Chapter: 242

Jonathan understood her so well.

He was right. Her instinct was to evade any man who showed signs of affection.

"So I kept it to myself. And honestly, none of what I did seemed monumental enough to mention." He had kept his feelings hidden since their school days and had maintained that secrecy into adulthood.

Bethany observed Jonathan in silence for a long while.

“Being in love with me must be exhausting."

Bethany knew it clearly.

Her disdain for men stemmed from her mother's influence. She even believed she would never fall in love or marry, convinced that no man could accept her.

"No," Jonathan denied.

“You're lying."

“I'm truly not tired."

“But I am. Let's go home."

“Okay," Jonathan said with a smile.

Then they returned to East Shade Bay. Despite Jonathan's lack of sleep, he surprised Bethany with his energy and affection.

And they didn't do it just once.

It seemed he was trying to make up for the time they had lost over the past few days.

Exhausted, Bethany could barely move her arms by the end. Content, Jonathan finally let the moment end.

He then carried Bethany to the bathroom to help her wash up. By the time they returned, she had already drifted off to sleep.

Jonathan kissed her cheek tenderly and tucked her into bed before standing to check his phone, which he had set to silent for the first time to ensure their privacy.

He noted several missed calls from his father and Brody.

Clearly, Godfrey was pressuring Brody about Bethany's employment situation.

Jonathan retrieved the remaining cigarettes from his jacket, stepping out to the balcony to light one up as he returned his father's call.

"I thought you wouldn't talk to me anymore!" Godfrey snapped.

"What's going on?"

“Bethany must be fired. If she's upset, I can offer her a settlement so she won't have to worry about money ever again. Your mother can't stand her, Jonathan.”