?Chapter 262:


    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. ording to Madeline, if the Carter Group’s assets couldn’t be salvaged, they might need to liquidate thepany to settle debts, risking the loss of their home.


    “Madeline, you know the Carter family’s situation. Are youmitted to Derek for the long haul? If you leave him now, you still have the chance to find someone who can provide for you,” Coen suggested.


    Madeline nibbled her lip, contemting. She had 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. After the diagnosis, Madeline’s parents imparted their words of advice. However, Madeline had not yet told Derek about the pregnancy.


    Grappling with her inner deliberations, she found herself at a loss for words, caught in a dilemma. Rhoda spoke earnestly, gently gripping Madeline’s hand. “Consider your sisters. Julie is focused on her career, while Elena works tirelessly to support her child’s education and expenses.”


    The Carter family’s circumstances were much better than the Powell family’s. “Heed your father’s counsel. Act swiftly before your pregnancy bes evident,” Rhoda advised. Her thoughts were straightforward: Madeline should seek a wealthy suitor, like herself. Despite their strained rtionship, Julie and her family enjoyedfortable lives. Rhoda wished to spare her indulged daughter from hardship.


    “I’ll ponder itter,” 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 wrapping up and preparing to depart, Susanna hurried towards Joanna’s ward. Pushing the door ajar, she was greeted by a crowd inside. Spencer and Kaiden upied the sofa facing the bed, while Duncan sat on a wooden stool beside it, peeling fruit. Bryson sat at the small desk, engrossed in theputer screen.


    “Hello,” Susanna greeted, momentarily tensing upon spotting them. She smoothly extended her greetings. “Why is the ward so crowded today?”


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    Joanna subtly gestured towards the two men on the sofa. “I’m not sure where they heard about Norah having a boyfriend, but they came to ask me about it. We were discussing it when you arrived.”


    Bryson expressed helplessness. “He’s incredibly stubborn. He refused to believe us, even when we assured him. He went as far as arguing that the photos were edited.”


    Duncan continued peeling the fruit meticulously, seemingly oblivious to the conversation.


    Standing up, Kaiden voiced his concern. “Bryson, those images appear altered. My only concern is Norah’s reputation, so I’vee to inquire.”


    Unaware of the situation, Kason remained in his sickbed.


    Spencer nodded in agreement, adding, “We’re all looking out for Norah.”


    Amabel had yet to take action. How could Sean and Norah be together? Sean was on a business trip abroad, but why did Norah go there? Spencer was truly vexed. Upon learning the news the previous night, Amabel had cried by his bedside, leaving him unable to sleep soundly.


    In the afternoon, upon hearing that Kaiden wasing to inquire about Norah from Joanna, Spencer decided to join them. They hoped to confirm the validity of the rumors circting in Glopha by consulting Joanna.


    Susanna ced the fruit on the table and remarked, “It must be true. I posted the photos myself. They’re genuine. How did it turn into a mere rumor?”


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