CHAPTER NINE – THE MARRIAGE DEAL

Laughter bubbled out of Madison. "Marry you?" she exclaimed, disbelief laced with a nervous giggle. "Ethan, are you serious?" A flicker of a smile played on Ethan's lips for a brief moment, but it vanished quickly. His expression turned earnest, his gaze holding hers. "Completely. I know it sounds crazy, Madison, but please, hear me out." The playful smile vanished from Madison's face, replaced by a frown. "What does getting married solve, exactly?" she asked, her voice tinged with confusion. "Think about it," Ethan urged, his voice low and persuasive. "Imagine the headlines – 'CEO fathered child out of wedlock.' The press would have a field day, and it wouldn't reflect well on you, either." A cold dread settled in her stomach. She hadn't considered the media storm that could ensue. The consequences had been clouded by the shock of the doctor's announcement and the whirlwind of emotions since. Now, Ethan's words hit her like a bucket of ice water. "But… marriage?” she questioned.