Chapter 236

"Liam, you're home," Evelyn murmured softly. The moment Liam heard her voice, his pulse quickened. The way her lips curved into that gentle smile breathed life back into his weary soul.

He had always been devoted to Victoria. But the imposter had never stirred his heart the way Evelyn did.

Real love defied logic. It was pure, raw emotion - the kind that endured lifetimes without fading.

After shrugging off his coat, Liam crossed the room to where Evelyn stood. Without hesitation, he pulled her into his arms, holding her close against his chest.

Evelyn froze momentarily before melting into his embrace. The solid warmth of his body anchored her as his familiar cedarwood scent enveloped her senses.

Her heartbeat accelerated until she could hear it pounding in her ears. "What's this about?" she whispered against his shoulder.

"Just needed to hold you," Liam murmured. He pressed his lips to her forehead, fingers threading through her silken hair. "Long day."

Evelyn surrendered to the moment, letting his affection wash over her. The way he held her - so tender yet possessive - made her wonder if perhaps he'd finally fallen for her too.

Hesitantly, she slid her arms around his waist. "Have you eaten? I kept dinner warm."

Liam pulled back just enough to meet her gaze. "You waited for me?"

"I wanted us to eat together."

A soft smile touched his lips. "Don't skip meals on my account, sweetheart. Your health comes first."

Evelyn nodded, warmth blooming in her chest at the endearment. "Let me reheat everything."

As Liam started to release her, she caught his hand. "The staff can handle it. You should rest after your long day."

They moved to the sitting area, but before they could settle, Liam's phone rang. His expression darkened when he saw the caller ID. "Mother?"

Whatever Eleanor said transformed Liam's demeanor instantly. He stood abruptly, ending the call with clipped words.

Evelyn rose beside him, alarmed. "What's wrong?"

"Stay here. Eat, rest. I need to go out." His grip on her hand was almost painful.

Her stomach twisted with worry. She'd never seen him so agitated. "Tell me what's happening. I'm your wife."

Liam hesitated before answering. "It's Donovan."

"Donovan?" The name sent a jolt through her. The man who'd saved her from that hellish drug den. His return should be cause for celebration, yet Liam looked like he'd seen a ghost.

"What happened to him?" Dread pooled in Evelyn's stomach. She knew the risks undercover narcotics officers faced - they either came home heroes... or in body bags.

Liam shook his head. "Don't know yet. He's at Memorial Hospital."

Tears pricked Evelyn's eyes. Donovan wasn't just Liam's brother - he'd risked everything to save her life. She tightened her grip on Liam's hand. "I'm coming with you."

Seeing her tears, Liam's resistance crumbled. Without another word, he led her to the car, their fingers still entwined as they raced toward the hospital.