Mission: From Divorcee to Millionaire

Everett acted like he hadn't heard a thing. He yanked at the handcuffs so hard that his fingers started bleeding, yet he seemed completely unaware of the pain.

The ring of fire was closing in on them. Selena could see his back, where he'd been hit earlier, now completely soaked in blood, showing just how bad his injuries were.

Thick smoke swirled around them, making it hard to see. Yet somehow, his image was etched clearly in her mind.noveldrama

Tears streamed down Selena's face as she pushed against him. "Everett, you need to get out! Get out now!"

"You can't stay here. If something happens to me, Mateo and Haley will need you. I can't have my kids losing both parents and ending up relying on someone else. Do you hear me?"

No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't budge Everett even a little. His hands were raw and bloody, but he seemed oblivious, desperately trying to break free.

"Everett!" Selena shouted again.

He finally looked up at her. Her face was smudged with soot, and her tears mixed with snot, yet to him, she was still the most beautiful woman-the one he, Everett, had fallen for.

He'd never really understood love until now, and maybe it was too late to make things right. But Everett had always been proud and stubborn, never one to back down. He wouldn't give up Selena, not to anyone, not even fate, not even death.

Not wanting to touch her with his bloodied hands, he gently pressed his forehead to hers, his voice rough. "Selena, I've already set up a trust for Mateo and Haley. I've got career counselors for them too. Even without us, they'll have good lives. And your uncle, Blaine, isn't like the rest of your family. I trust him with the kids."

Selena's eyes widened. "What... what do you mean?"

Everett let out a sudden laugh. "Aren't you always the clever one? You usually see right through me. Why not now?"

"You know was never really into kids. But love ours because they're yours, your flesh and blood. Heirs can be adopted and raised; they were never a must-have in my life plan."

"So years ago, I agreed to look after my brother's love and help his kids. I didn't

expect to fall for you and want to give you and your kids everything."

"Selena, you might think it's too late or that I'm being fake, but this is the truth. Before Mateo and Haley, nou more. I could live without them, but not without you.

"I can't imagine facing a future without you. I'd rather not be the heartless guy who left you behind."

The flames surrounded them, the air thick with the smell of burning. Selena shook her head, furious, calling him a madman.

"Everett, if you don't get out, I'll never forgive you. Just try leaving my kids behind!"

Fearing the fire would reach Selena, Everett held her tight, shielding her with his whole body. Even as she struggled, he wouldn't let go.