feel about Yuna yet?""Yuna isn't Narelle," he said firmly, dodging the question.I got the message. He wanted it clear—he didn't conflate Yuna w

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03
  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 710

    They say fixing relationships is better than breaking them, but here I was, playing the villain.I'd had the same conversation with Wade so many times I'd lost count. If he couldn't figure out his feelings for Yuna by now, it was clear—he didn't love her.Dragging this out would only hurt her more. It was better to push him to let her go."What are you saying? That I should leave Yuna?" Wade asked, confusion written all over his face.I paused, choosing my words carefully. "That's exactly what I'm saying. Step back, give yourself space. Then you'll know who you miss and who you actually love."Wade's eyes drifted to Yuna, standing not far away. "She... relies on me a lot. If I don't message her, or if I text her less, she overthinks things."Exactly. A girl in love doesn't just want attention—she craves being part of someone's life completely."And that's why you have to do this," I said bluntly.Wade lowered his head, silent. I leaned in. "So, what is it? Are you unwilling to

    Last Updated : 2024-12-03

Latest chapter

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 919

    Mrs. Lane finally pieced together all the questions Lena had asked her and understood everything. Gabriel furrowed his brow and looked at Lena. "Is this really what you think?" Lena stayed silent. She did have those suspicions, but seeing how her mother had reacted so strongly, she began to wonder if she had been overthinking it. Aaron, who had already figured out the situation, looked at Lena and spoke up. "She must have misunderstood something." And he knew it was his fault. "She’s just an ungrateful brat! She doesn’t appreciate the kindness she’s been given and can’t stand seeing me be good to someone else," Mrs. Lane fumed again. Gabriel wiped away her tears gently. "Alright, maybe she was just joking with you." "Ask her if she was joking! Look at the things she’s been asking me—let her tell you herself!" Mrs. Lane pointed an accusing finger at Lena. "Big Sis," Aaron called out softly, "I’ll take Lil' Lena out for some fresh air." Without waiting for a reply, he r

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 918

    "You’ll find out soon enough," Aaron’s answer echoed in Lena’s ears, leaving her restless and unable to sleep. The next day, Mrs. Lane arrived with chicken soup for Aaron and a bag full of fresh produce. "These vegetables are from a village I visited. They’re all organic, no chemical fertilizers," she gushed proudly. Lena's gaze followed her mother’s every move, scrutinizing her intently. Wherever she went, Lena's eyes followed, making her incredibly uncomfortable. "What are you staring at me for? It’s creepy," Mrs. Lane said. "Mom, why are you so good to my uncle?" Lena finally asked. "He’s my brother. Isn’t it normal for me to care for him? You think everyone’s as heartless as you?" Mrs. Lane scolded her, throwing in an insult for good measure. Lena didn’t retaliate to the insult. Instead, she pressed further, "It’s normal, sure, but the way you care for him doesn’t feel like how you’d treat a brother. It feels more like..." She paused before continuing, "Like how you’d

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 917

    Keira chuckled softly. "Well, a DNA test isn’t a bad idea. At least then you won’t have to worry about being related to Mr. Ace if you two get together." Lena's eyebrows shot up instantly. "What nonsense are you spouting? Do you want me to hit you?" "Go ahead. If you break anything, you’ll have to compensate me," Keira said smugly, knowing full well she had a trump card—her precious little one growing inside her. Their playful banter caught the attention of the people in the room. They exchanged amused glances. "The things girls find joy in are beyond us," one of them said with a smile. "Let’s hope they stay happy forever," Aaron added, just as his phone began to ring. Glancing at the caller ID, he nodded at Hayden. "I’ll take this call." Aaron walked toward his study. Hayden also pulled out his phone, while Lena and Keira moved to the sofa. Keira recounted Lena’s gossip to him. "Hayden, do you think I could be the person the Mitchell family owes a debt to?" "It’s not

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 916

    "I don't know them!" Lena shook her head. Was she joking? Keira pinched her lightly and looped her arm through hers as they continued walking inside. Lena began, "I heard some gossip from my colleagues, something about the Mitchell family of Windy City." "Let’s hear it," Keira said, strolling leisurely alongside her. Meanwhile, Hayden had already marched ahead, carrying the luggage into the hall. He was always efficient and precise, a trait ingrained in his very being from his military days. It showed in his every move, even in his stride. "A while back, the only legitimate heir of the Mitchell family in Windy City had an accident. Apparently, he fell from something high, hit his head, and ended up as a vegetable," she said. Keira had already heard Hayden mention this earlier. "That’s it?" she pouted dismissively. Lena huffed. "There’s more." "The Mitchell family has spared no expense trying to treat him. They’ve consulted every expert in the country, flown in wave afte

