Just when I was about to try sneaking out of there, the bedroom door opened. I turned to it in panic.Jethro appeared in the doorway in his sleeping robe and a mop of bed hair. He looked groggy. Upon seeing me, shock flitted through his eyes, but he quickly recovered and crossed to the kitchen as if he hadn’t seen me at all.He grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge and asked, "What are you trying to do? Cosplaying a ghost?"What? Me? A ghost? Did he even know what he was saying?"Have you ever seen a ghost as pretty as me?" I retorted."Pretty? Really?" He snorted.My mood soured. What was his problem? Had he forced me to stay here just so he could hurl abuse at me? I wanted to argue with him, but then I remembered the state of my face. Okay, so maybe he was right, but would it kill him to have the civility not to mock me for what I went through?"Mr. Jethro, you should go back to sleep instead of wasting your time here. Good night," I said and laid back down on the couch.
Jethro’s hands began to move. Kissing was clearly no longer enough. My breathing quickened. I snaked my arms around his neck as I enjoyed his kiss. I didn't know I’d respond to him this much. It had only been a few days since we stopped seeing each other, and yet deep down inside, I could feel my desire for his touch. Had I really fallen in love with him? But how?This man had helped me, but for the most part, he treated me like shit. I couldn't possibly have fallen in love with him unless I were a masochist. Moreover, I was already with Ignatz now. I should be loyal to him on all counts—including this.At that thought, I pushed Jethro away before hastily tidying my clothes. He wasn’t expecting this, and his rage came after his initial shock. Any man would hate being rejected in their advances when their desires were running high, and Jethro was worse because his sex drive was so strong."Serena…" he growled."We can't do these things anymore. I just can't." I hung my head to
Jethro’s current state verged on fury, and I couldn't help but fear his fist might find its way to me in the next moment.I thought this man possessed a gentleman's grace. Despite his volatile temper and icy exterior, I believed he wouldn’t resort to violence against a woman, or so I believed. My illusions shattered today at the police station when I witnessed him hit a woman with my own eyes. His words, "There's no such rule about not hitting women in my books," echoed in my mind, stirring up a genuine fear within me.The intensity of his anger was more than I'd ever imagined. To say I wasn't frightened would be a lie.I looked at Jethro with terror, too petrified to speak. My only response was a silent, numb shake of my head.Although my relationship with Ignatz was official, the idea of rushing into physical intimacy with him, particularly sex, hadn't even ventured into my thoughts.Observing my reaction, the rage in Jethro's eyes subsided a little. Yet, the intimidating atmosp
Unable to take it anymore, I shouted, “Get out!”I turned my back on him, refusing to engage any further. This man took shamelessness to new heights. Continuing this conversation would only demean me, and I had no intention of doing that.After that exhausting session, I was completely drained. Once I lay down, I fell into a deep, restful sleep. I slept so soundly that it was almost noon by the time I woke up. Groggily, I opened my eyes, squinting against the sunlight streaming through the window. Looking around, I noticed Jethro’s absence from the bed and sighed in relief.I had several missed calls from Ignatz. I recalled calling him the previous night when Summer and I were taken by the police, and he hadn’t answered. He must be worried because of that call.Ignoring the missed calls, I decided against calling him back. The drama had concluded, and there was nothing left to explain.I sat up and picked up my skirt from the floor, planning to leave. However, I found my top torn
Jethro’s kiss was tender as if he were cherishing a beloved one. His gentleness made my heart race uncontrollably. I couldn’t comprehend this sudden change in him, but this softer side made me inadvertently sink into the moment.Staying silent, I allowed him to kiss me. My thoughts went blank, forgetting entirely to push him away.It was some time before Jethro reluctantly released me, beaming as he noticed my dazed expression. I came back to my senses, dazed by the intensity of the kiss.God, that kiss was so intense… Wait!"I should go now, bye!" I blurted out as I snapped back to reality.I threw open the car door and darted out. Glancing back, I thought I saw a hint of triumph in Jethro’s eyes. I couldn’t decipher the meaning behind that triumphant look, but in the next second, it became clear.Ignatz was standing nearby, observing me with furrowed brows and an unmistakable look of displeasure.I froze. So, Jethro’s unusual behavior was because he had seen Ignatz. Had he bee
We made our way to Summer’s home in silence. The moment we stepped through the door, she greeted us with a smile that quickly waned when her gaze fell on my clothes. Jethro's shirt truly had the ability to turn heads."You’re home, Rina," she said as she took my hand, her face etched with concern."Yeah, I am. How about you, Summer? Does your face still hurt?" I asked. Summer’s face was still swollen from last night’s altercation. The bruises at the corners of her mouth were a stark reminder of the violence Claude and his girlfriend had inflicted."It's nothing. I'm much better now, but you... I'm sorry I pulled into that mess. If it weren’t for me, you wouldn't have been hurt. It's all my fault, Rina," Summer apologized."It's okay, we're friends, aren't we? We stick together through thick and thin. I couldn't just stand by and watch you get bullied," I replied.Despite being hit, it didn't feel wrong in any way. I knew I had been standing up for my best friend.Summer then gl
