Chapter 242: A Dilemma

"Wait, I haven't brushed my teeth!" Maggie attempted to deflect.

Nathael's reminder stirred her once-confused memories, causing her cheeks to flush crimson.

After a long moment, Maggie felt weakened by his kisses, as if she had received more affection in these few days than in her entire life. "Ms. Adam appears to have perpetually questioned my capabilities," Nathael murmured softly, twirling her hair with his fingers, his voice husky. Maggie's throat constricted. Blinking, she gazed at him, her hands clasping his neck as she whispered, "Do you want to—"

Before she could finish, Nathael's phone rang, abruptly interrupting them.

He ended the call, then looked down at Maggie and asked, "What do you want?"

A mischievous glint sparkled in Maggie's captivating eyes. "How about some pan-fried buns?" she suggested playfully. Nathael was speechless.

Just as he was about to reply, his phone rang again. Maggie glanced at the caller ID: 'Mom.' "Perhaps you should answer that," she suggested, nudging him gently.

Nathael rose and went to the floor-to-ceiling window to take the call. "Hello, Mom," he said simply. Maggie went to the bathroom, her movements languid as she prepared to shower.

Hearing the sound of movement, Nathael turned, his brow furrowed with concern.

Maggie blew him a playful kiss, her eyes crinkling at the corners, before disappearing into the bathroom.

Nathael chuckled softly, warmth and affection in his eyes.

Clara's voice, tight with barely controlled anger, cut through the air. "Nathael, do you have a girlfriend? Is she pregnant? Or have you been deceived? You must explain yourself thoroughly!" She massaged her temples, her blood pressure rising.

Chapter 242: A Dilemma

Nathael remained calm. "I'll arrange for her to meet you another time."

He wasn't surprised his mother knew about Maggie, but he had no intention of hiding it.

"Really? Who is she? Send me a picture. Regardless of how fond you are of her, you mustn't impregnate her! I always thought you were responsible in this regard!" Clara's expression softened slightly at the assurance of a meeting. At least it showed sincerity, unlike frivolous playboys who only toyed with emotions.

"You'll understand when you meet her. You'll like her," Nathael said in his deep voice, choosing not to send a picture.

Clara sighed. "You know your grandfather always wanted you to marry into the Brays. I fear this will come up soon, and if he learns of this…" She paused, then continued, "Does this have anything to do with the Camerons' adopted daughter?" Since Nathael had her buy Luster Corporation's jewels last time, she suspected something was amiss.

Nathael had always been reassuring, so after a moment's thought, she decided not to press further.

Little did she know that soon after, Beth would tell her the girl was expecting a child.

Clara gasped, nearly fainting.

Nathael smiled. "Aren't you thrilled about becoming a grandmother?"

"I—" Clara hesitated, then said, "No. This afternoon, she'll come to see me. Or better yet, I'll call your father, book a private room, and you both come over." He looked at Maggie leaning hesitantly against the bathroom door. "It might not be convenient," he murmured.

Clara grew more agitated. "Why isn't it convenient? Is she already showing? So soon?"

Nathael remained silent.

"No, no. We can find somewhere near you. I must see her today," Clara insisted, ending the call before he could respond. She immediately booked a full-body treatment and ordered a plethora of new products. She couldn't be impolite when meeting her daughter-in-law for the first time.

After giving various instructions, she wondered about a gift and called Nathael again.

"Nathael, what does Maggie like? I'm preparing a gift," she asked, feeling inexplicably nervous.

"She likes me," Nathael replied seriously.

Clara was stunned. "Huh!" She abruptly ended the call.

Nathael was speechless.

Maggie emerged from the bathroom and sat on the bed, looking at him. "Are you finished?"

Nathael turned to her, his voice soft. "My parents would like to meet you this afternoon."

Maggie was startled.

"Let's have breakfast first," he suggested, lifting her into his arms and carrying her to the living room.

Distracted by the news, Maggie fell into thought. In her previous life, she might have been anxious but wouldn't have refused. Now, uncertain about her remaining time, how could she commit to meeting his parents?

She sat at the dining table, observing the lavish breakfast.

Nathael said deeply, "How about tomorrow morning, we go to Garnet Street for croissants and egg casserole?"

"Sure."

Maggie ate distractedly, aware of issues she had long avoided but now needed to address. Uncertain if she should stay with him in her condition, she worried about causing him more pain. Yet, she couldn't leave him. She selfishly thought even a few years with him would suffice; even fleeting, they would bring her solace.

In her previous life, she had been suspicious, resentful, and had inflicted pain on him. She hadn't truly enjoyed their time together, nor cherished it. Perhaps these few years were a generous recompense from fate.

But while considering staying with him, she never thought of marrying him, let alone meeting his parents. She assumed he would take time after her death to move on. She knew it would be a difficult journey for him, but she couldn't bear to say goodbye.

Maybe, just maybe, I'll live a little longer? She was consumed by greed, unwilling to let him go yet yearning for his happiness.

"Perhaps we should postpone the meeting? Could you help me decline?"

She barely registered the taste of her food. Looking at Nathael, she felt nervous and uneasy.

He set down his chopsticks, his gaze intense. "You don't want to meet them." It was a statement, not a question.

A lump formed in Maggie's throat. She knew of his ability to see into people's hearts. He was sharp and astute.