Chapter 34
AS Janine sat in the car parked in front of Adelle’s building, she glanced nervously at the streets, half-expecting reporters lurking in the shadows. The media storm surrounding her personal life had intensified, and she couldn’t escape the scrutiny.
Just as Janine was about to leave the car, Paulo’s hand gently stopped her, his eyes filled with apology. “Janine, I’m sorry you’ve been dragged into this mess. This is all our family drama, and you shouldn’t have to bear the consequences.”
Janine offered a small smile, trying to reassure him. “It’s okay, Paulo. I believe that this will pass. We’ll find a way to navigate through this together.”
Paulo’s expression remained pained as he continued. “But why didn’t you tell me that Ken was your ex-husband? I thought we were honest with each other.”
Janine hesitated for a moment, contemplating her response. She knew that Paulo deserved an explanation, however, complicated it might be.
“I didn’t tell you because I didn’t think I was in the position to do so. I wanted to keep our professional and personal lives separate. Besides, I spoke to Ken and asked him not to disclose our past to you. I didn’t want any personal issues to affect our working relationship.”
Paulo’s frustration was evident, and he shook his head in disbelief. “Janine, you should have told me. You deserve someone who’s not hiding things from you. And now, with the rumors and accusations, it will be even harder for you to escape it.”
“I expected this to some extent. But I also believe that Ken will do something about it. He’s powerful and influential and won’t let these accusations ruin me.”
Paulo’s face tensed, his tone tinged with possessiveness. “You should avoid Ken from now on, Janine. And since I’ve publicly announced that we’re dating, you must be more careful. It’s for your own protection.”
Janine’s eyes widened, a mix of surprise and resistance crossing her face. “You need to withdraw what you said, Paulo. We’re not dating, and I’m not ready for a new relationship right now.”
“It’s for your safety, Janine,” Paulo insisted. “Can you please listen to me just for once? I knew Ken, he’s my brother. He’s no good for you—”
“Paulo, I appreciate your concern, but I would prefer to make my own decisions,” she answered, then got out of his car.
Deep within her, though, Janine couldn’t ignore the memories of her time with Ken in the cabin, the connection they shared amidst the tranquil forest. Confusion washed over her as she grappled with her feelings, torn between the familiarity of her past and the possibility of a new beginning.
***
AS JANINE stepped into Adelle’s apartment, she was enveloped in a tight embrace. Adelle held onto her, expressing relief and worry over the reporters outside Janine’s house. Grateful for her friend’s support, Janine returned the hug, feeling a sense of solace in Adelle’s presence.
Settling down at the dining table, Adelle prepared a meal for Janine, urging her to eat before delving into what had happened. Janine took a few bites, her mind still reeling from the day’s events. She couldn’t believe the chaos that had consumed her life.
Between bites, Adelle couldn’t contain her curiosity any longer. “So, how did Ken pick you up on the rooftop with a chopper? He must be incredibly wealthy to pull off something like that.”
Blushing with embarrassment, Janine shook her head in disbelief. “I still can’t believe he did that. It was unexpected. Ken has always been larger than life, I guess.”
“And is it true that he’s a multi-billionaire?” Adelle gasped. “Janine, is he paying alimony? And how much did you get from your divorce?”
“I signed prenuptial agreements…” she answered neutrally, hoping that Adelle wouldn’t ask more questions about Ken’s wealth.
“What a dumb move,” Adelle commented. “You should have at least get a beach house so you don’t have to stay in your cramp apartment—”
“Adelle, please… I’m tired.”
Adelle’s eyes sparkled with amusement. “Well, my dear, you’ve landed yourself in a complicated situation. First, the rumors, then the press conference where Paulo claimed you two were dating. You must be exhausted.”
Janine let out a weary sigh. “Exhausted doesn’t even begin to describe it. I feel like walls are closing around me, suffocating me with their weight.”
Adelle placed a comforting hand on Janine’s shoulder, her voice filled with empathy. “I know it’s tough, Janine, but remember, you’re stronger than you think. You’ll find a way to overcome this. Trust your instincts and follow your heart.”
As Janine wiped away a tear, Adelle asked a question that weighed heavily on her mind. “Between Ken and Paulo, who would you choose? I’m not saying it will be easy, but deep down, you must have an inkling of what your heart desires.”
The question hit Janine like a punch to the gut, and she broke down in tears. She had no answer, no clarity about her feelings for the two brothers. The thought of hurting either of them was unbearable to her.
Through her tears, Janine said, “I don’t know, Adelle. I honestly don’t know. I don’t want to hurt either of them. This entire situation has left me feeling lost and torn.”
Adelle’s grip on Janine’s shoulder tightened, offering her comfort and support. “Sometimes, the answers don’t come easily. Take your time, allow yourself to heal, and trust that the right path will reveal itself. You don’t have to make a decision right now. Focus on finding your happiness and let the rest fall into place.”