Summer raised an eyebrow at me, her fingers tapping restlessly. I knew instantly what her look meant."Yep, you're spot on. I lost my virginity last night, but not to Liam."The mere mention of that name turned my stomach. How could I have been so blind to choose such a loathsome man?"What? You were with another man last night? What's going on?" Summer's eyes widened, and her jaw nearly hit the floor.Sensing her utter shock, I filled her in on the sordid details of catching Liam and Julia together the night before."No way… Liam did that? He's lower than an animal!" Fuming with rage, Summer let loose a torrent of insults against Liam."Hold on. What about the wedding? Isn't today supposed to be the big day?" Jolted by a sudden realization, Summer gave me a worried look."The wedding’s off,” I declared.As I said this, a wrenching pain engulfed my heart. This was a wedding I had looked forward to for many years. I had planned every little detail. All my love, my dreams, and my
The problem was clear. I was his girlfriend and today was supposed to be our wedding day. And yet, he had the audacity to say such things to me. I never dreamt the man I had loved all these years would stoop so low."Thank you, Rina..." Liam murmured, his voice tinged with hesitation. Maybe he felt guilty over this.Thank you? What a joke!Seeing the visible relief on his face, I felt a piercing ache in my heart. This was the same man who had sworn to make me happy forever. And here he was, thanking me for calling off our wedding. The situation was both ridiculous and pathetic."Get out. I never want to see you again." I pointed toward the door. I was almost shouting. I feared that I would lose control and confront him about his betrayal."Didn't you hear her? Get out!" Enraged and irritated, Summer smacked Liam with a broom.After he left, I felt like an empty husk. I sank to the floor, my eyes devoid of life. It would be a lie to say that it did not hurt having dedicated seven
"What should I do now, Summer?" I stared blankly out the window, my gaze vacant.For years, Liam was my entire world. My life had revolved around him. Now that he was out of the picture, I felt as if I had lost all purpose. I was clueless to what my existence could amount to or what was even worth doing anymore."Rina, he's nothing but a scumbag. You're better off knowing his true colors now rather than after the marriage." Summer sat next to me and her arms enveloped me. Her eyes brimmed with compassion."But it hurts, Summer. It hurts so much," I cried, clinging to her. My tears had dried up over the past few days, but the ache in my heart was as raw as ever."Rina, you're going to forget that jerk and find someone a thousand times better. Make that man regret ever letting you go." Summer's determined-filled eyes met mine.At that vulnerable moment, I realized how lucky I was to have such a faithful friend. Without her comforting and encouraging words, I couldn’t fathom how I wo
Seeing the disdain on Summer's face, Julia grew furious. "Watch your tongue, Summer. Liam and I are truly in love. If Serena hadn't been in the way, we would've gotten together long ago.”Summer rolled her eyes, her expression one of pure disgust. "Shameless women like you always claim 'true love' when they're clawing their way up. It's all nonsense. You seducing your best friend's fiance only proves you're as low as they come."Julia's eyes flashed as she glared at Summer. "And who are you to call me shameless? Tell me!""Isn't it obvious? Some people want to play the temptress, yet act like saints. It's just sickening," Summer retorted, meeting Julia's glare without flinching.Their argument drew the attention of passersby.I tugged at Summer's arm. "There's no point getting angry over people like them. Let's just go.""Liam, they're bullying me. Aren't you going to do anything?" Julia whined, clinging to Liam's arm as if her life depended on it."Rina," Liam called to me, a n
I swore to God that I would never forgive this shithead!“Aww. Look who’s jealous! And you wonder why nobody ever falls for you,” Julia taunted smugly.“You don’t know what you’re talking about, bitch! Rina has charmed plenty of guys. It’s not her fault Liam’s braindead enough to fall for a pick-me bitch like you,” Summer retorted.“Really now? Oh, I’m so happy for her! Can she bring around one of these ‘guys’ the next time we meet? I’d love to see what kind of man would fall for someone like Serena.”Julia knew how much I loved Liam. How could she not? She constantly brought him up back when Liam and I were still together. God, I had told her everything about Liam. I assumed she had been asking out of concern for her best friend and thought best friends held no secrets from each other.How could I have been so stupid?! It was never out of concern! The only thing she gave a damn about was herself! It was all for her scheme to steal Liam from me!“Hey? Where’s this mysterious Sere
Jethro suddenly wrapped his arm around my waist and smiled warmly at me. He… He was cooperating!“I went a little rough that night, babe. Sorry about that.” His smile was almost too seductive. And his voice—it was so gentle. “I hope you’re feeling better now.”I froze. Anyone being stared at that way by an impossibly handsome man would short-circuit. And once I processed his words, I was flustered. Why the hell did he have to start with that?!“Uh… Y-Yeah! It was, uh, nothing.” I smiled and looked away. I couldn’t bear to look into those unreadable eyes anymore.He tucked a lock of my hair behind my ear. “That’s a relief. I promise I’ll be gentler the next time, okay?”His touch made me panic! And what was this about a next time?! Boy, there were no plans for a next time, you animal! Giving him my first was the only time!No, I had to put on my happiest smile. Julia and Liam were watching, and hell were they watching. Liam’s expression had turned ugly, and I even saw flashes
“Get your hands off me! I’m just stating facts here,” Julia protested, “I’m telling you, Serena still loves you. This dude is just some stupid rebound to mask all her insecurities—”“Enough, Julia!” Liam actually sounded pissed. Julia’s eyes watered. “You… You shouted at me. Over her! You still love her, don’t you?!” I couldn’t stop myself from smirking. This bitch really loved playing the victim card. Hell, I wouldn’t be surprised if that was what fooled Liam in the first place. Men and their stupid fondness for any woman who acted like sweet, weak, little darlings, am I right? I bet I lost to her because I was not like that.Jethro released his grip on me and drew close to Liam. He glanced at Julia and remarked in disdain, “No offense, Mr. Liam, but you really should put more thought into the partner you choose.”That was sudden. Who would’ve expected Jethro to be so sarcastic? God, Liam looked so embarrassed. Was I a bad person for getting a kick out of this?“...Excuse
“Who are you to Liam Mercer?” he finally demanded.My heart ached at the name despite myself, but I had been through worse pains than this. This was nothing, and I could easily mask it. “Nobody,” I answered truthfully.He used to be more. He was the man I was supposed to spend the rest of my life with, but that was no longer.Jethro’s eyes turned cold. Don’t give me that bullshit, Serena Hart.” I was shocked. How did he…? I raised my head. “How do you know my name?” I asked gingerly.“That’s what you’re surprised about? It’s not that hard to find out.” He frowned as if I was an idiot.“L-Look, there’s somewhere I really need to be, okay? Meeting you here was a coincidence, and I’m thankful for your help and everything, but I really gotta go.”I tried to leave, but he pulled me back. His hands pressed on the wall on either side of me, locking me in place. He got close, pressing up against me. Until this moment, I never knew my heart could beat so fast. His handsome face was
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