Love on the Fast Track (Derek and Norah)

Chapter 304:

“Kathy, what’s the reason for this meet-up?” Madeline asked as she settled across from Kathy in the booth, genuinely curious about Kathy’s sudden invitation. Considering their last interaction at Carter Manor, where Kathy had not minced words in her criticism, this invitation stirred her curiosity about Kathy’s intentions.

“Madeline, I’m expecting,” Kathy blurted out.

Madeline, sipping her lemonade, was caught off guard and started coughing. Surprised, she stared at Kathy, wondering when Kathy had become so reckless.

Kathy, avoiding Madeline’s probing look, murmured, “It’s been about two weeks.”

Setting her glass down, Madeline dabbed at her lips with a napkin before asking, “And why are you telling me this?” The possibility of Kathy sharing such sensitive information without fear of it reaching the Carter family seemed unlikely. It suggested either an overestimation of trust or perhaps an underestimation of the complexity of their relationship. “Who’s the father? Why come to me instead of him?” Madeline pressed.

“I don’t know who the father is,” Kathy admitted, a statement that left Madeline in disbelief. Kathy’s past had its wild moments, but this was uncharted territory. Kathy had been closely monitored by her family until recently. They had lessened their vigilance, believing she had changed. Then, Kathy found herself pregnant after a night out.

and shifted the family’s focus onto Madeline, seizing the chance to address her own predicament discreetly. Yet, witnessing how Madeline utilized her pregnancy to secure a position within the Carter family had given Kathy pause for thought. A child, regardless of its

out a derisive laugh, her gaze hardening.

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

await on

father? Do you think people won’t question

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

if not desperate, plan. “So, what do

but I’ll need your assistance to

the booth, her skepticism clear as she folded her arms. “Given my lack of sway within any notable family circles, you’re seeking my

them for her own benefit, not for Kathy’s. She was no

of the Carter family, and I gather you’d prefer not to