After the unsettling event, peace was restored to my home. The next time I went out, I couldn't help but notice extra security guards in my building. A little digging revealed that Jethro had filed a complaint about the building's security. Considering his influence in Arrowdale, it was no surprise that his concerns were promptly addressed.His public involvement in a matter that concerned me was both shocking and touching. I appreciated his gesture but couldn't help feeling uneasy about his changing attitude toward me. I was afraid that if he continued being this considerate, I might not be able to keep my feelings in check.While I sat amid the new furniture in my living room and struggled to connect with the memories that once filled this space, my thoughts were interrupted by a call from Mason. I paused for a moment before picking up."Yes, Mason?" I greeted him enthusiastically.My focus had been on my pregnancy and job hunting lately, and that left little room for anything el
“Mason, I really wish you wouldn't—"I tried to express my discomfort at his remarks, but Mason interrupted me before I could finish."Eat up. You’ve lost weight since we last met," he said, nudging a slice of bacon toward me.I usually enjoyed bacon, but now that I was pregnant, the thought of any greasy foods turned my stomach. I clapped a hand over my mouth and made a beeline for the restroom, feeling sick.Behind me, Mason called out in concern, "Are you all right, Rina?"I barely heard him, focused on getting to the restroom. Once there, I bent over the sink, sick to my stomach. Everything I had eaten came back up, yet the nausea persisted. Only had I rinsed my mouth of the bitterness did I feel slightly better. My morning sickness seemed to be intensifying.After tidying my disheveled hair, I returned to my seat where Mason awaited me, looking worried. "What happened? Are you feeling unwell?""I’m fine. Just an upset stomach.”I downplayed my discomfort. Revealing my preg
"I’m just concerned about you, Rina. You seemed unwell yesterday, so I asked my housekeeper to prepare something light for you," Mason explained as he walked past me into the kitchen.He set down some packed food on the table and opened it. As he placed an open box before me, I saw that the meal he brought was simple and light."Thanks, Mason. This is very kind of you, but you don’t need to go to such lengths next time," I said, feeling a mix of gratitude and unease.Mason’s intentions were clear, but because of my complicated history with Jethro, I hesitated to get closer to Mason. Surprisingly, he didn't bring up any of the widely circulated rumors about me and Jethro, adding to my bewilderment."I don’t mind the trouble," he replied nonchalantly, though his eyes betrayed a hint of disappointment.I didn't pursue the matter further. Instead, I started eating the breakfast he'd brought."Mason, haven’t you seen the news about Jethro lately?" I finally broached a subject that had
Mason didn’t call me for the next few days. My best guess was that he was processing the news of my pregnancy. But just then, another piece of news broke the headlines—Jethro was getting married.Jethro had told me that he was going to investigate the break-in to see if it was Anna's doing, but instead of the results of that, all I got was news of their marriage. I now wondered if Jethro was just saying things for the sake of saying them.Hell, they had just announced their engagement, and already they were getting married? How was I supposed to be mentally prepared for this?Shaken, I turned off the TV. I mean, it was expected, but the timing of everything was just so hard to accept. I guess I hadn't really let go of him yet. The news soured my mood so much that I suddenly felt like going out. If I were alone, I’d only keep thinking about Jethro and his new…thing. I called Summer, and she could instantly tell that something was up with me. She told me to meet up, and I arrived at
What surprised me though was that Mason was the boss of this hospital. I always assumed he was your typical trust-fund kid.Mason smiled. "I didn't know she was coming in for a check-up. I wouldn't have made her pay if I knew," he answered breezily. His eyes, when aimed at me, told a different story. They looked conflicted. Jethro was unaware, but Mason probably did: the floor I had got in the elevator from was the OB-GYN level."I didn't know you were the boss of this place," I said, trying a little too hard to dispel the awkwardness. "Sorry. I should’ve told you," Mason replied smilingly, though it was devoid of his usual flirtatious undertone.Ever since he learned that I was pregnant, he had stopped trying to woo me. It was a good thing—until I realized how much it bothered me to hear the distance in his tone. I saw him as a really good friend. I didn't want him to change his attitude because of this pregnancy, these things were simply out of my control.The elevator finall
I honestly didn't care about what other people thought now, and the look that Anna shot me just pissed me off so much. Why the hell must she always make everyone else sound like dicks and bitches?"I'm here for a health check-up," I replied coldly. "Are you unwell? Mason here’s the owner of this hospital. If you need a discount, just tell me. I’ll make my soon-to-be cousin-in-law help you out." Anna smiled smugly. Ah, throwing me a reminder that she was Jethro's girlfriend now? I didn't know what went through the men's heads when they heard her, but now was not the time for me to wonder about that. One thing was for sure—she planned to humiliate me the moment she stopped me in public. "I don't need a discount. Goodbye now.""Our wedding is next Sunday, Ms. Serena!" she called out, grinning. "We'd love to see you there if you're free to join!"Wanting to see me suffer and knowing exactly where my weaknesses lay, she dug in mercilessly. "You're out of line, Anna." Jethro snapp
"It's not you. It's me. I knew that I was never going to be with Jethro no matter how I felt, so I didn't want anyone to know. It was why I could never say yes to you."I had to tell Mason everything. Just one look at him right now made that very clear. I knew his love for me was genuine—which was why seeing him in this state alarmed me. I was once Jethro's bed partner. Even if I didn't like Jethro now, I could never fall for Mason, who was Jethro's cousin on paper but acted more like his kid brother."Enough! I don't need any more explanation from you. I'm just glad I finally know the truth after all this time. I don't… I don't have to be this idiot any longer."It was too late. Nothing I could say could help him process the hurt my secret had caused him. He probably hated me.Mason shot me one last pained look and turned away. I watched him go.He looked so abandoned, so alone.I didn't know today would come to this. I was already saddened by Jethro's latest development, and no
"Just friends?! Who do you take me for, Serena? Do you think I'd believe you?!"Jethro was agitated, and his demanding glare worsened. I was furious. "Why should I care if you believe me or not?! How is it even any of your business? You're in no position to control me in any way!"Jethro understood that what I was really trying to say was that he had no right to dictate how I lived my life as he was marrying Anna. His rage intensified, and his glare became even harder, but I defiantly met his gaze.Just when I thought he was going to erupt, he suddenly collapsed on me and was fast asleep. It was as though the man who was just inches away from flying into a rage wasn't him.I watched him sleep, stunned. He was so close right now. So quiet. I might never have the chance to see him this closely anymore. I wanted to caress his cheek. I wanted to feel—I stopped myself. No matter how much I desired to be with him, I knew I couldn't. It took me so much effort to finally rein in my hea
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