Chapter: 80

Eventually, she turned to create a little space between them.

Having lived alone for many years, she found it strange to share her bed with someone else.

Feeling thirsty, Bethany quietly slipped out of bed to get a glass of water.

As she turned back towards the bed, she noticed Jonathan's phone light up on the nightstand.

She paused for a moment. Driven by curiosity, she approached and saw it was a message from Maddie.

"Your mother is struggling with depression again. I can visit her next week. Don't worry, focus on your work. I'll be there for her exam."

Another message was visible above this one, but she couldn't read it without unlocking the phone.

Bethany took a quiet sip of her water and returned to bed, yet sleep eluded her.

Maddie and Jonathan seemed like a perfect match.

Everyone at the company and within Jonathan's family thought so.

It was obvious that the Bates family held Maddie in high regard. She was even involved in caring for his mother.

Bethany slowly acknowledged how increasingly uncomfortable her situation was becoming.

She could end her contract and leave, but she needed the money for her mother's treatment. Another option was to act oblivious, but all signs pointed to her being merely a stand-in for Maddie. Everything she had was because of Maddie.

Bethany resolved to make money as quickly as possible and exit this uncomfortable situation.

The next morning, Bethany woke up and instinctively stretched. Just as she raised her arm, she realized Jonathan was still there.

He had already showered and was propped against the headboard, intently reading some documents.

"Are you awake? I'll have the hotel send breakfast," Jonathan said, his voice rough and deep.

His bathrobe was loosely draped, revealing a glimpse of his toned abdominal muscles.

Seeing him like this first thing in the morning, Bethany couldn't help but feel attracted.

He was incredibly charming.

Perhaps because she reacted too enthusiastically, Jonathan paused and looked at her. "Hmm?"

Caught staring, she quickly diverted her gaze and said, "Okay, let's have breakfast!"

"Do you want to eat me instead?"

"No! Absolutely not!"