Chapter 60

"I believe you will eventually marry into the Hendrix family," Jepson continued. "You're already considered our future daughter-in-law. Even if Jake doesn't inherit the Hendrix family business, we will still work hard to secure Avon Ventures. You really don't need to keep putting in so much effort there."

Thea's smile vanished. "Mr. Hendrix, if you have something to say, just say it."

Jepson lifted his chin slightly. "Yes, Jake messed up this time, but I believe you share some responsibility. If you could do us a favor and take the blame for Jake, we would treat you well in the future. If Jake gets into trouble again, I will—"

Thea was nearly laughing in disbelief, finally understanding Jake's shamelessness. Like father, like son, she thought bitterly. Reflecting on her past efforts to please this family, she wished she could slap some sense into her former self. "Was I cursed back then? How could it take me this long to see their true colors?"

With a cold smile, she retorted, "Mr. Hendrix, have I done anything wrong that you've caught me doing?"

Jepson frowned. "What do you mean?"

Thea's tone turned icy. "Am I supposed to take the blame for someone who has nothing to do with me? Jake betrayed me and made me a laughingstock in Key Biscayne. I didn't seek revenge, and you should be grateful. And now you expect me to pay for him? How ridiculous!"

Jepson's face flushed red with anger. No one had ever dared to speak to him so disrespectfully. Thea had always been demure and obedient in their presence. Before making his request, he'd been certain she would agree without hesitation. He considered the Rowland family lowly, and Thea an overlooked daughter. Marrying into the Hendrix family, he assumed, would be a blessing she'd eagerly accept. He expected her to agree happily. He never anticipated this reaction.

Fuming, Jepson clenched his fists, then quickly composed himself, a cunning thought forming. He swiftly identified Thea's vulnerabilities. "Your marriage to Jake isn't something you get to decide, is it? Can you guess if your family will agree to anything just to marry you off to him?"

Thea's hands tightened, leaving her momentarily speechless. Jepson's satisfaction grew at her hesitation. He relaxed slightly, maintaining his condescending attitude. "You don't have the luxury of choice. If you want to blame someone, blame your own weakness that makes you so easily manipulated. Then, if I were you, I would hold onto Jake tightly and find a way to have a child with him. After all, for someone like you, this is the only way—"

Thea felt sick. Now I understand why Stefan chose Nicolas to mentor his heir instead of Jepson, she thought. Reason, however, told her not to provoke him. He was shameless, but a man of his word. The thought of being oppressed by him brought tears to her eyes. Her determination to become stronger only intensified.

Jepson took a few steps, then turned back, irritation in his gaze. "Why are you still standing there? I'm being kind and bringing you inside. Make sure to tell my father this has nothing to do with Jake. Got it?"

Thea took a deep breath, struggling to mask her hatred. She turned and followed Jepson inside. He smirked, clearly pleased with himself.

Just then, someone opened the door to the room.