Chapter: 264

Bethany quickly sat up, trying to clear her head, and returned Brody's call. "Brody, what's up?"

“I was wondering when you'd be back at work," Brody replied.

"I'm sorry, I overslept. If it's urgent next time, feel free to call repeatedly." Bethany apologized quickly.

Brody chuckled. "Mr. Bates told me you were still asleep and asked me not to disturb you. He said you'd get in touch when you woke up."

“He told you that?" Bethany exclaimed.

So Brody knew about their relationship?

"Who else but Mr. Bates would know you were still asleep?" he responded.

Bethany's lips twitched.

Ever perceptive, Brody chuckled. "You don't have to worry about it. Your relationship with Mr. Bates doesn't change the fact that your work skills are invaluable. You wouldn't have a place at Bates Group without exceptional ability. I won't attribute all your efforts to Mr. Bates' favoritism."

"I hadn't even thought of that. I just feel a bit awkward," Bethany admitted, recalling how she had deliberately maintained a professional distance from Jonathan in front of Brody.

"What's there to be awkward about? Honestly, knowing this, I admire you even more," Brody said after a pause. “Despite having such a connection, you were still willing to contribute, work hard on projects, and take tiring business trips. I respect that."

Brody had always thought that the position of being the wife of Bates Group's CEO was a crown so grand that anyone who wore it would never know what it meant to work hard. Yet, here was Bethany, with that connection, speaking respectfully and learning from him diligently like a dedicated apprentice.

"Now that you mention it, I don't even know how to respond.. admitted, feeling a bit embarrassed."

“Then don't worry about responding. Just come to the office. Maddie has resigned and confessed to framing you. Though it'll take time to gather evidence before going public, you can return to work openly, despite the gossip."

Bethany nodded. "I'll return to work right away! I'm not afraid of gossip."

During her school days, she had endured plenty of gossip, ridicule, and belittling while working part-time. She was so used to it that she couldn't care less anymore.

Being able to work again was what mattered most.

“Alright, come find me when you get here," Brody said.

"Thanks, Brody."

After hanging up, Bethany got up to wash and get ready, then took the subway to Bates Group.

Standing at the entrance, she gazed up at the towering building, took a deep breath, and stepped inside.

As Brody had predicted, though no one discussed Bethany openly, their gazes spoke volumes.

There were looks of curiosity, gossip, and even malicious scrutiny.

Bethany quietly noted where these looks were coming from. They were likely staunch supporters of Maddie, and she would need to be cautious of them in the future.