Thanks to the Xander family and Shane, Sierra barely slept that night. Her dreams were filled with the past. When she woke up, her entire body was cold. Even so, she got up on time and went downstairs. She preferred the harsh heat outside over the suffocating darkness of a room.

Everyone was there except for Denise. But, for once, not a single person in the Xander family dared to look her in the eye. Sierra didn’t care about their reactions. As long as they didn’t bother her, she was fine with anything. Her mind was already occupied with thoughts of what ingredients she needed for her research.

Breakfast was the quietest meal the Xander family had ever had. Eleanor and the three brothers kept stealing glances at Sierra, but she remained completely indifferent. When she finished eating, Evan stood up first. “I’m heading to campus. I can give you a ride.”

Sierra didn’t even look up. “No need, Mr. Evan. I don’t have class this morning.” She was going to the hospital to see her grandmother. But there was no need to tell him that. After wiping her mouth, she walked out without another word, leaving the Xander family in heavy silence.

“Bradley, I’m canceling today’s work. I’m going with you,” Sean muttered, poking at his sandwich. “I don’t believe what she said.” Evan added, “I’m coming too.” Bradley nodded. The three brothers left together.

Sierra arrived at the hospital with a bag of her grandmother’s favorite noodles. Just thinking about the old woman’s smile made the corner of her lips lift slightly. But her good mood instantly vanished when she stepped into the room. James was standing beside the hospital bed, his tone filled with frustration.

“What do you mean there’s no money?”

“That damn girl loves you so much. If you ask, she’ll definitely give you more.”

“I checked. This hospital is expensive. She already prepaid a good amount.” If the money could be refunded, he would’ve taken it for himself already. Grandma kept her eyes closed, ignoring him.

“You think that damn girl coming back means someone will save you? Keep dreaming.” His fist was just about to land—but it never did. A cold hand gripped his wrist, stopping him in place. James turned, stunned to see Sierra staring at him icily.

For a moment, he was caught off guard. When did this damn girl get so strong? But he quickly recovered. He had come here with a purpose.

“Perfect timing!” he sneered. “Give me money. Otherwise, your grandma and your mother will suffer.” Sierra glanced at Yulia, who was standing in the corner, head down, silent. Just like always. Even when James was about to hit Grandma, she hadn’t dared to lift her head.

“Get out,” Sierra shoved James away. “If you touch Grandma, I’ll kill you.” Her voice was eerily calm. But no one doubted that she meant every word. Even James, a lifelong gambler and con artist, felt a chill run down his spine. But he wasn’t one to back down so easily.

“Go ahead!” he shouted, puffing up his chest. “Kill me! You’ll go back to prison for life, and your grandma will die alone!” Sierra’s gaze grew colder. For the first time, she truly felt like killing him. The commotion in the room had already drawn attention.

Out in the hallway, Jonathan had been passing by. He stopped, observing Sierra’s straight yet frail-looking back. Then, he turned to the person next to him and said something quietly. Inside the room, James still believed he had the upper hand.

“As long as you give me money, I swear I won’t bother you again. That’s a fair deal, isn’t it?” He cowered. “You can’t be with your grandma all the time. The moment you leave, I can do whatever I want to them.” Sierra clenched her fists.

Just as she was about to speak, a calm voice interrupted. “Sir, I’ve recorded everything you just said.” James froze. “You’re guilty of extortion and blackmail. I’ve already called the police.”

Sierra turned and saw Jonathan standing in the doorway, holding his phone. She was momentarily surprised. Why him? James panicked. “What blackmail? I’m her father! A child supporting their parent is the law!”

Jonathan adjusted his glasses, his expression unreadable. “From what I know, she is Ms. Xander. I’ve met her real father. He’s not you.”

“You—” James choked on his words, then tried again. “I’m her adoptive father! I raised her for over ten years. What’s wrong with asking for some money?”

Jonathan chuckled. “Perhaps you should explain that to the police.” As he spoke, officers arrived. “Who called it in?”

“I did,” Jonathan stepped forward. “I have a recording of extortion and threats.” The officers reviewed the footage and immediately restrained James. Since Jonathan had made the report, he was required to go with them for questioning. Before leaving, he nodded at Sierra.

She stood there for a moment before following him out. “Why did you help me?” she asked. Jonathan thought for a second. “I wasn’t able to help with the lab. Consider this compensation.” He didn’t ask if she still wanted the lab. Her silence had already given him the answer.

Jonathan wasn’t the type to meddle in other people’s business. But when he had seen her standing there alone, her back straight yet distant, something in him had told him to act.

“…Thank you,” Sierra said quietly.

“It was nothing,” Jonathan replied. “But you should prepare yourself. He won’t be locked up for long.” At most, James would be held for a few days. Sierra would still have to deal with him afterward.

For the first time, someone outside of Grandma had shown concern for her. Warmth flickered inside her, brief but unfamiliar. “I know,” she said. “I’ll handle it.” She hesitated before adding, “And… about yesterday. I’m sorry.” She had lashed out at him just because he was friends with Bradley.

Jonathan gave a small smile. “Consider us even.” Sierra lingered for a moment before heading back to the hospital room. Yulia was sitting beside Grandma, looking nervous, as if trying to explain something. But Grandma remained silent.

When she saw Sierra, Yulia flinched and quickly stood up. Before she could speak, Sierra cut her off coldly. “Get out.” Yulia opened her mouth but said nothing. With her head still lowered, she quietly left the room.

Sierra turned to her grandmother. “Grandma, let’s transfer to another hospital.” This time, she wouldn’t let James or Yulia find out where. Grandma’s eyes softened with concern. “My Sierra, you’ve worked so hard.” Sierra smiled and held her hand. “As long as you stay with me, it’s not…”