Chapter 165

Evelyn felt the weight of the moment pressing down on her. Her anxious gaze darted between Richard and Eleanor. "Mr. Blackwood, Mrs. Blackwood, I—"

They strode past her without acknowledgment, their expressions icy and detached.

The other guests in the grand parlor mirrored their disdain. Their hushed whispers carried just enough for Evelyn to hear.

"After all these years, I still can't spot a fraud playing the victim."

"Don't blame yourself. She fooled me too."

The Blackwoods' contempt was palpable. Though Evelyn usually handled social slights with grace, this cut deeper. The room emptied until only she remained.

Fury simmered in her veins, her eyes burning with unshed tears. Jaw clenched, she stormed upstairs, packed hastily, and slammed the mansion door behind her.

Outside Blackwood Manor, Evelyn's resentment festered. She fumbled for her phone. "Hello? Is this Cassandra's father? Your daughter just married into the Blackwood fortune."

Meanwhile, in her sunlit chambers, Evelyn carefully arranged the zinnias in a porcelain vase. She placed them on the balcony ledge, humming as she watered the vibrant blooms.

Their delicate beauty captivated her. A radiant smile lit her face throughout the entire process.

A gentle breeze danced through the balcony as golden sunlight bathed the space. The warm rays tinted Evelyn's cheeks a rosy pink.

Her eyes crinkled with joy as she reached out to caress the velvety petals.

After a peaceful moment, she noticed the unusual quiet. Curious about Liam's whereabouts, she turned to find him sleeping soundly on the four-poster bed.

Evelyn crawled onto the mattress with feline grace, bracing herself on her hands as she leaned over Liam's striking features. She studied his peaceful expression for long minutes.

Liam lay perfectly still, his breathing deep and even. Thick lashes fanned over high cheekbones, his sculpted lips slightly parted.

Despite his breathtaking beauty, an aura of quiet intensity surrounded him even in sleep—a reminder of the formidable general he was.

Evelyn still marveled that she, of all people, had become Liam's wife. That he'd gifted her flowers, no matter how unconventional the gesture, made her heart flutter.

With a soft smile, she inched closer. Holding her breath, she couldn't resist brushing her lips against his.

The moment their mouths connected, electricity shot through her veins. Her entire body trembled with nervous exhilaration. The impulse had been irresistible.

As she pulled away, triumph bubbled in her chest—until Liam's eyes fluttered open, his gaze drowsy yet piercing.

Evelyn's face burned crimson. She pressed her lips together like a child caught stealing cookies, unable to meet his gaze.

"I-I'm sorry," she stammered.

Liam's throat worked as he swallowed hard. "Sorry for what?" His voice was rough with sleep.

Evelyn ducked her head. "I just... wanted to thank you. The flowers meant so much to me."

A low hum rumbled in Liam's chest, his eyes darkening. When Evelyn moved to leave, his hand shot out, encircling her wrist.

He'd never imagined a simple bouquet would earn him a kiss. Now he craved more—a deeper connection, a proper embrace.

"Is that all?" His eyebrow arched.

Evelyn blinked in confusion. "What?"

Liam found her innocence endearing. "What else makes you happy?" His fingers slid from her wrist to intertwine with hers.

"Books," she answered without hesitation. Liam's gaze intensified, the air between them crackling with unspoken promise.