As Seth had promised last night, when Jasmine woke up, Seth was already back in her room. Morning sunlight sneaked in through the gaps in the curtains, giving a warm, soothing touch. Jasmine rubbed her eyes slowly, gathering her still sleepy consciousness.Seth sat on the edge of the bed, his eyes full of attention and affection. "Did you sleep well?" he asked with the gentle voice he always used to comfort her.Jasmine nodded slowly, still trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. "Yes, I slept well. Thank you."Seth smiled, leaning in to give Jasmine a gentle good morning kiss on her lips. The kiss was not just a sign of affection, but also a promise that he would always be there for her, no matter what happened.Jasmine felt the warmth and sincerity of Seth's kiss. It reminded her of the previous night, when they talked about the tensions that had occurred and how they promised to support each other."So, what are your plans for today?" Seth asked, his hand still holding Jasmine's
Jasmine cursed when her car suddenly died in the middle of the road. She turned the ignition key multiple times, but the engine only produced an empty growl. "Oh, come on," she muttered, punching the steering wheel in frustration. She looked at the empty road around her, hoping for a miracle to get her car running again. But miracles didn’t come. With a heavy sigh, Jasmine got out of the car and examined her vehicle.She didn’t know much about cars, but one thing was clear: it had broken down. “Why now?” Jasmine murmured to herself, fumbling with the hot hood, hoping to find the problem even though she didn’t know what to look for.Suddenly, the sound of another car approached. A luxury sports car stopped beside her. Jasmine squinted, trying to see who was inside through the slightly tinted windows. The window slowly rolled down, revealing a face with a broad smile that instantly worsened Jasmine’s mood.Danzell.“Why him?” Jasmine thought. Danzell was a man who always tried to get cl
Jasmine stared at her reflection in the large mirror, wearing an elegant yet understated black dress. She knew that whatever she wore would always attract attention. She was Jasmine Harold, a figure who always became the center of attention wherever she went.After ensuring her appearance was perfect, Jasmine descended the stairs. Along the way, she encountered Evelyn, her mother. Evelyn gave her the usual indifferent look, making Jasmine feel uncomfortable. That gaze always made her feel like nothing she did was ever important enough for Evelyn. Jasmine often wondered if she was Evelyn's biological daughter or just a child picked up from the streets."Where are you going?" Evelyn asked coldly."I have an appointment with Danzell," Jasmine replied curtly.Upon hearing Danzell's name, Evelyn's expression changed slightly, though it remained subtle. Jasmine noticed the small change and wondered if her mother approved of her closeness with Danzell, given that Danzell was the son of Evely
18Jasmine slowly opened her eyes, glancing to the side where Seth was still sound asleep. His face looked peaceful, but the memory of last night's events made Jasmine feel uneasy. Seth had truly unleashed his anger through their physical interaction, and Jasmine's body was the evidence. Carefully, Jasmine touched her lips, which were still swollen from Seth's kisses. Not to mention the red marks that covered her neck, shoulders, and her entire body. Pain spread through her as she tried to sit up from her sleep. Seth's play last night had been SO rough and intense, making Jasmine wince every time she moved.She muttered softly, realizing that she had an important photoshoot later in the afternoon. "How can I cover all these red marks on my neck and shoulders?" Jasmine thought anxiously. As a model, appearance was everything, and these marks could disrupt her work. Gently, Jasmine got out of bed, trying not to wake Seth. She walked to the bathroom, staring at her reflection in the mi
Jasmine was just about to rest her body when the housemaid informed her that her parents and Seth were waiting in the living room. Jasmine's heart raced, uncertain about what kind of conversation awaited her this time. Feeling tired, Jasmine approached them.As Jasmine entered the living room, she saw Seth looking worried, his face showing concern upon seeing Jasmine's slightly pale complexion. Her father, Lucas, also looked worried, but not her mother, Evelyn, who always seemed cold and critical."Are you sick, Mine?" Seth asked softly, his voice full of concern."Don't be dramatic. She's probably just tired from her busy schedule," Evelyn said flatly, making Jasmine already sense the situation. Evelyn never missed an opportunity to show her disapproval of Jasmine.Jasmine sat down next to Seth, waiting to hear what they would discuss. The first topic that came from Evelyn was about today's scandal."Jasmine, what were you thinking?! The news about you leaving a restaurant with an un
Seth stared at the document in front of him with a sharp gaze. It contained vital information about the legislative seat his father was set to occupy. This position was prestigious and strategic, and it could all come to fruition if Monica's family continued to support Lucas. Seth knew how important this support was, and he had planned everything meticulously."So, it all depends on our engagement, doesn't it?" Monica asked, her voice calm as she gazed at the glass of wine in front of her. She sat across the table, giving Seth a thin smile."Of course," Seth replied calmly. "We just need to stage the engagement for appearances. Your family will become more tied to mine, ensuring my father secures the position he desires."Monica sighed, feeling like she was playing a role in a drama. "But what about Jasmine?"Seth gave a cold smile. "If all my plans go smoothly, I will easily draw Jasmine to my side without any interference."Monica fell silent, contemplating Seth's words. She knew ho
