Sylvia wasn’t very familiar with children’s games.
After watching for a while, Sierra’s face grew serious, and she signaled Sylvia to step outside for a talk.
Sylvia nodded, glanced at Alex and Jaden who were playing happily, and followed Sierra out.
They went to a relatively quiet corner of the hospital corridor. Sierra spoke heavily, “Miss Andrews, I killed Clark. Will I go to prison for this? If I’m arrested…”
She wasn’t afraid of going to prison herself; she was worried about her son.
Having a murderer for a mother would stain her son’s life, even with Sylvia and Franklin’s help.
In a moment of desperation, seeing her son thrown into the fire, she had raised her gun and shot Clark without thinking about the consequences.
It was her first time killing someone. The few times she had shot Clark’s men before had not been fatal. So, she was genuinely scared, anxiously waiting for the police to arrive.
Sylvia patted her hand reassuringly and spoke calmly, “EMPEROR was a kidnapper. He kidnapped the children and tried to kill Franklin and me. You acted in self-defense. Darius and his wife will handle this; you don’t need to worry.”
“What did you say?” Sierra looked at Sylvia in disbelief. “I acted in self-defense?”
Sylvia smiled and continued, “Legally, it was self-defense. You don’t need to worry or be afraid. Besides, you killed a notorious criminal wanted by H Rovirsa and a villain in Middle Evroya. You’ve done a great service.”
“A great service…” Sierra’s heart pounded.
She looked at the woman in front of her, so beautiful and captivating.
This woman had saved her and her son from the fire and given them a new life.
She covered her face in shame, tears seeping through her fingers. “Miss Andrews, I made so many mistakes when we first met. Why do you forgive me…”
She choked up, “And you’ve helped me so much.”
Sylvia narrowed her eyes slightly.
“Sierra, I’m not a saint. Marrying into the Wilson family wasn’t your choice, and being manipulated by Clark wasn’t your intention. You’re almost forty now. I just sympathize with you and many other women who are powerless. You should know that in many remote areas and countries, many women still suffer inhuman torture. So, are you willing to take on this task?”
Sierra wiped her tears, “I’m willing.”
Sylvia shook her head, “Take the Gentry family sisters to Stannland and establish a new women’s and children’s protection association. Our main task is to improve women’s social status. Isabelle has stabilized Middle Evroya for now. Don’t agree too quickly; think it over before deciding.”
Hearing about going to Stannland, Sierra was shocked and worried. “If I go, what about Alex…”
Sylvia’s expression remained calm, revealing nothing of her inner emotions.
“Stannland is underdeveloped in terms of education and living conditions. I’ll give you a fund to establish a school. As for Alex, I want him to live with me in the Hipps Family. Separating from his biological mother at such a young age is cruel. If you don’t want to go, I’ll send someone else.”
“I’ll go.” Sierra lowered her head, her voice tinged with reluctance. “Rationally, I know it’s best for Alex to stay with you and Mr. Maskelyne, but emotionally, I can’t bear to part with him. Middle Evroya and Stannland can’t compare to Aettosa. For his sake, I can’t be selfish.”
She paused before continuing, “Besides, he has his own path to follow. I can’t prevent him from having a brighter future. I’m also worried…”
She looked up at Sylvia suddenly, “I’m worried he’ll follow in his father’s footsteps, becoming rebellious and gloomy… So it’s better if he stays with you.”
Genetics can be strange sometimes.
She feared Alex might inherit Clark’s traits as he grew older; it would drive her crazy!
The best solution was for Sylvia and Franklin to raise him.
It might be better that way.
“So far, you’ve raised Alex very well.” Sylvia understood Sierra’s feelings. “You don’t have to answer now; take some time to think about it. Let’s go back inside.”
They had been out too long and might arouse Alex’s suspicion.
Though young, he was very smart.
Sierra wiped her tears and adjusted her emotions before following Sylvia back to the ward.
The Ultraman game had ended, and Jaden was giving Alex water.
