Chapter 234

"Is there truly no alternative?" Liam's voice was tight with tension.

The neurologist adjusted his glasses. "There is one option. We could attempt surgical nerve repair to facilitate gradual memory recovery."

His colleague interjected, "But the risks are substantial. A single misstep could leave the patient in a permanent vegetative state. Given her current stable condition, we don't recommend taking that chance."

Evelyn turned to Liam, her fingers tightening around his sleeve. "Which surgeon in Aldenria would you trust with this procedure?"

Before the doctor could respond, Liam cut in sharply, "We're not doing it."

"Why not?" Evelyn's eyes flashed with frustration. The possibility of regaining her memories—however slim—felt worth the gamble.

Liam simply took her hand and thanked the medical team. With a firm grip, he led her out of the hospital.

The car ride to Blackwood Manor was silent, both lost in their thoughts as the city blurred past the windows. When they arrived, Liam didn't cut the engine.

"Go inside," he said softly, his knuckles whitening on the steering wheel. "There's something I need to handle. I'll return when it's done."

Evelyn nodded, stepping onto the gravel driveway. She watched his car disappear down the tree-lined road, wondering if this absence would stretch into days like before. The hollow ache in her chest lingered, but she squared her shoulders and walked inside.

Thirty minutes later, Liam's car screeched to a halt outside Wright Manor. He tore off his watch as he strode toward the entrance, Ryan Sullivan shadowing him closely.

Victoria Dawson leapt up from the sofa the moment he entered, her face lighting up. "Liam—"

Ryan moved like lightning, blocking her path. Liam didn't spare her a glance. His icy gaze swept the room. "Where's Julian?"

Victoria blinked. "Uncle Julian is upstairs. What's—"

"Get him down here. Now."

The command sent servants scattering. Two minutes later, Julian Whitmore descended the staircase, adjusting his gold-rimmed glasses with a polished smile. "To what do we owe this unexpected—"

Liam's fist connected with his jaw before he could finish.

Julian crashed to the marble floor, blood streaking from his split lip. He barely had time to register the pain before Liam hauled him up by his silk tie and drove a knee into his abdomen. A choked groan escaped Julian as he crumpled again.

Victoria screamed, rushing forward. "Have you lost your mind?! You'll kill him!"

Ryan caught her wrist, his voice low. "Stay out of it."

Liam crouched beside Julian, gripping his collar. He yanked him close until their faces were inches apart. "Listen carefully," he hissed, each word a blade. "I'm letting you breathe today. But this mercy won't last."

Julian's glasses lay shattered on the floor, his breath ragged. Liam released him with a shove, turning on his heel without another word. The slam of the front door echoed through the manor like a gunshot.