The CEO's Hidden Love: Midnight Temptations and Deep Desires novel Chapter 988

Everett was drowning in regret, and Jonathan felt the sting of his decisions just as sharply.

If only he had known it would come to this, he would have just focused on elevating Dorothy to a level where she could mingle with the Lopez clan without causing a stir. He should have ousted Heather, the source of all their troubles, before she could turn their lives upside down.

"It's done. I didn't want to talk about it because it's pointless," Everett said, his voice heavy with resignation. "I came here today because, despite everything, she is my mother. She wronged Dorothy, but she never wronged me."

"Everett, we can't let our family fall apart like this! Your mom and I, we only have you. You can't abandon your own parents over Dorothy!"

Lately, Jonathan felt the weight of his years more than ever. Gone were the days of his youth when he made swift, decisive decisions that brooked no opposition.

Seeing his only son drifting away, caught in an irreconcilable conflict, how could he not be afraid?

"It's too late for that now."

Jonathan hurried to add, "It's not too late! I'll accept Dorothy into the family, and I won't force her to drop the lawsuit anymore. Isn't that enough? With your mom in her current state, who knows if she'll even make it through this! As for Quincy and her family, they're easy to handle, not a problem I can't solve for you."

Quincy’s family.

Mere mention of Quincy soured Everett's expression further.

"Just take care of yourself. And stop making my life more complicated."

...

With Everett away, Dorothy took the time to organize some company documents before heading to the children's room to play with Abigail and Langston.

"Nothing. Saw you hadn't replied, didn't want you overthinking," Everett's voice was cool and steady, betraying no emotion.

But Dorothy knew better. Things must be tough on his end. The colder his voice, the more it meant he was struggling to keep calm, to maintain control.

"I’m the one who asked you to go to the hospital. What am I supposed to overthink?" she looked out the window, noting the gathering clouds. "Looks like it might rain tonight. If there's no progress at the hospital, stay there. Don't bother coming back. I'm not scared being alone at Bay Residence. The kids are here too."

"Okay."

"And... you're the one who shouldn't be overthinking. Fulfill your duties as a son. As for me, you've done more than enough. Don't carry any guilt. And don't let me be the reason for any regrets."

Dorothy understood the pain of losing a mother all too well. For Everett, no matter Amanda's faults, she was still his mother. If she were to pass away, it would undoubtedly leave a void in his heart.