?<strong>Chapter 442:</strong>


    Anna’s face turned white, and tears filled her eyes. She wanted to blurt out that Jake wasn’t Mr. Jack. But the words got stuck in her throat. She felt her anger melt away.


    Feeling let down, Anna turned and walked away.


    Jake went over to Kallie and took her hand in his. Kallie was still in a bit of a daze. Jake’s words really touched her heart.


    This man was ready to risk everything for her. But when she thought about it clearly, she didn’t want him to. It would mean she’d be in his debt again.


    Kallie felt the warmth of his hand and fought back mixed feelings. She whispered, “Anna’s the only one who can help you maintain your identity as Mr. Jack. It’s unwise of you to do so, Jake. Have you lost your mind?”


    His dark eyes were determined. “I told you, I love you. I couldn’t protect you before, and I won’t let that happen again. Kallie, you and our daughter don’t have to be afraid anymore. I’ll take care of you both.”


    Kallie’s heart swelled with emotion at his words, and tears welled up in her eyes.


    Sophie, looking at the crowd, sped her hands. “Mommy, can we go home now?”


    Before Kallie could respond, Jake scooped Sophie up and said, “Alright, let’s head home.”


    Jake then walked away with Kallie and Sophie, leaving everyone behind. The evidence Jake presented today was thorough and convincing. It was enough to clear Kallie’s name. Joanna waspletely taken aback by the turn of events. She was stunned that Mr. Jack’s sister had spoken up for Jake at such a crucial time.


    Now, Joanna felt she had no leverage left. A chill ran through her, and she crumpled to the floor in defeat. Just then, Ethan called.


    Joanna screamed into the phone, on the verge of a breakdown. “Are you happy now that I’m going to jail? Are youughing at me? Once I’m locked up, there’s no one to keep you and Kallie apart! You’re thrilled, aren’t you?”


    After a long pause, Ethan finally spoke. “You must know deep down that I don’t love you. I married you and treated you well out of a sense of duty. I did my best to be a good husband. You must have seen that, but you refuse to acknowledge it. Instead, you me Kallie for everything. Even if Kallie hadn’t returned, you would have found someone else to me. I used to think I could just keep cating you, but I realized I was wrong.”


    Tears filled Joanna’s eyes. “You never loved or even liked me! Why did you marry me?” she sobbed. “You’re the reason I’ve be this.”


    “Yes, it’s all my fault,” Ethan said with a bitter smile, his voice unwavering. “I’ve made my decision. I will spend the rest of my days making amends for my wrong decisions. I won’t return to the Brooks family or seek love. I will pay respect to your mother’s grave until my own end.”


    Joanna was stunned and then began tough. Tears streamed down her face as sheughed, overwhelmed by a jumble of emotions she couldn’t untangle.


    Regret and self-loathing washed over her. She desperately wanted to convince Ethan to stay by her side.


    Before she could utter another word, Ethan ended the call. He wasn’t going to give her another opportunity. Suddenly, the door burst open with a forceful kick.


    A swarm of police officers rushed into the room.


    Joanna had, in fact, alreadye back to the country. She knew Jake’s men would capture her soon if she continued to stay abroad. No one could fathom what her fate would be by then.


    .


    .


    .