Can’t Win Me Back by Ginger Sue

"If I can't handle it, no one else in the world can," Alyssa huffed confidently.

"Jonah and I can't be by your side to protect you. Don't act recklessly, okay? Think about the consequences.

"When you encounter problems, don't try to handle them all by yourself. Communicate with us, or ask your man for advice. Let him take some hits for you."

"Dad, Jasper is my love, not a human shield. What's with this talk about taking hits?" Alyssa pouted with frustration.

However, Jasper remained unfazed. His eyes were filled with gentleness. "Don't worry, Winston. Even if there's a hail of bullets, I'll stand in front of Lyse and ensure her safety."

Alyssa's eyes became teary, and she felt a warm sensation in her chest. She nestled into Jasper's arms, feeling like a drifting boat had found a permanent harbor.

"Mr. Beckett."

Suddenly, Winston addressed Jasper with such seriousness that his whole body tensed up.

He quickly responded, "Yes, Mr. Taylor."

"My buttercup is still young. She's impulsive and doesn't think about the consequences. You'll have to help her in the future. Don't let anyone bully her." Winston's voice sounded choked up.

tightly gripped the delicate hand of

Winston's room, the two headed toward

just as they took a few steps, Alyssa threw herself into Jasper's arms. She

white shirt was soon soaked with her tears. Feeling sorry for her, he hugged her tightly and gently comforted

drop of a hat, but he never found it

to cherish every drop of

her ear while

not be? No one knows how long it'll take or if he'll get better." Alyssa brushed her crimson nose against his

get better.

dim corridor, the two embraced tightly, sharing

slightly in his arms. Her eyes were misty with desire as she

"Damn," she thought.

exactly how to tease

passionately. The overwhelming sensation

wrapped her arms around his neck. Her eyes were watery, and her voice was

"Okay."