Chapter 4 Another Partner

"What?" Joelle's thoughts froze, and she instinctively placed her hand on her belly.

Pregnant?

Lately, Joelle had been so preoccupied with Elsie that she lost track of how long it had been since her last menstrual cycle.

Why was she expecting a child just as she resolved to divorce Keaton? It felt like a twist of fate.

"Mr. Gordon isn't aware, is he? What's your plan? Are you going to inform him?" Tony furrowed his brow in concern.

The Gordon family placed significant importance on their bloodline. If Keaton were aware of it, he would not ignore it.

Joelle pondered for a moment before calmly stating, "I ought to inform him. He's the father, and he deserves to know. I'll proceed with the pregnancy if he wishes. If not, I'm open to considering abortion."

"Abortion? Will you seriously consider that?" Tony expressed his surprise.

In his view, Joelle was an extremely gentle and compassionate woman. The idea of harming even an ant was inconceivable for her, let alone her own child!

"What other choice do I have? Since we're headed for a divorce, it's better not to complicate things between us," she said with a bitter smile.

No mother could remain indifferent when faced with the prospect of giving up her child. However, the vast difference in status and power between her and Keaton left her wondering how she could possibly contend with him.

She was indifferent to her own life, but she was determined not to entangle her brother, Cayson Lambert, who was still in university, in the situation.

Tony nodded, commenting, "It's your call. What do you plan to do after the divorce?"

"Currently, I don't have any specific plans. I'll keep working until Cayson completes his university education," Joelle shared, her eyes welling up, though her tone remained composed.

Ending her union with Keaton proved to be a challenging decision, yet upon closer reflection, she felt a sense of reassurance.

Pursuing a career as a doctor offered the promise of a respectable income, notwithstanding the weariness that accompanied it. And she loved her job.

Cayson, her younger brother, currently in his sophomore year, diligently contributed through part-time work during holidays to cover his tuition. Once he completed his education and secured employment, her concerns would dissipate, allowing her the freedom to indulge in pursuits she truly enjoyed.

There was still a future worth anticipating.

"If you face any challenges, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to support you," Tony said as he gazed at Joelle with compassion.

"Thanks, Tony." Joelle sincerely expressed her gratitude.

Tony lifted his head, glancing at the IV bag, and suggested with a smile, "Allow me to remove the needle for you."

Joelle lifted her hand, and Tony gently grasped it, lowering his head.

"What are you doing?"

Before Tony could identify the assailant, Keaton seized his collar and delivered a punch to his face.

"Keaton!" Joelle exclaimed in shock and anger. Ignoring the needle still in her hand, she rose from the bed and forcefully pushed Keaton. "Why would you hit him? We're in a hospital. Cut it out!"

Tony's left cheek displayed a swelling. He winced from pain, his countenance shifting to a furious shade. "Mr. Gordon, please, let's calm down! What prompted you to act like that?"

Keaton shot a cold stare at Joelle. "Joelle, our divorce isn't finalized. Why the rush to seek another partner?"

"Don't accuse me falsely! When have I ever done such a thing?" Joelle retorted, her anger palpable.

"Are you still in denial?" Keaton sneered, pointing accusingly at Tony. "He was quite near you. Were you about to kiss him?"

Joelle laughed, with a hint of anger in her tone. She raised her hand and clarified, "I just completed the IV session, and he was assisting in removing the needle!"

She had just extracted the needle, and the back of her hand bore a small, bleeding wound. Drops of blood descended from her hand to the floor, creating a somewhat unsettling scene.