Chapter 107

Jake avoided her gaze, focusing on comforting Thea. The murmuring around them intensified.

"At first, I sympathized with Thea, but now it seems she's not a good person," someone said.

"She claims to have no feelings for him, yet she gives him hope. Isn't she just manipulating Madelyn?" another voice chimed in.

"What's the difference between her and a mistress? Madelyn's pregnant, and Thea still won't leave him alone. That's unforgivable."

Stephanie, observing from a nearby car, removed her sunglasses and smiled. "I didn't expect such a spectacle."

Her assistant rushed back, rapping on the car window. "Ms. Ralap, the media you called have arrived. Should I call Mr. Hendrix?"

Stephanie shook her head. "What's the rush? The news about Nicolas and me is important, but this farce is more entertaining. Let's give them more attention." She donned her sunglasses and instructed the driver to proceed to the underground garage. She wanted the media to capture her entering Nicolas's car.

The police arrived, finally ending the scene. Thea's demeanor remained firm. When Jake persisted, she slapped him. The resounding slap stunned everyone.

Jake covered his face, momentarily stunned. Thea's hand tingled from the force of the blow. She felt he was shameless.

"While I don't want to see you two together forever, if you got her pregnant, you must accept the consequences," Thea stated. "I was foolish to have been attracted to you, but that doesn't make me a fool. You can't make me responsible for a child you don't want to raise. Your lives are none of my concern. If you disrupt my peace again, I won't hesitate to be ruthless."

Jake's eyes reddened with anger. His chest heaved, and his voice was laced with resentment. "Thea, can't you see how I feel?"

Thea turned, her tone cold. "I can. Can't you see what I'm thinking? Let me be clear: I find your behavior disgusting. Late affection is meaningless."

"You—" Jake began, but Madelyn suddenly clutched her stomach and cried out in pain. Jake rushed to her aid, his worry palpable.

Chapter 107 (Continued)

"Why the fuss? When did I say I didn't want you?" Jake asked Madelyn.

Tears welled in Madelyn's eyes. "I'm scared, Jake. The news about you and Miss Rowland has been upsetting me. I haven't slept well, and I've been feeling unwell, so I came to see you."

"Me and Miss Rowland?" Jake was stunned. "Who told you that?"

Madelyn remained silent, biting her lip. Jake immediately understood. He was anxious and angry. "I know she's angry, but she shouldn't be hurting you and the child."

Madelyn squeezed his hand. "Jake, take me home. I don't need status. Even if your family dislikes me, it doesn't matter. I just want to have this baby safely. This is our child." She placed his hand on her belly.

Jake hesitated, then said firmly, "Madelyn, I've said it before. If you demand too much, you'll only hurt yourself."

Hope vanished from Madelyn's eyes, replaced by resentment and hatred—a fleeting emotion before she collapsed into his arms, crying silently.

Meanwhile, Thea returned home in a foul mood, only to find more trouble. Two push notifications appeared: "[Mysterious Woman and Hendrix Family Leader Spotted Together!] [Shocking News: Mr. Hendrix Has a Child Out of Wedlock!]"

Thea clicked the first notification. The door opened, and Nicolas entered. She quickly hid her phone.

"I'm not the one acting shamelessly, so why am I being secretive?" she thought, feeling vexed.

Nicolas, oblivious, put on his coat. "I have plans tonight. Dinner out, I'll be late."

Disappointed, Thea wanted to ask about Stephanie. Nicolas paused, turning back. "You seem upset."

Thea forced a smile. "Just tired."

Nicolas hesitated. "Remember to take your medicine."

Thea stopped him. "Nicolas, don't you have anything else to say? Clarify things, tell me about Stephanie—anything but this secrecy." She lacked the stoicism to endure it.

Nicolas narrowed his eyes, seemingly pondering. After a moment, he said seriously, "Yes, I have something to tell you. Tomorrow, I'm going to Flaminshire for a project. Come with me. Gain experience; become independent at Avon Ventures."

Thea was stunned. "Shouldn't you bring Jake?" she asked tentatively.

Nicolas chuckled, his disdain evident. Thea was tempted, yet conflicted. "What's going on with Nicolas and Stephanie?" she began, but her phone vibrated. It was Max—an unexpected call. She pressed reject. Another call came in. Only Ivy usually called incessantly; Max's urgency was unsettling.