The sympathetic guard once again urged me to leave, but I was fixated on seeing my son. Nothing else mattered to me, not even the pouring rain or any other threat. My determination to see my son overpowered all else."Ms. Serena, why are you doing this to yourself? You're alone and powerless. How can you possibly hope to confront the entire Willow family? Isn't this just torturing yourself?" the guard implored, his voice laced with genuine concern and a hint of desperation at my refusal to heed his advice."My son is inside. That's my son, my baby, right there, and yet they won't let me see him? Why? What right do they have to do this?!" My voice broke, overwhelmed by desperation and the acute pain of separation. Tears streamed down my face uncontrollably, and I found myself shouting, overwhelmed by emotion as never before."Sigh, we understand and sympathize with you, but staying here won't help. And it's about to pour. You should find somewhere to take shelter," the guard empathiz
"My name is Nathan Redfield. I accidentally hit you the morning before last, and I immediately brought you here to the hospital. How are you feeling right now?" Nathan inquired softly.His words brought back the memory of being hit by a car right before I lost consciousness. He mentioned it was the morning before last, which meant that I'd been unconscious and in the hospital for two days.As the realization set in, panic began to grip my heart. I struggled to sit up, throwing my blanket aside in a desperate attempt to get out of bed. It had been three days since I last saw my son, and I had no idea how he was doing."Easy there. You're still recovering from head injuries. The doctor emphasized the need for rest," Nathan urged, pressing gently against my shoulders to keep me in bed."No, I have to go. I need to find my son. I have to go to the Willow residence," I insisted, desperation clear in my voice.Three days had passed since I glimpsed my son. How could I possibly stay put
Nathan's expression was calm as he produced a sleek business card from his pocket and presented it to me.[Nathan Redfield, General Manager of Nexus Group, Liberland.]I took the card, my eyes widening as I processed the name. I had seen newscasts of the Nexus Group on the TV before. Nexus was a powerhouse in the business world, often spoken of in the same breath as the Willows."You're with Nexus?" I asked, a mix of disbelief and realization coloring my tone.Instead of directly answering, Nathan countered with a calm question. "Do you think I'm capable of helping you now?"Conflicting emotions surged within me. I had never intended to harm Jethro's business, but given the Willows’ ruthlessness toward me, I felt no need to hold onto any past affections."Okay, I’ll work with you," I declared, recognizing that partnering with Nathan was my only chance to reclaim my son."I'm returning to Liberland soon. You should come with me," Nathan suggested with a confident smile, seemingly
Returning to the country after a year abroad felt like stepping into a different world. Each day away had been filled with the anticipation of my eventual return, a persistent agony of separation. Now that the day had arrived, I was ready to face the Willows and reclaim my son, no longer restrained by any misplaced mercy.Upon arriving at Nexus’ subsidiary office, the staff bustled about. Nathan, dressed in a sleek black suit, led the way, while I, similarly dressed in black, followed behind him. He noted that I had developed a distinct personality while we had been in Liberland, but also lost some femininity. I was indifferent toward his observation. Whether or not I had any femininity was the least of my concerns.We were greeted respectfully as we walked through the company. In his office, Nathan laid out our mission: to dominate the domestic market and potentially topple the Willows’ business empire.I listened to his plan in silence, my mind conflicted."What's wrong? You're u
I shrugged off Jethro's hands "What? Disappointed to see me?" My smile was thin and my voice was laden with ice.Noticing the edge in my voice, Jethro's brow furrowed, confusion clouding his eyes. "What happened, Serena? You're finally back. Where have you been this past year? I've been searching for you every day." He grasped my shoulders again, urgency creeping into his tone.Jethro’s bewildered and worried expression momentarily softened my heart, almost melting my resolve. But then, memories of the past year's agony surged back. The image of my son, out of my reach, filled me with renewed bitterness."You were searching for me? Hah! Wasn't it you who wanted me gone?" My laugh was hollow, mocking.Jethro had conveniently used his business trip to divorce me, letting his father present me with the papers. Connor then took my son away, denying me any visitation. And now Jethro was claiming to have been searching for me every day? Did he not see the irony in his words?"What are y
My sole desire was once to reclaim my son, but with time, my hatred for the Willows intensified. Merely regaining custody wasn't enough to forget the torment of waking up crying for my son every day."Serena, you're my wife. Why are you joining forces with others to undermine my company?" Jethro's brows furrowed, suppressed anger flickering in his eyes as he confronted me.A cold laugh escaped me. I gazed at him scornfully. "Wife? Have you forgotten about our divorce? We're nothing but strangers now."I had anticipated Jethro’s fury at my unexpected presence. I thought that I’d be the last person he'd want to see. However, his reaction proved otherwise.At the mention of divorce, Jethro's face darkened. "So, you truly want us to be strangers, Serena? It's only been a year, yet you've changed so much." His face turned cold, his voice nearly a growl.Jethro’s anger was palpable, but I remained indifferent. Our connection was severed, and he had been merciless to me in the past, so w
"Okay, go home early and get some rest. We'll meet tomorrow." Nathan accepted my refusal gracefully, bidding me goodbye with gentle words."Bye. " I hung up the call, feeling an inexplicable agitation. Opting for a taxi, I headed to my apartment building.In the past, securing even a single apartment unit would've been a challenge, but a year of relentless work had transformed me. My income multiplied several times over.Exhaustion overcame me as I lay on the couch in the living room. I didn't want to move a muscle. Eventually, I roused myself to take a bath.Soaking in the bathtub, Jethro's excited gaze from earlier today lingered in my thoughts. I questioned the authenticity of his expression. Were those his genuine feelings, or was it remorse for what he did a year ago?‘Serena Hart, don't forget what the Willows did to you! Don't let emotions tie you down!’This reminder echoed in my head, a mantra I told myself whenever I felt weak. The thought of being separated from my son
"Did you really think I wouldn't find out where you're living?" Jethro's expression remained composed, his gaze piercing as he looked at me.I understood then just how formidable Jethro was. Finding someone's residence was a trivial task for him. It had been a year, and I'd forgotten just how far his reach extended."Is there a reason for your visit? We're off the clock now, so if this is work-related, it can wait until morning."Jethro’s unexpected arrival unsettled me, especially after our encounter at the office earlier in the day, which almost broke my composed facade."You seem reluctant to see me. After a year, don't you have anything to say to me?" Jethro's demeanor grew darker and more intense with each word of dismissal."There's nothing left to discuss. It's late, and I need my rest, " I asserted, moving to close the door. I was not in the mood to engage in a pointless conversation.But before I could shut it, his hand pressed against the doorframe, blocking my attempt.
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