Ethan Sullivan's brows knitted tightly together.
He had long suspected Sophia Sullivan's approach to the Sullivan family held ulterior motives, but never imagined it involved his late mother and grandmother's past.
"I know little about the grudges between the older generations. My mother passed away early..." Ethan's voice turned gravelly. "What exactly do you want now, Ms. Sullivan?"
"My mother shared a close bond with your grandmother. I merely wish to inquire about my birth mother's whereabouts. But I understand you'd never entrust your grandmother's care to a stranger." Sophia met his gaze steadily. "So I propose a transaction."
"Go on."
"Emma's autism still requires treatment. If I can cure her, you could consider sending your grandmother to MDH Pharmaceutical Research Institute for her Alzheimer's treatment. Once her condition improves, I'll get my answers and you'll have peace of mind. What do you think?"
Sophia laid out her plan without preamble.
Though outwardly composed, her palms grew slightly damp. She studied Ethan's expression intently, anticipating his counterterms.
Given his devotion to his grandmother, he might outright refuse. If someone targeted her own family...
"Agreed."
Ethan's abrupt answer cut through her thoughts.
"Aren't you concerned I have other agendas?"
"I told you before—I trust you, Ms. Sullivan."
His direct gaze held no deception.
Sophia's throat constricted. The word "trust" had become foreign to her.
During her three years married to Liam Winston, not once had she earned his confidence. No matter how hard she tried, suspicion always tainted their interactions.
This rare trust disarmed her completely. "I'll dedicate myself to her treatment and ensure your grandmother's swift recovery. Thank you for your faith in me."
Ethan gave a slight nod, then recalled something.
"When Grandmother wandered off from the nursing home, it was a masked individual who returned her safely. That was you, wasn't it?"
The memory drew an involuntary chuckle from Sophia.
"I'd only gone to scout the location and happened upon her. Quite the coincidence."
Ethan's lips quirked as he observed her rueful expression.
Just who was this woman? She'd evaded every surveillance camera flawlessly.
Yet some mysteries weren't meant for immediate unraveling. With enough trust, her truths would surface in time.
Ethan escorted Sophia from the hidden chamber. "Now that we've reached an understanding, there's no need for your nocturnal visits to the estate."
Sophia pretended not to hear.
They emerged to find the elderly butler waiting.
"Young Master."
The old man blinked, noting their emergence from the restricted wing—and Ethan's slightly disheveled attire...
A knowing smile spread across the butler's face.
"Do exercise moderation, Young Master. Both of you have only recently recovered—your health should come first."
"You misunderstand," Sophia interjected hastily.
The butler waved a dismissive hand. "These old eyes see nothing at all. Age has made them quite unreliable."
He hurried away, deliberately leaving them alone.
Ethan remained impassive. "You should rest now, Ms. Sullivan."
Though outwardly composed, an inexplicable warmth flickered in his chest at the butler's mistaken assumption.