Chapter 391

Evelyn stood empty-handed, watching Victoria's domineering display. A suffocating pressure built in her chest. "No, it's fine," she managed to say.

"Liam must be hungry. I should get going," Victoria said with false politeness, her words a thinly veiled dismissal.

With that, she ascended the stairs with the food tray.

Evelyn's fists clenched until her nails bit into her palms. Seeking relief, she stepped onto the balcony where the evening breeze cooled her flushed cheeks.

She couldn't remain passive any longer. Though Liam loved her, he was still a man. Victoria was cunning, and their years of friendship could easily blossom into something more.

If she didn't act now, she might lose him forever.

Decision made, Evelyn spun on her heel and rushed upstairs. She pushed open the bedroom door without knocking to find Victoria helping Liam out of bed.

Both turned at the intrusion.

Heat rose to Evelyn's cheeks, but she forced a smile. "I came to see if Liam needed any help."

Liam's expression shifted from surprise to quiet delight, his gaze warming as it settled on her.

He'd thought she'd left. Her unexpected presence brought a rare smile to his usually stern face.

Victoria's lips thinned. "That won't be necessary, Ms. Wright. Haven't you had dinner? Perhaps Oliver could prepare something before you leave."

Evelyn's smile turned sweet. "I'm not hungry. Besides, I wasn't planning to leave."

Liam's eyebrows shot up at her bold declaration.

Victoria's forced smile looked painful. "It's hardly proper for an unmarried couple to be alone together."

"I don't mind." Evelyn turned her most radiant smile on Liam. "Do you, Liam?"

"Blackwood Manor's doors are always open for you," Liam replied evenly, lifting the blanket.

As he moved to rise, Victoria's expression darkened. She grabbed his arm. "Where are you going?"

When she realized his destination, she insisted, "Let me help you to the bathroom."

Liam shook his head. "I can manage."

Evelyn stepped forward. "I'll assist him."

Victoria's voice turned sharp. "Ms. Wright, didn't you hear? He needs privacy."

Evelyn met her glare unflinchingly. "We were married for six months. We shared meals, a bed, and I've seen every inch of him."

Victoria's face went slack with shock.

Liam's brows knitted together in bewilderment.

Victoria's mind raced—what exactly had Evelyn seen?

"Come, Liam." Evelyn's cheeks burned as she told this brazen lie, too embarrassed to meet his eyes.

A slow smile spread across Liam's face as he allowed her to guide him into the bathroom.

Inside, Evelyn lifted the toilet seat with trembling hands. Her face flamed as her gaze flickered downward before darting back up to his face.