Chapter: 261

Of course he understood. How could he not?

Brody offered a practiced smile and said, “Yes, and Mr. Bates has specifically asked me to look after Maddie."

Maddie glared at Brody. "You-"

"I won't delay you from retrieving your things. I have other matters to attend to," Brody cut in, ignoring Maddie's glare as he stepped into the elevator.

Maddie's anger boiled over, her hands clenched tightly, and her body trembled involuntarily.

Even Brody dared to mock her now. She would see the day when Jonathan personally invited her back.

Meanwhile, Marie lay comfortably in the ward, listening to a tune.

These were discs Jayson had specially found for her, no longer available on the market.

"Ma'am, shall I give you a leg massage? With the school's workload lately, my shoulders and back have been sore, so I've learned a few massage techniques," Jayson offered.

Marie had called Jayson here, but he didn't mention this to Bethany.

He didn't want her to think too much.

“As a university professor, are you willing to humble yourself and massage my legs?" Marie raised an eyebrow.

"You know, even if I were the university president, I'd still consider it my duty to take care of you. Bethany is busy with work, and I happen to have some free time today," Jayson replied with a smile, beginning to massage her legs.

Surprisingly, his technique was quite good, applying just the right amount of pressure.

Marie smiled, her gaze remaining scrutinizing, though.

“Flattery won't change anything. I can't control my daughter's thoughts."

Jayson smiled helplessly. “You're overthinking it. I see her as a friend, just like Aimee. Nothing more."

“Humph." Marie snorted, as if she could read his mind. "Can a man really be so attentive without any ulterior motives?"

Jayson didn't argue, continuing to smile and massage Marie's legs.

Though Marie remained guarded, her probing and mocking tone softened slightly, signaling her willingness to get along with him.

Bethany called. "Mom, I'll be at the hospital in about half an hour. Is there anything you'd like to eat?"

"No." Marie glanced at Jayson, but he quickly waved his hand.

After hanging up, she raised an eyebrow. "Why didn't you let me tell her you're here? After all you've done, wouldn't you want for her to know?"

"You're really overthinking this. I'm just here to keep you company because Bethany's unavailable. If she found out, she might not like it," Jayson said, narrowing his eyes and smiling. “And if she tells me not to come again, how could I continue to accompany you?"