Chapter: 34

Bethany knew she should remind Jonathan that East Shade Bay was his home, not hers.

But when she opened her mouth, no words came out.

Just this once, she wanted to allow herself a moment of tenderness that should've belonged to another woman.

“Okay, let's go home," she murmured.

Perhaps because he was so exhausted, Jonathan didn't wake up at six o'clock as usual.

When Bethany opened her eyes, to her surprise, he was still sound asleep beside her, one hand resting on her waist as he lay on his side.

Occasionally, the curtains fluttered and sunlight spilled in, enveloping his handsome face in a warm glow. The scene was so beautiful she didn't want to look away.

How nice it would be if she were the woman in his heart...

The thought struck Bethany suddenly, shocking her into stillness. She practically flew out of bed, her heart pounding in her chest.

She didn't understand why she had such an idea. Once people tasted sweetness, they would become greedy-she understood that all too well.

After splashing her face with cold water in the bathroom, Bethany pushed those messy thoughts to the back of her mind.

Wanting to thank Jonathan for saving her yesterday, she went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast for him.

As the porridge came to a boil, Jonathan woke up.

He emerged from the bedroom still in his black silk robe, his sleepy, disheveled hair making him look more approachable than his usual cold, aloof self.

Bethany felt a little more at ease. She offered him a small smile and said, “Food's almost ready. How do you like your eggs?"

"Fried," Jonathan replied without missing a beat. Instead of sitting down to wait, he joined her in the kitchen to help with preparing toast.

Bethany reached out to stir the porridge when its hot steam scalded her.

She hissed involuntarily but quickly stifled it, not wanting to make a bad impression in front of Jonathan, even over such a small detail.

Soon, the porridge was ready. Bethany came out of the kitchen with two bowls, only to find the dining room empty; Jonathan was nowhere to be seen.

“Mr. Bates?"

“Don't you think it's inappropriate to call me that at home?"

Bethany turned and saw Jonathan holding a medical kit.

Stunned, she could only smile awkwardly.

Truth be told, she didn't know what else to call him; "Jonathan" sounded too close.