Chapter 243

As Harrison Pierce stepped out of the study, Liam Blackwood rose from his seat.

"Righteous hearts carry blades to protect, while wicked souls wield them to conquer," Harrison murmured while walking away.

"General Blackwood, I sincerely hope to witness Aldenria develop an impregnable defense system to shield our nation from further disgrace. I'm counting on you." Harrison's voice carried the weight of his deepest aspirations.

While escorting the president out of Blackwood Manor, Liam felt an uncomfortable tightness in his chest. Evelyn Carter waited anxiously at the dining table, her nerves stretched thin.

When Liam returned, Evelyn rushed to him, her worry palpable. "Darling, did President Pierce give you trouble? Was he angry? Are there going to be consequences?"

Though Liam's expression remained grave, he managed a small smile as his fingers gently combed through her silky hair. "Everything's fine, love. Don't worry."

"Are you absolutely certain?" Her voice trembled slightly.

"Positive," Liam assured her.

Evelyn reached up to cradle his face, her delicate fingers tracing the tired lines. The warmth of her touch seeped into his bones, bringing unexpected comfort.

Liam caught her hand and pressed it against his cheek, gazing at her with deep affection.

"You look exhausted, my love," she whispered, distress coloring her voice. "You've been working nonstop. You need rest."

"There are things I can't share with you yet, sweetheart. Thank you for understanding," Liam replied softly.

Evelyn offered a gentle smile, her eyes overflowing with love. "Dinner's been reheated three times already. Let's eat."

Liam nodded and led her to the dining table.

That night, Liam worked until dawn. When he finally returned to their bedroom, Evelyn had succumbed to exhaustion, her breathing deep and even.

The next morning found Evelyn at the hospital's ICU ward as usual. After spending time with Alexander and consulting with his doctors, she handed over her engagement ring to the medical staff.

The doctor initially objected to bringing jewelry into the sterile environment, but Evelyn insisted the sentimental value might stimulate Alexander's will to survive. Reluctantly, the doctor complied.

As Evelyn prepared to leave, a male doctor in a white coat suddenly blocked her path. When she recognized his face, her breath caught in her throat.

Julian Whitmore offered a charming smile, his dark eyes unreadable behind his glasses. Adjusting the frames, he murmured, "What an unexpected pleasure, my dear former lover."

The term "former lover" made Evelyn's heart stutter, panic creeping up her spine like icy fingers.

She wasn't the real Evelyn Carter. Yet Julian seemed convinced she was, even mentioning her fluency in eight languages. Before her memory loss, Julian had known her true identity. The terrifying realization struck her - Julian was a brilliant surgeon.

Evelyn's fingers unconsciously drifted to the scar at the base of her skull. Goosebumps erupted across her skin as horrifying possibilities flooded her mind.

"Dr. Whitmore," she managed, forcing calm into her voice. "Do you practice at this hospital?"

Julian's smile remained light as he casually replied, "Not exactly. Just consulting on a special case."

Evelyn's pulse quickened, her throat suddenly dry. As the heir to a pharmaceutical empire and renowned surgeon, he could have easily manipulated those DNA test results.

She had initially suspected Liam. Now, Julian appeared far more suspicious - and dangerous. This man, like Victoria Dawson, radiated menace.

Julian frowned, stepping closer. "You're pale. Are you unwell?" His hand reached toward her forehead.

Evelyn recoiled, her voice trembling. "I have urgent matters. Excuse me." She hurried away before he could respond, her heart pounding like a trapped bird.