Chapter: 536

A child, regardless of its gender, represented a legacy, a powerful bargaining chip.

Madeline couldn't help but let out a derisive laugh, her gaze hardening. "It seems you're not as well-behaved as you pretend to be."

Kathy's rebellion had escalated to a secret pregnancy, a fact she couldn't hide from Madeline's piercing observation.

Despite the sting of Madeline's words, Kathy had come prepared, willing to face whatever backlash awaited her. "I'm looking to find a father for this child," she stated, a declaration that left Madeline momentarily speechless.

"How do you plan on ‘finding’ a father? Do you think people won't question the child's paternity?" Madeline challenged, skepticism painting her tone.

Kathy met Madeline's gaze with resolve. "How many really opt for a paternity test once the child is born? Aristocratic circles are rife with tales of children being swapped. My situation won't stand out."

Madeline processed this, piecing together Kathy's bold, if not desperate, plan. "So, what do you need from me?" she asked, curiosity piqued.

"I've got someone in mind, but I'll need your assistance to make it happen."

Madeline settled deeper into the booth, her skepticism clear as she folded her arms. "Given my lack of sway within any notable family circles, you're seeking my aid? Amusing.”

If Madeline possessed the necessary influence or connections, she'd have utilized them for her own benefit, not for Kathy's. She was no one's pawn.

Kathy adopted a more subdued tone, pressing her case. “I need your support in this. You're on the verge of becoming a part of the Carter family, and I gather you'd prefer not to deal with my antics regularly, correct? If I were to marry and move away, I assure you, I'd cease to be a thorn in your side, even offering financial compensation each month."

Madeline took a moment to weigh Kathy's words. Indeed, the thought of Kathy leveraging her familial ties to stir trouble within the Carter household was unappealing. Kathy's departure could indeed make Madeline's life more serene.

After a brief period of consideration, Madeline relented. "Very well.

Who's caught your eye, and what part must I play in your scheme?"

"Bryson Andrews," Kathy revealed, laying her plan bare.

Norah dragged herself back to the hotel, utterly drained. The day had stretched on endlessly, and with no time for dinner, her stomach rumbled with hunger.

As she pushed open the door, spotting the man seated on the sofa, a wave of warmth washed over her. It was a feeling she had grown to cherish. Coming home to someone waiting for her.

At that moment, Norah realized the significance of having someone eagerly anticipate her return, and it filled her with an unexpected sense of contentment.

Waiting was a notion often taken for granted by people, and it now held newfound meaning for Norah.

“Darling, I'm home!" Norah exclaimed, unable to contain her joy as she rushed into Sean's arms, finding solace in his embrace. The security he provided enveloped her like a warm blanket, prompting a blissful smile to grace her Lips.

"WiLL you always be here for me?" she murmured, her hands clutching tightly to his back as if to soak every inch of him in.

Sean gently patted her back, his voice soothing. "The dinner has been reheated a few times. Go and eat first."

Norah had informed Sean of her delayed return, urging him to eat without her.

As Norah suspected, Sean had already finished his meal and patiently awaited her arrival. Though waiting was seldom pleasant, the sight of Norah's arrival erased any lingering discomfort, leaving only warmth and affection in its wake.