Chapter 80

"I trust you and Dr. Reynolds from Aldenria can collaborate to resolve this issue and unlock hydronium's full potential," Liam said.

Benjamin nodded earnestly, though internally, he wasn't confident.

At noon, Adrian walked into the cafeteria, tray in hand.

Unsure of Evelyn's preferences, he decided to sample a bit of everything. The tray quickly piled high with enough food to last days.

As Adrian turned to leave, he nearly collided with Liam and Ryan.

"General Blackwood, good afternoon," Adrian greeted.

Liam gave a curt nod in acknowledgment.

Ryan eyed the overflowing tray and smirked. "Hungry much? Planning to feed an army?"

Adrian shrugged. "Had no idea what Mrs. Blackwood likes, so I grabbed options. Didn’t realize the portions were this generous."

Ryan chuckled. "Judging by Mrs. Blackwood’s figure, she probably sticks to salads and lean proteins—definitely not this carb overload."

Adrian shoved the tray toward Ryan. "Since you’re the expert, you handle her meals from now on."

Ryan hesitated, but before he could take it, Liam smoothly intercepted the tray.

"I’ll take care of it," Liam stated, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Both men gaped. The idea of their commanding general playing delivery boy was absurd.

"Sir, I’ve got this," Ryan blurted.

Adrian reached for the tray. "General, we were joking. I’ll learn her preferences—"

Liam ignored them, grabbing utensils before striding out.

Ryan and Adrian stood frozen, watching their general disappear down the hall.

Ryan turned to Adrian, baffled. "Did he just… personally deliver lunch?"

Adrian nodded slowly. "Yeah. Yeah, he did."

Ryan frowned. "Since when does General Blackwood do errands?"

"Maybe he wanted to see her."

"You think he’s into Mrs. Blackwood?"

Adrian smirked. "Can you blame him? She’s charming, witty—nothing like that manipulative childhood friend of his."

Ryan groaned. "Ugh, Victoria. That fake baby voice and constant waterworks? I’d rather listen to nails on a chalkboard."

Adrian slung an arm around Ryan’s shoulders. "Exactly. If Liam wanted her, he’d have married her years ago. Now come on—we’ve got a mole to catch, drills to prep, and paperwork taller than you."

Ryan groaned again. "Right. Let’s eat first—I need fuel for this nightmare."