Chapter: 220

He checked it quickly, but it wasn't the call he was hoping for.

Although Jonathan didn't expect a call from Bethany, realizing it wasn't her still stung with disappointment.

He answered the phone, his voice low. "Father."

“Why are you rushing back to Odonset when there are unresolved issues in Canbidge?" Godfrey Bates’ tone was sharp, his question rhetorical, both understanding the true reason.

"I won't fire Bethany."

“Have you lost your senses? Are you putting this woman above your own mother?" Godfrey's voice rose, his frustration evident. It was rare for him to reprimand his son, who had always been a source of pride.

“She has been falsely accused. Bates Group will not mistreat any of its employees. I intend to clear this up properly."

"There's nothing left to clear up. I've already made a decision on your behalf. Since you're heading back to Odonset, you should visit the hospital, apologize to your mother, and agree to marry Maddie."

Jonathan's expression hardened. "I'm not going to marry her."

"Do you want to be responsible for your mother's death? She's already in the hospital. Do you need to see her in a coffin to take this seriously?" Godfrey paused, then his tone softened slightly.

"Jonathan, as a man, I understand having a youthful infatuation. But you must prioritize your duties."

“Is marrying Maddie supposed to be my duty?"

“Yes! If you really love Bethany so much, continue seeing her in private. I can overlook that."

In Godfrey's perspective, he had already made the largest concession possible.

He never thought his son could be so rebellious. Throughout his teenage years, Jonathan had never caused him any trouble. Now, for Bethany's sake, he was astonishing the entire Bates family.

Jonathan did not reply to his father. He simply mentioned he needed to board the plane and then ended the call.

Throughout the return flight, Jonathan was silent, his gaze fixed on the airplane window, a palpable tension surrounding him. His thoughts remained unreadable.

As soon as the company's announcement was made public, the HR department reached out to Bethany.

"Ms. Holt, please come to the office within three days to finalize your resignation procedures."

"Is your reason for terminating my employment that I supposedly betrayed the company?" Bethany asked, her tone firm and unyielding, not typical of someone dismissed for misconduct. Her direct question seemed to unsettle the HR representative.

"This decision came from the chairman."

She laughed coldly. "Even if it's from the chairman, there needs to be a legitimate reason to fire someone. I have a labor contract with the company. You can't just dismiss me without cause."

“Ms. Holt, haven't you seen the announcement on the official website?" the HR staff inquired.

"I have."