After the housekeeper's comments, I was left feeling weirded out and at a loss for words. The situation was decidedly odd. Noticing my silence, the housekeeper excused herself to assist in the kitchen."What's on your mind?" Jethro inquired, his tone gentle and eyes probing."Why do you think Ms. Evelyn is so kind to me? Could she have some hidden agenda?" I returned his gaze, my own eyes filled with uncertainty."Everyone has motives for what they do, and Ms. Evelyn is no exception," he remarked, casting a thoughtful glance toward the kitchen."But what could her motive be? I hardly know her, and now she's overly nice. What does she want?"I sought clarity from Jethro, who often had a keener insight into people's intentions than I did. I desperately wanted him to clear my confusion. Facing Evelyn like this every time made me feel uneasy. To be honest, I really appreciated having someone so enthusiastic and friendly with me. Sometimes, Evelyn made me feel like I was her daughter,
Evelyn's words, accompanied by a look of profound sadness, left me searching for the right response. She seemed torn by the knowledge of her daughter not living a happy life, and I struggled to find comforting words."What do you think, Rina? Should I reveal the truth to her? Should I be forthright about our relationship?" Evelyn asked with urgency, her eyes fixed on my face as she awaited my response.I was reluctant to involve myself in such a deeply personal matter. Not fully understanding the intricacies of her situation, I felt unqualified to offer counsel. Yet, seeing Evelyn's earnest expression, my heart softened. Despite her initially overwhelming enthusiasm, her genuine kindness and warmth toward me were evident, and I couldn't bear to see her in such distress."Ms. Evelyn, this is a deeply personal family issue. As an outsider, I don't think it's appropriate for me to advise you on what to do," I responded tacitly."But... let's say, hypothetically, if you were my daughte
Jethro acted as if he hadn't heard my question, his gaze toward me growing more complex and unreadable."Are you keeping something from me? Do you know something about this?" I pressed, looking at him with a serious expression. His behavior was truly puzzling."No, and it’s late. We should get home." Jethro said indifferently, then looked away, seemingly evasive.I frowned slightly, feeling a mix of dissatisfaction and curiosity. I was sure Jethro knew something he wasn't sharing, which was frustrating.Back at the Willow residence, I wanted to delve deeper into the matter concerning Evelyn, but Jethro seemed disinterested in discussing it. After his bath, he simply lay down on the bed and promptly fell asleep. Suppressing my frustration, I resolved to uncover the truth myself. I couldn’t shake the feeling of being left in the dark.I had been pretty tired lately, and Jethro already left by the time I woke up the next day. My opportunity to inquire about Evelyn slipped away. In th
When I heard this accusation, I was momentarily stunned, a wave of panic sweeping over me. Evelyn's excessive warmth since our first encounter now cast a shadow of doubt in my heart. However, this feeling was fleeting as I regained my composure and faced Jolene with a cold, unwavering gaze."Jolene, I must insist that you refrain from making such baseless accusations. I have parents, and I am certainly not your mom’s illegitimate daughter. There must be some misunderstanding here," I declared firmly.I had grown up knowing who my parents were. I was their biological daughter. How could I possibly be Evelyn's illegitimate child? Jolene must have been mistaken."You won’t get away with dismissing this as a misunderstanding. I came here to make it clear that I will never accept someone like you as my sister!" Jolene declared vehemently, her voice filled with anger. She then stormed out of my office, slamming the door behind her.I stood frozen, Jolene’s words echoing in my mind. She c
"If you want to uncover the truth, the only option is to confront Evelyn directly," Jethro said in a detached tone.I was initially uncertain of Jolene’s claims, but Jethro's statement hinted at a potential truth behind them. Despite always feeling somewhat distanced from my parents, the possibility that I might not be their biological child was a shocking revelation."Do you want to go and ask Evelyn now?" Jethro asked, noticing my prolonged silence."No, I don’t feel ready to face anyone at the moment. Let's just go home. My thoughts are too jumbled, and I need some time alone," I replied, overwhelmed by the thought of possibly being Evelyn's daughter.Jethro didn’t press me further or insist on resolving the situation immediately. Deep inside, I resented him for knowing about my connection with Evelyn and never warning me. If I had been aware, I would’ve maintained my distance from her.Upon reaching the Willow residence, I noticed the family gathered in the living room, but I
"Where did you hear all this? Who told you these things?"Mom didn't directly address my question, but her expression was one of growing panic. I could tell she was extremely anxious."I’ve met my biological mother. She found me," I revealed calmly, maintaining eye contact.The cup Mom was holding onto crashed to the floor, shattering with a loud noise, water splattering across the tiles. "Your biological mother found you? How could that be?" she asked in disbelief, her eyes wide with shock."Whether you think it's possible or not, it's the truth," I replied, managing to keep my voice steady despite my inner turmoil.Ever since Jethro confirmed my suspicions, I had grappled with this reality. Now, witnessing Mom's reaction, a profound sense of sadness engulfed me."That's impossible. When your father and I adopted you, the orphanage stated you were an unclaimed child. It's been over twenty years. How could your biological mother just appear out of nowhere?" she argued, her disbel
I placed the phone next to my ear. I could hear him breathe hard as he walked. "I’m so lost, Jethro…"He was the only shoulder I could cry on. "I know. Anyone would have found this hard to accept. But no matter what happens, you'll always have me,” he responded.I took a deep breath and held back my tears. Jethro was never good with comforting people, but anything he could say was worth more than all the bombastic assurances in the world. I was so glad I had him by my side. I wouldn't know how to act otherwise.A few minutes later, Jethro showed up. He loomed over me with a worried frown. He pulled me up and hugged me tightly. "How could you run all the way here alone?! It's dangerous!" he reprimanded. His hug was warm compared to the night. I leaned against his chest, feeling wronged. "I just wanted a place to be by myself. I was so confused… I didn't know what else to do.""Let's go home. No matter what your choice is, I'll always support you. My wife is always right no matte
“Let’s put it this way: you have no reason to treat me this nicely, do you? We're just strangers," I said coldly. Evelyn's face turned pale, and I saw hurt flash through her eyes. It was gone in a second, of course, as affluent people like her were used to hiding their emotions. "What's wrong, Rina? You seem really upset today. Was it something I did? If yes, we can talk it out.”Thinking about how she had never made it clear who we were to one another—and how many times she seemed to just be testing me—made me even more upset. I didn't like that feeling."If possible, I hope we never see each other again. I hope our relationship remains the same. If you think you can atone for what you've done in the past with stupid things like this in the present, well, think again." "Wh-What are you saying?" Evelyn was shocked."Your daughter showed up yesterday, didn't you know? She came just to tell me that I’m your illegitimate child."Evelyn turned pale and hurt. "No wonder you're talki
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