Chapter: 212

On the way to the hospital, Jonathan noticed Francine was clenching her fists so tightly that her fingernails dug into her palms, drawing blood. It was a grim sight. He tried to loosen her grip, but Francine's fingers were clenched with all her might. He was careful not to use too much force, worried about injuring her hands further.

This was a manifestation of Francine's depression. She would harm herself in extreme ways, like stabbing herself or banging her head against the wall.

Eventually, they reached the hospital, and Francine was rushed into the emergency room. Jonathan waited outside.

Just then, his phone buzzed.

He looked down to see messages from Bethany.

She rarely initiated contact, yet she chose to message him at such a critical time.

“Are you coming home tonight?"

"Well, I don't mean anything by it. I just wanted to say if you're not coming back, I'll head over to Aimee's."

As Jonathan read the message, his head throbbed with pain.

This was not the scenario he had hoped for. Before he could even introduce Bethany to his mother, Francine had already expressed strong disapproval of her. Now, how was he supposed to explain that they were married?

Jonathan's fingers hesitated for a moment before he typed a response.

"Okay, I'll pick you up tomorrow after I get back."

The doctor emerged from the emergency room. Seeing Jonathan, he wore a concerned expression.

“Mr. Bates, your mother's condition is quite serious. She's fallen into a deep coma, which indicates a loss of will to live, Likely triggered by recent stresses. She has a history of severe depression that we cannot ignore."

"Yes, I understand." Jonathan nodded. “How is my mother now?"

"She's temporarily stable, and we're still monitoring her closely. Once her vital signs remain consistent, we'll move her to a regular ward."

Jonathan felt a slight relief at these words. "Thank you."

"It's my duty." The doctor smiled and started to walk away. Then, pausing, he turned back to add, “Please, try to avoid any further stress for her. Accommodate her needs as much as possible. Remember, her condition remains critical."

Doctors are not miracle workers, and he couldn't guarantee recovery if another incident occurred.

"Understood."

After the doctor departed, Jonathan rubbed his forehead wearily.

Brody had been trying to reach him, Likely with urgent news, but Jonathan hadn't answered.

Given the current family crisis, how could he consider traveling abroad tomorrow?

Finding a quieter spot, Jonathan finally returned Brody's call. Brody seemed to understand the gravity of the situation. “Mr. Bates, about your schedule tomorrow... Has it changed?"