Ethan gripped Jenna's hand tightly, his brow furrowed. "Your uncle's family is trouble. Guard dogs won't cut it. I'll hire professional bodyguards—ex-military. They could handle Victor Roland's goons or even a whole gang without breaking a sweat."

Jenna fell silent.

Dogs could deter thieves, but if the Rolands came armed, a few canines would be useless.

Sometimes, the only language people like Victor understood was brute force.

"How much would bodyguards cost per month?"

"Friendship discount—two grand each."

"That cheap?" Jenna's eyes widened in disbelief.

Even food delivery drivers earned more than that, let alone skilled security personnel.

"They're not in it for the money. Just want something to do."

"But that's ridiculously low!"

"Leave it to me." Ethan pinched her cheek. "I'll cover their salaries."

"No!" She swatted his hand away. "I can't let you pay my employees!"

"I'm your husband."

"Still no!"

She refused to take advantage of him, especially when it involved multiple salaries.

"My monthly salary is fifty grand. This is nothing." He lowered his voice. "Keep arguing, and you won't sleep tonight."

"..."

Jenna's ears burned. "Are you threatening me?"

Ethan leaned in, his breath hot against her neck. "What do you think?"

She pushed him away in a fluster. "Milo and Ryan are right here!"

"So? Yes or no?"

Always cornered by him, Jenna stomped her foot. "Fine! Have it your way!"

Why was he so eager to throw money around?

Still, she tucked this gesture of care deep into her heart.

......

At dawn the next day, Jenna took Milo and Ryan to set up their street stall.

After settling them in, she drove alone to the orchard.

At the foot of the hill, she found the iron gate secured with a new lock.

Without a key, she simply picked up a rock and smashed it open.

Inside, the orchard sprawled before her—rows upon rows of fruit trees.

Apples, oranges, and pomegranates weighed down the branches, their bounty bending the limbs low.