Chapter 328

At that moment, Evelyn's racing heart suddenly stilled. Relief and exhilaration flooded through her. The emotions were too intense to put into words.

Liam Blackwood's fist connected with Julian Whitmore's abdomen again. The doctor coughed up blood, collapsing to the floor.

Julian's terrified gaze locked onto Liam's face—twisted with fury, like a demon from hell.

Liam didn't stop. He seized Julian by the collar and delivered another brutal punch to his face. Blood splattered. Bruises bloomed. Julian lay there, barely conscious, his features swollen beyond recognition.

Once finished, Liam snatched Evelyn's discarded clothes and hurried to drape them over her trembling form.

Even though she still wore her undergarments, his chest ached at the sight of her humiliation.

A few seconds later, and Julian would have—

The thought made Liam's blood boil.

He wrapped Evelyn tightly in a blanket, then kicked Julian one last time before stepping over him.

"Don't... go..." Evelyn's whisper was barely audible.

Liam froze. "Cassandra?" He leaned closer. "What did you say?"

"Please... don't leave me..." Her head lolled weakly against his chest.

"I'm taking you home," he murmured.

Evelyn closed her eyes, gathering strength. Then, with effort, she spoke again. "Search... his house..."

Liam glanced at Julian's motionless body. Understanding dawned.

He carefully laid Evelyn back on the bed and began combing through the room. Drawers. Cabinets. Nothing.

Then he moved to the study.

More rifling. More frustration.

Until—

Four cruise tickets. Solterra to Aldenria. Purchased three years ago.

Liam scooped Evelyn into his arms and carried her out.

In the car, he held her close, ensuring the blanket stayed secure.

For the first time in hours, Evelyn felt safe. The tension drained from her body. Exhaustion won.

She slept.

When she woke, dusk painted the room in gold.

Blackwood Manor. Her own bed.

Rosalind Baskins hovered nearby, guilt etched across her face.

"Evelyn! Thank God you're awake."

Evelyn smiled weakly. "Don't blame yourself. I'm fine."

Rosalind hesitated. "If—"

"No 'ifs.'" Evelyn sat up, waving her off. "Where's Liam?"

"In his study. Dealing with Julian." Rosalind's jaw tightened. "That bastard kidnapped you. Tried to—"

Evelyn shook her head. "We can't charge him with kidnapping."

"Why not?"

"Aldenrian law. Illegal search and trespassing carry equal weight. If we press charges, Liam could face repercussions too."

Rosalind's eyes flashed. "So he gets away with it?"

"Hardly." Evelyn smirked. "Liam already beat him half to death."

"But what if Julian reports him?"

"Then he'd have to admit to kidnapping. A felony." Evelyn patted Rosalind's shoulder. "Liam might get a slap on the wrist, but Julian? He'll rot in prison."

She exhaled. "Trust me. He'll swallow this defeat quietly."

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