"If this happens again, you will no longer be welcome in this company!" Jethro spat out as he cast me a frosty look, then stormed back to his office.I stared at his retreating figure, my blood boiling. He was absolutely targeting me. Other colleagues had boyfriends who sent them flowers and he never got this mad, nor did he make them throw the flowers away. But with me, he was merciless. This man was completely out of line.When Jethro was back in his office, Misha gave me a sympathetic look. "The boss looks really scary when he’s angry.""Is he the only one entitled to get angry?" I said bitterly as I sank into my chair. My good mood from earlier had evaporated."It's such a waste on your boyfriend’s part. Sigh, such beautiful roses tossed aside like trash." Misha peered at the discarded flowers regretfully.My eyes followed hers, and my anger flared anew. It wasn't about the roses. It was Jethro's blatant targeting that pissed me off. He scolded me in front of the entire depart
Still coughing, I sensed the air growing a touch awkward. Ignatz came to my side and gently patted my back. In that instant, our closeness felt more genuine than ever before.Feeling Ignatz's warmth, I began to ponder. Could I spend the rest of my life with someone this considerate and gentle? Love or no love, I believed I could find happiness with him. Meeting his eyes, I offered Ignatz a tender smile. I felt a growing affection for him, but it was just that—affection, not the stirrings of anything deeper."You should’ve told me you're not a drinker," he said with a trace of guilt in his eyes. "I wouldn't have offered you that drink if I'd known.""I'm okay," I replied, aiming for a casual tone. "I just choked a little, that's all."Then, catching sight of someone familiar in my peripheral vision, I did a double-take, and my eyes widened.What's Jethro doing here?The second I spotted him, my pulse quickened. A sense of panic filled me, and I felt lost."What's wrong, Rina?" Ig
Jethro's attitude had rubbed me the wrong way, and I wanted to annoy him back. Thus, I gladly accepted the steak slice that Ignatz offered me.Jethro didn't say a word, but I felt the chilly aura from him grow even stronger."Looks like all the seats are taken. Oh well, guess I’ll just join your table. Saves me the trouble of choosing a spot," he suddenly said as he took a seat next to me.I immediately felt another wave of pressure. I didn't like him sitting so close to me, especially under these awkward circumstances. And Ignatz, who sat across from me, also sported a cocked brow. Though he maintained his manners and didn't comment on this, any man would be irritated if someone interrupted their date.I chose to ignore Jethro. Who knows what he'd do if I said something now? All I wanted now was to finish this meal and get out of there."Did you receive the flowers I sent today, Rina? Did you like them?” Ignatz asked tenderly halfway through the meal.At the mention of the flowe
"It’s fine. I live nearby, so it’ll be a short walk. I could use some alone time too."I was adamant about leaving the car, and I had to. At that moment, I felt disgusted with myself. I was juggling a secret fling with Jethro while holding onto Ignatz. My stomach churned as I thought of this disgusting side of me. I knew I had to make a choice between Ignatz and Jethro. Although Jethro and I had no future, I couldn't stomach being entangled with two men at the same time."But it's not safe for a woman to be walking around alone at night." Ignatz slowed the car, looking worried as he gazed at me."I'm good. I'm practically home already. I'll be inside before you know it." I stood my ground.The evening's events had left me feeling conflicted. I wanted to clear the air with Ignatz, but I couldn't muster the courage to do it."Fine, but text me the minute you get home. I'll be anxious otherwise," Ignatz said as he pulled over."Okay, I will," I responded flatly and stepped out of th
Jethro became stunned for a moment when I hurled those words at him. I had never raised my voice like that to him before, let alone lost control of my emotions.For a brief moment, his grip on my hands loosened, but it quickly tightened again and made my wrists throb with pain. "Did you just say I’m a stain on your life? I dare you to say that again!"I winced but held back the urge to scream. I couldn't afford to back down today. To him, I might be weak, but I had my dignity. Giving in now would be like admitting he was right about me all along."I'll say it as many times as I need to. Jethro Willow, you are the darkest stain of my life!" I repeated as I stared at him, my expression stone-cold.My patience with this man had reached its breaking point, and I couldn't take it anymore!Upon hearing my words, his chest heaved violently. His anger had clearly reached a boiling point too. "Serena, you were the one who seduced me! You did it for 30,000 dollars, remember?!"His words st
Mom sighed, and I knew she was about to give me another lecture. Why was she always like this? I felt like I was having an allergic reaction—every time she started one of these, I felt like hanging up the call."Rina, this boyfriend of yours… I think he's a good person. He wired us 14,000 dollars so your dad could pay his medical bills.”I was in disbelief. I had never told Ignatz about this, so why would he suddenly send that much money to my parents? "That’s impossible, Mom. I don't think he did that. There’s just no way."I know Ignatz liked me, but I didn't think he liked me to this degree!"Why not? It was the same man who gave us 30,000 for your dad's angioplasty. You're really lucky to have found a boyfriend with deep, deep pockets, Rina."I was even more shocked now. It was Jethro, not Ignatz! Okay, back it up. Why would that guy suddenly give my parents money? It couldn't have been him. He’d never do something that would expose our relationship to my parents of all people
Jethro was glaring darkly at me from the door. I ducked my head down and wished I could kick myself for being caught red-handed. How the hell did he always show up whenever I was talking shit about him?!Even Misha felt the enmity oozing out of his every pore. She hastily looked down and buried herself in her work.I realized that my female colleagues might actually fear him more than they adored him. Not that I blamed them. This man would fire anyone for even the slightest mistake."If I hear another word of gossip from the two of you, you can pack up and leave," he snarled.I could feel his eyes burning a hole through the back of my head. That feeling of being watched by a predator only vanished after I heard the door close. "Oh my God, did you see that? He looked so terrifying!" Misha whispered, still quivering. "Of course I did. We have to be careful or we won’t be colleagues anymore.”Jethro wasn't always merciful enough to give a warning. Anyone else in our shoes would’v
"Careful not to get your wound wet. Don’t want it to be infected now," Jethro advised.I was stunned—bamboozled—by his sudden show of gentle concern.He frowned. "Did you hear me?"I snapped out of my stupor and realized his face was just inches away from me. I immediately looked away and tried, desperately, to go back to making dinner. He shot me one last look and returned to the living room.Half an hour later, dinner was ready, and Jethro was already waiting by the table. The food was basic in every single way, thus I never understood why he wanted me to cook. I wasn't an ace in the kitchen. I bet the cook at his place could make something way more scrumptious than my pitiful…whatever this was. We sat across from each other and ate in silence. I then recalled the call with my mom. "D-Did you give my parents 14, 000 dollars?" I asked, unable to hold back my tongue."You found out pretty quickly." He was completely unfazed as if I was talking about something someone else did.
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