The CEO’s Hidden Love Midnight Temptations and Deep Desires

"Sweetie, I'm not trying to tell you how to live your life. It's your choice, and I'll always support whatever you decide! The only thing I hope is that you don't carry any baggage or hang-ups about marriage. If something's weighing on you, you can always talk to me, okay? Maybe just chatting with your old mom will help you sort things out."

Dorothy had always been this way-never the type to meddle in her kids' decisions. Whether it was Abigail's wedding back in the day, or the divorce later on, Dorothy was always there to listen and offer advice, but the final call was never hers to make.

After all, it's your own life. Only you know what's best, and what hurts.

"Mom, I'm not seeing anyone right now—I mean, a boyfriend or whatever. Honestly, I'm just too busy to even think about it! But don't worry, if someone right comes along, I don't have any emotional scars holding me back."

"That's all I needed to hear!" Dorothy grinned, nudging Everett. "You have no idea -your dad doesn't call you himself but nags me about you every day! Last week he even blamed me for not caring enough!"

Everett hurried to defend himself. "Blame you? I'd never! I was just reminding you, that's all."

as a dad, it always felt awkward to pry into her love life-so he nudged Dorothy to check in for

Don't worry! I'm a grown woman now, and I have my own son to look after. I'm just focusing on my career right now

you can come to me." Everett's voice was serious, all jokes set aside. "Whatever it is, I'll help you figure it out." Aurora glanced at her father and sighed, pulling him aside for a private word. "Dad, be honest with me...

she was holding onto anything, and as his daughter, she understood what

pressed together. "I owe

Dorothy raising two kids on her own. Everett hadn't forgotten for a moment how tough that must've been. No matter what he did he always felt he couldn't make

felt a lack of love from you. I promise!" Aurora squeezed his hand, giving it a playful shake. "Back when

some rich families did,

mom... I'll never stop feeling like I owe her," Everett said

together, was more than Everett had ever dreamed of. Some

and illusion-that marrying Dorothy was something he'd