The Wife Who Jumped on New Year's Eve

Chapter 34

Joanna Taylor closed the door, her emotions in turmoil.

It seemed she had never truly understood Ryan Bennett. The man who had once been so cruel to her was now bending over backward to win her back.

Was human nature inherently fickle?

"Joanna, I'll pick you up soon."

The message from Sean Yates lit up her phone, softening her expression. Now, she had someone worth cherishing. The past was something she no longer wanted to dwell on.

The doorbell rang, and Joanna eagerly opened it.

"That was fast— Oh, Mrs. Yates?"

Sean's mother stood outside, her demeanor icy and imperious.

"Miss Taylor, may we talk?"

Joanna's chest tightened, but she stepped aside to let her in.

The freshly brewed tea steamed between them, but Mrs. Yates barely glanced at it, making no move to accept the cup.

"Miss Taylor, I'll be blunt."

"Sean is still young. I understand you're in love now, but if marriage is your goal..." She paused deliberately.

"The most I can accept is you staying as his mistress."

"I hope you can understand a mother's concerns. After all, you've been a mother yourself, haven't you?"

The words struck like a knife, sending a sharp pang through Joanna's heart.

"I—"

"Mom, this is between us. You promised not to interfere."

Sean had spotted his family's car outside and rushed over, fearing Joanna might be hurt.

At the sight of her son, Mrs. Yates softened slightly.

"Sean, I was just having a conversation with Miss Taylor."

"I'm not against your relationship, but marriage is no small matter. I'm sure Miss Taylor understands."

"The Yates family cannot welcome a divorced woman with a child."

Joanna felt the disdain in her tone. She knew her past would always be a stain in others' eyes.

But still—

"Mrs. Yates."

Joanna's voice was steady.

"I respect you, and I respect Sean. But I ask that you respect me as well."

"My daughter is my treasure—not my shame."

Sean pulled her closer, his expression resolute.

"Mom, I want to marry Joanna. You never raised me, so please don't dictate who my wife should be."

His mother's face twisted with hurt, her eyes reddening. She redirected her fury at Joanna.

"A divorced woman with a child—why are you clinging to my son? What are you after? I've seen your kind before. I've been more than patient with you!"

"Mom!"

Sean looked at her in disbelief.

"How can you say that to her?"

"I'm the one who pursued her. I'm the one who wants to marry her. None of this is her fault. She doesn't deserve your insults!"

Mrs. Yates was stunned. She had never expected her son to defy her like this for a woman.

"Don't be a fool! Without the Yates name, would she even look at you? Look how she's toying with her ex-husband!"

"She's nothing but a shameless seductress who got her own child killed. How could I ever accept her?"

Sean's heart shattered. He stared at his mother, disappointment flooding him.

Taking a deep breath, he said,

"Fine, Mom. Then pretend you never found me. I'd rather go back to that rundown village than lose Joanna."

Mrs. Yates trembled with rage.

"Fine! Let's see how long she lasts!"

With a sharp bang, she stormed out.

Joanna's hands shook.

"Sean... I never wanted you to go this far for me. I know how much your family means to you."

He squeezed her hand firmly.

"I'll make them see my resolve."