Chapter 390

The woman who had been desperate to leave mere moments ago now lingered, her demeanor shifting to one of unexpected tenderness as she offered to care for him.

Liam's lips curved into a faint smile. "What changed your mind so suddenly?" he inquired, curiosity lacing his voice.

Evelyn pressed her lips together thoughtfully before answering with a soft smile. "You got hurt protecting me. It's only fair I look after you now."

A deep chuckle rumbled in Liam's chest as his gaze held hers with quiet intensity.

With playful mischief dancing in her eyes, Evelyn added, "In medieval tales, when a damsel had nothing else to offer her rescuer, she'd often give herself as repayment."

Heat surged through Liam's body, prompting him to push the blanket down slightly. His voice dropped to a husky timbre. "Is that what you're offering?"

Evelyn nodded solemnly. "I'm offering myself."

Liam's expression grew serious. "Don't tease me about this, Evelyn. I might actually believe you."

"I'm completely serious," she affirmed without hesitation.

Liam closed his eyes, feigning rest, though his pulse raced beneath his skin.

Evelyn remained silent, gently pulling the blanket back up to his shoulders.

With eyes still shut, Liam slowly pushed it down again, letting it rest at his waist.

Frowning, Evelyn tugged the blanket up once more.

Again, Liam pushed it down, his closed eyelids fluttering slightly.

Just as Evelyn reached for the blanket again, Liam's hand shot out, capturing her wrist. "I'm burning up," he murmured without opening his eyes.

"You're weakened," she countered softly. "We can't risk you catching a chill."

With a resigned sigh, Liam released her hand, allowing her to tuck the blanket around him properly this time.

Evelyn lingered awhile longer, watching his steady breathing until she was certain he slept. Then she slipped quietly from the room.

The moment the door clicked shut, Liam's eyes flew open, fixed on the doorway with unmistakable longing.

When Ryan entered moments later, his manner was noticeably more polite. "Ms. Wright, shall I arrange your transportation?"

Evelyn shook her head. "I'm staying."

Ryan blinked in surprise before breaking into a knowing grin. "Excellent. General Blackwood's recovery will surely accelerate with your care."

"I'll take my leave then," Ryan said tactfully, vanishing before she could change her mind.

Evelyn rose abruptly when Oliver approached with a tray. "Is that Liam's dinner?"

"Let me," she insisted, extending her hands.

After a brief hesitation, Oliver relinquished the tray.

As she turned toward the stairs, thermos in hand, she nearly collided with Victoria Hudson.

Their eyes locked in an electric moment of recognition, tension crackling between them despite their composed expressions.

Victoria's smile didn't reach her eyes. "Ms. Wright, what brings you here?"

Evelyn matched her polite tone. "Liam was injured protecting me. Where else would I be?"

Victoria's lips thinned momentarily before she gestured to the tray. "How thoughtful. Why don't you let me handle his meal?"

Evelyn stepped back instinctively, but Victoria had already seized the tray.

"I've prepared beef stew," Victoria offered sweetly. "Would you care for some?"