Chapter 1047: Would You Choose Your Dad or Mom?

Carol remained in Northfield for a single day, departing abruptly the following day after thanking Oscar. Susan was displeased by her hasty leave, hoping to assert her dominance and alert Carol to Besse's admirers, ensuring Besse's well-being. Susan's feelings were evident, immediately apparent to Besse, who reassured her that Carol wouldn't bully anyone. This unexpected reassurance fostered a surprising trust in Besse, despite Carol's superior power. Besse's composure and wisdom inspired confidence.

Besse spent a week in the hospital; Doyle was in a general ward, as she later learned Oscar was as well. She visited Doyle frequently, discovering his severely injured hand, which he'd tried to conceal. He comforted her, stating Karami's future success depended on her design skills, and only she could fulfill his dreams. Besse offered no promise in response.

Another week passed. Besse underwent leg surgery, requiring a three-day hospital stay before discharge, with subsequent check-ups scheduled. Doyle was advised to remain for another month of recuperation. Besse stayed with him for that entire month, receiving occasional visits from Susan and Manuel, who also saw Oscar. Through them, she learned of Oscar's swift recovery; he could walk after two weeks, suffering no significant injuries or disfigurement. She acknowledged his good fortune.

One day, returning from Doyle's room, she found Susan, Salem, and Una waiting. Salem and Una had frequently visited both Oscar and Besse during the past month—whether intentionally orchestrated by Oscar, she wasn't sure, but she hadn't objected. However, Besse's feelings toward Salem had grown colder, stemming from a fear of losing control.

Salem sensed Besse's distance, aware (through Susan) that she disliked his father due to past advances. He correctly surmised her coolness stemmed from his father's actions. He bravely confessed his disloyalty to his father, despite his childhood idolization.

"Miss Besse," Salem called, as Besse pretended to ignore him, engrossed in her phone.

"I'm on your side," he announced, his face reddening.

Besse glanced up, noting his determined yet shy expression.

"I know you don't like my dad, and you like Prince Doyle. I won't let my dad ruin your relationship with Prince Doyle!"

Besse lowered her phone.

"I'll go tell my dad right away not to bother you," Salem declared, starting to run away, then pausing as Besse called, "Sal."

"You don't need to worry; your father won't bother me." Oscar's absence during their shared hospital stay seemed to signify a resolution.

"But Auntie Susan said…"

Understanding Susan's likely embellishment, Besse clarified, "Your father didn't bother me."

"Then why…?" Salem asked hesitantly, "You don't like me anymore?"

Besse felt a pang of guilt, realizing her subtle shift in demeanor hadn't gone unnoticed. She'd treated him normally, albeit less enthusiastically.

"It's not because of my dad. Did I do something wrong?" Salem asked sadly.

Besse struggled to control her emotions.

"Besse, did Una do something wrong?" Una interjected, equally upset.

Besse remained silent, fearing tears.

"Besse, Sal and I like you a lot. Please don't hate us, okay?" Una pleaded.

"I don't hate you," Besse replied calmly. "I'm just not feeling well, and that made you misunderstand. I'm sorry."

"Really?" Una asked.

"Uh-huh."

"I knew Besse wouldn't dislike us!" Una exclaimed, pulling Salem's hand. "Sal, don't be sad anymore. Besse is just unwell."

Salem's gaze remained fixed on Besse, seeking reassurance. Besse inhaled deeply, recognizing Oscar's influence on Salem's sensitivity.

"Sal, come here," she said.

Salem approached nervously. Besse hugged him, momentarily surprised by her own action, aware of the difficulty in withdrawing affection.

"Sal, if I give you a choice, would you choose your dad or mom?" she asked.

Salem frowned.

"I don't have a mom…"

"What if there were one?" Besse asked.