Chapter: 187
He had already called ahead to place an order, ensuring their arrival would be seamless. They were promptly escorted to a private room.
Bethany's stomach growled in response to the mouthwatering spread laid out before them, her earlier lack of appetite now forgotten.
Jonathan, ever the gentleman, meticulously rinsed the utensils for her and placed them in front of her.
After a few bites, Bethany suddenly paused, her eyes widening with realization. "You just came back. What about the project in Canbidge?"
The business trip was supposed to last several more days.
Jonathan smiled reassuringly. “Brody will handle it."
"Such a critical project-can it proceed without you?" Bethany frowned, not convinced. She knew Jonathan well enough to understand that if his presence weren't absolutely necessary, he wouldn't have rushed to Canbidge right after returning from Watimere.
Unfazed, Jonathan placed a piece of beef in her bowl. “Once things are settled here, I'll go back."
Bethany paused, her fork hovering in midair. “Don't let my issue delay the project. Go back to Canbidge! I can handle this myself."
Jonathan's expression softened, his eyes filled with unwavering determination. “Bethany, I want to protect you."
His voice was gentle but firm, carrying an undercurrent of resolve that was impossible to ignore. He wanted to shield her from every harm that could possibly come.
Bethany's heart skipped a beat. She immediately looked down, pretending she hadn't heard him, but inside, her thoughts were racing.
What did he mean?
Protect her?
“Eat more. Whatever happens, taking care of your health is important."
Jonathan noticed her discomfort and softened his tone. He didn't expect a response; he knew her too well.
This woman always relied on avoidance as her main strategy, and he didn't want to pressure her into accepting anything too soon.
"Okay." Bethany's voice was barely a whisper, the word hanging in the air like a fragile thread.
Jonathan leaned in, his eyes intense. "Move back to East Shade Bay tonight. I'm worried it's not safe for you at Aimee's place."
Bethany's heart skipped a beat.
So, he returned to East Shade Bay and saw that she had moved out all her belongings.
She swallowed hard, trying to steady herself. "No, I'm not comfortable living there. If you need anything, call me, and I'll come over."
She thought about the strawberries in the fridge and everything Jonathan had done for Maddie there. Just the mere thought of returning to East Shade Bay filled her with a strong aversion.
How could she go back?