He Watched Me Shine Without Him novel Chapter 76

Rose’s reply was as crisp and cutting as ever: “No need.”

But Vivian wasn’t done. She kept pressing, trying to wedge herself between Rose and Houston. “I know you really loved Ethan. I don’t know what came over me back then—it was like I lost my mind. I couldn’t stand you flaunting your relationship in front of me, so I wanted to take him away… Rose, I’m really sorry.” Her face was the picture of innocent regret.

But her words cast a shadow in Houston’s heart.

So back when Rose was with Ethan… she’d flaunted their love?

So she really had loved him deeply.

Houston’s hand curled slowly into a fist. He was jealous. Deeply, maddeningly jealous. What had that guy ever done to deserve Rose’s love?

Vivian glanced at Houston out of the corner of her eye and saw the flicker of coldness in his expression. Her lips curved up ever so slightly.

Soon, Ethan arrived.

“Vivian.”

His expression had softened from the anger earlier. Now it was filled with concern—for both Vivian and the child.

Rose looked at him. So, he still cared about Vivian. Maybe Vivian had been right after all—their arguments hadn’t weakened their bond.

Then Rose stole a worried glance at Houston. She and Houston always treated each other with careful respect. Did that mean they might not last?

Just as she drifted into her thoughts, Houston grabbed her hand and started pulling her out. “Come home with me.” He hated seeing her space out in front of Ethan.

“Rose, thank you,” Ethan suddenly called out loudly.

Already annoyed, Houston shot him a glare so sharp it could cut glass. Then, without another word, he swept Rose up into his arms and strode off.

“Houston! Put me down! This is so embarrassing!” Rose covered her face as curious coworkers looked on, their eyes brimming with envy and disbelief.

Houston carried her all the way to his Mercedes, shoved her into the passenger seat, then stood outside with hands on hips, glaring down at her.

Rose blinked at him, puzzled.

“What’s wrong?” she asked.

“I’m jealous,” Houston snapped.

Rose froze—then burst out laughing, remembering that silly saying: Couples who never fight won’t last.

“You’re laughing?”

“Why are you jealous?” she asked, still smiling.

“Rose, I don’t want you spacing out in front of Ethan again.” His voice was firm and full of possessive indignation.

He hugged her like a child asking for comfort. “Rose… I’m jealous, and I regret not being there for you back then. I can’t make up for lost time. But from now on… can you make room in your heart for only me?”

“I will.” Rose met his gaze earnestly and nodded.

“Kiss me,” Houston said like a spoiled brat who knew exactly how to soften his icy queen.

Rose wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him naturally and unreservedly.

Back at the Hospital

Vivian’s parents finally arrived.

Without even asking for details, her mother began scolding Ethan. “Vivian came to make peace with you, and somehow she ends up unconscious in the hospital? Be honest—did you bully her?”

Ethan shifted uncomfortably and glanced at Vivian.

Her mother wasn’t buying it. She turned directly to her daughter. “Vivian, tell me the truth. What really happened?”

Tears welled up in Vivian’s eyes. “He wants to break up with me.”

Her father slammed his palm on the table, voice shaking with rage. “Unbelievable! Ethan—you slept with my daughter and used her womb, and now you think you can walk away without consequence? I swear, if you don’t give our Vivian a proper explanation, I’ll have no problem dragging you to court and throwing you in jail!”