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 could’ve asked him for money the first time we had sex, and the fact that I didn't was saying a lot. But fine. I didn't want to fight and just wanted to talk. Yes, he could be a tyrant, but I realized that his heart was not completely made out of stone.Jethro studied me in curious silence, some unreadable emotions swirling in his eyes. He then said, "Serena, if you think you have a chance at becoming my girlfriend, then it's high time you wake up. I can give you everything except that. My wife is to be someone capable—a woman who has merits that outshines everyone. You're not it."I was not it? I was meritless to him? Well, then why was Mr. Oh-So-Upper-Class so damn fixated on a meritless, incapable woman? He could’ve easily found himself whatever sort of girlboss he wanted."Nah, not even close. I’d never dream of something like that. I know the gap between us very well, thank you very much.""I don't force my women into anything. I’ll give you some time to think."I breathed
Summer loved Claude with all her soul, yet he brought his side chick with him when he was dumping Summer? What sort of dick would stoop so low?! I balled my fists in rage. I could’ve smashed in his head right then and there. "Th-That’s fucking unbelievable… That fucking shit—" "I'm sorry I didn’t believe you, Rina. I shouldn't have fought with you over him. You were trying to protect me, and I doubted you. I’m so sorry!" Summer’s tears were like a leaky faucet as she tried to wipe her tears away with tissues. Seeing Summer like this somehow hurt me even more than when I found out about Liam's betrayal. "No, Summer… No, no. It was never personal. I know you were just in love with him and couldn't accept it. It happens to the best of us, okay? I'm not holding it against you."Honestly? I probably would’ve reacted the same way Summer did if it were me. I could see the guilt in her eyes. "Y-you really don't hate me? But I… I broke our… f-f-friendship…" Summer stammered."We've
“I took the day off because my best friend got dumped and is at an all-time low right now! I just wanna stay close to her and be there for her, all right?!"He then had the audacity to stay silent for a few seconds before abruptly hanging up."What the hell?" I grumbled.What was his problem? He had been so annoyingly possessive of me lately—just extra possessive in general.I continued with my day and bought breakfast before returning to Summer's place. This girl had been with me every step of the way when I was cheated on, and there was nothing else I wanted more than to do the same for her. Summer was awake when I got back. She was on the couch, hugging her legs and staring blankly ahead. I set the breakfast on the table and went up to her. "You should sleep a little more."Her eyes welled up with tears again. "I can't. All I see when I close my eyes is him showing up with that other woman."I hugged her tightly and sighed. I had no idea how to help her. "Hey, hey. It’ll b
"I'm not happy at all! I just think crying over an asshole is stupid. He doesn't deserve her tears," I replied and started toward my room again. So many things had happened lately that the last thing I wanted was to argue with Jethro. I took a shower and decided to head to bed early as I’d be returning to my hometown once morning came. The first time I asked for his money, there was at least some form of transaction. This latest 14, 000 dollars was completely uncalled for and shouldn't be accepted.I thought Jethro would find my lack of interest to be mood-dampening. I even hoped it’d be enough to make him leave. But of course, once again, I overestimated the asshole's capacity to walk in my shoes.He showed up in my bedroom, his ass already occupying my bed.I glared at him. "Why are you here? I’d like to sleep. Shoo.""Good. Then we'll sleep together. I'm tired too." Instead of showing anger, he smiled and laid on my bed spread-eagle."If there’s zero reason for you to be here
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