Her Return, His Regret by Natie

When Ryan popped the chilli pepper into his mouth and quickly chewed it, he didn't feel anything at first but a faint tingle.

However, a sudden explosion of heat tore through his senses, making him feel like he had dipped his face into a pot of boiling water.

His eyes grew wider, turning red in an instant as they reacted to the heat and he struggled to keep his expression calm.

He continued to chew the chilli, his mouth feeling like someone had lit a match and set his taste buds on fire.

Jack Davis glanced at Ryan and asked, "Is it hot? Spit it out now... I know you can't take it."

Ryan shook his head, determination etched on his face. He said through gritted teeth, "It's not so bad. I can handle it... this is nothing compared to what Lora went through."

Jack arched an eyebrow but he kept quiet and let Ryan continue. He was waiting for the moment the young man would give up.

However, Ryan continued to chew the chilli until it was done and down his throat, even as the heat in his mouth intensified, burning his tongue and making his throat feel like it was dipped into an active volcano, he was determined to pass the test. Beads of sweat coated his forehead and his face turned as red as a tomato. His eyes fluttered shut, blinking furiously as his vision turned glassy with tears.

'Fuck!' Ryan cussed internally, not wanting to make a sound.

He resisted the urge to fan his mouth with his hand or look around for something that could cool the inferno in his mouth. His mind screamed desperately for water but he clenched his hands into fists, holding himself back as much as possible. However, the heat only seemed to linger in his mouth and throat, spreading rapidly like a wildfire.

Jack laughed when he saw Ryan's expression and asked, "So, Ryan, how is it? Do you still want a second chance with my daughter? If you give up now, I'll give you some milk to ease the heat."

Ryan coughed violently, sticking his tongue out as though the air would cool off the burning sensation. He shook his head and replied in a strained voice, "No... never."

Jack furrowed his eyebrows. He didn't expect Ryan to be so resilient. As a chilli lover himself, not even he could eat the whole raw chilli and endure twenty minutes without drinking any water to wash it down.

"Ryan, you don't need to force yourself... just give up and I'll help you feel better," Jack remarked, narrowing his eyes at Ryan.

He stared at Jack and stated, "I agreed to take this test... and I'll pass by all

to make amends. However, could he really

and gestured with his hand. Soon, someone

said, getting the glass of milk and passing it to Ryan. "You've already

the glass and gulped the milk down, however,

it?" Jack asked when he saw Ryan's expression.

he was about to

interfere but if I feel like you're not good

her mother and asked worriedly,

father, he's

to scold Daddy?"

sighed when she saw how worried the little one was. She wondered how she could already be so attached to Ryan when

Daddy are just having

why are they taking so long?

will be back very soon. You can play with your father but

us?" Ella asked

I have made your favorite dessert. Do you want me to give you some?" Ella's eyes lit up. She

remarked and led her grandchildren to the dining

out a sigh of relief.

her phone

missed calls from Jason. Guilt crept into her...

know what

to him.

him back when she heard the doors open. Soon, Jack walked into the living room,