The CEO's Hidden Love: Midnight Temptations and Deep Desires novel Chapter 1289

Back in the day, with Everett's mom gone, Dorothy wasn't keen on holding grudges anymore. Life's too short to be stuck in the past, torturing herself over things that can't be changed.

After what could only be described as a half-satisfying tumble between the sheets - at least for Everett, Dorothy was utterly spent.

"We've got three more hours before we land. Get some sleep; I'll wake you up when it's time," Everett whispered, gently stroking her hair, his gaze lingering on her face, reluctant to look away.

"Mhm," she murmured, already on the brink of sleep from exhaustion. No sooner had she spoken than she drifted off, using Everett's arm as a pillow.

Everett, with one hand free, grabbed his phone and shot a message to Kevin.

"Pick up Dorothy from the airport later. Keep an eye on my dad; if he goes off the rails, step in."

He knew his father would likely unleash his fury on Dorothy once he "learned" of his only son's "death." But this charade was necessary, to convince Lane beyond doubt that no one was left to vie for Dorothy's affection.

Soon enough, Kevin replied, "Understood, Mr. Lopez."

Despite all the precautions, Everett couldn't shake off the worry. He couldn't bear the thought of Dorothy facing any hardship.

...

Ever since Karen received that call from Kenneth, there had been radio silence. Initially, she naively thought Kenneth had another way to secure the antidote for Dorothy. But she hadn't expected Kenneth to have sided with Lane, the very man who had mercilessly killed Quincy!

How could Karen not worry?

"Jeffrey, you don't understand Kenneth's feelings for Dorothy," Karen sighed. "Everett loves her dearly, but Kenneth's affection is just as deep. Knowing the poison could be fatal, Kenneth would gladly trade his life for hers."

"So, what do we do now? Should I contact Everett, see if he can think of a way to rescue Kenneth first?"

Karen pondered for a moment before shaking her head. "Kenneth's already by Lane's side. If he suddenly leaves or gets rescued by our people, it'll only alarm Lane. Plus... I'm not sure if Kenneth has another plan in mind by being there."

All he had said was that he'd secure the antidote, no matter what.

Jeffrey frowned, not fully processing the situation, and blurted out, "Kenneth isn't planning to use the antidote to coerce Dorothy into being with him, is he?"

Karen's gaze turned sharp as she glared at him. "If Kenneth were that kind of person, he's had countless opportunities to pressure Dorothy."