Chapter: 237

Initially, Bethany viewed her relationship with Jonathan as merely transactional, but over time, she realized her feelings were more complex. The mere mention of Jonathan with Maddie soured her mood, a clear sign her feelings had deepened unexpectedly. She hadn't anticipated Jonathan harboring such deep feelings for her; she had assumed theirs was a typical romantic relationship.

Marrying into a wealthy and influential family had never been her aspiration.

“Poor Mr. Bates! He's done so much for you, yet you're unsure of your feelings."

"If I say I like him too, could we really be together? Who will resolve all these complications we're facing?" Bethany said.

“If you're finding it hard, don't you think Mr. Bates is feeling the same?"

Bethany fell silent, struck by the thought.

“But he's never considered giving up."

Even Aimee could see the reality of the situation, perhaps the only one who couldn't was Bethany herself.

"So you're saying I shouldn't have considered divorce?" Bethany asked.

"Exactly! Mr. Bates hasn't brought up divorce. He's still holding on. Why are you giving up?" Aimee placed her hand on Bethany's shoulder reassuringly. “I understand it's difficult for you both, not just because of his mother, but your mother too can be hard to persuade. But since you're together, you should give it your all. Even if it ends in a divorce, you won't have regrets knowing you tried your best."

Bethany pressed her Lips together, her voice hoarse. "But my mother's illness..."

“Bethany, you've been earning and supporting your mother, covering her medical bills since you were young. It's time you started Living for yourself!"

Bethany blinked, falling silent for a long moment.

When Francine awoke again, the doctor wished he could turn his frequent admonition, "Don't make her emotional," into a banner and hang it prominently in her ward.

After issuing another reminder, the doctor exited the room.

Godfrey, holding Francine's hand tightly, exhaled a relieved sigh.

"You're awake at last. You really frightened me!"

Francine opened her eyes slightly, scanning the faces around her bed, and beckoned Maddie closer. “I'm fine. Maddie, I'm sorry to have put you in such a position."

Her words clearly indicated a message to Jonathan, and everyone in the room could sense it.

Maddie, looking uncomfortable, leaned in and whispered, "Jonathan was worried about you too. Please, have a word with him."

"He just wants me gone so nobody can stand in his way."

After Francine said that, the atmosphere in the ward tensed immediately.

Jonathan, understanding his mother's manipulations, hesitated briefly before turning to Leave.

Godfrey halted him with a stern declaration. "If you leave this ward today, consider yourself no longer my son!"