The little guy’s burns hurt terribly, but he didn’t make a sound or cry.
Many might think he was very sensible.
However, Sylvia and the psychologist felt this was abnormal behavior; he didn’t act like a normal child.
A normal child would cry for their mother when in pain.
He did none of that.
He could still play with Jaden.
This… was beyond the range of normal behavior for children.
Sierra felt sad watching Jaden and Alex’s warm interaction.
She was about to part with her son, but he was still so young… She kept telling herself it was for his own good. She didn’t want him to suffer or take the wrong path like Clark.
He should lead a normal life-study, work…
Three days later, Sylvia and Franklin took Peter and Alex on a private jet back to Aettosa.
Jaden and Sierra stayed behind in Middle Evroya to wrap things up. The women’s and children’s association there was handed over to one of the sisters in the association.
Sierra took the Gentry family sisters straight to Stannland with Jaden accompanying them for protection.
Seeing Sierra looking desolate beside him on the plane, Jaden rubbed his hands together, trying to lighten the mood and ease her sadness.
“You can visit your child during holidays… After all, he’s your biological son. Sylvia is just helping you take care of him. Think about it; a child raised by Sylvia can’t turn out badly! He’ll be outstanding!”
Sierra forced a bitter smile.
“Yes… She’s so exceptional, while I… am so filthy. My child carries Clark’s dirty blood.”
Jaden hadn’t expected Sierra to say that and felt awkward.
He didn’t know how to respond for a moment. After thinking it over seriously, he said earnestly, “No. You’re also exceptional; Sylvia chose you to establish the new association. Having Alex shouldn’t be a regret or stain on your life. Alex is an excellent child who will only become more outstanding.”
Sierra forced another smile without speaking further. She gazed out at the clouds through the window.
The plane flew steadily; both her life and her child’s were starting anew at this moment.
She only wished he wouldn’t repeat Clark’s mistakes.
Alex had never been on such a long flight before. He fell asleep in Franklin’s arms without realizing it.
When he woke up again, it was dark outside, and the plane was landing.
“Godmother, are we there?” He rubbed his eyes and looked at Sylvia beside him.
Sylvia wore a black tracksuit and dad sneakers, looking very casual.
She nodded slowly, “Yes. We’re going home soon.”
Franklin’s deep voice followed, “There probably isn’t any dinner at home now; let’s eat out before going back.”
“Alex, what do you want to eat?” Sylvia asked casually.
Alex smiled innocently, “Anything is fine.”
“Let’s have something light; he still has wounds.” Sylvia thought for a moment before deciding, “Let’s go to Bountiful Congee Stall.”
After getting off the plane, they went to Bountiful Congee Stall nearby.
It was past nine in the evening, but the place was still busy with customers.
Sylvia and Franklin found a window seat and settled the children into baby chairs before ordering food that Peter and Alex liked.
Naturally focusing on the two patients’ preferences.
As soon as the porridge arrived, Austin’s video call came through.
“Sylvia, have you arrived?”
“Grandpa, we’re here. We’re having dinner now.” Sylvia smiled slightly and turned the camera toward Alex. “Here’s your grandson.”
Austin smiled kindly, “Is this Alex? He’s so handsome. I just wanted to make sure you arrived safely.”
“Hello, Great-Grandpa.” Alex greeted Austin smartly.
“Such a good boy! Enjoy your meal.” Austin hung up happily.
Sylvia gave Alex baby utensils and carefully served him food.
“I can learn to eat by myself,” Alex said clearly as he looked at Sylvia with bright eyes like black gems.
Sylvia paused as she prepared to feed him and looked at him calmly. “Alex, you’re only two years old; it’s normal not to eat by yourself yet. With your godmother and godfather, you don’t have to feel like you must be sensible all the time. Just be yourself; do what you want.”
Alex smiled again, “I know.”
“Alright then, let’s eat.” Sylvia resumed feeding him. She didn’t have much experience caring for children but was very smart. During the flight, she had downloaded some videos on childcare-only practice was left now.