I memorized the address and deleted the text. After changing, I went to the designated restaurant, where a server promptly guided me to the table Connor had reserved. A year had gone by, and Connor’s appearance was unchanged. He still looked energetic and in good spirits, indicating he had fared well over the past year.I took a seat opposite him, keeping a neutral expression. "Hello, Mr. Connor,” I greeted.Despite my deep-seated hatred for him, I kept up a facade of politeness to avoid appearing irrational.Connor briefly looked surprised, likely not expecting me to have thrived. "You've become even more beautiful and youthful over the past year, Serena.” He smiled at me, his tone complimentary.Having heard similar praises throughout the year, I was unfazed, though I managed a courteous smile. "You’re the one who appears even younger, Mr. Connor. You must’ve had a good year," I replied, subtly redirecting the conversation."When did you get back, Serena? Where have you been all
They still saw me as the old, naive Serena Hart, the one easily misled by simple words, didn’t they? If so, I found it almost amusingly naive."I'm afraid I can't comply with that. I've returned with the sole purpose of regaining custody of Seren. I'll do everything in my power to bring my son back to me. He’s my child, and the Willows have no right to keep him from me.”The son I bore and struggled so dearly for was unjustly taken from me, leaving me without even the right to see him. What authority did they have to make such a decision? Had it not been for the Willows’ intervention, my child would be with me now. Their cruelty had caused a year of separation between us, and if I were to accept this injustice quietly, I’d be nothing short of a saint.Connor's expression changed to one of shock as he heard my declaration, his eyes flashing with coldness. "You're back to take custody of Seren? Do you think I’d just allow that?"His warning tone didn’t intimidate me. The more he thre
The materials were more detailed than I had anticipated, leading me to suspect they came from someone inside Jethro’s company. It seemed unlikely that Nathan could have obtained such extensive information otherwise. When I questioned Nathan, he remained silent, so I didn’t press the issue. After all, my primary focus was to bring down Jethro's business.I identified a few partners with soon-to-expire contracts and planned to visit each personally. My goal was to poach at least one of them. Jethro was known for his meticulous approach to business. The previous debacle with Scarlet Ventures had caused me significant trouble.Before I realized it, it was deep into the night, and I felt exhausted. Though I had a luxurious lifestyle while with the Willows and never had to worry about anything, my current life felt much more fulfilling.After a quick snack, I returned to bed. It was already two in the morning. My mind buzzed with thoughts about the information I had reviewed, eager to sta
Adam’s agreement to collaborate, albeit with conditions, was a cause for excitement. At least Nexus had secured a year-long partnership."I assure you that you won't be disappointed with Nexus, Mr. Adam. I'll bring my secretary with me to your office tomorrow to finalize the details." I was eager to capitalize on this opportunity and close the deal immediately after his contract with Jethro expired."Sure." Adam looked at me and added softly, "Aren't you curious why I agreed so readily?""Why?" I had indeed been surprised at how quickly Adam had agreed to collaborate. I initially attributed it to overthinking, but now it seemed there was more to it."I value your earnestness and responsibility. As a director, you could’ve delegated the task of meeting with clients to your subordinates, but you chose to be directly involved. It speaks volumes about your commitment. I’m confident in entrusting my company's business to someone as committed as you."Adam's words were full of praise. W
"No need for you to worry. Nexus isn’t so incompetent that the existence of accidents becomes a certainty," I said with feigned nonchalance to hide my panic. Jethro cocked an eyebrow mockingly. "Are you sure?"It made me feel even more restless. It was as if something was going to happen soon."If your point of being here today is to mess me up, then save your breath. I'm not changing my mind no matter what you say. I know what you're here for today—you're here to poach my client back for yourself," I retorted, "It's not gonna work. Adam is my client now, and I'm not giving him up.""Please, he's so low-stakes. I could just give him to you as a charity to your company. You aren’t thinking that my company will go bankrupt because of this itty-bitty loss, right? I'm just trying to warn you, Serena. Don't get into troubles you have no idea about," he replied flatly.I shook my head. He must have cared about this. I had to stop myself from harboring any more hope for him. "Okay, cool
"No one knows you better than you yourself, Jethro. I'm gonna leave it at that," I said, "Right now, all I want to do is to work and be by my son's side. If you don't want me to hate you forever, then return Seren to me. Or else."Most of my hate had been from the Willows’ reluctance to let me see my son. If they would return Seren to me, maybe I’d stop hating them so much. Jethro stared at me emotionlessly. "That's it? If I let you have Seren, will you come back? We won't have to be enemies anymore?"My heart quivered. How I wished we could be together as a happy family, but could we?"If you come back to me, Serena, Seren will be with you every day," Jethro said again, sincerely.It was a very seductive offer, but I knew I wasn't ready to forgive yet. "I’ll never get back together with you. I'll take Seren and we'll vanish from your sight forever," I declared. I could try not to hate Jethro, but I could never love him the same way again."You're going to run away?! Do you th
Nathan held open my car door anxiously.I frowned. I was ready to reject him, and then I stopped myself. He was going to take my rejection badly and become even more clingy, so I thought I should just give him what he wanted.I nodded. "We're still friends and business partners. That didn't change."Nathan smiled, finally relaxed. This was the answer he had been waiting for. "Can I get into my car now? We shouldn’t set a bad example by showing up late to work," I added, pointing at my wristwatch. That seemed to stop him from saying whatever he planned to say. He released his grip. "See you at the office."I ignored him and drove off. Honestly, just remembering how we were going to meet each other every day was frustrating. How awkward was that?Soon after I arrived at the office, so did Nathan. I didn’t acknowledge him and went away. My first agenda of the day was to bring my secretary along to look for Adam. I wasn’t going to let him back out of the deal he promised.The dis
"Calm down, Ms. Serena. You’ve had too much to drink, so let Mr. Nathan drive you home. It’s not safe for a pretty woman like you to walk alone late at night.""Exactly. It's not like we're living in a crimeless society, and you wanna just exit a club in this state without someone to keep an eye on you? You're just gonna attract all sorts of horndogs." They began to persuade me to take up Nathan's offer. It was seriously irritating, but Nathan was everyone's boss. If I continued to rebuff him, the whole company would take it as proof that their boss was a pushover. They would probably make up salacious gossip about him tomorrow. Begrudgingly, I accepted instead of voicing my rejection. “Fine. Thank you for your concern, everyone. Sorry that I have to leave so soon. Have fun!" I said.I smiled politely and left. Nathan followed me. Outside, the nipping breeze washed over my face and made me sneeze. I didn't notice how cold and dark the night had become. I stood at the crossing a
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