The CEO's Hidden Love: Midnight Temptations and Deep Desires novel Chapter 1407

Dorothy smiled, a genuine warmth flooding her heart. Indeed, she felt fortunate to have crossed paths with Everett. It was as if all the trials and tribulations life had thrown her way were just setting the stage for this monumental payoff.

Everett walked in just in time to catch the tail end of their conversation. Julian, upon noticing him, couldn't hide his sheepish guilt and was about to stammer an explanation when Everett, ever so naturally, took Dorothy's hand in his.

"Did Langston call you over?" Everett inquired, his tone casual yet filled with an underlying assertion.

"How do you always know?" Julian quipped, his competitive nature surfacing at the sight of Everett, unable to resist the urge to challenge him.

Everett, not one to stoop to the level of what he considered childish banter, simply smiled. "Who else would it be? Dorothy?"

Julian scoffed, his attempt to maintain an air of indifference crumbling. "I was going to clarify that Dorothy and I were just chatting, nothing more. But seeing how smug you are, I don't even feel like explaining anymore!"

Everett, with a sly grin, wrapped an arm around Dorothy's shoulder. "No need for explanations. I trust her."

In his heart, Dorothy was his and his alone.

"I'll leave you to it. I should go keep Langston company," Dorothy said, eager to escape their juvenile exchanges.

Julian, attempting to lighten the mood, asked, "So, when's the big day for you two?"

"Soon enough."

"Let me know when. I'd like to be there," Julian said, adding with a mischievous glint, "It's almost like attending the wedding with Dorothy. Just... not as the groom."

Everett finally frowned, giving Julian a stern look.

"Looking for trouble, are we?"

...

When Kevin brought Abigail over, Dorothy felt a mix of gratitude and concern. The hospital was hardly a place for a child, but Abigail had been inconsolable, worried sick about her brother, and Kevin was at his wit's end.

"You've been a huge help," Dorothy thanked Kevin profusely. With Langston's situation taking all her attention, Kevin had been a godsend, stepping in to help despite his own busy schedule.

"It's no trouble at all! What happens to Mr. Lopez affects us all," Kevin said, downplaying his contribution. "I'll leave you to it. Take care of the little one."

Once Kevin had left, Dorothy turned to find Abigail standing there, a picture of vulnerability.

"Mommy... I'm sorry... I'll never try to pet the ponies again..."