Begging for a Second Chance (Sienna Sloan and Jarred Sterling) novel Chapter 175

Sienna's immediate, visceral reaction was to blurt out the truth—that she would never have Jarred's child, and that a divorce was the only future she wanted.

But as she looked at the lingering fragility in Grandpa's pale face, the words died on her tongue.

He had just survived a major health crisis, and his heart was still weak. The doctors had strictly warned against any extreme emotional spikes. She couldn't drop a bomb like that on him now.

Sienna pressed her lips together. "Actually, Grandpa, I was in a bit of an accident recently, and I..."

The words 'can't have children' were right on the edge of her lips when the heavy bedroom door was suddenly pushed open.

A draft of chilly night air swept into the room as Jarred strode in.

Dressed in an immaculately tailored suit that highlighted his tall, broad-shouldered frame, his strikingly handsome face wore its usual mask of casual arrogance.

But his dark, predatory gaze immediately locked onto Sienna, holding a sharp, calculating intensity.

It was obvious he had been standing outside the door, listening to every word.

Before Sienna could correct herself, Jarred stepped right up to the bed, effortlessly hijacking the conversation with a warm, reassuring smile directed at his grandfather.

"Grandpa, we're actually already planning for it. It's just that Sienna had a minor accident recently, and she's still recovering. We've been focusing on her health.

Once she's fully healed, we're definitely going to try."

The older man's face instantly lit up with absolute joy. "Good, good. That's wonderful news. I'll be waiting to hold my great-grandchild."

Jarred turned to Sienna, seamlessly slipping his hand into hers.

His palm was broad and radiating heat, the familiar, rough calluses brushing against her skin. The sheer warmth of his touch sent a rigid jolt through her spine.

He looked down at her, his eyes swimming in a manufactured pool of profound devotion. A tender, indulgent smile touched his lips as he spoke with absolute certainty. "I'll make sure you get your wish by the end of the year, Grandpa."

Grandpa let out a booming laugh, nodding enthusiastically.

His dark eyes clouded over for a fraction of a second, the temperature radiating from him dropping noticeably.

But he kept his expression perfectly composed, offering no further comment.

Sienna looked away, refusing to meet his eyes or speak another word.

She understood his game. Grandpa was unwell, and she was willing to play along to protect the old man's heart, sparing him the devastating reality of her infertility.

But if Jarred expected her to play the doting, affectionate wife, he was sorely mistaken. She couldn't stomach the act, nor would she cater to his ego.

By the time they finished keeping Grandpa company, it was nearing ten at night.

Sienna bid him goodnight and stood up to head back to her room.

Jarred moved to follow her, but Grandpa's voice stopped him. "Jarred, stay here. I need a word with you."