Stefan's gaze softened with understanding. "Your suspicions may not be unfounded, Raegan. I'm looking into it, and I've alerted the authorities. Rest assured, I'll get to the bottom of this."

Stefan knew that keeping Raegan in the loop was crucial. It kept her grounded and prevented her from spiraling into irrational fears.

However, Stefan only told her half the story. It was evident that someone had intended to send Erick a clear warning. The alleged thief didn't even manage to reach the hospital before meeting his demise.

That was why, when Erick got injured, Stefan opted for doctors to visit their home instead of risking a trip to the hospital. He feared the possibility of the opposition meddling with Erick's treatment if they were at the hospital. It seemed safer to manage everything within the confines of their own home.

Moreover, the Clifford family's manor possessed all the necessary medical equipment, comparable to any hospital's, so there was no worry about hygiene or lack of resources.

Stefan enveloped Raegan in his arms, offering her solace. “Look at it this way. If there's trouble brewing, it means the person behind this is feeling desperate. You're getting closer to the truth."

Raegan felt a whirlwind of confusion and anxiety engulfing her. Who could be concealing her mother, and who wielded such formidable influence?

After an agonizing wait, the door swung open and the doctor emerged.

Raegan hurried forward, her heart pounding with worry. “Doctor, how's my brother? Is he in danger?"

The doctor's expression was earnest. "There's nothing critical. The patient hasn't suffered any damage to vital organs. It's a gunshot wound on his left shoulder, and we've successfully removed the bullet. He simply needs some rest, and he'll make a full recovery."

The doctor's words brought a modicum of relief to Raegan's fraught mind.

Entering the room, Raegan found Erick still unconscious, lying on the bed.

The steady rhythm of the monitors beside Erick provided some comfort, somewhat alleviating her anxieties.

Raegan remained by his side until Stefan entered and gently reminded her, "Grab a bite to eat first, and then you can sit with him for another hour before you rest."

If Raegan wasn't given a specific timeframe, she'd likely stay up worrying all night. Considering her pregnancy, staying up and fretting would only harm her health.

Stefan, sensing her unease, reached out with a reassuring hand. "I'm here for you, Raegan. And there are attendants around the clock. You need to focus on yourself now, especially with Erick still resting. Don't worry him when he wakes."

Raegan knew Stefan had her best interests at heart, so she nodded, trusting his guidance. With a sigh, she rose from her seat, her movements sluggish with exhaustion, and made her way to the dining area.

The aroma of food did little to stir her appetite, but she knew she needed to eat, especially in her delicate state of pregnancy. With determined effort, she pushed food around her plate, forcing herself to consume what she could.

She keenly observed Stefan, seated across from her. "Stefan, have you thought more about the woman who bought the medicine?"

The mysterious woman's sudden disappearance left them with more questions than answers. Their only recourse was to follow her connections for any semblance of a lead.