The CEO's Hidden Love: Midnight Temptations and Deep Desires novel Chapter 1302

Dorothy wasn't about to butt heads with Lane now; she had said her piece, and anything more would just be beating a dead horse.

"Lane, you've been straight with me, so let me be clear with you. I'm sticking with you for the antidote because I want to live, for my two kids! But if you think you can use that antidote to blackmail me or force me into doing something, I'd rather join Everett in the beyond!"

Though she had to play along unwillingly, setting ground rules with Lane felt more true to her nature.

If she agreed too readily, Lane might suspect a trap.

"So, how long will it take for you to forget Everett and willingly be with me?" Lane asked, visibly uncomfortable at even mentioning Everett's name, but aware of the place he held in Dorothy's heart.

"I don't know."

"..."

"If that bothers you, then forget it." Dorothy adopted a take-it-or-leave-it approach, her gaze dropping, her demeanor calm. "I've said what I needed to. You think holding the antidote over me gives you control. And yes, I'm under your thumb to a point, but... I have my principles, and I'd rather die than break them!"

Lane squinted at her, "What principles?"

"That you can't force me into anything until I genuinely fall for you and willingly give myself to you."

"And if you never do? I'm supposed to wait forever?!" Lane's question was tinged with frustration.

Dorothy simply stood to leave.

Seeing this, Lane quickly stood and grabbed her arm, "Where do you think you're going? We're still talking!"