Chapter 395

After neatly arranging her clothes in the wardrobe, Evelyn moved toward Liam. She leaned down to peek at the screen of his laptop.

His dark hair blocked her view instantly. Liam looked up, startled, his stern expression softening as he studied her delicate features.

Multiple windows cluttered his screen - classified military reports, inventory spreadsheets, encrypted emails, and several confidential documents.

Evelyn kept her position, slowly turning her head to meet his gaze.

At this proximity, Liam noticed how flawless her complexion was. The subtle floral scent of her shampoo teased his senses.

His throat moved visibly as his stare intensified.

"You should rest now, Liam," Evelyn murmured, her voice like velvet. "Put your work away for tonight."

With deliberate slowness, Liam closed the laptop.

Pleased, Evelyn took it from his hands and placed it on the dresser across the spacious bedroom.

"Would you prefer to shower or take a bath?" she asked, maintaining a respectful distance despite her nervousness.

Liam checked his watch - 8:15 pm. "You don't need to fuss over me. Go get some rest in your own room."

Evelyn stepped closer, hands clasped behind her back. "I'd like to stay with you tonight."

His eyebrows shot up in surprise.

"Not like that!" she clarified hastily. "Just in case you need assistance during the night - water, or help moving around."

Liam's intense scrutiny made her fidget. She couldn't decipher his thoughts.

Gesturing to the massive bed, she added, "This California king has plenty of space. I promise not to disturb your injuries."

A reluctant smile tugged at his lips. "Evelyn, I have my phone. If I need anything, I'll call you."

"But I'll worry," she insisted.

His voice dropped an octave. "So sharing my bed will ease your concerns?"

"I just want to take care of you."

"We're not married. Not even dating," he reminded her.

Evelyn chuckled. "When we were married, you barely noticed me. In your current state, you can hardly stand without help."

Having secured his reluctant agreement, Evelyn practically glowed. She hurried to the ensuite bathroom to prepare his bath.

As she helped Liam rise, his hand heavy on her shoulder, he eyed her skeptically. "We?"

"I can manage alone," he protested.

"I'm neither helpless nor a child," Evelyn countered smoothly.

Liam sighed. "This feels inappropriate, Evelyn. We don't have that kind of relationship."

"I never took you for a prude, Liam Blackwood," she teased, meeting his gaze without flinching.

In the bathroom, Evelyn tested the water temperature before turning to assist him. Liam caught her wrist.

"You're seriously going to help me bathe?" His ears turned pink.

Evelyn nodded earnestly.

"Doesn't this make you uncomfortable?" he pressed.

"It's just basic caregiving," she maintained calmly.

Watching her composed demeanor, Liam finally relented. As he removed his shirt, he stole a glance at Evelyn's reaction.

She froze, her cheeks blooming crimson as her eyes darted away.

Amused, Liam unfastened his pants. Evelyn spun around immediately, presenting him with her back.