Realizing that Jethro's injury was a consequence of my plight, I was engulfed with guilt."Do you think you're some sort of hero? You want to save her, but you can't even protect yourself," taunted the leader, mocking Jethro despite his own wound."You believe you lot are enough to defeat me? You've really pissed me off now," Jethro snarled, his eyes darkening with intense, fearsome anger.Faced with Jethro’s daunting demeanor, the assailants hesitated, unsure of what to do next. Meanwhile, Jethro bent down, picked up a knife, and stood poised for combat."Why are you just standing there? Attack!" The leader’s command broke the tense silence, and yet, his voice wavered, revealing his growing panic.They had struggled to take down Jethro but only barely managed to wound him by using a sneak attack. Now armed, Jethro posed an even greater threat.Jethro’s icy gaze fixed on them as he advanced, dodging their stabs and retaliating with his own blade. His calculated moves, marked by b
The man's agonized screams filled the air. Witnessing this gruesome scene made my heart tremble, and I struggled to stand. Never before had I seen such a fierce fight, let alone Jethro's ruthless side. I felt unnerved from watching the man howl in pain.My face turned pale. Any ordinary woman witnessing such a bloody scene would be terrified, and I was no exception. Mason, noticing my distress, quickly came to my side and shielded my eyes with his hand."Don't look," he said gently, trying to spare me from further trauma.But it was too late. I had seen everything.I stood motionless, unable to utter a word, overwhelmed by the shock of what I had just witnessed.After releasing the man, Jethro walked over to me. By then, I had moved Mason's hand away. Noticing the cut on my neck, Jethro's expression softened with concern, the coldness from earlier completely gone."Are you hurt?" His voice, though raspy, was unexpectedly gentle.His earlier aggression was a stark contrast to the
“Anna, I've warned you about my patience, yet you've repeatedly tested my boundaries. This time, you've thoroughly infuriated me!" Jethro said, shaking off Anna's hand with a cold, merciless glare.The only feeling he had even harbored for her was disgust.Faced with Jethro's intense wrath, Anna trembled. She shook uncontrollably as she tried to plead her case. "It's not what you think, Jethro. I just… I love you so much that I ended up doing this. I know what I did was wrong. Please, forgive me. I promise nothing like this will ever happen again."Anna’s eyes were fixed on Jethro's hand. Despite his harsh words, she continued begging. This was a stark contrast to her usual haughty demeanor. Her love for Jethro might’ve been genuine, but her selfish actions to win him over spoke volumes of her character.The thought of Anna orchestrating my defilement haunted me. Had Jethro not arrived in time, I would surely have been violated. As a woman, Anna’s ability to commit such malicious a
In that critical moment, I truly understood my significance to Jethro. Clinging to his neck, a profound sense of gratitude engulfed me. This ordeal solidified my belief that being with him for life was worth every hurdle I had to jump across.Mason trailed behind us, his gaze dimming as he saw me happily nestled in Jethro's embrace. I was aware of his disappointment, but my entire being was devoted to Jethro at that moment.Anna stood there, pale and silent. Jethro had left her fate unspoken, but given his character, he surely would not easily forgive her. She had crossed his bottom line this time.In the car, Jethro’s arm continued to bleed profusely. Seeing his injury made me wish I could take on the pain in his stead. His sacrifice to save me hurt more than my wounds.Mason, on the other hand, followed us to the hospital in his own car.As the doctor cut away Jethro's clothing to assess his injury, the severity of his wound became apparent. It was a deep cut about ten centimete
Upon entering the living room, we were greeted by Jethro’s family, whose faces reflected deep concern. Raymond was sitting in the main set, the air around him solemn. Doris gazed at me with sharp displeasure while Connor had on an unreadable expression."There you are, Jethro. I was so worried about you." Doris hurried toward Jethro."Don’t be, I'm fine," Jethro assured her.Despite Doris’ coldness toward me, it was clear from the look in her eyes that she cared a lot for Jethro."Did you encounter the kidnappers? Are you hurt? Let me see," she anxiously inspected Jethro."Ow…" Jethro winced when she accidentally touched his wounded arm."What happened? What's wrong?" she exclaimed in alarm, immediately retracting her hand."Jethro got slashed by one of the thugs while rescuing me. We just came from the hospital," I explained."What? You were slashed? Are you all right, Jethro? Does the wound still hurt?" The concern in Doris’ eyes intensified, now mixed with tears."It's just
Although Jethro's determination to defend me warmed my heart, it simultaneously increased my worry about Doris' growing disapproval of me."Jethro, do you not care for me anymore? I’m your mother! Don't you see that I'm doing this for your own good? This woman will only hold you back!" Doris' voice trembled with anger, probably unaccustomed to being talked back to.When Jethro was about to respond, Raymond said, "Jethro is right.” He commanded immediate silence. Even Doris didn't dare to utter another word.I kept my head low, appearing cautious and apprehensive. Raymond initially liked me, but after today's kidnapping and Jethro getting hurt, I wasn’t sure of his feelings toward me anymore. I was anxious he might join Doris in her disapproval."Serena is now Jethro’s responsibility. It's his duty to protect her, even at the risk of his own life. That's his obligation," Raymond declared firmly.Everyone present was stunned, myself included. I hadn't expected such support from him
Seeing Jethro's slightly irritated expression, I realized he preferred not to dwell on this topic. He didn’t blame me, and the guilt I felt was mine alone. I lowered my head, embracing silence but still feeling uneasy.A series of unexpected events had unfolded around us ever since Jethro and I had met. It made me feel like a harbinger of misfortune."Jethro—”But before I could finish, I felt the warm touch of his lips on mine. My eyes widened, and my heart pounded with the sudden intimacy. At that moment, everything I wanted to say flew out of my mind.Jethro's handsome face was so close, and his deep, dark eyes drew me into their depths. His kiss, meant to quiet my concerns, was devoid of desire. Yet, it still made my heart race. Despite our time together, this proximity still set my nerves ablaze. They say you grow accustomed to someone with time, but each of Jethro's touches felt uniquely new and thrilling.When he finally pulled away, he said firmly, "Listen to me, Serena. J
Jethro gazed into my eyes. I gulped nervously, finding him incredibly attractive."What do you think I'm about to do?" he asked, his tone suggestive.My heart raced, pondering whether Jethro had something more intimate in mind. But with the deep wound on his arm, I wondered if he was in any condition to entertain such thoughts."Can you even...?" I blurted out due to nervousness, but I immediately regretted it, realizing my words would probably upset him.Men, especially someone as prideful as Jethro, never appreciated their capabilities being questioned. As expected, his expression was filled with displeasure as soon as I uttered those words.“You'll find out soon enough whether I'm capable or not. You might even end up begging," Jethro growled as he boldly fondled my sensitive spots."Ah..." I gasped at the sudden movement. His directness was unexpected, especially considering our injuries."Just express yourself to your heart's content. I want to hear you," he whispered seduc
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