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.

words. He tightly gripped the delicate hand of his beloved

Winston's room, the two headed toward their own

took a few steps, Alyssa threw herself into Jasper's arms. She rested her

Feeling sorry for her, he hugged her tightly and gently

Alyssa would cry at the drop of a hat, but he never found it

drop of

behind her ear

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

better. He

corridor, the two embraced

in his arms. Her eyes were

"Damn," she thought.

He knew exactly how to tease her

entwined passionately. The overwhelming sensation

Alyssa wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Okay."