?<strong>Chapter 974:</strong>


    Daxton’s tone remained gentle. “Jennie has worked with me for a long time. She’s trustworthy and kind.”


    However, Carrie’s mind wasn’t on the housekeeper. She hesitated, then said, “Daxton, let’s not tell my family about the pregnancy just yet.”


    Daxton considered her request carefully. “I was actually nning to formally visit the Morrison family and then propose to you…”


    Carrie quickly shook her head. “No, that’s not what I meant. I think it’s better if our rtionship unfolds naturally — there’s no need to rush into marriage. My family isn’t too concerned about formalities. It’s just… my health might make carrying the baby to term difficult. I don’t want them to worry unnecessarily. When the pregnancy is more stable, we can tell them.”


    A flicker of disappointment crossed Daxton’s face, so fleeting that Carrie almost missed it. Yet, he quicklyposed himself and nodded. “The doctor said things should be more stable after three months. We can share the news then. I just worry they might feel hurt that you kept it from them.”


    Carrie smiled softly. “Even if they’re upset, they won’t be too harsh with a pregnant woman.”


    As soon as the words left her mouth, Carrie realized how much she had changed sinceing to Isonridge. Slowly, she had started to feel secure, her sense of belonging gradually strengthening.


    After dinner, Jennie arrived. She was in her early fifties—not exactly young, but energetic and lively, radiating a kind of vigor that surpassed that of many younger people.


    Without wasting a moment, Jennie set down her bags and immediately began tidying up, effortlessly taking over the kitchen duties.


    As she worked, she chatted about pregnancy care — what to eat, what to avoid, and the supplements Carrie should consider.


    Jennie’s experience was evident. She shared stories of caring for her daughter-inw through pregnancy and helping her daughter during postpartum recovery.


    While Jennie spoke, Daxton listened intently, asionally pulling out his phone to jot down notes like a diligent student.


    His attentiveness touched Carrie, and for a moment, she felt aforting sense of partnership. At one point, Jennie casually remarked, “If your mother knew she was about to have a grandchild, she’d be over the moon.”


    Jennie had spent most of her time with Daxton’s mother, M, and often heard M talk about wanting him to marry and settle down soon. She wasn’t aware of the specifics of their mother-son rtionship.


    Carrie froze, remembering M Garcia’s icy demeanor. Would M ept a child that wasn’t biologically Daxton’s? Would she make things difficult for her?


    Daxton’s expression immediately cooled. He reached out, taking Carrie’s hand gently yet firmly. “Jennie, please don’t mention this to anyone. We’re not nning to announce the pregnancy yet. Carrie’s health needs to stabilize first.” His voice carried a measured weight.


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