Chapter 376

Evelyn found Liam's response disheartening. A shadow of dissatisfaction crossed her delicate features. It seemed he was deliberately avoiding the truth.

Meanwhile, Liam remained deep in thought, his piercing blue eyes focused on some distant point.

Evelyn changed the subject abruptly. "Liam, if we escape from this place, what are your plans?" Her voice held a note of curiosity.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, Liam answered casually, "I intend to dismantle the Obsidian Circle."

"This is Valtoria, not Aldenria," Evelyn reminded him, settling beside him until their shoulders touched. "How do you plan to destroy such a powerful organization here?"

"By eliminating their leadership. Without heads, the body will collapse," Liam explained matter-of-factly.

"Brilliant. Count me in." Evelyn's lips curved into a warm smile.

Liam glanced at her, confusion flickering in his gaze. He couldn't comprehend her statement. After their escape, Evelyn would return to Solterra.

Under Liam's intense scrutiny, Evelyn felt a blush creeping up her neck. Gently, she took his large hand and placed it on her lap, caressing it tenderly.

Liam stiffened slightly, watching her actions with growing bewilderment.

His pulse quickened as he observed her delicate fingers tracing patterns on his skin. Even during their brief marriage, she had never shown such affection.

Evelyn continued stroking his hand, her voice soft but firm. "We will get out of this place safely, Liam. I believe in you."

Liam slowly withdrew his hand. "This behavior might give me the wrong impression."

Evelyn paused as Liam pulled away, a bittersweet expression crossing her face. She couldn't suppress a small smile.

A straightforward man like him needed clear words to understand her feelings.

Blushing, Evelyn remained silent, letting the moment pass.

They then turned to more detailed planning, preparing for any contingencies. Evelyn felt an unusual calm settle over her.

No matter the outcome, as long as she remained Evelyn Carter, she held the power to ensure Liam's safe return to Aldenria.

Deep in the night, they received an unexpected summons from Victor Holloway - an opportunity presenting itself without their seeking.

Entering the opulent meeting hall bathed in golden light, they found themselves amidst a crowd. Among the attendees stood Adrian Castillo and Julian Whitmore, an unexpected sight that piqued their curiosity.

On the central table rested a familiar high-tech container, its presence instantly darkening Evelyn's expression.

Noticing her tension, Liam leaned closer, his breath warm against her ear. "What's wrong? Are you unwell?"

With a subtle nod, Evelyn gestured toward the container. Liam followed her gaze.

"What is it?" he whispered.

"Forty-eight vials of hydronium," Evelyn murmured, her voice barely audible. "I never imagined they'd acquire it so quickly from Solterra's heavily guarded research facility."

Liam considered this revelation. "Could there be Solterran spies among them?"

Evelyn's expression soured as realization dawned.

Meanwhile, Julian Prescott lounged with crossed legs, his sharp gaze fixed on Evelyn. After a deliberate pause, he demanded, "What are you two whispering about?"

Confused by the Valtorian language, Liam frowned at the question.

Evelyn offered a practiced smile. "Congratulations on securing the hydronium so swiftly."

Julian pointed at the container, skepticism evident. "Is this truly hydronium? We couldn't open it. That's why we brought you here - to verify its contents."

Evelyn's smile faltered. She had assumed the contents had been verified already.

Julian's gaze hardened. "Well? Can you open it or not?"