Chapter: 169

It concluded shortly after her arrival.

Brody signaled her to join him upstairs.

Bethany rode the elevator to the branch company's meeting room and knocked on the door. Upon entering, her first action was to scan the room for Jonathan.

Fortunately, only Brody was present.

She quickly relayed the entire situation to Brody, whose expression grew increasingly grave.

"You're usually so cautious. How could you let this happen?"

"Maddie requested the drawings from me. She mentioned she was in a rush, so I didn't question it further," Bethany stated.

"You should know that even if Mr. Bates requests something, you're still required to follow the proper procedures." Brody tried to calm himself, but found no relief. After the core technical drawings were leaked, an explanation was owed to Zucron Company. “Moreover, you've never interacted with Maddie. There must be a reason you're suggesting she's setting you up."

Though Brody was inclined to believe Bethany, the public demanded evidence, not just a one-sided statement.

Bethany opened her mouth, yet no words came out.

Could she possibly reveal that Maddie despised her because she was now involved with Jonathan?

“Come on, tell me! Don't keep secrets now. If you want my help, you need to be completely open. Is there any conflict between you and Maddie?"

Bethany hesitated before responding, "I don't know."

Brody's frustration peaked, and he rose angrily from his chair. "Then there's nothing more I can do. You'll see what actions the company decides to take against you."

He shot Bethany a look of disappointment and paused at the door.

"Understand this. If the allegations against you prove true, you will be banned in the industry and even go to jail. Forget any future here!"

Bethany was all too aware of the stakes.

She hung her head, pondering for a moment before raising her eyes to him. “Brody, do you believe Maddie set me up?"

“Belief alone won't cut it!" Brody blurted out. He then raised an eyebrow and suggested, "Why not seek Mr. Bates’ help? Weren't you two classmates?"

"But Maddie is his sweetheart," Bethany countered.

Brody was aware of that complicated detail.

"I'll find a way to recover the messages between Maddie and me."

Bethany bowed slightly to Brody. “And thank you for believing in me."

Though Brody hadn't devised a solution, her gratitude was sincere.