Jasmine stepped into a classic-style restaurant with sparkling crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and soft jazz music playing in the background. She had taken a moment to fix her hair before entering, trying to calm her suddenly racing heart. After Danzell had informed her that he would be meeting her mother, Evelyn, Jasmine felt a knot in her stomach.As the restaurant door opened, the aroma of delicious food immediately filled her senses. Jasmine scanned the room for Evelyn and Eli, Danzell's mother, who had arrived earlier. In the corner of the room, she saw them sitting elegantly, as if waiting for an important moment. Swallowing hard, Jasmine hesitantly walked towards them."Hi, sweetie, you always look beautiful," greeted Eli with a warm, comforting smile. Eli, with her elegant silver hair, was always friendly and sincerely welcomed Jasmine. In contrast, Evelyn merely watched Jasmine's arrival with a blank, cold expression."Thank you, Aunt Eli," Jasmine replied softly
Jasmine let out a long sigh as she stood in front of the family's grand house. Inside, her family was waiting with anticipation. They wanted to hear the official news about her engagement to Danzell, a man chosen by her mother. However, her heart was heavy. Jasmine knew her feelings were not for Danzell but for someone much closer.Just as Jasmine was about to step inside, a strong yet gentle hand pulled her from behind. She was startled to see the face of Seth, her stepbrother, who looked both angry and anxious."Come with me," Seth whispered tensely, pulling her towards the backyard garden.Once they were out of earshot, Seth released her wrist and stared at her intensely. "What are you doing, Mine? How could you agree to get engaged to Danzell?"Jasmine's heart raced. "I didn't know Mommy would plan all this. I couldn't do anything, Seth," she replied hoarsely, almost in despair."Jasmine, you can't do this!" Seth exclaimed, his voice trembling. "We... you and I... we care for each
Jasmine gazed at Lily, who was now sleeping soundly in her bassinet. The quiet night was accompanied by the gentle ticking of the wall clock. Moonlight streamed through the window, providing just enough dim light to see her daughter's tiny face. Jasmine slowly reached out her hand, caressing the soft, rosy cheek as gently as a cloud. Her touch was so delicate, as if she feared disturbing the sweet dreams that might be filling Lily's mind."My child," she whispered softly, barely audible. "You mean everything to me."Since Lily's arrival, Jasmine felt that happiness had finally found its way to her. A feeling that once seemed so foreign now blossomed in her heart. The pain she had once endured seemed repaid in full by Lily's presence. A small smile formed on her lips as she remembered the long nights filled with tears, now replaced by the baby's small laughs and giggles.Yet, behind all this happiness, there was a shadow of fear that constantly haunted Jasmine. Sometimes, she feared th
Seth walked quickly towards the nursery, cold sweat running down his temples. Panic gripped him after realizing the fatal mistake he had just made. "How could I forget that bag?" he thought, frantically. His briefcase contained important documents that should never fall into Jasmine’s hands. He needed to retrieve them before Jasmine opened it.However, as the nursery door opened, he saw his worst fear realized. Jasmine stood there, holding the document he wanted to keep from her. Her eyes widened as she read its contents, then she looked at Seth with a gaze full of questions and disappointment."Seth, what does this mean?" Jasmine's voice trembled, reflecting the turmoil in her heart. She held up the document, pointing it at Seth. "It says that I'm not Mommy's child. How is that possible?"Seth stood stunned in the doorway, feeling as if the world was collapsing around him. He knew this moment would come, the moment he had feared for so long. "Jasmine, let me explain," he said, trying
Jasmine glanced at the clock on the wall, which showed ten in the morning. Time seemed to move at a snail's pace, slow and torturous. Her impatience waiting for their baby’s birth often left Jasmine confused about how to spend her days.Today, she decided to organize the baby items she had just bought with Seth. With a smile on her face, Jasmine pulled out tiny socks from the shopping bag, a blue and white combination that looked adorable in her hands. She then moved on to the clothes, hats, and shoes, feeling her heart swell with joy as she imagined the little angel who would soon be in their midst.In the middle of tidying up, Jasmine suddenly remembered something. "The cute sweater we bought, where did I put it?" she thought, furrowing her brow. With her already large belly, she slowly rummaged through the shopping bags around her. However, the sweater was nowhere to be found."Ah, where did I put it?" Jasmine grew more anxious. She decided to search in another room, trying to reca
