Chapter 1018

Outside the door, Jonah’s lips lifted into a smile. He had always known that Hailey loved him.
Lester, however, was stunned. He had planned to confess his feelings tonight, certain that a union between their families would be ideal.
But now, it was clear as day that Hailey’s heart belonged to someone else.
While resting her hand on her lower abdomen, her delicate features shone with a maternal glow as she said, “Lester, I’m pregnant. Jonah and I are expecting a baby. I’m already more than five months along.”
Lester’s surprise deepened. Hailey’s slender limbs and flowing dress had perfectly concealed her pregnancy.
Though it was painful, Lester accepted the truth with composure. He managed a faint smile and said, “Congratulations, Hailey.”
Hailey’s lips curved into a smile. “Thank you, Lester. Having a friend like you means the world to me.”
She managed the situation with impeccable tact. By speaking up first, she saved Lester from the awkwardness of confessing his feelings.
This way, they could move forward as friends.
Lester understood exactly what she was saying, and all he could do was return her smile.
At that moment, Jonah raised his hand and knocked on the door.
“Lester, Jonah’s here,” Hailey called out.
As she finished speaking, the door swung open.
Jonah stepped inside and turned to Lester. “Hello, Prof. Larden.”
Lester quickly stood up. “It’s nice to see you again, Mr. Pilsner. I’ve heard a great deal about you.”
As he extended his hand, Jonah clasped it firmly.
“I’ve heard a lot about you as well, Prof. Larden,” Jonah replied. “Since you’ve helped Hailey so much, I wanted to come personally to thank you tonight.”
Lester smiled faintly. “You’re too kind, Mr. Pilsner.”
As their hands parted, Jonah took his seat beside Hailey.
“Go ahead and place your order, Lester,” Hailey suggested. “Let’s chat over dinner.”
Jonah took Hailey’s hand, their fingers locking together. As their gazes met, a smile spread across their faces.
At that moment, Lester realized that he and Hailey would never be anything more than friends.
The dinner went smoothly, marked by courteous conversation. As the evening came to a close, the three of them stepped outside.
Lester offered a warm smile. “I appreciate the hospitality you’ve both shown me tonight.”
“You’re welcome, Prof. Larden.”
“Well, I’ll be on my way then. Goodbye.”
“Goodbye, Lester.”
With that, Lester got into his luxury car and drove away.
Jonah lingered beside Hailey, his fingers wrapped firmly around hers.
“Come on, let’s head home.”
Hailey’s eyes sparkled as she glanced at him. “Mr. Pilsner, did you already know that Lester had a crush on me?”
Jonah raised an eyebrow. “Prof. Larden’s feelings were written all over his face. You just didn’t see it.”
“I honestly had no clue. Now I see why you suddenly gave that lecture at Aspenfield University and insisted
op corning to dinner with me, Were
you’ spying on Lester and me?
As he held her close, Jonah murmured, “Lester’s a formidable rival can’t take any chances. What if he tries to steal you from me?” ‘s
Hailey wrapped her arms around
bet
him. “That’s never going to happen
Dont be billions of men out
there, but only have eyes for you