Chapter: 222

Jonathan's lips were tightly pressed together. He remained silent, but the tension in the air dropped sharply.

Bethany had never seen him like this and instinctively stepped back.

Realizing he had intimidated her, Jonathan's expression softened, and his voice was low and hoarse. "I don't agree."

“Mr. Bates, I realize this situation is difficult for you, so I'll take care of it myself. I'm confident I can prove my innocence."

Given Bates Group's decision to terminate her, Bethany knew it would position them against her in any legal disputes. She needed to distance herself from Jonathan first.

“Bethany, please come home with me." Jonathan's tone was gentle and patient, as if he were trying to reassure a runaway wife, markedly different from his earlier sternness.

Standing at Aimee's doorstep, Bethany was aware that she couldn't linger with Jonathan for long. Given his high profile, recognized from numerous business magazine features, it was risky to draw public attention. However, she was reluctant to return with him.

“As for any financial penalties due to our agreement breach, please send me the details. I'll settle any amounts owed without evasion, but today is not the right time for this discussion. Mr. Bates, could you please leave?"

It was likely the first time in Jonathan's life that someone had told him to leave like this.

Yet, as he looked at Bethany, his face showed not anger, but disappointment.

He had hoped that their time together might have fostered some affection in her.

If Bethany hadn't so readily suggested ending their marriage, Jonathan might have believed she had begun to reciprocate his feelings.

"Do you understand where I came from?" he asked.

"What?" Bethany paused, caught off guard by his sudden question.

"The plane from Canbidge just landed, and I came straight here."

Jonathan's slightly wrinkled shirt testified to his claim. "I haven't eaten since noon. Come with me."

Bethany remained silent.

Although she was puzzled by the abrupt change in topic, she recognized the effort Jonathan was making to reach out. Given his previous care and concern, she found it difficult to deny such a simple request.

After a few moments, Bethany nodded. "Okay."

She then got into Jonathan's car. This time, they were alone; Brody was not accompanying them.

The drive was quiet, but as they approached the restaurant, Jonathan's phone, resting on the center console, buzzed with an incoming message.

Bethany's eyes instinctively darted to the screen, catching a glimpse of a message from his father.

"You must marry Maddie! This is not optional. Your mother's condition has worsened again. She was just on the hospital rooftop, and only a nurse's timely intervention prevented a disaster. Are you going to abandon your mother for that woman?"

The message was long, and Bethany hadn't finished reading it before Jonathan reclaimed his phone.