Chapter 315

Though Evelyn held some reservations about Victoria, they paled in comparison to the sheer malice Victoria Dawson harbored. There had never been any real conflict between them. It would have been unthinkable for Liam to refuse such a simple request from Victoria.

"Of course, hop in," Evelyn replied warmly.

Rosalind popped the trunk open, allowing Victoria to stow her luggage before sliding into the back seat beside Liam.

"Liam, what a surprise! I didn’t realize you were here too," Victoria greeted him with practiced familiarity.

Liam responded with a curt, "Yeah."

The car sped along the open road after leaving the military base. The sky stretched endlessly above them, a brilliant blue canvas dotted with soft, drifting clouds. Rolling fields of golden grass flanked the highway, interrupted only by the occasional gentle rise of distant hills—a breathtaking landscape.

Evelyn couldn’t help but admire the view, though a quiet melancholy lingered in her chest.

In the back seat, Victoria chattered incessantly, jumping from topics of national politics to trivial gossip, from failed research projects to disaster relief efforts. Liam offered only the occasional monosyllabic response.

"I never expected Ms. Carter to be so remarkably skilled," Victoria suddenly remarked, her tone laced with curiosity. "What exactly did you do before all this?"

Evelyn hesitated briefly. "I don’t have much professional experience. I studied chemistry in university, so I have some foundational knowledge."

Victoria arched a brow. "Someone who can engineer machines and synthesize Azurium on their own is far beyond 'foundational knowledge.' The scientists at the base can’t stop talking about you. You’ve been the center of attention these past few days."

Evelyn pressed her lips together, offering a faint, noncommittal smile. Sensing she wasn’t getting anywhere, Victoria smoothly shifted gears.

"Liam." Her voice softened, taking on a nostalgic lilt. "Do you remember that field training exercise years ago? I twisted my ankle and couldn’t walk. You refused to leave me behind—carried me for twelve miles. Even when the mission failed, you stayed with me."

Liam frowned. He would’ve done the same for anyone. He had no idea why she was bringing this up now.

"Why mention that?" he asked, his tone flat.

The words settled heavily in Evelyn’s chest, leaving a bitter aftertaste. Logically, she knew she had no right to feel anything, but her heart refused to listen. The emotions churning inside her were beyond her control.

Victoria leaned back, casting a tender look at Liam. Her voice was thick with emotion as she murmured, "After that, I swore I’d never abandon you. No matter what happens in this life, I’ll stand by you."

"Unnecessary," Liam replied coolly, his expression unreadable.

Rosalind, gripping the steering wheel, rolled her eyes so hard it was a miracle they didn’t get stuck. Victoria’s theatrics were nauseating.

Victoria glanced at Evelyn’s stiff posture. Though she couldn’t see her face, a smug satisfaction curled in her chest.

"Liam, it’s been ages since our last barbecue. I’ve been craving your roasted eggplant and lamb skewers. Once everything settles, let’s have a feast at my place," she suggested eagerly.

"Fine," Liam muttered, closing his eyes.

Victoria beamed, leaning forward. "Ms. Carter, you should join us if you’re free."

Evelyn inhaled deeply, her fingers tightening imperceptibly on the edge of her seat. She forced her voice to remain steady. "Thanks for the invitation, but I’ll likely be occupied."

"What a shame," Victoria sighed dramatically. "Liam rarely cooks, but when he does, it’s divine. His barbecue could put professional chefs to shame."

"Is that so?" Evelyn managed a tight smile, her nails digging into the seat fabric.