I smiled scornfully as I looked at my mom with disappointment. It turned out my family's kindness wasn't genuine after all. At the root of it, their actions were still all about Sean—about securing funds for his medical expenses."Mom, I'm really starting to wonder if I'm your biological daughter. Why are you so cruel to me? What have I ever done wrong?!" I roared as my body shook.I had held these words in my heart for so long that I couldn't hold them back anymore. I truly wanted to know why I was so different from Sean in my mother's heart.Without waiting for a response, I turned and fled the room, unable to bear any more harsh words."Rina! What are you talking about?!" My mom's voice trailed after me, but I didn't look back, hurrying away with a heavy heart.I found refuge on a bench in the hospital garden, and my tears streamed down uncontrollably. I now understood that my mom would do anything for Sean. Why couldn't she spare just a little of that love for me?I collapsed
Frustrated, I pulled at my hair. Being late for work was sure to result in a penalty. As I was about to contact my supervisor to explain, a call came through.It was Jethrom and my heart raced.Was he calling to reprimand me for not showing up at the office? What was I supposed to do? How was I going to explain myself? That I had overslept? But such an excuse hardly seemed valid to someone like Jethro.Taking a deep breath, I answered the call with apprehension. "Hello, Mr. Jethro…" My voice trembled slightly, bracing for an outburst from the other end."Did you sleep well?" he asked.To my surprise, Jethro's tone was gentle. It was devoid of any anger, with a softness that seemed surreal. I shook my head, telling myself this must be an illusion. Jethro couldn't possibly be speaking to me with such tenderness."Mr. Jethro, I'm so sorry. I overslept." I decided to apologize, hoping that my honesty might mitigate any frustration he felt."I turned off your alarm. Take the day off,
Misha's curious expression caused my heart to race. Her question unsettled me. Had she guessed my relationship with Jethro?"Wh-What do you mean? What kind of relationship could I possibly have with Mr. Jethro?" My face reddened with anxiety, and my voice betrayed my nervousness."Don't play dumb with me. Mr. Jethro himself came to the office yesterday to request a day off for you. Everyone was surprised and is now wondering what's going on between you two,” Misha shared eagerly, her eyes alight with curiosity."I-I was planning to call our supervisor for a day off yesterday, but I mistakenly dialed Mr. Jethro’s number," I hurriedly made up an excuse, worried she might suspect the true nature of my relationship with Jethro.It seemed that her suspicions were only because Jethro had requested my leave."Rina, I have this feeling there’s something special between you and Mr. Jethro. Don't tell me you're together?" Despite my explanation, Misha appeared unconvinced."What nonsense a
"Who is this?" I asked, genuinely at a loss.The voice on the other end was familiar, yet I couldn't place it."It's Mason. Have you already forgotten me?" Mason's voice carried a tinge of amusement mixed with disappointment."Ah, it's you. Of course, I haven't forgotten. Your call just took me by surprise," I replied, finally recognizing who it was.Mason, much like Jethro, had a striking presence that was hard to forget. His unexpected call was a surprise. I thought we’d never meet again after our encounter. Yet here he was, calling me within just a few days.Truth be told, I was not particularly fond of men like Mason. His good looks and charming disposition aside, he seemed a bit too frivolous for my preference. I was more drawn to mature, grounded personalities, something a young affluent man like Mason didn’t exhibit."I got your number, so I had to call. I always look forward to chatting with someone as captivating as you," Mason responded.I sighed inwardly, wary of his
"Since you so dearly wish to hide our relationship from others, I'll grant your wish.”Jethro's voice was as icy as a winter’s night. Without a backward glance, he stormed out of the door. As he disappeared, I was bewildered. Had I said something wrong? What was the reason for such fury? Was it about the text?The thought of Jethro's earlier message brought a twinge of guilt.Brushing aside these thoughts, I returned to making dinner, but Jethro didn’t return. I waited at the dining table, but hours ticked by with no sign of him.Dinner with Jethro had become a habit, and his absence tonight felt particularly disconcerting.After a few bites, I washed up and went to bed. I reminded myself not to place too much importance on Jethro. I had to learn detachment and not to develop feelings for him. In our dynamic, whoever falls in love first loses.Jethro didn't return that night, and I found myself worried about his whereabouts. Still, I resisted the urge to call him. For the next fe
As time dragged on, my strength ebbed. Dizziness clouded my mind, and my body felt like ice. In my helplessness, Jethro's image came to mind. He had always been there during my past difficulties, and I longed for his presence now.Yet, Jethro was unaware of my predicament. The fear that I might die here, chilled to the bone by the relentless air conditioning, was overwhelming.Engulfed by the chilling air, my eyelids grew heavy. How I had ever survived and escaped from that restroom was a mystery to me.When I opened my eyes, I was in a hospital bed with Jethro by my side. His expression was a mix of concern and frustration."Where am I? Wasn't I trapped in the restroom?" My voice was hoarse, and I felt weak."So, you are aware that you were locked in a restroom. Truly, is there anyone dumber than you, Serena?" Jethro's concern quickly shifted to irritation as he reproached me."Someone locked me in there," I retorted.Could he not see how frail I was and show some empathy inste
As a daughter, I expected my mother's concern when I fell ill, yet her departure left me questioning her affection for me.Alone in the hospital room, I faced the stark reality of my solitude. As I stared out the window, tears streamed down my face. Despite my usual resilience, deep down, I craved genuine care and companionship.The ring of my phone, tucked beneath my pillow, broke the silence. Brushing away tears, I answered, welcoming the distraction."Hello?" My voice came out raspy."Ms. Serena, you sound a little off. Have you been crying?" Mason asked in concern, surprising me."Not really," I lied, masking my emotional fragility.I hadn’t expected Mason to be so attentive. He detected something amiss in my voice from just one word."Come on, I can tell. A woman's voice speaks volumes," he said, his usual frivolity tinged with empathy."It's nothing, really. Just a sore throat."My throat was indeed uncomfortable from the crying. I felt weak as if I had just awoken from
In Mason's embrace, I found unexpected solace. Until today, I had dismissed him as a mere playboy, interested only in superficial charm. But at that moment, his genuine care was unmistakable. His shirt, damp with my tears, served as a testament to the emotional refuge he provided."I’m sorry. I dirtied your shirt," I murmured, suddenly remembering how little we knew each other."It's fine. All that matters is that you stop crying. Did I say something to upset you?" Mason asked concernedly."It’s nothing to do with you. Just some sad thoughts," I explained, finding myself reassessing him. I was grateful that he had allowed me to vent my emotions in his embrace."You can talk to me about it. We're friends now, aren't we?"Mason’s warm smile and caring gaze invited my trust. Looking into his clear eyes, despite the hint of youthful naivety, it strangely reassured me. After some brief hesitation, I shared my family situation. I didn't want his pity. I just wanted someone to talk to.
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