Chapter 186: Love in the Time of Skepticism

Jonathan knew that if he had revealed his true nature to Sierra initially, she would never have considered a relationship; not even a trial would have been possible.

It wasn't a good time to talk, but Jonathan couldn't help himself. He asked, "What kind of person do you wish I were?"

"Kind, humble, helpful?"

Jonathan slowly recounted Sierra's initial impression of him, a mocking smile twisting his mouth. "Unfortunately, I'm not that kind of person."

He was far more ruthless than she imagined. A deafening silence filled the car. Jonathan considered how to respond if Sierra suggested their incompatibility. He had ways to make her yield—she cared about many things, and even without those, he could still make her submit.

She seemed heartless, but her heart was soft because she had never been treated well. She clung to any kindness she could find: he could exploit this.

Dark thoughts filled his mind.

Just then, Sierra spoke. "Jonathan, you won't hurt me, right? I can trust you, can't I?"

Even Jonathan was taken aback by her words. He looked at her in astonishment, expecting her to give up, especially considering Sierra's blend of bravery and fear.

Seeing his surprise, Sierra offered a bitter smile. "I said we should give it a try, and that means taking it seriously, right? No two people are a perfect match."

She did want to give up, but each time she almost spoke, she remembered Jonathan's anxious expression when she mentioned her pain. She couldn't give up that easily.

Something seemed to break through in Jonathan's heart; he had never met anyone like Sierra. After a moment, his lips curved into a pleased smile. "No, I won't! No matter what happens, I won't hurt you."

All those dark thoughts vanished. Jonathan couldn't quite understand his own feelings. He had never liked someone this much before. It was more than just possessiveness at this point.

Sierra nodded. "Then don't hide yourself around me anymore; just be the real you."

She wanted to see the real Jonathan. Like the smile he'd just shared—genuinely heartfelt, unlike his usual smiles. It was more real, but also more dangerous, yet irresistibly enticing, like a poisonous flower: you know it's toxic, yet you can't help but be drawn to its beauty.

Logic told Sierra she should leave quickly, but humans are emotional creatures, and she was no exception.

Jonathan made a promise, not yet knowing what it meant to Sierra. He rarely made promises, but once he did, he followed through. After Sierra took a hot shower, Jonathan was still busy in the kitchen. She watched his silhouette and smiled silently.

When Jonathan turned around and saw Sierra standing at the door, her face flushed from the bath, he couldn't resist kissing her cheek.

"Let's go to the hospital for a check-up tomorrow; you're too thin, you might be anemic," Jonathan said, already on the phone making arrangements. Sierra didn't refuse and nodded in agreement.

Seeing the police outside, Jonathan was surprised and simply said, "Wait a moment, I'll come with you." Sierra said, not wanting to leave him alone.

Jonathan considered it and didn't refuse, since Sierra was also involved and the police would want to speak with her.

On the way, Sierra worried, not knowing how badly Yaron was injured. Jonathan hadn't held back during their altercation, and she could feel the pain just hearing about it.

Though Yaron had struck first, excessive self-defense could still carry legal consequences.

Compared to Sierra's worries, Jonathan appeared very composed; he even handed Sierra a yogurt. "Eat something," he offered.

Influenced by his calmness, Sierra gradually relaxed. Suddenly, she asked, "Have you trained before?" Jonathan had sent Yaron flying with a kick, and while Yaron was weak, he was still a grown man; such strength was not easily come by without some ability.

"Yes," Jonathan said nonchalantly, "I trained. I worked as a mercenary with some friends when I was younger."

Sierra's eyes nearly popped out of her head. It took her a moment to respond. "Mr. Yeager, you may dress like a gentleman, but you're still a thug at heart!"