Chapter 448

Evelyn's pulse quickened with nervous anticipation as she hesitantly whispered, "Liam, are you... unable to perform?"

Liam's handsome face darkened instantly, his jaw tightening. The question struck at the very core of his masculinity, especially coming from the woman he adored more than life itself. He remained silent for an uncomfortably long moment, struggling to form a response.

Evelyn gasped. "You're serious?"

A heavy weight settled in Liam's chest. He drew a steadying breath before answering in a controlled tone, "Don't test me, Evelyn. It won't end well for you."

Heat flooded Evelyn's cheeks, equal parts embarrassment and shock at Liam's uncharacteristic restraint.

Frustration bubbled up inside her at his continued refusal. "You claim to love me. That you've loved me since we were children. Were those all lies?"

Liam abruptly released her, creating physical distance between them as he stepped back.

His expression turned stormy. "Yes, I love you. More than anything. I want to spend every moment with you. But what about you, Evelyn? Is this real for you? Or just some passing fancy?"

Evelyn's heart hammered against her ribs as she nodded fervently. "Yes, it's real."

Liam barely caught her whispered confession, his anger dissipating instantly. He countered sharply, "What kind of love is this? Physical attraction? Or just affection for the boy next door?"

Confusion clouded Evelyn's features. "Does it matter?"

Liam pressed forward, his voice rough with emotion. "Would you stay for me? Remain in Aldenria? Build a life with me here?"

Evelyn felt torn, her internal conflict written across her face. Not this again, she thought desperately. She'd been searching for solutions, but each path seemed to lead to heartbreak.

If successful, she'd return to Aldenria with their child. If she failed... she and the baby would remain in Solterra while Liam suffered alone in Aldenria.

Her fingers trembled as she reached for Liam's arm, her gaze tracing his beloved features. "Liam, I want nothing more than to stay with you in Aldenria. But this isn't a choice I can make freely. I have to go back."

"Enough," Liam cut her off sharply, shaking off her touch. He turned away with visible pain, striding toward his study.

Evelyn rushed after him, blocking his path with outstretched arms. Fighting to control her emotions, she pleaded with a tremor in her voice, "Liam, this is all I'm asking for right now. Can't you give me this one thing?"

Liam exhaled sharply, avoiding her imploring gaze. The sight of her begging tore at his soul.

Her frustration mounted at his continued rejection. Tears welled in her luminous eyes. "I'm willing to sacrifice everything - my innocence, my pride - and you still push me away. Do you even care for me? What's holding you back?"

After a tense silence, Liam finally spoke through clenched teeth. "Leave. Now."

"I won't!" Evelyn declared stubbornly.

Reaching his limit, Liam suddenly grabbed her wrist and pulled her flush against him, towering over her smaller frame.

His eyes burned crimson with barely restrained emotion. Each word seemed to cost him dearly as he ground out, "Cassandra, how much longer do you intend to torture me like this?"

Evelyn froze, tears glistening on her lashes.

Liam's voice turned savage. "Do you think the agony of your departure wasn't enough? Now you want to leave me with more bittersweet memories to haunt my sleepless nights for eternity?"

Evelyn shook her head violently as tears streamed down her face, her heart shattering at his words. The thought of causing him such pain was unbearable.

Seeing her silent tears, Liam's resolve crumbled. His voice broke with despair. "There's no man on earth who wants to marry you more than I do. I dream of sharing your bed, watching every sunrise and sunset by your side."