Chapter 238: A Game of Control

“This is my biggest concession.”

Johnathan had already decided: once they reached the capital, there was no way he was letting Sierra and Dickson continue living together. Even though he knew there was nothing between them, his possessiveness wouldn't allow it. Hearing his tone, Sierra knew the matter was settled. She tiptoed up and kissed his chin.

“Alright, Mr. Johnathan, we’ll do it your way. By the way, what are you going to do with this house?”

“Leave it,” Johnathan said casually. The chances of him returning to Maviston were next to none, but money wasn’t an issue, and he had no intention of selling. This place held so many memories of him and Sierra. Sierra glanced at her own apartment, lost in thought.

The investigation proceeded smoothly. The evidence was overwhelming—there was no room for denial. Richardson Pharmaceuticals collapsed overnight, all of its assets frozen. The task force interrogated Mr. Richardson, Kason, and everyone involved countless times. Most of them broke under pressure; but Kason was the most difficult. No matter what methods they used, he refused to speak.

When Maddox came over for dinner, he brought an update. After glancing at Johnathan, he said, “Guys, Kason wants to see you.”

“Not happening,” Johnathan replied instantly.

Maddox sighed. “If he confesses sooner, we can get more out of him.” This case wasn’t just about a corrupt deputy warden or a shady pharmaceutical company. It ran far deeper. The higher-ups had made it clear—this needed to be investigated thoroughly. The longer they dragged it out, the more evidence would disappear.

“I said no,” Johnathan’s voice left no room for negotiation. He had already swallowed his pride and let Sierra play along with Kason before. Now that Kason was caught, there was no reason for her to deal with him again. Maddox didn’t push further.

Instead, he turned to Sierra. She simply nodded. That night, after Maddox and Mateo left, Sierra barely had time to speak before Johnathan cut in, “Don’t even start. My answer is no.”

She blinked, then chuckled. “I haven’t even said anything yet.”

“I know exactly what you’re about to say,” Johnathan’s expression darkened. You have no idea how much restraint it took for me not to gouge out his eyes. He wasn’t even hiding it; his possessiveness was overwhelming. Sierra could tell he was serious. She softened her tone.

“Mr. Johnathan, it’s not worth dirtying your hands over someone like him.”

“This matter should have a proper ending.”

“I want to see him, too.”

Johnathan remained unmoved. But Sierra knew how to handle him. She climbed onto his lap, wrapped her arms around his neck, and whispered, “Can’t I…?”

“Mr. Johnathan, you told me before—I’m allowed to be a little selfish. I can make requests.” Her voice carried a rare trace of pleading. Sierra rarely showed vulnerability; she was used to handling everything on her own. Johnathan sighed, feeling utterly helpless. She had him wrapped around her little finger, and they both knew it. He batted her earlobe lightly, grumbling, “What am I supposed to do with you?”

The next day, Johnathan personally escorted Sierra to the hospital. Maddox came to meet them. The moment he saw Sierra, only one thought crossed his mind: she was definitely the one. He had known Johnathan for years, and never once had he seen him compromise. But for Sierra? Different story. Johnathan caught his look and shot him a cold glare.

“I’m going in with her.”

Maddox hesitated. “That’s against protocol.”

Johnathan raised an eyebrow, as if to say, “And what does that have to do with me?”

Maddox sighed, knowing he had no choice but to make arrangements. Kason was still hospitalized. His injuries were severe, and both his hands and feet were cuffed to the bed, rendering him completely immobile. Since he had insisted on speaking only to Sierra, the task force had set up surveillance. Everything they said would be recorded and monitored.

When Sierra entered, Kason had his eyes closed, pretending to rest. He assumed it was just another round of interrogators. Then, Sierra spoke.

“I heard you wanted to see me.”

Kason’s eyes snapped open. His gaze locked onto her, burning with hatred. Sierra pulled up a chair and sat down.

“I’m here. What do you want?”

Seeing her so calm, Kason nearly ground his teeth to dust. He couldn’t understand—how could Sierra sit there completely unaffected?