I pointed at Sean who was standing behind Mom. "You have to stop unconditionally taking his side, Mom! He's like this because you and Dad pamper him too much! Now he's a burden to all of us!" I didn't give a damn if what I said would ruin our relationship. All I knew was that if he kept this up, the entire family would fold soon enough. "How could you say that about your own brother?!"She was still protecting him. She never cared about my opinion or how I felt. My parents still thought of him as a precious little baby beyond reproach despite what he had become. "I'm saying this for his own good, Mom. He's already in his 20s. He didn't work hard in school, and now he isn't working at all. Why do you even think this is remotely good for him? Do you really think he should live like a parasite?"I had gotten used to the parental bias after 20-odd years of it, but I couldn't stand Sean's entire life philosophy. I just wanted to see him get his act together and help me support this
I grabbed hold of Mom's hand and squeezed it, hoping she would understand me."I know, Mom, I know. I’ll work hard to get that much money, but we can’t accept this money, okay? It doesn't belong to us."Mom pulled her hand away. "I don't give a damn! It's ours and I'm not giving it back. The man who gave it to us is your boyfriend, isn't he? Why can’t we accept a gift he willingly gave?""He isn't my boyfriend! He's my boss!""I'm not buying that. Why would someone who’s not your boyfriend give us this much money? Unless… You got yourself a super-rich guy and are worried about us being a bunch of deadweights and dragging you down!"I knew she was getting angrier and angrier by the second, but the words she said made my heart sink. I had given so much of myself to this family, and yet this was what she thought of me? Why would I only start to see them as deadweight after so many years?Tears welled up in my eyes. "How could you say that? Haven't I contributed enough? Haven't I car
I stopped for a second, then continued my march out of the room. This family would never stop treating me like an outsider. I could do my best, the most passionate speeches, and no one would care. I sometimes wondered if I were my parents' real daughter.I returned to my room but sleep evaded me. All I could think of were the words Mom had said. Was money really more important to them than I ever was?I tossed and turned. When that failed to lull me to sleep, I pulled out my phone. I thought of calling Summer to ask if she was okay. That was when I saw a text from Jethro, and my heart quivered.[Call me when you reach the station. I'll drive you home.]My heart raced. Why was he being so nice to me? I was part skeptical and part very, very stoked. It was a text from him, after all.I replied, [Got it. Thank you!]That text salvaged my mood. The sky seemed to have suddenly cleared, and I couldn't stop grinning from ear to ear. This man might be ruthless, tyrannical, and at times u
I said nothing. I had nothing to say. I left without even a goodbye. The bus ride was a heavy one. I was no saint and could not stomach the fact that my parents’ heavy bias toward my brother. They were supposed to be the closest people in my life. They meant the world to me, but all they cared about was Sean.As I watched the scenery fly past me, my heart grew heavier. My eyes were red, but I fought back my tears. I told myself that I had gotten used to it and that I shouldn't let something like this wear me down.A few hours later, I finally arrived at the station. I watched the crowd around me and felt so alone. I came to the city, alone, in search of greener pastures so that my family could live better. It had been years, and yet they never seemed to notice what I had done.I didn't call Jethro. I just dragged my suitcase and walked. It was quite a distance away from Verdantia, but I needed to be alone. It didn't take long for me to tire out. My feet hurt. I didn't think I
“Do you think I’m incapable of providing for them?”He was smiling, and there was a rather unfamiliar look in his eyes."They’ve misunderstood the nature of our relationship, Jethro. They’ll just keep asking for more."People liked taking shortcuts, especially people like Sean. I was the one who had to bail his ass for years, but the only thing that did was incentivize him to be even more selfish. He would, without reservation, use Jethro.Jethro observed me as if trying to catch me in a lie. A while later, he smiled. "Are you trying to help me save on money? All the other women wished I’d give them more. You're a surprising exception."I had never heard about any of Jethro's girlfriends, but I wouldn't be surprised if he had a long list of exes. He had been happy to take me in as his sex partner, remember? How much money did his exes ask for?I was curious, but I didn’t ask the question. He never asked me about my personal affairs and we weren’t a couple, so I had no right to pr
I was overjoyed. Jethro had changed his mind without kicking up too much fuss! Since when was he capable of such a thing?"Got it," I replied and bolted out of the door. At Summer's place, she sobbed non-stop like the last time I met her, and I tried to comfort her. I knew pain like this would take time to heal. It had only been two days, and she now looked even more haggard than when I last saw her. Her eye bags were terrible. That piece of shit had cost her sleep.After some time, Summer finally fell asleep in my arms. I got her to her bed, made her comfy, and slept next to her. The last two days had been a grind on me too, and I instantly fell asleep the moment my head hit the pillow.The next morning, as soon as my alarm went off, I quickly shut it down. I didn't want it waking Summer. She was finally getting the sleep she needed, and I wasn’t going to let some shitty ringing ruin it. I washed up, prepared her a simple brunch, left her a note about it, and left. At work, I
Jethro’s expression was overcome with cold fury as he spoke his final words. My heart ached inexplicably. Despite our relationship having ended, happiness was far from what I felt.That was it then? Were we nothing to each other from then on?The thought of being completely disconnected from him brought sorrow to my heart. My eyes flickered before I hastily opened the car door and got out. Jethro watched me with piercing, hawk-like eyes that made me feel utterly uncomfortable, before making a swift exit.Back in the office, I tried masking my discomposure with work. I felt inexplicably torn, almost reluctant to let go of our past. As lunch hour came to a close and coworkers slid back behind desks, Jethro made his way to his office. His figure appeared in my line of sight, causing my heart to panic. I ducked my head and dodged his gaze, but it seemed like I had become nothing but a wisp of air to him. He bypassed me without even a glance, disappearing into his office and dismissing m
My heart fluttered, keenly aware of Ignatz's thoughts. His declaration should have filled me with happiness, but that happiness eluded me for reasons I could not fathom."I understand, and thank you for trusting me,” I said.My response was measured, no doubt giving away the complexities of my past with Jethro to a man as perceptive as Ignatz. Despite his suspicions, he said nothing, considerate of my feelings. This was a rarity among men.As I gazed out the window, Jethro haunted my thoughts. When our relationship was ambiguous, evasion was my go-to move. Now that it was truly over, my heart felt hollow as if I had lost something precious.After dinner, Ignatz proposed a shopping trip, but my spirits were low from the day's emotional rollercoaster with Jethro, so I declined. No longer entwined with Jethro's life, I did not head back to Verdantia but instead to Summer's place. Without any ties to him, it felt inappropriate to stay in his house.Ignatz pulled up outside Summer's pl
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