Chapter: 93

Bethany didn't respond.

“Tell me. Whatever it is, we'll handle it together."

Images flashed through Bethany's mind of how her mother might react to Jonathan. She envisioned her mother scolding him, hurling insults, maybe even striking him.

Yet, his voice was gentle, his demeanor so caring, she found his words utterly compelling.

He committed to facing any challenge with her, no matter the circumstances.

“Jonathan, I-"

Before Bethany could finish, his phone interrupted them with its ring.

Jonathan's expression tightened as they both turned towards the sound.

It was a call from Maddie.

“Just a moment, I need to take this," Jonathan said, stepping out of the bedroom to talk.

“Are you alone? You couldn't get through to the driver? Alright, wait for me at home. I'm on my way," Jonathan said before hanging up.

Returning to the room, he asked, “What were you going to say? Go on."

But the spell was broken for Bethany.

She managed a forced smile, slipping back into her usual detached facade.

"I'm fine! I just wanted to say thank you."

Jonathan clearly didn't believe her.

"Is Maddie having trouble? Go and see her!"

Shifting the focus, he paused before grabbing his suit jacket. “You should get some rest. Don't wait up. I'm not sure when I'll return. See you tomorrow."

"Okay."

As Bethany watched Jonathan rush out, a bitter smile crossed her face.

She chided herself for her naive thoughts.

She was merely a substitute. How could she ever expect Jonathan to meet her mother?

After Maddie returned from her travels, she moved into a lavish villa near East Shade Bay.

The villa was actually owned by Jonathan's parents, who had left it in her care while they were overseas.