“Who are you to Liam Mercer?” he finally demanded.My heart ached at the name despite myself, but I had been through worse pains than this. This was nothing, and I could easily mask it. “Nobody,” I answered truthfully.He used to be more. He was the man I was supposed to spend the rest of my life with, but that was no longer.Jethro’s eyes turned cold. Don’t give me that bullshit, Serena Hart.” I was shocked. How did he…? I raised my head. “How do you know my name?” I asked gingerly.“That’s what you’re surprised about? It’s not that hard to find out.” He frowned as if I was an idiot.“L-Look, there’s somewhere I really need to be, okay? Meeting you here was a coincidence, and I’m thankful for your help and everything, but I really gotta go.”I tried to leave, but he pulled me back. His hands pressed on the wall on either side of me, locking me in place. He got close, pressing up against me. Until this moment, I never knew my heart could beat so fast. His handsome face was
I cracked under her interrogation and admitted everything.“Rina! I think you’ve stumbled upon the perfect guy after Liam. He’s like a billion times better than that piece of shit!” she declared. I knew Summer just wanted me to recover from the pain as soon as possible, but this had to be the worst notion in history. There was no chemistry between Jethro and me and had zero things in common.Jethro was a man of real influence. The city, his domain, obeyed his demands. The entire country was his business empire. He might not flaunt it, but everyone knew he was a billionaire. “Me and Jethro? Fat chance. This isn’t some rom-com, Summer. It’s real life,” I snapped and made for my room.“But he’s Liam’s boss! Didn’t you see that jerk trembling just from seeing Jethro? And if you become the boss of his boss… Now that would be revenge at its finest!” I froze mid-step. I wanted that. Oh, how I wanted to destroy Liam. And why? Because I hated seeing him with Julia. I fucking hated it!
I was also well aware that the company belonged to Jethro, but see, this advertising company was just one of his many side projects. There was no way a big man like him would show up here. The chances were as low as 0.1%. All I wanted right now was to make it big in a famous company. I could not afford to fall and waste my life anymore. I had my dreams and ambitions, and I wanted to fight for them. I knew I could do it. I had the experience and the skills. Any company short of this one would have hired me for sure.I was not so sure about this one though. Titan Advertising Incorporated, better known as Titan Ads, paid its employees handsomely. And as such, the prerequisites to land a position here were extremely high. I lacked the confidence I would’ve had interviewing with other companies. After the interview, I could not shake myself out of the experience. The company was larger than I had imagined, with its employees numbering in the thousands. All that made me think of Jethro.
Perhaps my defiant attitude had set Liam off. He turned around to confront me, eyes ablaze with anger and accusation."Liam, who are you to call me a slut?! If we're comparing scum, you undoubtedly take the cake! You're not just disgusting, you're the lowest form of human trash. You cheated on me with my former best friend, in our new home, nonetheless! What gives you the right to judge me now? Also, if you can sleep around, why can’t I?!" I yelled at him, no longer concerned if we were becoming a public spectacle.I saw a crack in Liam's stern expression as my words sunk in. "I know my affair with Julia hurt you, but that doesn't give you a free pass to just fuck any guy. Do you even know who Jethro is?" His tone had softened, but it was still tinged with rebuke."I don't need you to tell me who Jethro is. You and I are done, Liam. And who I do or don’t sleep with is none of your business. From now on, we're strangers to each other. Oh, and I wish you a swift breakup!" Holding back
Giselle then threw herself into Jethro's arms, desperate for his embrace. Once a woman lowered herself this much, you'd think no guy would have the heart to reject her, especially when she's as stunning and famous as Giselle. Men would line up around the block just for a moment with her. I was certain Jethro would soften up, but what unfolded next caught me off guard.Jethro promptly pushed her away, his face an emotionless mask. "I said, we're through. I don't want to have to say it a third time." As he stared icily.This guy sure was ruthless. He was ditching her like it was nothing and seemed to think he was justified in doing so. He clearly wasn’t a good man. Silently, I pegged him as a complete jerk.But then it hit me. If even Liam, who was just a department manager, could cheat and keep his options open, why would Jethro be any different? Jethro was a wealthy and capable tycoon after all. The idea that he trades in girlfriends like last season's fashion was not an impossibili
Jethro had made up his mind to cut Giselle loose. It was understandable. A man with his wealth and influence would never stand being cuckolded.I was starting to understand why he was being so ruthless to Giselle. I had done the same when it came to disloyalty. When Liam betrayed me, our relationship came to an end immediately, no matter how painful it was. For a man in Jethro's position, doing the same was only logical."Jett, can't you find it in you to forgive me?"Tears streamed down Giselle's face, a sight that would typically tug at anyone's heartstrings. But after hearing their spat and learning of her betrayal, I felt no sympathy for her. She had brought this on herself."Fuck off before I change my mind!"Jethro had hit his boiling point. His voice was laced with intimidation, making Giselle shudder. Her face struggled between wanting to explain further and fearing the consequences. After a moment, she turned around and walked away, tears streaming down her face.And wit
“So, you're set on breaking up with a stunning woman like Giselle? If you're having second thoughts, maybe you should consider forgiving her.”Old wisdom always told us to make peace, not war. Though I myself would never stand for betrayal, openly agreeing with Jethro's decision might raise his suspicions. Nudging him toward reconciliation was a safer move."Do you think I, Jethro Willow, would forgive a woman who cheated on me?" His handsome face darkened, and anger flashed through his eyes.I let out an uneasy chuckle, uncertain of my next move. Hey, you were the one who broke up with your woman, and what could I possibly say about that? I just happened to overhear you guys. Was it necessary for you to make things so difficult for me?"Our relationship isn't what you think. It was a relationship of mutual benefit. She was after fame and fortune, and I was just satisfying my physical needs," Jethro said, casting me a sidelong glance. His tone was so flat that it was tough to read
I glared at Jethro as my heart hammered with frustration. What was this man thinking? It was not like I eavesdropped on purpose. Was it necessary for him to intimidate me like this?"I want you."I shot him an angry look, but he didn’t reciprocate my feelings. Instead, his cold face wore a warm, affectionate smile. As if he wasn't attractive enough, his smile transformed him into an utterly captivating sight. I was not one to swoon over a pretty face, but damn was he stunning. His aura of elegance was downright magnetic.I was completely spellbound until his hand brushed against my chest. The touch jolted me, and I shot him a furious glare. "You're insane! Let go or I'll scream!"I was livid. His actions had crossed a line. I was a reserved woman by nature, and his audacity outraged me."Playing coy as we? Is this some kind of game to you, Serena? Do you find this amusing?" Annoyance flashed through Jethro's eyes, subduing his earlier warmth.Men like him were probably used to ha
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