Unmasking Mrs. Newton's Secret Identities novel Chapter 1681

"You don't have to do this," Germaine said, brushing Jenson's hand away and turning her face. "This is a personal decision—it has nothing to do with the company. I've already found someone to take my place. The business won't be affected."

Her emotions were raw, and she feared losing control and saying something she might regret.

"And what about me?" Jenson asked, hurt evident in his eyes as he looked at her. "Have you ever thought about how this affects me?"

Germaine let out a slow breath, forcing herself to maintain her composure. "I wish you the best. But… I'm afraid I won't be able to attend your wedding."

"You're just jealous," Jenson said, moving closer until his body almost brushed against hers. "You're hurt. You like me, don't you?"

"No," Germaine shot back, refusing to meet his gaze.

"Then why is it that the moment I mention marriage, you choose to walk away without a word? How do you explain that?" Jenson pressed, refusing to back down.

Feeling cornered, Germaine finally snapped, "Yes!"

Her eyes widened, filled with bitterness and sorrow. "I did like you. I was even moved by you… but that was a long time ago. It's all in the past now. You made your choice. What's done is done. Even if—"

Before she could finish, Jenson cupped her face in his hands and kissed her.

Germaine hesitated for a moment before responding, her body betraying her.

When their breaths grew heavy, Jenson slowly pulled away. His dark eyes glimmered with unshed tears, and in that moment, he looked like a lost child.

"Germaine, I love you. I truly do. There is no fiancée, and I've never considered marrying anyone else. Everything I did was to get a reaction from you.

"I know it was unfair, but I've been so jealous of Taylor. I envy how he finally got a response from Abigail. I've waited for seven years, and I just couldn't wait any longer. I had to be selfish for once.

"Seven years ago, you rejected me because you thought I was immature. But now, I can stand on my own. Can you please stop pushing me away?"

"Then it's settled," Jenson declared, determination shining in his eyes. "You chose me for who I am, not for my looks. So why would you think I'd change my mind because of your age?"

"Germaine," he added, gently squeezing her hand, "we've already let seven years pass us by. Let's not waste any more time."

Germaine sniffled. "If I choose to stop working and focus on taking care of myself at home, would that bother you?"

"Huh?" Jenson chuckled through his tears. "Of course not! You're amazing. If you want to step back and let me support you, I'd be more than happy to!"

He raised his right hand and extended his pinky. "It's a deal then! From now on, I'll take care of the finances, and you can just focus on being beautiful. Let's make a pinky promise—if you ever try to run away, you'll turn into a little dog!"

"Why am I the only one bound by this?" Germaine protested.

Jenson wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. "Because I won't run away. I'll be your loyal puppy."