“I’ll never miss a call from you again. Call me right away if you're ever in trouble, and I’ll think of a solution," he promised me.Ignatz’s assurance was comforting. I could detect his underlying wish to distance me from Jethro, but I couldn't overlook his good intentions. His words genuinely warmed my heart."I understand, and thank you," I replied, my voice filled with sincere appreciation.The bond between Ignatz and me had been slow to progress, but our latest shared moments had showcased his patience with me.At that moment, my stomach chose to growl loudly from not being fed since the night before. I stared at Ignatz, uncertain of what to say. Upon seeing my embarrassment, he simply smiled. He then said, "You haven’t had breakfast yet, have you? Let’s go grab a bite.""I’d rather not go out looking like this. If others saw me, they might think you were the one who hit me," I joked.I was yearning for a meal, but my bruised face dissuaded me from stepping out into public
The following day, I called in sick with the office. Normally I wouldn’t even have considered taking the day off. Time off equated to lost income, after all. However, this time was an exception. My face was still swollen, and I had no desire to become the talk of the office. A visit to the police station was hardly a point of pride either.Summer took some time off as well, likely for the same reasons. We recuperated at her place for two days, and Ignatz delivered meals to us.By the third day, my injuries were finally less noticeable, prompting me to return to work. As soon as I arrived, Misha threw me a barrage of questions regarding my sudden absence. I came up with a quick excuse and told her that I had been feeling ill.While Misha and I were talking, Jethro walked in. We quickly took our seats and pretended to be deeply engrossed in our work. After all, we were well-acquainted with his critiques, and I had no intention of inviting another lecture."Serena, bring your last rev
I knew that nothing I said to the contrary was going to convince Jethro otherwise. All he cared about now was protecting his little princess. "Okay then, I'll be waiting for you at home. Don't work overtime tonight, okay?""Got it! I'll be home soon," he agreed smilingly. I was sure he’d have gone home with me straight away if it weren't for work.Doris was already waiting by the time I got home. She looked both excited and assured. "So? Pregnant, right?""You nailed it!" I laughed."Oh dear! Seren’s going to get a sibling soon!" she chirped. I shook my head helplessly. I should’ve been the happiest one, but the Willows were just one-upping me one after another right now. I smiled at Doris. "I'm a little tired, so I'll be in my room.""Go, go. I'll get the housekeeper to make something nutritious for you," Doris replied. Jethro came home a lot earlier than usual. He had a large bouquet of roses with him too. I couldn’t recall when was the last time he gave me flowers."Is thi
Mason chuckled dryly. "Well, well. Working hard, huh? You’re expecting again."I felt guilty for having asked him for help now. It was as if I was putting salt on his wound. I avoided his gaze and decided to go around him. "Umm, if it inconveniences you, then I wouldn't mind joining the line. See ya."He frowned and stepped in my way. He smiled. "I've already made the arrangements, Serena. Just go."Despite his smile, I could tell Mason was simply hiding his feelings. I sighed. I didn't want to hurt him, but he never seemed to change. He kept doing things for me, and I was simultaneously moved and frustrated by his loyalty. But I could only ever love Jethro. I could never reciprocate Mason’s feelings. I silently followed him into the consultation room. A while later, the doctor confirmed that I was pregnant. I felt as though I had soared to the sky, and I wondered how Jethro would feel about this. Mason was by my side the entire time, so naturally, he was privy to the news. I fa
I woke up the next morning feeling like a well-wrung-out-rag. I had gotten home late, and Jethro kept me up till the wee hours of the morning. I had only fallen asleep just before dawn.Restless, I turned to look at Jethro who was deep asleep and felt slightly resentful. He had worn me out last night, yet here he was, sleeping peacefully without a care. I sat up and gently nudged him awake. Even though he had exhausted me, he was the one who had truly exerted himself, so he was certainly even more tired than I was.Jethro opened his eyes groggily, asking sleepily. "What’s wrong?""Do you even have to ask?" I retorted."Did I not satisfy you last night? Well, are you up for more then?" he teased.I stared at him, dumbfounded. Why was he always thinking such thoughts? When had I ever hinted that I wanted another round?Irritated, I shot him a glance and decided to get out of bed to wash up. While I brushed my teeth, I suddenly felt a wave of nausea. I found this strange. I hadn't e
