Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

Chapter 432

Martha had always been a woman of means, and it showed in the steely glint of her eyes as she bore down on Brielle with an almost predatory gaze. A scornful chuckle escaped Martha. “Seems like something did happen between you two.”

Brielle felt an icy chill spread through her body. Every word from Martha was a sharp sting to her pride.

“And did you think to use protection? My son is a good kid, but I doubt he thought that far ahead during his first time at the rodeo. But you, Ms. Brielle, ought to know better about these things as a woman. And let’s not forget, Alivia is the one the Dorsey family has embraced. Since you’ve decided to play in Max’s garden, you should be prepared to do it in the shadows. You’re a college–educated woman, Ms. Brielle. I shouldn’t need to teach you such basics. But out of respect for the fact that you were born, if not properly raised, I’m reminding you that the Dorsey family doesn’t allow illegitimate children to tarnish its name. It’s a creed etched in our bones. If you are pregnant, that child won’t see the light of day.”

Martha’s tone was light, yet her words were weighted with a gravity that crashed into Brielle’s ears, causing an almost physical pain. The humiliation from the woman whose approval she desperately sought was unbearable. It was all for the sake of the man she loved.

Martha reached into a drawer and pulled out a strip of pills, her face void of emotion. “Here, Ms. Brielle. Take these.”

Brielle recognized the label instantly; they were birth control pills. She couldn’t take them; if she did, the life growing inside her would be in jeopardy.

Brielle internally cursed herself for not having thought through their actions, which was why she was now at such a disadvantage.

Martha’s expression sharpened. “Or are you saying you’re already pregnant?” Was that why Max had suddenly brought Brielle here, to prepare her for this confrontation?

and I have always been careful.”

so? Then prove it. Swallow

me.”

hoped for Max

die over this disgrace you carry, do you think Max would still stand by you? How far can a relationship built on guilt really go? Of course, this

nothing more than to walk away from Martha and all this madness, but this was Max’s mother. It must have

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Chapter 432

least pretended to have some courtesy. Martha’s eyes bore into Brielle like she was the enemy. It hurt because, until this moment, except for Tiffanie, Brielle had not earned the approval

might even suspect she was pregnant, which could lead to using the Dorsey family’s influence to make the problem “go away.” Even if Max wanted to help Brielle,

life for it?

the pills could harm the

Brielle’s mind flashed back to a college debate where she had firmly believed love should not be

hearts.