Chapter: 112

For a moment, Bethany contemplated confessing the truth to her mother.

"Don't call me Mr. Watson Call me Jayson! Just give yourself some time to adjust. It's fine Bethany nodded. “Okay, Jayson."

"Good. Let's set aside your rules for the sake of this act," Jayson advised.

Bethany looked down, suppressing her emotions, and said, “Thank you. And.. I owe you an apology for my mother's behavior."

“Why? It's only natural for her as your mother to be curious about your husband. She's just looking out for you. I get why she's acting this way."

As a teacher, Jayson had encountered many parents over the years and understood the extent they'd go to for their children.

Bethany parted her lips but remained silent.

She found it hard to articulate the complexities of her dysfunctional family life and her mother's overbearing need for control.

When they walked back into the ward, Marie was silent, her arms crossed as if bracing for the arrival of Jayson's parents.

Bethany pulled up a chair for Jayson and then perched herself on the edge of her mother's bed.

She checked her phone and saw that Jonathan had sent her two messages.

"Don't come back to East Shade Bay before ten tonight." That was his first message. It had been sent shortly after she left work.

The second one came just five minutes earlier.

"Who are you with?" it read.

Bethany pondered for a moment before she texted back.

“I'm at the hospital with my mother." She kept her response brief.

Shortly after, she received a reply.

“I'm heading to the hospital now."

Jonathan was on his way to the hospital?

Bethany nearly dropped her phone as she stood up abruptly.

Her sudden movement startled Marie. "What's the matter now?"

"Nothing. It's just my boss needing some documents. I have to step outside to make a call."

Bethany didn't even glance at Jayson as she rushed out the door.

Jonathan must not arrive at the hospital! They had just set up their charade. If Jonathan showed up, their entire story would unravel.