Chapter: 322

Despite the complexity of Bethany carrying Jonathan's child, the thought of her best friend marrying someone else was unbearable.

She would rather see Bethany with her cousin, whom she knew was a good guy.

“I appreciate that you're looking out for me, and I know Jayson has good intentions, but I just can't go through with this," Bethany declared firmly.

"So, are you telling me you won't consider another man in the future? You're still young, and your child deserves a father," Aimee countered, trying another tactic. “Even if not for yourself, think about the baby. You've chosen to keep the baby. Shouldn't you give it a complete family? You of all people know what it's like to grow up without a dad."

Bethany looked down, overcome by emotion.

She knew all too well.

“Let's put this off for now. Maybe I'll marry someone in the future.”

From a young age, she had vowed not to walk the same path as her mother.

She believed that if a man could have captured even a part of Marie's heart, her mother might have been different-more open, less burdened by the past.

Now, facing her own choices, she was determined not to inherit her mother's stubbornness.

"So, Jayson—"

“But I will never choose Jayson."

She knew she couldn't let herself drag a good man into her turmoil.

Jonathan received no response from Bethany.

It was as if their relationship had regressed to old patterns.

In fact, long before they reconnected, Jonathan would find himself checking Bethany's number in the stillness of the night, desperate to communicate something, anything. Yet, words always eluded him.

Now, his messages still remained unanswered.

In the CEO's office of Bates Group, Jonathan frowned, stowed his phone, and walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window.

Knock!

A knock at the door broke his reverie.

"Come in."

The door swung open, revealing Brody.

"Mr. Bates, I've reviewed the details of Bethany's medical exam that day."

Upon hearing Bethany's name, Jonathan quickly turned around and marched over.