Chapter: 664

Bethany then turned and pushed open the door to the ward.

She was aware of the Bates family's wealth, and she anticipated a well-appointed hospital setting, but the opulence of the ward still took her breath away.

With its lavish decor and expansive layout, it resembled a luxury hotel more than a medical facility.

"What's wrong?" Jonathan, noticing Bethany pause at the doorway, voiced his concern.

Rushing to his side with a reassuring smile, Bethany asked, “Nothing. How's your wound? Still hurting?"

She had seen the extensive cut with its numerous stitches when the doctor was attending to it. It was a ghastly sight.

“It doesn't hurt," Jonathan assured her, his face pale yet his eyes softening as he looked at her. “Don't worry."

“But I warned you!" Back then, Bethany had sensed that Maddie was going to stab him.

"I promised to protect you."

Jonathan's primary concern had been Bethany's safety.

After a moment of silence, Bethany lowered her gaze and finally spoke, her voice soft. "Have you known the kids' existence for long?"

Both Bethany and Rowan were terrible actors, yet Jonathan hadn't suspected them at all. It didn't make sense, given his usual sharpness.

The only logical conclusion was that he was aware but chose to feign ignorance.

Catching Bethany's gaze, Jonathan finally spoke, his voice rough with emotion. “If you prefer I remain oblivious, then I'll stay that way.”

That was typical of Jonathan.

He knew that any significant gesture on his part would send Bethany fleeing like a scared bird.

Even Brody had once remarked how easy it would be to determine the children's paternity-a simple test would suffice. To others, wielding his influence meant Jonathan could achieve anything. They couldn't fathom why he proceeded with such caution, devising elaborate schemes and sometimes playing the fool.

But they were all in the dark about the real situation. Jonathan's deepest wish was for Bethany to make her own choices, whether that meant staying with him or leaving. Her happiness was paramount.

His words struck a chord in Bethany.

Despite being the powerful CEO of Bates Group, his humility before her left her at a loss for words.

Their relationship was underestimated by everyone around them.

"How about I clean you with a towel? It must be tough not being able to shower while lying in bed." Bethany quickly changed the subject.

Jonathan, accustomed to her ways, simply nodded in agreement. “Sure.”

Bethany grabbed a towel and headed for the bathroom. As she walked, a thought struck her. "Oh, by the way, Aimee has come to Wesden too. She was concerned about me and followed me here. I'll need to sort out her accommodation later."