Chapter: 162

Bethany's earlier question was her way of explaining why she chose Jayson to accompany her to visit her mother.

However, for Jonathan, it underscored a problem he felt powerless to address.

He couldn't yet introduce Bethany to his parents, much less bring them to the hospital to meet her mother.

But Jayson could.

Jonathan's brow furrowed as he poured himself a glass of red wine and took a few sips. Just then, his mother called.

"I'm in Odonset. Maddie came to pick me up. Don't worry, she's taking great care of me."

He frowned and said, “I'll send my assistant to assist you. Maddie has other responsibilities."

"No need! I don't know your assistant. Why would I want them here?"

Francine's tone was sharp and critical. “I just returned to the country, and you're away on business. I haven't even scolded you for that yet, and now you're trying to pull Maddie into work too. Who's going to keep me company?"

Before Jonathan could say anything, Maddie's calm voice came through the phone.

"Mrs. Bates, I'll stay with you. Tell Jonathan not to worry. My work can wait."

Francine always appreciated Maddie and often complimented her.

"You're so thoughtful! I'm fortunate to have you. Otherwise, I'd be here alone. What use is having a son? You two should have daughters instead of sons!"

As he listened to their exchange, Jonathan felt a headache brewing.

"Mom, Maddie and I-"

"I understand! You need to focus on your job. I'm not complaining."

Francine chuckled. "Go on, then, attend to your work! We'll catch up when you return."

She ended the call before Jonathan could clarify anything.

Seconds later, a text from Maddie popped up. “Don't worry, Jonathan. I'll look after your mom. Focus on your business trip."

With a cold expression, Jonathan typed a reply. "It's not convenient for you to take care of my mother. I will arrange for someone else to take over. Thank you for your dedication."

"You should understand how severe her depression is. I just want her to get better," Maddie insisted.

These words reminded Jonathan of the horrifying scene when his mother had almost died after slitting her wrist in the bathtub, leaving the floor covered in a pool of blood.

And the reason she had done that was because he had refused to get engaged to Maddie.

Francine's condition had worsened over time due to her depression, and with that, her need for control increased. Even small disagreements could trigger extreme reactions from her. Recently, she had taken half a bottle of sleeping pills just because her caregiver expressed a desire to resign.