Chapter 78

Abigail Foster gently rubbed Evelyn Carter's back, playing the role of a comforting mother figure.

"Mrs. Blackwood, please don't be so distressed. General Blackwood is swamped with military affairs. He's been completely immersed in reorganizing the training schedules."

"After the incident you experienced, the entire base has heightened security measures. Every soldier is being thoroughly vetted. He simply can't abandon his responsibilities during daylight hours."

"He's sacrificing his precious sleep just to stay by your side at night. Believe me, General Blackwood cares deeply about you."

Evelyn seemed to find some solace in Abigail's words. She nestled into the nurse's embrace like a child seeking comfort. "Do you truly think someone like me matters to him?"

Abigail continued her gentle patting. "Mrs. Blackwood, though we've only known each other briefly, I can see you're a wonderful person. Why would you doubt yourself?"

It appeared Evelyn had found someone to open up to. Clutching Abigail's shoulder, she confessed tearfully, "Abigail, I love him so much. What should I do?"

The nurse smiled affectionately and sighed. "Oh darling, he's your husband! Of course you love him! If you're worried about him losing sleep to care for you, why not focus on recovering faster?"

"That way you can return to the residence and General Blackwood can finally get proper rest."

"But my hand injury hasn't fully healed," Evelyn sniffled, pulling back slightly. "Returning home now would be inconvenient."

Abigail's eyes crinkled with amusement. "Your hand looks perfectly fine to me. You're managing meals without any trouble."

"Yes, but I need to keep the wound dry and I can't change the bandages alone," Evelyn explained, looking troubled.

"Oh, is that all?" Abigail chuckled. "Bathing and dressing changes only take about fifteen minutes. I'm certain General Blackwood can spare that much time for you."

Evelyn's cheeks flushed pink as she lowered her gaze. The thought of asking him for such intimate help overwhelmed her. She murmured shyly, "He can't possibly..."

Abigail looked surprised. "Why ever not?"

Taking Abigail's arm gently, Evelyn began leading her back toward the hospital building.

As they walked, she spoke softly, "Abigail, I want to go home. Would you come every evening to help me with bathing and dressing changes? I'll pay you extra."

"But my salary comes from General Blackwood. It wouldn't be proper to accept additional payment," Abigail protested.

"Does that mean you agree?" Evelyn asked hopefully.

"Mrs. Blackwood, if you don't wish to trouble the General, then it's only right that I assist you," Abigail conceded.

Evelyn couldn't contain her joy. Her heart already raced at the thought of returning to Liam. "Thank you so much, Abigail."

At first light, Evelyn packed her belongings excitedly. She changed into her own clothes and hurried back to the military residence.

Approaching the building, she noticed armed guards stationed at the entrance - security had indeed been tightened. Recognizing her, the soldiers saluted respectfully and let her pass.

Reaching the apartment door, Evelyn took a deep breath before entering the code and pushing it open.

Inside, she found Liam in the process of buttoning his crisp dress shirt, his chest still partially exposed. Her sudden entrance clearly startled him.

Evelyn's face burned as her gaze inadvertently lingered on his bare skin.

Flustered, she immediately lowered her head and turned away, awkwardly closing the door behind her.

With her back to Liam, Evelyn felt a heavy weight in her chest realizing he'd only rested two hours before preparing for work again.

Regaining his composure, Liam continued fastening his buttons before breaking the silence. "Why have you returned?"

"I'm better now," Evelyn replied, slowly turning to face him.

With only two buttons secured, Liam approached and gently took her injured hand. "Has the wound scabbed over yet?"