Chapter: 769
There was nothing more Francine could do.

As she turned to leave, her disappointment in Maddie was evident.

Despite her husband's and son's objections, Francine had repeatedly championed Maddie, stressing how she needed to be patient and smart.

Maddie was the only future daughter-in-law acknowledged by the Bates family-what was she so afraid of?

Just as Francine was about to exit, Maddie's voice rang out urgently.

“Francine! Do you remember what happened to Bethany's mother?" she asked.

Francine froze, turned back to Maddie, and asked, “What's wrong? Are you trying to threaten me?"

"No." Maddie peered through the bars. “I need to tell you something. We destroyed all the evidence and dealt with everyone who was involved, and you thought everything was handled, right? But later, I went back to check the destroyed U disks containing the surveillance footage, and I found that one of them was missing."

Francine paused, her disbelief evident. "What?"

"The surveillance footage was indeed destroyed and overwritten, but the U disk itself is missing."

Francine's composure faltered. "Do you know who took it?"

Maddie shook her head. "I don't know. That's why I'm telling you. I'm worried that Bethany might have it."

“Why didn't you tell me sooner?"

Francine's nerves were all over the place.

This meant the situation was far from handled. There were many possibilities-perhaps the drive was simply lost, but what if it wasn't?

The tension between her and her husband had already been strained because of Maddie. If the death of Bethany's mother was revealed, the consequences could be catastrophic.

"I didn't dare to tell you," Maddie cried hoarsely. "I was afraid you'd scold me for how stupid I had been! I truly see you as a mother. Even if I don't marry Jonathan, I still hold you in the highest regard. I know I made a terrible mistake and I deserve the punishment. You can beat me, scold me, or even let me die, but please forgive me. I was desperate, and I lost control when I saw him so desperate to save Bethany!"

“What can I say?" Francine wanted to continue her reproach but struggled to find the right words. “I understand your feelings. But at my age, with Jonathan being my only son, didn't you consider the impact of your actions?"

“I was completely out of my mind! I lost all control!"

“Alright. I'll investigate the missing U disk. As for you, just stay put and keep a low profile. Don't cause any more trouble for Jonathan's father."

Francine hurried back home and breathed a silent sigh of relief, knowing Godfrey was still out on the golf course.

Her objective was to visit Maddie, given their past friendship.

However, Maddie's unexpected message left her unsettled.

Francine felt a wave of restlessness wash over her.