Chapter: 250

"If this is about Maddie, I have nothing more to discuss. She chose to leave," Jonathan replied coolly.

"You know precisely why she resigned!" Godfrey said.

Since returning home, Godfrey had noticed a stark transformation in his son. Jonathan's focus had shifted from his professional duties to Bethany.

Godfrey was incredulous that his son failed to see the broader implications of Maddie's exit from Bates Group.

"I didn't coerce her," Jonathan reiterated.

"But you marginalized her professionally because of Bethany, effectively forcing her out!" Godfrey massaged his temples, exhausted, not just from his own declining health but also from worry over his wife. “Jonathan, I've already said this. I'm not asking you to sever ties with Bethany entirely, but you need to weigh your priorities. It's reckless to let a relationship jeopardize your career."

Jonathan recognized Maddie's strategy of withdrawing as a means to position Bethany as a scapegoat for his family's animosity.

Sadly, his parents were easily misled.

"You say that because you're not familiar with Bethany's capabilities. She has significant potential in the investment field," Jonathan argued.

"That's only because you back her. Without your support, she wouldn't meet the qualifications to even be at Bates Group," Godfrey countered, waving dismissively. "You can't accept Maddie's resignation. If your mother hears of it, she'll only become more distressed. Jonathan, I don't want to bypass you and approach Bethany. Do you understand?"

The underlying threat in Godfrey's tone was unmistakable.

Jonathan recognized that his father was serious. If Godfrey stepped in personally, it would only complicate matters further.

"I'll manage the situation," he promised.

"It better be that way! And you must also assure me that Bethany will never play a role in the core operations of Bates Group. You can provide for her financially in other ways, but you can't let our family business be jeopardized by this affair," Godfrey stipulated firmly.

Jonathan's face tightened with displeasure, reflecting his distaste for his father's rash decision regarding Bethany's future.

"I can assure you that if Bethany ever joins the core team at Bates Group, it will be solely on her merits," Jonathan said firmly.

“If you trust so much in Bethany's talents, why do you overlook Maddie's contributions to our company? Since your mother wants Maddie to be her daughter-in-law, Maddie must excel in all aspects," Godfrey argued.

“Whatever Maddie has contributed, we have adequately compensated her."

Jonathan felt no debt towards Maddie. Indeed, she had made significant impacts at Bates Group but consistently received the top bonuses in the legal department each year.

"I've stepped aside, not out of fear of you, but out of fear that your mother, my wife, may commit suicide!" Godfrey exhaled sharply.

"Consider the implications yourself."

With those words, he rose and exited the office.

Jonathan returned to his desk and checked his phone. A message from Bethany awaited him.

"It's complicated. Let's wait until my mom is better and out of the hospital. What about you?"