Chapter: 195

The word "wife" seemed to stick in her throat, her reluctance to acknowledge that Jonathan and Bethany were legally married.

"But..." Nikolas began, only to be silenced by Maddie's warning glance.

A cloud of impatience darkened Jonathan's handsome features.

“Jonathan, I'm sure you have pressing matters at the company. You should go back. Nikolas will stay with me."

Though she didn't want Jonathan to leave, Maddie needed to keep up her considerate image, a mask she wore well.

“Alright", Jonathan replied curtly, nodding before departing.

Watching him go, Nikolas‘ lips curled in disapproval. “Why put on this selfless act? I finally managed to keep him here, and you send him away!"

"And what good would it do if he stayed? His mind's solely on Bethany," Maddie responded, a bitter smile playing on her lips. "See? Even with me hospitalized because of Bethany's actions, Jonathan won't criticize her. As for the truth behind the Zucron Company project-does it even matter anymore? Jonathan's faith in her is unshakeable. I might end up taking the fall for Bethany in the end."

“No way!" Nikolas exclaimed, his voice rising in disbelief. “Who would believe that you framed Bethany? The notion is utterly absurd!"

Maddie sighed. What was the point of others believing her if Jonathan did not?

“Sometimes I admire Bethany. She has Jonathan completely enamored, while all I can do is support him professionally."

“Don't worry, he'll recognize your value soon enough. Plus, his mother supports you. Just be patient. Bethany will never truly fit into the Bates family!"

Maddie remained silent, but she understood more clearly than Nikolas that securing the support of Jonathan's mother was crucial to winning him over.

After all, Jonathan wouldn't stick with Bethany if his mother disapproved.

After leaving Maddie's office, Bethany took the sample she had obtained to the testing center Aimee had recommended.

What she did broke the rules and wasn't allowed, but luckily, Aimee vouched for her.

Once everything was settled, Bethany headed back to the office. On her way, she received a call from Jonathan.

She had assumed Jonathan would be at the hospital with Maddie the whole time.

“Where are you?" he asked.

"I'm in my office."

"Bethany, I'm in your office."

Bethany coughed awkwardly. "Well, I was just hungry and stepped out to grab food. I'll be back shortly."

Jonathan hung up the phone, seemingly displeased.

That was understandable.