Can’t Win Me Back by Ginger Sue

Alyssa worried that her involvement might exacerbate the already strained relationship between Javier and Jasper. She wasn't worried about Javier's perception of her; she just refused to make things more difficult for Jasper within the Beckett Group.

"I think it's Sophia who should worry about her reputation," Jasper dismissed Betty's statement without even looking at her. "I'll advise you to behave. If you insist on clearing your mom's name, I will see to it that you join her in jail."

His warning was directed at both Betty and Javier, making it clear that he wouldn't allow them to rescue Sophia.

"Jasper, how could you—" Betty stomped in anger and tugged at Javier's arm, pleading tearfully, "Dad, how could Jasper say that? It is my mom and your wife he's talking about! I think he wants me dead, too. What have I done to him? Who's the evil one here?"

Javier was disoriented and irritated by her tantrum as he struggled to free himself from her grasp. Simon seized the opportunity upon seeing the fallout. Wiping away his nosebleed, he approached Javier with a dejected look and appealed, "Mr. Javier, I've given my all to you and the Beckett Group, which I'm sure you know.

"Jasper might hold a grudge against your wife, which is not my concern, but he released his frustration on me when I was only doing my job. This is so unfair to me, Mr. Javier!"

bloodied face and replied flatly, "Mr. Lynch,

"Lyse, let's go home," refusing to share the same space with his father. Under everyone's scrutiny, he took Alyssa's hand and left the

for the medical compensation. I rarely resort to violence, so

his wound, almost making him yelp in

sight for Cyrus, who had always regarded Alyssa as a strong woman. He was, therefore, in disbelief when he saw her gentle and submissive attitude when

out

body tensed as he pulled her into a protective hug as if he were worried someone

the matter, Mr. Javier?"

that you have nothing to do with Sophia's