Chapter: 578

This time, rather than confronting the issue head-on, Jonathan opted to play it cool, carrying on with their meal as if nothing was unusual.

Rowan was prepared for any of Jonathan's usual tactics, but Jonathan had many new ones.

He had arranged for Bethany to start working at Bates Group, taking things one step at a time.

Over at the hospital, there was no change in Nikolas’ condition.

His face bore a permanent scar, and though his fractures weren't fatal, they'd prevent him from engaging in strenuous labor in the future.

The only slightly comforting news was that his condition hadn't deteriorated further.

Gilda's eyes were red and puffy from crying; exhaustion had caused her to faint multiple times. Kai, worried, had ushered her to a hotel to rest, while he returned to stand guard outside Nikolas' room.

As Maddie arrived, laden with gifts, she spotted Kai staring vacantly at the ICU sign.

She composed herself and approached. “Mr. Bennett."

Kai stood up quickly as she neared, his demeanor noticeably colder than it had been with Jonathan.

“What brings you here?"

"I came to see how Nikolas is doing. Any improvement?"

Kai nodded and remarked, "Now we just have to wait and see if he'll need a craniotomy."

“I'm really concerned about your health. What if I come over after work to look after Nikolas? I'm free anyway. You and your wife could use some time to rest back at the hotel."

"No, thanks. I'm just not comfortable with someone else watching over my son," Kai responded tersely.

He figured if Maddie didn't feel guilty, she wouldn't have any reason to be scared. If she had hidden intentions, this would serve as a warning.

Sure enough, a flicker of embarrassment crossed Maddie's face.

"The police have already looked into it. The car crash was an accident. No one meant to hurt Nikolas!"

"I'm not convinced. My son is naive and kind-hearted. It's possible he rubbed someone the wrong way. Didn't you mention that Nikolas often got involved when you and Jonathan had issues? I warned him against it, but he never listened. He said he saw you both as dear friends and couldn't stand to see either of you in trouble."

"Nikolas is a good person. I'm well aware of his character."

Kai peered up at her, cracking a smile. “Actually, I wanted to ask you something. I heard there was a quarrel between you two at the company before he drove away. What was that about?"

“Well... It was just work-related stuff," she replied vaguely.

"Really? Because I heard it wasn't about work at all." Kai coughed.

"It's okay. If you don't want to discuss it, I won't push you. When Jonathan arrives, I'll have him look into it. I just found out myself and haven't mentioned it to him yet. Since you got here first, I thought I'd ask you."