Chapter: 397

“We weren't responsible for her mother's death. She passed away due to illness aggravated by her emotional instability!" Maddie protested.

"Both of us are aware of the truth. We've been friends for years. I've kept this from Jonathan. This is all I can do for you. Don't involve me in anything else."

With that, Nikolas ended the call.

Maddie stared at her phone's dark screen, her frown deepening.

Something was amiss.

She could tell Nikolas was defending Bethany just now. They had crossed paths overseas before, and back then, he hadn't shown any inclination towards Bethany. Yet now, he was adamant that she shouldn't hurt Bethany again.

This could only mean Bethany reappeared during this period. Something must have happened between them.

"Bethany, why are you always standing in my way?" she murmured.

The next morning, Bethany made a beeline for the construction site.

She was taken aback to find Ryan engaged in conversation with Colt, standing some distance away.

Bethany believed she had made it clear enough to Ryan that she wasn't interested in him. She expected him to have left the country by now. How could he still be showing up here?

The first person to spot Bethany was Colt. He greeted her with a wave and a smile, then approached her along with Ryan.

“If you're not feeling up to it, there's no need for you to come to the construction site. The dust isn't ideal for you."

Bethany had no idea what Ryan had said to Colt, but Colt was more respectful to her this time. He was genuinely respectful and complimentary. His His behavior towards her wasn't typical of a superior to a subordinate at all.

"I need to keep a close eye on things here. I'm meticulous about details, so I worry they might cut corners on workmanship and materials if they notice I'm not around," Bethany explained.

"I'm here. Just let me know." Colt glanced at Ryan and quickly added, "Oops, I just remembered I've got something else to handle. Feel free to chat. Bye.”

Without waiting for Bethany's response, Colt turned abruptly and hurried away, as though pursued by someone.

As soon as Colt left, there were only Bethany and Ryan left. An awkward atmosphere spread between them.

"Um, well... I need to leave too," Bethany said.

"You don't have a husband, do you?" Ryan asked out of the blue.

Bethany didn't Ryan to say that. She stood there, silent and unsure of how to respond.

"You lied about having a husband just to avoid being pursued," Ryan continued.

"You're overthinking it. I have a daughter, remember? I couldn't possibly fabricate that, could I?"

Ryan chuckled. "You do have a daughter, but she isn't two years old, is she?"