Chapter: 428

Sharon still found it hard to accept Madeline. "I don't want Derek to marry Madeline. Juliana, you're aware of her past actions!"

Had Derek not recovered from his coma, Sharon would have confronted Madeline upon the latter's return.

In Sharon's book, Madeline left Derek for financial gain, only to return and pester Derek when she found herself short of money. It seemed Madeline viewed Derek as nothing more than a fallback option.

Madeline was, from Sharon's perspective, a manipulative golden digger.

Juliana only saw Norah as a suitable match for Derek. Regardless of the virtues others might possess, none could hold a candle to Norah.

Juliana sighed deeply. "Just let them be. If Madeline is indeed expecting, urge them to get the marriage certificate and hold a wedding as soon as possible, ideally before her pregnancy becomes noticeable."

After all, the reputation of the Carter family in Glophia was at stake.

Kathy's expression turned sinister. "Grandma, mom, how can we be sure that Madeline is expecting my brother's baby? What if Madeline conceived with someone else during one of her escapades? Otherwise, why didn't my brother accompany her to the doctor's visit? This concerns the Carter bloodline. I can't imagine my brother being indifferent to that."

Sharon's expression grew stern. "Kathy has a point. Madeline's history with other men before her return casts doubt on the paternity of the child."

Juliana was torn. This matter touched upon the lineage of the Carter family, and they couldn't afford to take it lightly. “Well. Let's have Derek and Madeline return in two days for a discussion."

Sharon snorted. "For someone Like Madeline, marrying into the Carter family might solely hinge on the baby in her belly."

Kathy's expression grew grim. So, having a child was like holding a bargaining chip? It seemed that no matter the obstacles, one could secure a place in a family through their offspring.

Juliana addressed Kathy, “Kathy, I know you get along well with Madeline. Why don't you talk to her and schedule a time for a meet- up? If she's open to it, she can bring her parents along." It was crucial for both families to meet and clarify matters without delay.

"Alright," Kathy replied.

Within the confines of Derek's villa, Madeline stared blankly at the report in her hands, astonished by the fact that she was truly pregnant.

The time spent with Derek following the Wilson family's banquet had been intimate and passionate. They had been careless, not once considering protection.

The realization of her pregnancy came as a shock.

Madeline caressed her abdomen, pondering whether the timing of the baby's arrival was a blessing or a complication. Her plans, set in motion before the Wilson family's banquet, were now in jeopardy due to this unexpected development.

The sound of the door opening snapped Madeline back to reality.

Hastily, she hid the report in a cabinet, quickly fixed her makeup, and put on a smile.

“Derek, you're home. How was work today?" Madeline greeted Derek as the latter entered, discarding his office bag on the sofa with a look of exhaustion.

Derek, silent, headed straight for the kitchen to grab a glass of water.

“How's the project coming along?" Madeline, clad in a white dress, approached him with a look of concern, gazing up at him tenderly.

Derek took a sip of water, hesitating whether to tell Madeline about the business. Then, he opted to remain silent, keeping his thoughts to himself.