Tempted Trapped and Too Late to Run

Naomi nudged Ryan gently, breaking the silence. "What on earth are you talking about? After everything Clara's done, how can you trust her with the shares? Aren't you worried some guy will just sweet-talk her away? She's so gullible!"

Ryan wasn't exactly Clara's biggest fan either, since she'd slapped him twice. But when it came to the shares, well, wasn't Clara entitled to a slice of the pie? After all, they were all Bradford kids.

"Mom, Clara..."

Before he could finish, Quinn chimed in. "Mom, Ada, if my sister ties the knot with Nate, it's not just a double whammy of good news, it's a triple! Actually, I've got some big news of my own."

Quinn rested her hand on her belly, her face lighting up with a radiant smile. "I'm pregnant with Simon's baby."noveldrama

Simon, who seemed lost in his own thoughts, was jolted back to reality by this revelation. "Quinn, what did you just say?"

Tears welled up in Quinn's eyes as she wiped them away. "Simon, I just found out a few days ago and I wasn't sure whether to tell you. I was worried you still had feelings for my sister. I could only talk about this once I was sure you were committed to me."

Simon should've been thrilled, but looking at all the smiling faces around him, everything felt surreal.

Ada and Naomi were instantly at Quinn's side, eyes sparkling with excitement.

Quinn grinned, satisfaction plain on her face. "Mom, now that there's a baby on the way, Simon and I can't put off the wedding any longer. Waiting until I start showing would just make us a laughingstock. But since my sister is still single, she should get married first, or those rich ladies will have a field day gossiping."

Naomi made a swift decision. "Ada, let's set Clara and your brother's wedding for the end of the month. Spread the word, and once that's wrapped up, we can plan Quinn's wedding."

Ada beamed, clutching Quinn's hand. "Aww! How could you keep such huge news under wraps?"

Quinn ducked her head, a shy smile playing on her lips. "I just didn't want to stress everyone out with the drama between Simon and me."

"Drama? Simon's always had a thing for you. You two are meant to be! Start getting ready for the wedding," she said, giving Simon a gentle nudge. "And you, stop standing there like a statue! Say something to Quinn! Also, you need to handle the dress and the ring yourself. Make it special-it's your first child, after all."

Simon opened his mouth, yet it felt like his throat was constricted. He'd been so careful every time with Quinn-how was this possible?

He realized what he felt wasn't joy but sheer shock.

Quinn's eyes became even more tearful. "Simon, aren't you happy? If you don't want this baby, I can... you know, not have it."

He quickly wrapped Quinn in a hug, though even he struggled to believe his own words. "Quinn, I'll take care of you and the baby."

Quinn's smile widened, her eyes glinting with triumph. "Good, Simon. Looks like my sister might soon become your aunt-in-law."

Simon's hand froze, his mind spinning with confusion.