Jethro observed me silently, his face betraying no emotion as I vented. His brow creased, and his penetrating gaze lingered on me for a long time.I met his eyes unflinchingly. What he thought of me—whether he believed I was after his money or genuinely wanted to be with him—didn’t matter to me anymore. I just wanted to release my pent-up feelings. How dare he speak to me in this way?"What do you mean by saying this now, Serena? Are you suggesting you want to renew our relationship?" Jethro’s gaze was dark and unreadable, and his words left me unsure whether he was angry or pleased.He had warned me countless times that our relationship was nothing more than physical, urging me not to harbor any illusions or feelings for him. My confession had clearly indicated my feelings for him.My heart raced, and I was uncertain of how to respond to his question. Deep down, I knew I had fallen for him, and denying it would be lying to myself.I opened my mouth to answer but said nothing as a
After a long moment of indecision, I turned off my phone, lacking the bravery to call Jethro. The idea of his reaction upon learning about the pregnancy terrified me. He might even think I had planned it.That night, my mind was a whirlwind of worry about the pregnancy, leaving me restless and sleep-deprived.I arrived at the office in a terrible state the next day. Knowing I was pregnant, I couldn’t focus on my work. During lunch, while everyone left to grab a bite, I stayed behind, lacking the appetite for food.Alone in the office, I delved into researching abortion procedures online. I had no choice but to terminate the pregnancy. Reading about the dangers of abortion intensified my fear, leaving me more anxious than before.While engrossed in reading, the sound of Jethro’s office door opening startled me. Quickly disguising my activity as work, I pretended to be engrossed in a task. Jethro stepped out, his eyes briefly registering surprise before he walked toward me."Why hav
"Where are you?" Jethro asked just as I was on the verge of ending the call.His question sent a jolt through my heart. I hesitated, about to answer, "I’m at…"Suddenly, Anna's voice interrupted from his side, "Come on, Jethro. We need to finalize our engagement arrangements."A wave of sadness washed over me. He was with Anna, discussing their wedding plans. It felt like salt on an open wound. I couldn’t bring myself to respond and abruptly hung up.There I was by the roadside, laughing bitterly at my folly. Jethro was about to be engaged to Anna, and yet, I couldn’t let go of him. Reaching out to him at such a moment, I was no better than a woman trying to break up someone else’s relationship.It seemed that I'd overestimated my significance in his world. His commitment to Anna signified the end of any significance I once held. Curling up, I succumbed to an overwhelming wave of loneliness and helplessness.As night fell, I just sat by the roadside, attracting curious glances fr
"Serena." Jethro’s tone conveyed suspicion as if he thought I was trying to rekindle our past relationship.I released him, not wanting him to misconstrue my desire for him to stay. To my surprise, instead of leaving, Jethro turned around, cradled the back of my head, and kissed me. Despite his looming engagement, I found myself hopelessly drawn into the moment.This was the first time I had so pathetically fallen for someone.Jethro’s kiss was assertive and possessive, which was typical for him, and something I was familiar with. I closed my eyes and wrapped my arms around his neck, returning his passion. Jethro seemed more fervent than usual, perhaps our prolonged separation had fueled his desire for me.The kiss lasted a long time, leading us to the bedroom, where he laid me down and began undressing me. I then recalled reading online that sexual activity should be avoided during the first three months of pregnancy to prevent a miscarriage. Though I intended to have an abortion,
I laid awake in Jethro’s arms all night, my mind consumed with the thought of his impending engagement to Anna."Are you truly at peace with marrying Anna? Won’t you regret this decision?" After much internal struggle, I finally voiced the question, uncertain if he was asleep.His response was indirect. "Does it truly matter whether I’m at peace or not?"I sensed his reluctance about the engagement."If you're unwilling, why are you proceeding with the engagement? Isn’t the idea of spending a lifetime with someone you don’t love a painful thought?" I asked, searching for a truthful answer, secretly hoping he would reconsider the engagement."In my world, decisions aren’t often ours to make. These decisions are swayed by factors beyond mere willingness." Jethro’s dark eyes bore into mine. His tone was flat, but I sensed a hint of helplessness.I didn’t know how to respond to his comment. Perhaps his choices were anchored in familial obligations that went beyond personal desires. I
As the doctor got ready to inject the anesthetic, an intense sense of regret surged through me and the thought of losing this child suddenly became unbearable. In a swift decision, I pushed the doctor's hand away and hastily climbed off the bed.“I’m sorry, doctor, I’ve changed my mind. I want to keep my baby,” I blurted out, quickly pulling my pants back on, my face etched with an apologetic expression.It must’ve been unusual for someone to change their mind at the last minute as I had. I braced myself for the doctor's annoyance, thinking she might feel that I had wasted her time. Surprisingly, she showed no sign of irritation.Removing her mask, she offered me a gentle smile. “Every child is an angel. Love it with all your heart,” she advised before leaving the operating room.After I left the hospital, I wandered down the sidewalk, my mind still racing from the close call. Had I not made that last-minute decision, my baby would be gone by now.Despite the uncertainty of what l
Hearing Summer's words, I realized hiding my pregnancy from Jethro would be incredibly difficult. Eager to steer clear of this sensitive subject, I shifted our conversation to lighter topics before departing.I had impulsively decided to keep the baby, yet I had no clue how to keep it a secret from Jethro. Given his intelligence, if I claimed the baby was another man’s, he'd never believe me.Today was Jethro's engagement day, and though I had initially resolved to remain ignorant of the event, curiosity got the better of me. I switched on the TV, only to be greeted by the repeated coverage of his engagement ceremony.Jethro was dressed in a pristine white suit, looking tall and imposing. His usual cold, detached demeanor and penetrating dark eyes were unmistakable. He always had a way of capturing the spotlight. Anna stood beside him, her arm hooked through his. Dressed in a champagne-colored gown, she looked stunning. Her body was perfectly accentuated, and her face bore an enchan
"Are you pursuing me because of love or because you want to be Mrs. Willow?" Jethro didn’t answer my question and instead furrowed his brows and gazed into my eyes with serious intent.I instantly understood his implication. He believed I sought to be with him merely for the title of Mrs. Willow? Was he that convinced that my motives were driven by wealth?As I comprehended how Jethro perceived me, I smiled bitterly. I suddenly realized the absurdity of my earlier question."If you think I’m only after the title of Mrs. Willow, then you may leave now. From this moment on, let’s be strangers." I turned away, gesturing to the door and silently urging him to leave.He thought my feelings for him were fake? He imagined all that time I spent with him was solely revolved around the prestige of becoming Mrs. Willow?I wouldn't deny the allure of the affluence and opulence that came with being Jethro's wife. I’m sure many women dreamt of such a position, but I wasn't as shallow as he imag
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