Chapter 193

The bathroom door creaked open after thirty minutes.

Evelyn sat perched on the edge of the bed, her gaze lifting.

Liam emerged with damp hair, dressed in a crisp white shirt and tailored trousers. The fresh scent of soap clung to him.

His warm eyes met hers, making her cheeks flush. She hastily grabbed the clothes beside her and stood.

As she brushed past him, his hand caught her wrist.

Evelyn froze.

Liam's brow furrowed as he studied the white sundress in her hands - yesterday's outfit she'd washed and dried overnight. Currently, she wore his oversized sleepwear.

"Don't you have anything else to wear?" His voice was rough.

She glanced at the dress. "It's clean and dry now. This will do."

"Change. Into. Something. Else."

"Why?"

He released her arm, struggling for words as his jaw tightened.

Seeing his darkened expression, Evelyn guessed, "Embarrassed to be seen with me dressed like this?"

Liam's eyes flashed with frustration. "That's not what I—"

The military base housed many women - soldiers' wives who wore far more revealing outfits during visits.

Why couldn't she?

Anger flared as she threw the dress onto the bed. "Happy now? I won't wear it."

"I'll have clothes delivered," he said softly.

She knotted the hem of his shirt, transforming it into a cropped top. Snatching her phone, she turned toward the door.

He intercepted her in two strides, gripping her elbow. "Where are you going?"

"Morning jog. Breakfast. Sightseeing." She jerked her arm free. "Anywhere but here with you."

Her words cut deep, leaving them both wounded.

Pain flashed across his face before his expression shuttered. His hand fell away.

Evelyn didn't look back as she stormed out. She wandered beyond the base perimeter until reaching a vibrant marketplace.

Stalls overflowed with colorful wares as merchants called to passersby. The lively atmosphere lifted her spirits slightly.

She snapped photos absently as she browsed.

At a boutique, she purchased a flowing bohemian dress with intricate embroidery and changed in their fitting room.

By midday, her camera roll filled with images of local artisans at work. She'd collected several handmade souvenirs.

Then a jewelry stall caught her eye.

"Try anything you like!" The vendor beamed as she paused before a display of costume rings.

Her fingers hovered over a faux diamond solitaire. Sliding it onto her ring finger, she held it up to sunlight.

The stone glittered despite its humble quality, stirring bittersweet emotions.

"These come in pairs - his and hers. Only 20 dollars!" The vendor gestured to matching bands.

Evelyn's smile turned wistful as she removed the ring. "Not today, thank you."

"15 dollars - my final offer!"

She shook her head politely before walking away, the phantom weight of the ring lingering on her finger.