Chapter 478

The night was dark as ink.

Vivian Bennett jolted upright in bed.

Fine beads of cold sweat covered her forehead.

Her chest heaved violently.

She gasped for air.

Her fingernails dug deep into her palms.

The dream had felt too real.

It was as if she had returned to that fiery night over a decade ago.

Thick smoke choked her, making it impossible to open her eyes.

Scorching heat waves blasted against her face.

She desperately tried to run.

But her legs felt as heavy as lead.

Helplessness and fear completely consumed her.

That long-forgotten scene.

Tonight, it reappeared with startling clarity.

Every detail was vividly precise.

Even the palpitations felt exactly the same.

She could hardly distinguish between dream and reality.

Until urgent calls pierced through the nightmare.

Pulling her back from the abyss.

"Vivian?"

Liam Sullivan's deep voice sounded beside her.

His warm palm stroked her back.

Only then did Vivian fully awaken.

She turned her head blankly.

Meeting Liam's concerned gaze.

"Nightmare?" His brow furrowed deeply.

Vivian nodded gently.

Her lips still pale.

"What did you dream about?" Liam pulled her into his arms.

He felt her trembling body.

Vivian remained silent for a moment.

Finally, she understated it. "I dreamed of a fire. I couldn't escape."

She lowered her eyelids.

Hiding the complex emotions in her eyes.

Those sealed past things.

She didn't know how to bring them up.

Nor did she want to mention them again.

Liam gazed at her pale profile.

Sensing her evasion keenly.

But he didn't press further.

He only held her tighter.

"You've been too tired lately," he said softly. "Between work and illness, the psychological pressure is too great."

Vivian leaned against his chest.

She murmured a soft "Mm."

Perhaps that was really the case.

Otherwise, why would she suddenly dream of something so distant?

"Since you're tired, rest properly." Liam's tone brooked no argument. "Don't go to work these next few days. Recuperate at home."

Vivian immediately lifted her head. "How can that work? Professor Morrison still has projects…"

"I'll help you ask for leave." Liam cut her off. "Your health comes first."

His gaze was firm and commanding.

Vivian wanted to argue further.

But he stopped her with a look.

"Be good." He caressed her cheek. "You're not in any state to work right now."

Vivian looked into his concerned eyes.

Finally, she nodded gently.

Perhaps she really needed a good rest.

Otherwise, even her dreams would remind her.

Those past events she deliberately tried to forget.

Had never truly disappeared.