Chapter 264

"I've only ever loved you."

The words pierced through Liam Blackwood's anxious heart like a thousand needles. A surge of exhilaration flooded his veins, but it came with an undercurrent of restless unease. His joy was tinged with apprehension.

Overcome by emotion, he couldn't stop himself. His hand found its way to the nape of her neck, fingers tangling in her hair.

His lips crashed against hers in a desperate kiss, pouring every ounce of his pent-up affection into the moment.

Evelyn Carter's palms flew to his chest, attempting to create distance between them.

Fearful she might escape, Liam's free arm snaked around her waist, pulling her flush against his muscular frame.

Her entire body molded against his solid chest. A startled gasp escaped her lips before he claimed them again, kissing her until they swelled. Dizziness overtook her as oxygen became scarce.

His scorching breath against her skin turned her limbs to liquid. She melted into his embrace, surrendering to the intoxicating kiss.

Though passionate, his kisses maintained a thread of restraint.

Each time he approached the brink of losing control, he'd pull back, releasing her with visible effort. Without hesitation, he'd turn away to compose himself elsewhere.

After their meal, the couple visited the civil affairs office where their divorce was finalized without complications. This time, there were no second thoughts or lingering regrets.

During the drive back to Blackwood Manor, Evelyn remained deep in thought. Eventually, she voiced her desire to see her grandparents in person.

Liam respected her wishes but wanted to avoid any potential encounter with Julian Whitmore at Wright Manor. Instead, he sent Adrian Castillo to escort Archibald and Margaret Hoffis to their home.

Back at Blackwood Manor, Evelyn placed the divorce papers on the table and prepared tea. She sat nervously in the living room, anticipation knotting her stomach. Excitement eluded her - only anxiety remained.

Without her memories, she couldn't recall her true feelings toward her grandparents. They were her last living relatives - she couldn't bear losing them.

"This way, Mr. and Mrs. Hoffis," Adrian's voice announced from the entrance.

Evelyn straightened at the sound, her gaze darting toward the door.

Liam sat beside her, his hand enveloping hers in reassurance. "Don't be nervous."

Evelyn bit her lip. "They don't recognize me anymore. Grandmother came before on behalf of that imposter granddaughter. The way she treated me... it hurt."

"If you want to tell them the truth, do it," Liam encouraged. He supported her decisions unconditionally, unwilling to see her suffer any longer.

She shook her head. Revealing the truth would mean exposing everything to Julian and Victoria.

What if Julian became desperate enough to harm her grandparents for the inheritance before she could reclaim her identity? The risk was too great. She only wanted to see them, nothing more.

Under Adrian's guidance, Archibald and Margaret Hoffis entered the living room.

Evelyn rose with a polite smile. "Good afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Hoffis."

Margaret cast her a fleeting glance before sniffing dismissively. Her demeanor was frosty, eyes flashing with irritation.

Archibald froze the moment he saw Evelyn. His eyes widened in shock.

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Hearing her voice deepened his confusion. He stood rooted to the spot, conflict warring across his features as the light in his eyes dimmed.

Noticing his reaction, Margaret interjected sharply, "Stop staring. Your real granddaughter is at home watching television. This is just an uncanny lookalike."