He fought to keep his voice steady, but it came out low and icy. “Isabella, be careful. Liam is not a pawn in your schemes.”

Sophia’s eyes sharpened, her tone cutting. “Are you threatening me, Mr. Grant?”

Lucas’s expression hardened, his voice firm and dangerous. “Take it as a warning. I don’t care what you’re plotting. If you touch Liam again, I will ruin you.”

He rose abruptly, his tall frame looming over her, radiating a palpable, menacing energy.

Lucas turned and strode out of the cafe without looking back. Sophia watched him leave, her brow furrowed in irritation.

That man… He was so stubborn!

At the hospital, Isabella waited until Liam’s IV was finished. After reminding the caregiver to keep a close watch, she left.

It had been too long since she’d visited Eleanor.

By the time she reached Eleanor’s apartment, darkness had settled.

The air was filled with the warm, inviting scent of home-cooked food. A cheerful melody hummed from the kitchen where Eleanor was cooking, her movements smooth and practiced.

Since her surgery and recovery, Eleanor’s health had improved significantly.

As Isabella stepped inside, the cozy atmosphere wrapped around her, stirring deep emotions.

“You’re back, Isabella. Where are Liam and Ethan?” Eleanor called from the kitchen, wearing a floral apron and holding a spatula.

“Ethan took Liam out,” Isabella replied, forcing a smile and trying to sound casual.

Eleanor placed a freshly cooked dish on the dining table and studied Isabella with a knowing look. “Isabella, are you hiding something from me?”

Isabella’s heart skipped. She looked away to conceal her unease. “Of course not, Grandma. What would I hide?”

“You were never good at keeping secrets.” Eleanor sighed, approaching Isabella and gently patting her hand. “I’m old, Isabella. All I want is to see you happy. Ethan is a good man. You’re at the right age to settle down. Marrying him would ease my mind.” Eleanor’s words struck a tender chord in Isabella’s heart.

Isabella held back tears and managed a weak smile. “Grandma, what are you saying? Ethan and I… We’re not rushing.”

“Silly girl,” Eleanor said warmly, tousling Isabella’s hair.

“Ethan treats you well. I can see it. He’s reliable and cares deeply for you and Liam. It’s rare to find someone who cherishes you so much. Don’t let this chance slip away.”

Isabella felt a lump form in her throat, making it hard to speak.

She couldn’t bring herself to tell Eleanor about Liam’s illness, fearing the news would be too much.

Clenching her fists, she dug her nails into her palms, barely feeling the pain. She took a deep breath, struggling to maintain her composure.

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

Eleanor smiled, satisfied, and guided Isabella to the dining table.

“Come, let’s eat. I made your favorite—seasoned pork chops.” Isabella looked at the spread of dishes but felt no appetite.

Mechanically, she began to eat, tasting nothing.

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