The CEO's Hidden Love: Midnight Temptations and Deep Desires novel Chapter 679

"Mom, don't build up his ego at the expense of our own pride."

"What do you mean 'his'? Jeffrey's practically family now, with the engagement around the corner."

Karen chuckled so hard she had to lean back to catch her breath, musing to herself that Jeffrey really had a way with people. He'd managed to turn his image around in such a short time; the guy was seriously committed.

She shouldn't have doubted his intentions.

At that moment, Karen felt an unexpected flutter of pre-wedding bashfulness, the kind that sneaks up on you without any clear reason.

...

In the car, Jeffrey's lips were pressed into a tight line, his silence deafening.

Paige, sensing the mood, didn't dare make a sound. She sat shrunken in the back seat, stealing glances at Jeffrey's profile.

After driving for miles, far from the city center, Paige finally mustered the courage to speak up.

"Do you want to see the baby? It's a girl."

"What the hell are you thinking!" Jeffrey's temper flared, his patience finally snapping. He slammed on the brakes and pulled over to the roadside.

This remote area was naturally quiet, with few people around, especially in the dark of night.

"Get out," he said, his tone far from friendly.

Paige didn't hesitate, quickly opening the door and stepping out.

Jeffrey lit a cigarette, his profile illuminated by the flicker of his lighter, his jawline sharp and striking in the dim light.

That was part of the reason Paige couldn't let go.

But a child already born? What was he supposed to do, wish her dead?

"I don't want to hear it. Just tell me what you want to do." His mind was racing towards a standstill.

"I want you to marry me. I want us to be a family," Paige stated her terms outright.

"That's impossible!" Jeffrey raised his voice, glaring at her. "I'm getting engaged. What you're asking for is out of the question."

Paige looked at him, dumbfounded. "So you're planning to keep our child a secret from your fiancée?"

"That's my business. It has nothing to do with you."

"Jeffrey, you're such a jerk. If she finds out—"

Suddenly, Jeffrey turned and strode toward her, his hand shooting out to clutch her throat. He snarled menacingly, "If you let her find out, I'll make sure your family can't show their face in Eldorria City ever again."