When the Flame of Love Fades

Chapter 39: A Trap for Sierra

Y and said, “I’ll send you a cake every year from now on.” Seeing the brightness in her eyes, Jonathan looked away.

Sierra smiled happily at his words. “Okay!”

I didn’t tell him not to make promises he couldn’t keep. At least, at this moment, he genuinely meant what he said. As for the future, who could know?

After finishing the cake, she slowly stood up and brushed the sand off her clothes. “I should go back now. Thank you, Jonathan.”

“You’re welcome.”

Jonathan stood up as well. After a moment of hesitation, he said, “If you don’t want to go back, I can help you find a place to stay.”

Sierra shook her head. She had to return to the Xander family. The matter wasn’t resolved yet, and besides, she was still on probation. She had no choice but to go back.

Seeing her determination, Jonathan didn’t press further. Just as he was about to lead her to the car, the sound of engines roared in the distance. Several cars approached, their headlights blinding Sierra. She instinctively raised her hand to shield her eyes, only to hear voices shouting, “Don’t move! Put your hands behind your head, now!”

The familiar command sent a chill down Sierra’s spine. She instinctively complied. A moment later, someone forcefully pressed her neck against the car door, and the cold, familiar weight of handcuffs clamped around her wrists.

Sierra thrashed and struggled violently. The pressure on her increased. “Stop moving! Your supervisor contacted us, saying you’ve committed a crime and are trying to flee. You’re coming back with us now,”

Those few words made Sierra feel as if her heart was going to break. It was Bradley. My brother, who had once claimed I had suffered enough, promised that I would never suffer again.

Ha! For a moment, I had actually believed him. How foolish I had been! Of course, after her disobedience today, they would make sure she “behaved.”

Franklin Xander, Bradley Xander, the Xander family… A flicker of hatred burned in Sierra’s eyes. She knew what awaited her if she were taken back. Being locked in a dark room would be the least of it. The endless torment would be the main experience for the rest of her life. They would make her obedient.

She closed her eyes, bracing herself for the impending darkness. But the next second, she was pulled into a warm embrace.

“There must be some misunderstanding,” she heard a calm voice above her head. Even in this situation, Jonathan’s tone remained steady, as if nothing could fluster him.

“Please wait a moment,” Jonathan said.

“Do not interfere with our duties!” the officers warned.

He patted Sierra’s back. “Don’t be afraid. I’m here with you.”

Sierra couldn’t help but look at him. Seeing the concern in his eyes, her heart warmed, but she shook her head.

“I’m not afraid, Mr. Yeager. Please don’t get involved.”

Jonathan was a good person—a kind person. She refused to drag him into this mess.

She had already noticed that one of the cars hadn’t opened its doors. She was familiar with that car. Even with its tinted windows, she knew exactly who was inside. 21 was Shane, that madman! She didn’t want Jonathan to have any contact with Shane. Jonathan was pure; he shouldn’t be exposed to the darkness of this world.

With that thought, she smiled at Jonathan. “Jonathan, I was really happy today. Thank you!” Then, she turned to the officers and said cooperatively, “Let’s go.”

Jonathan frowned as he watched Sierra being escorted into a black car. Thinking of her words and the smile she had given him before leaving, he felt an inexplicable irritation. His gentleness had always been a facade. When he wasn’t smiling, he looked intimidating. His suit and glasses were merely tools to suppress the beast within him. Now, those tools were failing, and his true nature was about to break free.

If Sierra had been there, she would have seen a completely different side of Jonathan. But she wasn’t there. Her attention was entirely focused on Shane, who was staring out the window, clearly watching Jonathan. She didn’t want Shane to set his sights on Jonathan. Anyone targeted by this madman would meet a terrible fate.

With that in mind, she spoke up. “Why has such a small matter alarmed the warden?”

Shane glanced at her sideways and suddenly asked, “Do you like him?”

Sierra’s heart skipped a beat, but she kept her expression neutral. “Like who?”