Can’t Win Me Back by Ginger Sue

It was public knowledge that Javier and Jasper did not get along, but it was the first time anyone had witnessed an open
argument between them.
Jasper might be a ruthless man, but his record-setting accomplishments and swift business expansion during his tenure as
president had earned recognition from his subordinates.
However, Javier's veiled threat to oust Jasper for Sophia tainted his image, painting him as a corrupted figure.
Jasper would have been enraged at Javier's threat in the past, but he felt different now. His priority was Alyssa's well-being, not
his father's.
He retorted, "I don't care who'll be the future president, but I am in power now, and I would like to remove Sophia Kirkman. What
can you do about that?"
With that, he briskly exited the meeting room, leaving behind the astonished attendees and an incensed Javier.
The night had fallen when Jasper left the office. Slouching wearily in the back of his car, he enjoyed some shut-eye.
"Mr. Beckett, you were so cool back there, standing up to Mr. Javier!" Xavier exclaimed, brimming with excitement.
"Well, it comes with a cost," Jasper responded, wearing a wry smile.
"Who cares as long as you look cool! Speaking of Justin, he looks too frail to be of any use. Even if he's back, I bet he can't last
even a week on your hectic schedule." Xavier appeared optimistic about Jasper's future. "Besides, you're back on good terms
with Madam. You'll have her full support.

"Think about it. Your future wife is a Taylor, and your future father-in-law chairs KS Group. Add a few accomplished brother-in-
laws to the mix, and Mr. Javier won't dare touch you. You're good!"
"Are you suggesting that I take advantage of Lyse's influence?" Jasper inquired with a cold edge.
Xavier froze and hurriedly clarified, "No! You'd never take advantage of her, of course!"
Jasper snorted. "Xavier, you'll need to get checked by Dr. Lovelace one day. He's a neurologist."
Xavier put on an apologetic and fearful smile. Admittedly, Jasper's personality had improved ever since he dated Alyssa. In the
past, Jasper would threaten to fire him or tell him off. At least now, Jasper seemed concerned about his mental health, or at least
that was what Xavier believed.
After a moment of silence, Jasper noticed the suffocating feeling in his chest. He thought of all the hardships he endured during
his time at the Beckett Group. Yet, at the end of the day, Javier treated him as disposable.
"Xavier, let's go home." Jasper shut his eyes and took a deep breath. He said lovingly, "Gosh, I missed her so ..."
Alyssa was alone at home. She hummed a tune while placing a hand on her hip and stirring the soup with a ladle.
Rosie had found a friend in the neighborhood lately—a fellow maid. Alyssa granted Rosie time off to spend with her newfound
companion.
As Alyssa was injured on the waist, she suffered from pain, and her left arm was stiff. Still, she was bored out of her mind in bed.
Since Jasper was out all day for work, she wanted to make a hot meal for him.

Recalling her excellent culinary skills, she chuckled at her old self, who sought to win Jasper's heart through delicious meals.
The notion seemed so absurd in retrospect.