The CEO's Hidden Love: Midnight Temptations and Deep Desires novel Chapter 723

"There's really nothing tough to choose," Dorothy mused aloud, her voice steady even as the weight of the world seemed to press upon her shoulders. "If I waver now, my mother's death will truly be forgotten."

Hesitation was a luxury she couldn't afford.

"You have my number," Quincy offered, genuine concern in her voice. "If you need help with anything, just give me a call."

She could feel Quincy's kindness wrapping around her like a warm blanket.

"Thanks, I appreciate it," Dorothy replied with a nod before turning to leave.

But then she stopped and called out, "Dr. Quincy!"

"Yeah?"

"If the Lopez family insists on having you as part of their clan..."

"Do you want me to refuse them?"

Dorothy shook her head. "I want you to accept, and then give Everett a chance to earn your trust."

What she couldn't provide, she hoped someone else might.

Quincy chuckled and waved her off. "I'm still rooting for you two to patch things up until your mother's name is cleared, and you let go of your bitterness."

...

The day Dorothy returned to Eldorria City, the skies opened up and wept with her.

No welcoming party awaited her, just Karen.

"Dorothy!"

Upon spotting her, Karen dashed through the rain, enveloping Dorothy in a tight embrace.

At the airport, where most reunions were marked by smiles, there stood Karen, her sobs cutting through the air, drawing curious glances from passersby.

"Seeing me gets you this worked up?"

Karen nodded vigorously, her eyes brimming with tears.

With a sigh, Dorothy took her hand and they made their way out. "Or is it that you've got some pent-up grievances and needed a good cry?"

"Right? Shocking, isn't it? How can I stay with Jeffrey now? Marry him and become a stepmom? I'm not that open."

Dorothy was stunned, her mind racing to catch up with the sudden turn of events.

"Did he tell you himself? Because he never mentioned it when he was courting you! Even Everett didn't spill the beans about Jeffrey having a kid!"

"It's also news to Jeffrey. His ex kept it a secret from him."

As Karen spoke, it seemed as if she was recounting someone else's story, not her own.

She had cried enough; any more and it would just seem like she couldn't move on.

"So that's what happened. I was wondering you two were talking about getting engaged, and then suddenly you split."

"It's not just that." Karen seized the moment at a red light to turn to Dorothy, taking her hand firmly. "Dorothy, I have something important to do. Will you be there for me? And don't tell a soul!"

Looking into her eyes, an idea dawned on Dorothy.

"You're... pregnant, aren't you?"