Chapter: 378

"Then I'll take back what I just said! Just forget it. Call me if you need anything. I'll be burning the midnight oil too."

"Okay." Bethany returned her focus to the work at hand.

After closing the chat window, Bethany sighed and instinctively looked out the hospital window.

Her mother, Marie, had spent a significant part of her life in such settings. On nights like this, Marie might have sat watching the patients and doctors moving through the corridors, her mind elsewhere.

Bethany felt a deep sense of regret.

She regretted not following her mother's advice to distance herself from the Bates family sooner, a decision that ultimately led to tragedy.

No matter how kindly Jonathan treated her or how deeply she loved him, it could never justify the loss of her mother's life.

It wasn't worth it.

Bethany yearned for a simpler existence, one where she could balance work with visits to see her mother in the hospital during her free time, dedicating herself to her career when needed.

After losing track of time, she was suddenly jolted back to reality.

Her computer screen displayed several unread messages.

Bethany opened them. They were from Ryan.

It appeared Colt had briefed Ryan about their earlier discussion, covering both professional and personal topics.

“As your leader, I'm ordering you to rest well in the hospital. No working late!"

Ryan had even added an angry emoji to emphasize his point.

Bethany began to reply with details of her conversation with Colt, but before she could finish, another message from Ryan popped up.

"I know you're concerned about the project. The company has engaged the legal department. The investor takes our project very seriously and has decided to send the top lawyer to help us. You can relax and focus on getting better."

The investor was sending a lawyer?

Bethany quickly typed, “Is the lawyer from Bates Group?"

"I'm not exactly sure, but given their commitment, the lawyer will be top-notch. Don't stress about it! And just so you know, your year-end bonus is secure. If the company short-changes you, I'll make up the difference."

For a newcomer to the profession, Ryan's words would have been quite encouraging. He had a knack for making people feel at ease while clearly communicating his points-a skill undoubtedly bolstered by his influential position in the company and his considerable personal wealth, However, what caught Bethany off guard was that despite her clear refusal, Ryan still made an effort to engage with her privately.

“Ryan, I will only accept what I've rightfully earned."

Even if she needed money, she would not take what didn't belong to her.

“Okay, but I really meant to help. I thought it would make you happy,”