Ethan Roscente stood at the bedroom doorway, his gaze fixed on the glaring red stain on the sheets. His Adam's apple bobbed, dark currents swirling in his eyes.

Jenna Roland frantically tugged at the blanket to cover it.

"Don't move." He strode forward, grasping her slender wrist. "I'll handle it."

The tips of Jenna's ears burned as her fingers unconsciously twisted the hem of her nightgown.

Ethan deftly stripped the bloodied sheets, his movements gentle as though handling something precious. He turned to retrieve fresh linens from the closet, fingertips brushing over the crisp cotton fabric.

"I can do it myself..." Jenna reached out.

"Stay put." His tone brooked no argument, yet his hands remained tender.

After replacing the sheets, Ethan leaned down to tuck the blanket around her. Moonlight filtered through the sheer curtains, casting delicate patterns across her face.

"Ethan..." Her voice was barely a whisper.

He suddenly bent closer, his lips grazing her burning earlobe. "Thank you for becoming mine."

Jenna burrowed deeper under the covers, only her flushed cheeks visible.

"If you dare betray me..." She glared fiercely, though her eyes shimmered with unshed tears.

Ethan chuckled, pulling her—blanket and all—into his arms. "As you command, Mrs. Roscente."

Three days later, at a night market stall.

Ryan Watson's forehead bandage had been removed, leaving only a faint scar. He stood awkwardly beside Milo Roland, nervously twisting the hem of his shirt.

"Sis." Milo yanked Ryan forward. "This idiot insisted on helping out before finishing his meds."

Jenna handed over a thermos. "Take your medicine first."

Ryan cradled the cup, steam fogging his glasses. He suddenly looked up. "Will those people...come back?"

"Who cares!" Milo punched his shoulder. "Brother-in-law's coming tomorrow. Let's see who dares cause trouble!"

Jenna's hand jerked, nearly knocking over the sugar jar. Ever since that night, the title "brother-in-law" sent her pulse racing.

"Leo Lombardi got fifteen days in detention." She changed the subject. "Next time they cause trouble, we'll call the police directly."

Ryan nodded, but his eyes darkened behind his glasses.

Top floor of HM Group headquarters, Ethan shattered his third coffee cup.

"Mr. Roscente?" Assistant Lucas peeked through the door.

Ethan grabbed his suit jacket, frost crystallizing in his gaze. "Get the car ready."

The hallway lights elongated his cold, imposing silhouette, the temperature plunging in his wake. Lucas shrank back, not daring to ask another question.