Chapter 22: It’s not what you think
Daniel’s blood boiled as he watched Maria in another man’s arms. She was his, only his. No one had the right to take her away. He clenched his fists, trying to control the anger surging through him. For the sake of their baby, he had promised himself he would work things out. But now, here she was, embracing another man in broad daylight, humiliating him without a second thought.
His vision blurred with rage as he strode toward them. Without hesitation, he grabbed Maria’s arm and yanked her aside. He would deal with her later. Right now, his focus was on Ethan.
Before Ethan could react, Daniel’s fist landed on his face. A sharp crack echoed in the air, but Daniel wasn’t done. He pulled back for another punch, but Ethan was faster. Stronger. He caught Daniel’s hand mid-air and shoved him back with ease.
Daniel staggered but didn’t back down. Ethan could admit he had owed him that first punch for touching his wife. But a second one? That was out of line. His jaw clenched as he steadied himself, fists still tight, ready to beat the hell out of him.
But then he saw Maria. She stood frozen, her eyes wide with panic. Her hands trembled, and her breath quickened. This wasn’t just about him.
Ethan exhaled sharply, shaking off the fury. He wasn’t going to fight over a woman who was not his wife. Not like this.
Daniel took a step back, his chest rising and falling with heavy breaths. "This isn’t what you think," Maria muttered, she rushed to Ethan’s side, her eyes filled with concern. "Are you okay?" she asked softly.
Ethan gave her a small nod, brushing off the pain. "I’m fine. Don’t worry."
Daniel scoffed. "Yeah? Then tell me what it is."
Daniel watched the exchange, his fury igniting into a raging fire. His wife, his Maria was worried about another man that wasn’t him. The humiliation burned through him like acid. His fists clenched so tightly.
"Come here, you bitch!" he snarled, lunging toward Maria. His hand shot out, aiming to yank her by the hair.