Chapter: 360

Jonathan stared at the name, his eyes darkening as a storm of emotions swirled inside him.

Just when he decided to let go, fate brought Bethany back into his life. What could this mean?

“Mr. Bates? Should I look into her activities over the past few years?" Brody asked, treading carefully.

He could no longer understand his boss's intentions and didn't dare to speculate. Bethany was a delicate topic for the CEO.

"No." Jonathan paused for a moment before adding, "Not yet."

He needed time to think clearly about his next steps and what he truly desired.

After ending the call, Jonathan poured himself a glass of red wine and walked to the floor-to-ceiling window in his hotel room.

The small town was peaceful at night, a sharp contrast to the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Jonathan sipped his wine, the tart flavor spreading through his mouth and down his throat, providing a hint of clarity.

The breeze from the window added to his sense of awareness.

Logic told him that since he had chosen to move on, he shouldn't waver so easily. Running into Bethany again was fate testing his resolve.

Yes, that was the best way to see it.

Unable to clear his head inside the stillness of the room, Jonathan put down his wine glass, grabbed a jacket, and left.

Downstairs, the streets were mostly deserted. Other than the tall trees on either side, there was almost no obstruction, and the night breeze blew strongly. He stood on the road in front of the hotel, hoping the wind would offer some clarity.

His coat fluttered in the wind, as if trying to break free.

Suddenly, he heard footsteps approaching, and instinctively turned towards the sound.

It was the little girl with eyes just like Bethany's.

She was dressed in a blue puffy dress, and appeared to be staying at Dreamer Hotel as well.

However, what was she doing out so late by herself?

Jonathan hesitated briefly before approaching her. Crouching down to her level, he asked, “Hey, kid, where are your parents?"

Nola was startled by the sudden attention.

She quickly raised her chubby little hands, signaling Jonathan to be quiet.

"I don't have a daddy. My mommy is too busy working to play with me, so I came out to play by myself. Please don't tell my mommy."

No daddy?