Chapter 162

Evelyn slammed the door shut with more force than necessary. "Don't come looking for me today! I need space!" Her voice carried through the thick wood.

Liam remained motionless outside, his lips pressed into a thin line. Seeing Evelyn upset stirred conflicting emotions within him - a peculiar mix of affection and frustration.

Inside, Evelyn leaned heavily against the door, her fingers gripping the frame. She loved Liam deeply, yet doubts clouded her mind. The words she wanted to say to him lodged stubbornly in her throat.

After what felt like hours, Evelyn finally turned the doorknob. The hallway stood empty. Her heart sank as she searched the house, finding no trace of him. With a heavy sigh, she retreated to her room.

Days passed without word from Liam. He skipped meals, avoided their shared spaces, and spent nights elsewhere. Evelyn waited in his study until exhaustion claimed her, only to wake alone.

Late one night, Evelyn clutched a pillow to her chest, frustration bubbling beneath her skin. Where was he? Why hadn't he reached out? She resisted the urge to text him, annoyed that he'd taken her request for space so literally.

The next afternoon, sunlight bathed the winding mountain road. Few vehicles traveled this stretch between cities. In the backseat of a luxury car, Liam stared absently out the window, his expression unreadable.

Ryan gripped the steering wheel while Adrian sat shotgun. Both men exchanged confused glances. Their commanding officer had traveled hours to complete military duties, only to immediately return to Aldenria without rest.

When they reached a sloping hillside, Liam's voice broke the silence. "Pull over here."

"Here, sir?" Ryan's eyebrows shot up.

"Yes." Liam's tone left no room for argument.

The car veered onto the grassy shoulder. Liam stepped out and disappeared into the dense thicket without explanation.

Ryan scratched his head. "What's General Blackwood doing?"

Adrian shrugged. "Nature call?"

Ryan snorted. "Since when does the general relieve himself roadside?"

They waited in bewildered silence until Liam reappeared, cradling something carefully in his hands. His usual stern expression had softened.

Ryan's eyes widened. "Is he... picking flowers?"

Indeed, Liam carefully arranged a bouquet of white zinnias, gently removing wilted leaves. A rare smile touched his lips as he imagined Evelyn's reaction.

"Did you see that?" Ryan elbowed Adrian. "He's actually smiling!"

Adrian could only nod, his mouth slightly agape at the unexpected display of tenderness from their normally stoic commander.