Read No.1 Supreme Warrior Novel: Chapter 5
Shauna guided Jack to the entrance of a small, rundown courtyard residence. A majestic banyan tree adorned the courtyard, masking the dilapidation with a touch of tranquility. Despite its serene appearance, the place bore the burden of neglect.
"You're saying that my mother, Selena, and the in-laws reside here?" Jack observed the house before him, a pang of sympathy coursing through him.
Selena, the daughter of Master Taylor, once radiated brilliance in Eastfield's film industry. Her beauty and talent attracted countless admirers. Yet, her decision to keep the child led to her expulsion from the family, condemning her to this humble abode.
Shauna grimaced faintly. "Your younger uncle is here too! He was just a boy five years ago, now he's 19 and part of this household."
"That many people!" Jack's eyes flickered with empathy. "Selena must have endured much hardship."
Their attention diverted to a Bentley parked nearby, igniting suspicion in Jack's mind.
"Why's there a Bentley here?" Jack's brow furrowed with skepticism.
"I'm not certain. I seldom visit. Too much has unfolded in five years. Miss Selena has waited for your return, but her parents' patience wore thin long ago. They harbor a strong bias against you, alleging you took advantage of Selena's inebriation on your wedding night..." Shauna's voice trailed off, a hint of concern etched on her face.
"I must mend this rift slowly. I've caused anguish to my in-laws." Jack sighed heavily, his desire to stand by Selena's side tinged with helplessness.
As they stepped inside, Jack motioned for silence, perturbed by the conversation echoing from within.
Selena's mother's voice resonated. "Young Master Clark, fret not. The lad vanished without a trace for five years. He's gone for good. I intend to procure a death certificate. Then, you can marry Selena."
"Thank you immensely!" Young Master Clark's laughter echoed. "Auntie, no need for a death certificate. Marriage is more than just a piece of paper. I, Ken Clark, don't place value on such trivialities. A splendid ceremony is all we need, provided Selena consents."
"Absolutely! She will consent!" Selena's mother affirmed. "We'll help sway her decision."
"Though she's quite obstinate! If not for insisting on bearing that child, you wouldn't be ousted from the Taylor family to endure this plight!" Young Master Clark's tone softened. "Five years ago, Selena was Eastfield's belle. Look at her now, a mere shadow of her former self."
"The delivery boy's fault entirely. What began as a sham marriage resulted in Selena's pregnancy." Mrs. Taylor lamented. "Yet, Selena adamantly claims the child as her own, swearing to care for her!"
"Fret not, Uncle, Auntie. I'm devoted to Selena. Wealth pales in comparison." Young Master Clark presented a jade bracelet. "From Shanghai, a token of my sincerity. Please accept it."
...
Beyond the threshold, Jack's countenance soured with each passing moment. His fists clenched, containing a tempest of emotions. After composing himself, he rapped on the door.
"Who's there?" Mrs. Taylor's voice bristled with irritation as she opened the gate.
"Who are you?" Mrs. Taylor scrutinized Jack, then glanced at Kylie. "Why is our Kylie with you?"
"Granny, h-he's my daddy!" Kylie met Jack's gaze, her voice soft. "Daddy says he'll protect us from bullies!"
Fiona's astonishment was palpable. "Remarkable. Jack, the audacious one, lives. You have the nerve to return now? You owe my daughter her lost youth. Your presence has brought us to ruin!"
"Who? Who's returned? It's that wretched Jack?" Selena's father lunged, attempting to grasp Jack. "You beast. If not for you defiling Selena, she wouldn't scavenge for scraps. My leg wouldn't be crippled!"
Jack recoiled. Selena's plight, her father's injury—consequences of his actions. Though Selena consented, guilt gnawed at him. Fiona's tears bore witness to their suffering.
"I'll teach you a lesson!" Andrew's slap reverberated.
Jack seized his hand. "Father, forgive me. My absence caused your suffering. I'll shoulder the responsibility. Selena and Kylie awaited my return. I won't fail them. They deserve better."
"You dare?" Andrew seethed, overpowered by Jack's strength.
Unexpectedly, Young Master Clark interjected with a smirk. "Jack's return is opportune. He shall divorce Selena. Kylie is his responsibility. Let him bear the burden. Our lives will improve without them!"