Chapter 1870: In Disarray

Madilyn weeded the garden, her mind a whirlwind of wild thoughts. Snapping out of her daze, she remembered Jonathan had agreed to dinner. Excitement fluttered within her, a reaction her mother didn't miss.

Jonathan enjoyed the meal; the dishes were clearly to his liking. Lorraine and Jonathan dominated the conversation, Lorraine peppering him with questions about his family. Madilyn felt acutely awkward. However, Jonathan seemed unfazed by the interrogation, even praising Lorraine's cooking afterward.

Before he left, Madilyn asked, slightly sternly, "Did you take your medicine on time?"

"Yes, I did. My stomach feels much better, the burning sensation is almost gone," Jonathan replied, smiling and thanking her.

Maintaining a cool demeanor, Madilyn insisted on another checkup. Jonathan nodded, bid farewell, and departed for his office.

Madilyn's lips twitched. She wanted to ask Jonathan about his depression, suspecting his tireless work was a distraction from it. Could Mr. Farwell give him a break? Or perhaps Lucian wasn't the cause; maybe Jonathan was overworking to escape his depression.

After Jonathan entered his car, he returned. "Did you leave something?" Madilyn asked.

Jonathan shook his head and produced a large ganoderma. "A supplier gave me this; it's the biggest one. I noticed you've looked tired lately. Maybe make soup with it, though I'm not sure if it helps," he said sheepishly, handing it to her.

Long after his car vanished, Madilyn remained lost in thought.

"Maddy, Maddy..." Lorraine called, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

"Mom, what is it?" Madilyn startled. She passed the ganoderma to her mother. "I'm not sure if it's nutritious, but let's make soup."

"Maddy, I know what you're thinking, but Jonathan doesn't seem to. You can't wait for things to happen; you need to take initiative," Lorraine chuckled.

During dinner, Lorraine had essentially interviewed Jonathan, concluding he was perfect for Madilyn.

Madilyn's cheeks flushed. "Mom, you don't know how things are between us. Besides, Jonathan might have a girlfriend!"

"Really? He didn't mention that. And if he did, would she let him dine with us? He's definitely single; you have a chance!" Lorraine insisted.

Even her mother wanted her to be proactive, a thought that stunned Madilyn. But she couldn't share her mother's optimism. "Mom, I don't want a relationship now. Let's focus on your health."

Madilyn realized her emotions were in chaos, the most turbulent they'd ever been.