Chapter 1970: Enraged

When Madilyn arrived home, worried Lorraine would resume her nagging, she quickly filled a wooden tub with water and added a medicinal herb powder Jonathan had given her. She presented the tub to her mother, urging her to soak her feet.

"You really should try to relax more, Mom," Madilyn said gently, guiding Lorraine to a chair. Lorraine sighed, but the warmth in her daughter's eyes softened her.

"Alright, alright," she muttered, settling in and dipping her feet into the warm, herb-infused water. Relief immediately washed over her face. "This does feel nice."

Madilyn smiled, sitting opposite her mother. "You see? Jonathan knows his stuff. These herbs are supposed to help with circulation and relaxation."

Lorraine closed her eyes, enjoying the soothing warmth. "Jonathan, huh? He seems to be helping you a lot these days."

A blush crept onto Madilyn's cheeks, quickly dismissed. "He's a good friend, Mom. That's all."

Lorraine opened one eye, giving her daughter a knowing look. "Just a friend?"

Madilyn laughed lightly, deflecting the question. "Yes, just a friend. Now, how about we focus on you? You've been working so hard, you deserve a break."

As they chatted, the day's tension eased. Lorraine shared stories from her youth, and Madilyn listened, grateful for these moments.

However, throughout the evening, thoughts of Jonathan resurfaced. Despite trying to ignore them, Madilyn couldn't deny her growing feelings. His unwavering support had deeply touched her.

Later, after Lorraine slept, Madilyn sat by the window, gazing at the moonlit garden. She wondered about her future with Jonathan. Were they destined for more than friendship? The uncertainty bothered her, but she knew she couldn't force anything.

The next day at the hospital, thoughts of Jonathan lingered. During a break, she messaged him, thanking him again for the herbal remedy.

"Hi Jonathan, just wanted to let you know the herbs worked wonders for my mom. She's feeling much better. Thank you so much!"

His reply was almost instant.

"I'm glad to hear that, Madilyn. If you need anything else, don't hesitate to ask. Take care."

His warmth was genuine, yet it left Madilyn with more questions. She needed to focus on work, but her heart yearned for something more.

That evening, Madilyn visited the children's ward. The children's laughter lifted her spirits, reminding her of life's simple joys.

A young patient, Emily, tugged her sleeve. "Dr. Madilyn, will you read us a story?"

Madilyn smiled. "Of course, Emily. Which one?"

Emily handed her a book, and Madilyn read to the eager children, feeling a sense of peace. These moments made the hard work worthwhile.

After the children slept, Madilyn returned to her office to find a package from Jonathan, with a note: "I thought you might like these. They're some new herbs I came across. Maybe they'll help your mom even more."

Inside were carefully chosen herbs. She smiled; his thoughtfulness amazed her. She called him to thank him personally.

"Jonathan, thank you for the herbs. You didn't have to."

His voice was warm. "It's nothing, Madilyn. I'm just glad to help. How's your mom doing?"

"She's much better, thanks to you. I really appreciate it."

A pause, then Jonathan said, "Madilyn, I was wondering if you'd like to have dinner with me sometime. No pressure, just... as friends."

Madilyn's heart skipped a beat. "I'd like that, Jonathan. I'd like that a lot."

Hanging up, excitement and anticipation filled her. The future was uncertain, but for the first time in a long while, she felt hopeful.