Chapter: 239

"You might be, considering the stakes. Your mother survived this time, but what about next time? Think about it." Maddie looked down, her voice tinged with self-mockery. "I don't enjoy demeaning myself like this. I have my pride too. But for Francine's sake, I'm willing to pretend with you. What happens between you and Bethany privately won't concern me. I won't interfere."

Jonathan remained silent, simply extinguishing his cigarette.

He ignored her and headed straight for the ward.

Behind him, Maddie called out, "If you agree, I'll confess that I orchestrated the plot against Bethany and ensure she can continue her career. I'll even apologize publicly."

Jonathan paused momentarily but continued walking without turning back. "You owe her an apology."

"You..." Maddie, caught off guard by his directness, reacted almost hysterically. "You've never trusted me, have you?"

Bethany had no proof!

Most people believed Maddie.

From any perspective, Jonathan should have been on Maddie's side. Yet, why did she lose to Bethany?

That night, Bethany tossed and turned, unable to sleep, and she received no phone call from Jonathan.

Francine likely caused a scene in the hospital.

In fact, Bethany saw nothing wrong with Francine's reaction. She understood that upper-class families often preferred their heirs to marry partners from similar social and economic backgrounds who could also contribute to their professional lives. It had to be acknowledged that Maddie, despite being an illegitimate daughter, excelled beyond Bethany in terms of education, talent, and qualifications.

Moreover, Maddie and her mother had never disclosed to the Bates family that she was an illegitimate daughter.

Finally, Bethany's phone broke the silence of the night.

Jonathan's name flashed on the screen, sending her heart racing with a mix of dread and anticipation.

“Did I wake you up?" Jonathan's voice was hoarse and weary, as if he too had spent a sleepless night.

“No. How is your mother?"

“She's stable now. The doctors say she's out of immediate danger."

"Okay."

A heavy silence fell between them, each lost in their thoughts.

After a long pause, Bethany broke the silence, her voice hesitant.

"Do you need to stay with her at the hospital?"

"No, I've already left the hospital."

"Could you come to pick me up?" Bethany asked. "I... I'm finding it hard to sleep at Aimee's place..."