Chapter 414

Evelyn struggled to contain her emotions as her fingers curled into tight fists. When she finally regained composure, her voice trembled as she asked, "Between me and Victoria, who would you choose?"

Liam didn't hesitate. "I choose you."

"Then why did you treat me that way yesterday?" Evelyn's eyes glistened with unshed tears. "Even when Victoria said those horrible things to me, you didn't defend me. You agreed with her."

"I'm sorry," Liam murmured.

Evelyn turned away sharply. "I don't accept your apology."

"Cassandra—" His voice cracked with emotion as he watched her walk away.

In three long strides, he caught up and wrapped his arms around her from behind, holding her so tightly she couldn't escape.

Evelyn froze. Her heartbeat thundered in her ears.

Liam buried his face in the curve of her neck. "I want to be with you," he confessed, his voice raw. "Not just as your protector, but as your partner. That's why I let Victoria test you."

His arms tightened. "Do you think it didn't kill me to see you hurting? I was dying inside."

Evelyn discreetly wiped her cheeks.

Liam exhaled shakily, his warm breath ghosting over her skin. "I needed to know if I mattered to you. If you'd feel anything for me."

Evelyn's knees nearly buckled at his proximity.

"I already told you," she whispered. "If I can return to Aldenria safely, we'll get married. Wasn't that promise enough?"

Liam wished he could keep her locked in his embrace forever. "Tell me you love me," he begged. "Tell me this marriage isn't just duty."

Evelyn squirmed in his grasp. "I can't make any promises right now."

"I'll wait," he vowed.

Her voice dropped to a shy whisper. "Does that mean... you won't touch me anymore?"

Liam pulled back slightly, confused. "I'm touching you right now."

"You said it wouldn't happen again," she accused, cheeks flaming.

Realization dawned. Liam turned her to face him, tilting her chin up. "You remember last night?"

Evelyn shook her head violently. "Not really. Did you... or was it me?"

A slow smile spread across Liam's face. "It was definitely you."

Evelyn groaned in mortification. "I'm so sorry, Liam."

His expression turned serious. "Don't be. Just take responsibility."

"I—" Evelyn's protest died as she tentatively slid her arms around his waist. "I can't do that right now."

Liam pressed a tender kiss to her forehead. "I'll wait," he repeated. "However long it takes."

Evelyn rested her head against his chest, listening to his steady heartbeat. For the first time since the incident, she felt safe. Protected. Wanted.

Neither noticed Victoria watching from the shadows, her nails digging bloody crescents into her palms.