Jasmine had spent the entire day in silence, her mind in turmoil. Monica's words kept replaying in her head, making her restless. Jasmine wasn't sure what Monica intended by mentioning those things, especially since she had never intended to discuss her pregnancy, neither publicly nor with her family.She felt like nobody cared about her, so she assumed people wouldn't be too interested in her latest news, including her mother, Evelyn. However, Monica's words made Jasmine reconsider. Should she inform her mother and Lucas about this happy news? What if they got angry and disapproved, especially if they found out it was Seth's child?Jasmine didn't know what steps to take. Monica had left a puzzle about what Seth knew about Evelyn's news. Jasmine started to wonder if Seth was keeping a secret from her."Mine," Seth said, now sitting beside Jasmine. Jasmine was startled, not even realizing Seth had come home."Seth, you're back? When did you come in?" Jasmine asked again, making Seth lo
Monica sat in the backseat of her luxurious car, her black sunglasses framing her graceful face. Her sharp gaze was fixed on a modest house not far from where her car was parked by the roadside. Nearly ten minutes had passed, and she remained patiently waiting, counting each passing second."Are you sure this is their house?" Monica broke the silence with a low yet firm tone, her eyes still glued to the door of the house.The bespectacled man sitting next to the driver turned to Monica. "Yes, Miss. Miss Jasmine used to live here first, and Mr. Seth joined her just a few weeks ago," he explained calmly.Monica nodded slowly, but her patience was wearing thin. "Should I find out more, Charles?" offered Charles, Monica's personal secretary, in a polite yet attentive manner.Monica shook her head. "No need, let's just wait. I have plenty of time today." Her voice exuded confidence, though a hint of impatience flickered across her face.Time crawled by, but Monica's patience was finally re
Seth looked over at Jasmine, who was busy with the flower arrangement in front of her. The room was filled with the fresh fragrance of flowers, creating a calm and warm atmosphere. Seeing his wife engrossed in her work, Seth smiled. He walked over, carrying a glass of Jasmine's favorite juice."Beautiful flowers," Seth said softly, enough to make Jasmine look up. She greeted her husband's smile with a sweet smile of her own."Thank you," Jasmine replied, gently taking the juice from Seth's hand. "You always know how to make me feel better.""Drink it slowly. I need to call Fito first," Seth said, gently touching Jasmine's shoulder. Jasmine nodded slowly, understanding that Seth always had many things to take care of.Seth walked away with his phone in hand, but his eyes occasionally glanced at Jasmine, who was once again focused on her flowers. With her growing belly, Jasmine looked so beautiful and graceful. She always found peace in arranging those flowers.While waiting for the cal
Seth woke up to the gentle movement beside him. He immediately sat up, his eyes scanning the darkness as he saw Jasmine trying to get out of bed."Mine, where are you going?" he asked, his voice hoarse from just waking up."I just need to go to the bathroom," Jasmine replied, her voice soft but clear.Seth glanced at the clock on the bedside table. It was still early morning, and he realized it was probably the umpteenth time Jasmine had gone to the bathroom that night."Are you okay? Are you feeling uncomfortable?" he asked, wanting to make sure Jasmine was alright.Jasmine smiled softly and nodded. "I'm fine. I talked to the doctor, and this is normal for someone as far along as I am in my pregnancy."Seth sighed, then without a word, he got out of bed and lifted Jasmine into his arms. Jasmine let out a small squeal."Seth, put me down. You should get some sleep. I can go to the bathroom by myself," Jasmine protested, but Seth didn't listen. He gently set her down near the bathroom
The sun was already setting when Jasmine stepped out of the hospital. The cool evening air greeted her, bringing new hope after days filled with anxiety and pain. Seth was beside her, vigilant as always. He carefully watched Jasmine's steps, ensuring her every move was safe."Today, we finally get to go home," Jasmine murmured with a relieved tone. "Thank you for always being by my side."Seth just nodded, his smile warm and loving. The journey home felt shorter than usual. Perhaps it was because this time, they were no longer burdened by uncertainty. The modest house where Jasmine had been staying for the past few months now felt warmer and more inviting.Upon reaching the front door, Seth gently guided Jasmine inside. He ensured her every step was steady, leading her with great care. Jasmine looked around the interior of the house with sparkling eyes. This was the place that had given her a sense of security, and now, with Seth by her side, it felt even more complete."Do you need a
Monica followed Seth’s firm and brisk steps. They moved through the quiet hospital corridors until they finally arrived at a small garden at the back of the building. The garden was peaceful, with only the sound of trickling water from a small fountain in the corner. Seth stopped and turned, staring at Monica with a sharp gaze.“How far will you take me?” asked Monica, her voice slightly trembling despite her effort to appear calm. She felt her heart beating faster than usual.Seth took a deep breath, trying to calm himself before speaking. “Tell me why you are here?” he asked, repeating the question he had asked several times along the way.Monica shrugged, displaying the indifference that often served as her shield. “I’ve told you, I’m just meeting an old friend. I’m not lying, I swear,” she replied casually. However, Seth was not easily convinced. He stepped closer, narrowing the distance between them, and stared at Monica with a look full of suspicion.“Don’t mess with me and Jasm