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 915

    Hayden took out his phone and made a call. “There’s a car tailing me and my wife. Find out their identity, but make sure they don’t realize we’re onto them,” he instructed. “Why don’t you want them to know we’ve noticed?” Keira asked, puzzled. “Don’t startle the snake. If they really have ulterior motives, taking care of this group might just bring another wave,” Hayden explained. His reasoning made sense, and Keira nodded in understanding. They picked up Lena’s suitcase and were on their way to deliver it when the car behind them got rear-ended. They stopped to check, and Hayden received a message—a series of photos and some information. “Windy City… the Mitchell family?” Hayden muttered under his breath. Keira leaned over to look at the photos. One showed the driver partially visible, cautiously keeping the car windows barely open. The backseat passenger was only captured in silhouette. But Hayden’s people were well-prepared and used high-definition cameras, managing to cap

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 914

    Ever since the matter with the Drago family and Wayne was resolved, and Hayden returned safely, Keira thought all the danger was behind them. But now, with Hayden’s sudden remark, unease crept back into her. It wasn’t fear; it was something else. Now that she had a baby on the way, she just wanted to get through each day peacefully, ensuring her child could come into this world happy and safe. Through the rearview mirror, she saw the car tailing them. It was a large SUV—imposing and sturdy. "If you were to collide with them head-on now, what are our chances of winning?" she asked Hayden. He let out a soft chuckle. "What do you think?" To make getting in and out of the car more convenient and comfortable for Keira, Hayden had chosen to drive a corporate vehicle. In terms of size, the car behind them was far larger than theirs. "Even if we could win a collision, we won’t do it," Hayden said, taking her hand in his. "Don’t worry. Once we reach the next stop, I’ll let you out

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 913

    Keira hung up the phone, chuckling to herself. When Hayden returned, he found her smiling. “What’s got you in such a good mood?” he asked, glancing at the TV, which was off, and then at her phone, which she wasn’t using either. Keira reached for the durian he had bought her. Lately, she’d been craving it like an addict. No idea why—it was as if she couldn’t get enough of it. “I’ll wash my hands and cut it for you,” Hayden said, stopping her from handling it. “You just need to eat.” He pulled her along to wash her hands as well. Hayden stood behind her at the sink, his arms wrapping around her protectively. As he washed her hands, she recounted the story about Lena. “The car accident on the news is probably the same one,” he commented. “But it only mentioned the White family.” “Aaron has always kept a low profile,” Keira replied, but as she turned her head, her words were cut off. Her lips brushed against his. It was completely unintentional, yet somehow, it was a perfect

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 912

    Going back to her family’s home was out of the question. Lena would rather move her luggage back to Aaron’s place and stay with him. Though Mrs. Lane could pressure her, she couldn’t do the same with Aaron. In the end, she had no choice but to relent, though her frustration was evident. Grinding her teeth, she snapped, “You’re both so stubborn!” As she left the room, Mrs. Lane gave Lena a pointed glare, clearly displeased that she hadn’t sided with her or tried to convince Aaron otherwise. “Lena,” Mrs. Lane said sternly, “from today until your little uncle fully recovers, you’re responsible for taking care of him. This includes changing his bandages, accompanying him to check-ups, and handling all of his daily needs—everything from meals to mobility.” Mrs. Lane’s commanding tone reminded Lena of why she’d often likened her mother to a tyrant. At least to her, Mrs. Lane had always been domineering and overbearing. Lena had clashed with her mother many times over the years, par

  • Love's Redemption   Chapter 911

    "How’s your injury? Are you alright?" Lena asked James. “I’m fine… well, nothing serious,” James said, rubbing his head. He hadn’t thought much of it initially, but now, with the bandages wrapped around his head, he suddenly felt his injury was far worse. Even his head started to feel a bit dizzy. “Make sure to rest. I’m going to see my little uncle. Which room is he in?” Lena asked. “He’s over there. I’ll take you,” James offered enthusiastically. “No need. You should rest,” Lena said, sparing him the trouble. Just then, James’s phone rang. Holding his head, he answered and walked ahead, leaving Lena to her thoughts. Watching him walk away, she felt a heavy weight in her chest. If James, sitting in the backseat, ended up like this, Aaron, who had been driving, must be in much worse shape. With a deep breath, she made her way to Aaron’s hospital room. She had just taken a few steps when the treatment room door opened behind her, and two nurses walked out chatting. “It’s s

DMCA.com Protection Status