Chapter 231

As he struggled to maintain composure, his voice dropped to a chilling whisper. “Kyla, watch your step. Sadie isn’t a chess piece in your little games.”noveldrama

Kyla’s eyes narrowed slightly, the edge in her voice sharp as a blade. “Is that a threat, Mr. Howe?”

Alex’s stare hardened, his tone resolute and menacing. “Consider it a warning. I don’t give a damn what you’re trying to do. You mess with Sadie again, and I’ll personally make your life a living hell.”

With a tense grunt, he stood, his imposing figure casting a long, ominous shadow over Kyla, his aura charged with a palpable, threatening energy.

Alex turned and walked out of the cafe with determination. Kyla watched him go, her eyebrows knitting together in frustration.

That Alex… He could be so dense!

In the hospital, Sadie waited until Averi’s IV drip was complete. After instructing the caregiver to keep an eye on Averi, she left the hospital.

It had been a while since she last visited Laura.

By the time she arrived at Laura’s apartment, night had fallen.

The air was scented with the inviting aroma of home-cooked food, and a soft, cheerful tune hummed from the kitchen where Laura was cooking. Her movements were fluid and practiced.

Since her surgery and the period of recovery that followed, Laura’s health had seen a significant improvement.

As Sadie entered, the warm and welcoming atmosphere enveloped her, stirring a mix of emotions.

“You’re back, Sadie. Why are you alone? Where are Averi and Alex?” Laura called from the kitchen, wearing a floral apron and holding a spatula.

“Alex took Averi out,” Sadie replied, forcing a smile and striving to sound casual.

g?lnσν?s?c?m fuels your imagination

Laura set a freshly prepared dish on the dining table and looked at Sadie with a perceptive gaze. “Sadie, are you keeping something from me?”

Sadie’s heart fluttered, and she averted her eyes to hide her inner turmoil. “Of course not, Grandma. What would I possibly hide from you?”

“You’ve never been good at keeping secrets.” Laura sighed, approaching Sadie and gently patting her hand. “I’m getting old, Sadie. All I want is to see you happy. Alex is a good man. You’re at the right age to settle down. Marrying Alex would really put my mind at ease.” Laura’s words touched a tender spot in Sadie’s heart.

Sadie fought back tears and managed a weak smile. “Grandma, what are you talking about? Alex and I… We’re not rushing anything.”

“Silly girl,” Laura said warmly, tousling Sadie’s hair.

“Alex treats you well. I can see it. He’s dependable and cares deeply for Averi and you. It’s rare to find someone who cherishes you so. Don’t let this opportunity pass by.”

Sadie felt a tightness in her throat as if a lump was lodged there, making it difficult to speak.

She couldn’t bring herself to tell Laura about Averi’s illness, fearing the news might be too overwhelming for her.

With clenched fists, Sadie pressed her nails into her palms, barely feeling the pain. She took a deep breath, trying to maintain her composure.

“I understand, Grandma. I’ll think about it carefully.”

Laura smiled, content, and ushered Sadie to the dining table.

“Come, let’s eat. I made your favorite—seasoned pork chops.” Sadie looked at the dishes spread out on the table but felt no hunger.

Mechanically, she began to eat, finding no taste in the food.

“Grandma…” Sadie eventually set down her utensils and called out softly, her voice quivering.

.

.

.