Chapter: 231

“Is there really no way she could come to accept Bethany?" Jonathan held on to a sliver of hope. He believed that if his mother just got to know Bethany better, she might like her.

Godfrey let out a heavy sigh. “Your mother will only accept Maddie as her daughter-in-law."

"why?"

"Do you recall when your mother was kidnapped? If it hadn't been for Maddie, you would have lost your mom. Do you understand now?"

Jonathan was shocked. He had suspected there was more to his mother's insistence on Maddie, but he had not linked it to the kidnapping incident.

"I don't want to discuss or even think about it anymore. Just understand that. The decision now lies with you. Regardless of what I say, you have your own mind."

After that, Godfrey left to speak with his wife's doctor, leaving Jonathan rooted to the spot, deep in thought.

Meanwhile, Bethany had just managed to soothe her mother, but her own mind was full of emotions.

It wasn't just Maddie's scheming; other complexities were at play.

After Marie had fallen asleep, Bethany stepped out into the garden to clear her head. Her phone rang as she walked.

It was Brody on the line.

“Bethany, Mr. Bates has withdrawn the announcement. You can return to work, and your name is included in the Canbidge project!"

Brody's voice was cheerful. Bethany knew he thought she would be thrilled too.

She paused for a moment. "Until everything is resolved, I don't think my name should be on the list."

This time, Brody didn't respond immediately. There was a long silence before he spoke again.

“Do you realize the extent of the pressure Mr. Bates has been under for this?" he asked.

"Honestly, I've worked with Mr. Bates for years, and I've never seen him go out of his way like this for anyone. He's a businessman, usually focused purely on profit. But this time, he took a huge risk by including your name. How can you dismiss his efforts so casually?"

"He made that decision without consulting me. If he had, I would have advised against it," Bethany countered.

"Are you only thinking of yourself?" Brody's voice was tinged with disappointment. “Bethany, I didn't expect this from you."

Bethany remained silent.

"Yes, Mr. Bates acted independently, without your consent. Perhaps you think I'm trying to make you feel guilty about accepting his help. But consider this-since the problem with Maddie began, Mr. Bates has been doing everything he can to support you. He could have overlooked your troubles and the unfairness you faced. He could have easily claimed he was too busy with a business trip or swamped with other work!"

Bethany lingered by the garden bench, opening her mouth to speak several times but ultimately remaining silent.

"Do you really think you can prove Maddie framed you with the resources you have?" Brody asked.

“I believe in justice," Bethany responded.