Chapter: 482

“Madeline, we haven't even met Derek's parents. How come you're pregnant already?”

Rhoda felt that Madeline didn't live up to her expectations.

Pregnancy before formal family introductions placed a woman in a less favorable position.

Coen also grasped this concept well. He aimed to exploit Madeline and Derek's marriage for greater benefits from the Carter family.

However, the Carter family now teetered on the brink of bankruptcy.

As per Madeline, if Carter Group's assets couldn't be salvaged, they might need to liquidate the company to settle debts, risking the loss of their home.

“Madeline, you know the Carter family's situation. Are you committed to Derek for the long haul? If you depart from Derek now, you still have the chance to find someone who can provide for you."

Madeline nibbled her lip, contemplating.

She disclosed her pregnancy to her parents, who insisted on her undergoing a thorough examination at Silver Boulder Private Hospital, renowned for its top-tier care and discretion.

Following the diagnosis, Madeline's parents imparted these words of advice.

Madeline hadn't divulged her pregnancy to Derek, grappling with her inner deliberations.

"Tom She found herself at a loss for words, caught in a dilemma.

Rhoda spoke earnestly with a comforting grip on Madeline's hand.

"Consider your sisters. Julie faced no worries while Elena toiled diligently to support her child's education and expenses. The Carter family's circumstances aren't much better than the Powell family's.

Heed your father's counsel. Act swiftly before your pregnancy becomes evident."

Rhoda's thoughts were straightforward: Madeline should seek a wealthy suitor like herself and Julie. Despite their strained relationships, they enjoyed comfortable lives.

Rhoda wished to spare her indulged daughter from hardship.

“I'll ponder it later," Madeline murmured, caressing her belly. “Baby, do you also yearn for a better life for us?"

Susanna stood at a distance, unable to catch their conversation.

Observing the trio wrap up their discussion and prepare to depart, Susanna hurried towards Joanna's ward.

Pushing the door ajar, she was greeted by a crowd within the ward.

Spencer and Kaiden occupied the sofa facing the bed while Duncan sat on a wooden stool beside it, peeling fruit. Bryson occupied the small desk, engrossed in the computer screen.

"Hello."

Upon spotting them, Susanna momentarily tensed, then smoothly extended her greetings.