Jethro’s anger ebbed away upon hearing my words, though his face continued to carry a trace of annoyance."That's more like it. Remember, if this happens again, you’re never leaving the house ever again," he warned.I wasn't upset that he was angry. I understood it was because he cared about me. I would’ve felt the same if the roles were reversed. After all, worry was a byproduct of care."Were you waiting up for me?" I asked, realizing Jethro was still up in the living room though it was well past two in the morning."What else would I be doing?" he replied in a mix of irritation and relief."Geez, I've already apologized. Let's not dwell on this," I responded playfully, trying to defuse the tension. "Let's head to bed. I'm exhausted," I suggested, more than ready to end the evening. Taking his hand, I led us toward the bedroom.Sensing my weariness, Jethro followed without further comment. After a soothing shower, I felt much better despite the physical exhaustion. My mood, how
"You just implied that it wouldn’t matter if you faced such trauma again. If that's what you think, I might as well help it happen!" I said to Jolene, purposefully using harsh words to instill fear in her. My goal was to shock her into realizing the gravity of her actions. My real concern was for Evelyn—Jolene’s recklessness was causing Evelyn undue stress."Let me go, Serena! You’re insane!" Jolene protested, but I continued to tug at her, undeterred by her panic and anger. I wanted to teach her a lesson for her lack of empathy and respect."I'm the crazy one? It seems like you’re the one who has lost your mind, Jolene! Can’t you see what you’re doing to your mom? If you can’t handle life's challenges, then stop causing her pain!" Driven by frustration, I dragged her outside.Jolene then managed to break free, retreating and glaring at me fearfully. "Get the hell away from me! I don't wanna see you!" she yelled, visibly shaken.Seeing her sufficiently alarmed, I stopped, fixing he
"Seeing Jojo like this is breaking my heart.” Evelyn held my hand, her face marked by deep sorrow."I know you're upset, but don't worry, I'll talk some sense into her." Seeing Evelyn's distress, I felt uneasy. Though I was reluctant to interfere in Jolene's life, I couldn't ignore Evelyn's pain.I waited at Evelyn's house until late at night before Jolene finally returned. It was almost one in the morning, and my irritation surged upon seeing her. Jolene, reeking of alcohol, was a far cry from her former self. Her transformation was stark. Dressed provocatively and caked in heavy makeup, she resembled a hooker more than a member of a respectable family.I marched over to her "Jolene," I called out, unable to hide my annoyance.She stopped and faced me. She asked in a hostile tone, "What are you doing here at this hour?""Waiting for you." I faced her with a frosty demeanor."Waiting for me? I'm tired and have no interest in talking to you." Impatiently, Jolene turned to head ups
Lianna stared at Jethro tearfully, her voice laden with pain. "But I still love you. You once promised to love me forever. Why has that promise changed?""I might still harbor those feelings if we hadn't parted ways. But time changes emotions, and what we had can't be rekindled," Jethro replied, his tone reflecting a seriousness I hadn't seen in him before."Don't leave me, Jethro, please. I know I was wrong to leave you for money. Give me another chance. I can bring back the love we once had,” Lianna pleaded, clutching at Jethro's arm.Standing by the sidelines, I watched the scene expressionlessly. I wasn't worried because I knew Jethro would never return to her. His heart belonged to me now.Jethro withdrew his arm, and his gaze toward Lianna was cold and distant. "I’ve said all there is to say. Our relationship ends here. From now on, please stay out of my life. Stop bothering me," he stated firmly, then took my hand and walked out of the room, leaving Lianna behind.In the ca
The blood test was swiftly completed, but we had to wait three days for the paternity test results. Mason assured us he would notify us as soon as they were out.As Jethro and I were leaving the hospital, Lianna suddenly called out, "Jethro!” Her face was pale and her eyes filled with sadness."What else do you want?" Jethro asked in a detached tone.Lianna glanced at me, then continued, "I just want to ask you one thing. If Robin is your son, will you acknowledge him? Have you ever considered accepting us back into your life?""If he's my child, I'll take responsibility. But if not, please stay out of my life forever."Jethro was extremely serious as he spoke, his gaze toward Lianna emotionless. Her tears flowed as she listened to him, her expression becoming even more pained."Fine. If he isn’t your child, I’ll leave with him. But I’m certain he’s your child because you're the only man I've ever been with!" After saying this emotionally charged statement, Lianna sped off.Watc
"Are you being completely honest, Rina? You're not covering for this brat, are you? If he has an illegitimate child, I'll break his legs!" Raymond's gaze shifted to me, his disbelief apparent.I was taken aback by Raymond's words but also felt a sense of solidarity. It was clear he was supporting me."It’s the truth, Grandpa. I guarantee that the child Lianna has isn’t Jethro's. If you doubt him, surely you’ll believe me, right? If that boy were Jethro’s, would I be calmly discussing this with you now?" I said."Then we'll wait for the test results.” Seemingly somewhat convinced by my assurance, he gave Jethro a cold snort and looked away.Jethro frowned, clearly unhappy, but he remained silent. Witnessing the family's united front against him was oddly gratifying for me. Back in our bedroom, I felt pretty upbeat and couldn’t help humming a tune. Though Lianna's child wasn’t Jethro's, the recent tensions had weighed on me heavily. Seeing the family rally around me felt like a small