Chapter: 229

"Can't you find even half an hour? I want to finalize our divorce,"

Bethany said, her tone unnervingly casual as if the subject were as mundane as the weather.

She seemed unaware of the extent of Jonathan's resolve.

He remained silent, reflecting on the complexities of their relationship.

Winning Bethany's love was proving to be a challenging journey, with marriage being merely the initial step.

Jonathan remained silent.

"Mr. Bates? Jonathan?"

“Your mother is causing you stress, isn't she?" he finally asked, changing the subject.

“No, she's just upset," Bethany answered.

Jonathan massaged his forehead. "Is there a chance I could meet her?"

“What are you planning to do?" Bethany asked, her voice trembling slightly, like that of a wary bird.

To her, Jonathan's high social status formed an intimidating chasm.

Despite her efforts, she felt vulnerable, aware that while she couldn't significantly impact Jonathan, he could easily harm her if he chose.

Facing Maddie's machinations was already overwhelming. The thought of battling Jonathan made her despair.

Her question seemed to sting Jonathan slightly.

"I would never hurt you or your family," he reassured her firmly.

"My mom can't handle emotional stress because of her condition. It's best you don't meet her," Bethany insisted, realizing that allowing Jonathan to meet Marie could only complicate matters further. That could create unnecessary conflict.

“Bethany, could you." Jonathan began but then hesitated.

Bethany waited for a while before prompting him, “Go on."

“Could you not see divorce as the first option whenever we face challenges?"

Jonathan's voice was heavy with a mix of emotions, disappointment, helplessness, a hint of pleading, and reluctance.

“Our marriage is unconventional. An assistant from a subsidiary and the president of Bates Group-it sounds like a joke. You've seen the turmoil it's brought us, disrupting our lives. I think perhaps we should return to normal.”

Return to normal?

Was that even possible for him now?