As I settled back into my work routine, life threw an unexpected curveball. As I was buried in paperwork due to my recent absence, my phone rang, displaying Mason's name. I was puzzled as to why he would call out of the blue, but I was thankful for his help during the Lianna situation."Hey, Mason," I answered."What's keeping you so busy? You've been silent lately. Why haven't you called?" Mason's voice carried a hint of complaint."I'm overwhelmed with work. It's been non-stop," I explained."Have you resolved the Lianna situation?" Mason shifted the topic.I had almost forgotten about her, and Mason's mention reignited my unease. "Let's not talk about her. She poses no threat to Jethro and me. He doesn't even like her. It’s purely one-sided on her part."Her constant calls and requests to Jethro irked me. In my eyes, she simply was shameless."One-sided? Would your perspective change if you knew she’s Jethro's ex?"Mason's revelation caught me off guard. "What did you say? L
Hearing my words, Jethro's face clouded with frustration and dissatisfaction."Anyway, you know best in your heart whether there's anything between you and here,” I said with finality.I had almost forgotten about Lianna, but the information from Mason left me unsettled for the rest of the day.Jethro grew angry. His gaze, now ablaze with fury, was fixed on me. "Are you ever going to let this go, Serena? I've explained it to you clearly, so why won’t you believe me? And I haven’t seen her in the past few days!"He had never lost his temper with me like this. His outburst stunned me, increasing my distress. Sensing his outburst stemmed from Lianna, I felt my tears welling up."You say you and Lianna are just friends, then tell me, when did you two meet? What kind of friends are you?" I asked with a hint of accusation.I could admit I was petty. I cared a lot about their past relationship. It was precisely because they were exes that I found it harder to accept their current closen
As the tension between Jethro and me reached a breaking point, his phone rang. Seeing Lianna's name on the display, I smirked coldly. Her timing was almost too perfect. It was as if she knew about the discord she had caused between us.Jethro, likely remembering his recent promise, immediately rejected the call. My frustration eased slightly upon seeing this. Had he chosen to answer, I doubt I could’ve easily overlooked it.But Lianna was persistent. Even after her call was rejected, she immediately called again. Before Jethro could react this time, I took his phone, rejected the call, and blocked her number. "There's no need to keep rejecting her calls. Blocking her simplifies everything," I reasoned, unwilling to admit my jealousy.Jethro watched me with an unreadable expression and said in a dispassionate tone, "Do what you think is best. As long as it prevents you from feeling upset.” His apparent indifference to my blocking Lianna calmed my irritation.When we got back home,
Doris’ expression turned grave upon hearing my words. Her tone grew icy, "Lianna has been calling Jett?""Yeah, she called him again while we were on our way home earlier, but I blocked her number. I believe she won't be able to bother him anymore."I had no intention of hiding anything because Lianna really made me want to teach her a lesson. Otherwise, she would keep pestering Jethro.Doris grew even angrier at my explanation. "Don’t worry, Rina. I won't let that woman ruin your relationship. I'll take care of this matter.""Thanks, Mom," I said gratefully, reassured by her support.Despite somewhat manipulating the situation to my advantage, I knew Doris was trying to make up for trying to separate me and Jethro before."Silly child, there’s no need for formalities. I know now that you’re a good person. I just want you and Jett to be happy," Doris said, her words reflecting her genuine concern and regret.I could feel her remorse and her desire to make things right. Despite m
Jethro's voice was gentle, conveying understanding. My unease wasn't really about anger. It was more about my deep care for him. I feared the possibility of him being taken away by another woman."Okay, you're not allowed to see her again. I don't like her. Remember, you're mine now and forever," I asserted, holding Jethro tightly, marking my territory with a mix of possessiveness and unreasonable demands.I was conscious of my overbearing attitude toward Jethro and that it might wear him out. Yet, the thought of him seeing Lianna again was unbearable. I could tolerate any woman's presence, except those who shared a past with him.Hearing my firm stance, Jethro sighed. With a mix of resignation and affection in his voice, he said, "Okay, I promise there will never be another woman in this lifetime. I'm all yours, okay?"His swift reassurance brought me comfort and joy. While I couldn't control who he met, his commitment to my request spoke volumes about his feelings for me. Maybe I
I was more than ready to get into the car and be on my merry way.Perturbed by my lack of interest, Lianna stopped me. "Aren't you at least a little curious?"I glared. "Last warning, Lianna. Get out of my way." "Puff yourself up all you want, Serena. Jethro will choose me in the end, you'll see!" she declared in rage.My anger flared in response. Who the fuck did this bitch think she was?!"You've got a pretty strong case of delusion, girl. He doesn't even wanna see you—let alone be with you!" I retorted scornfully."I don't think you should call me delusional when you don't know the truth about us. Before you showed up, I was the woman he loved more than anything in this fucking world!" Lianna proclaimed smugly.I didn't recoil in shock. I already knew that. And I also knew that her only intent in being here was to be a thorn in my side, so I fought back."Do you hear yourself? 'Was' is doing the heavy lifting here. You're history, Lianna. Pure and simple. I'm his current wi
Lianna's voice was thick with tears as though she was coerced into making her decision back then. "You don't get a do-over just because you regret something, Lianna. You chose money over Jethro, and that is final. You will never be with him—ever. A woman like you doesn't deserve to be my daughter-in-law." Doris sneered, unmoved. She knew exactly what kind of person Lianna was.With an ashen face, Lianna looked up and opened her mouth to speak, but I interjected, "Just shut up if you can feel any hint of shame! Jethro and I are married, and here you are trying to justify being a homewrecker!""So what if that's what I have to be? You weren't even there when it was just Jethro and me! You don't know how much we loved each other! You're the one who came late! You're the homewrecker!"I smirked. "Don't be a clown, Lianna. Jethro doesn't love you. What's so hard to understand about that? Why else will you be talking to me instead of him if he still cares about you?"Jethro had promise
Jethro hugged me tightly. "I'll find a way to settle this. There's no one else I could ever love other than you," he said solemnly. I already knew that. I just really hated the fact that a bitch was out there clinging to my husband.Doris went out frequently for the rest of the week. I believed she was out trying to solve the Lianna issue. Since just the thought of her existence soured my mood till no end, I didn't ask Doris where she was going.Then came time for Jethro and I’s wedding anniversary. He reserved an entire restaurant just for the two of us, and I was stunned when he brought me there—the entire place was adorned with flaming red roses. I never imagined being at the receiving end of something so romantic. I thought such things only existed in romance dramas. Jethro's surprise was simply amazing. We sat across from each other as a violinist serenaded us with romantic tunes. I couldn't believe this was real."Why… Why are you making this occasion into something so grand
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