Chapter 333

The night was thick as ink.

Vivian Bennett kept vigil by her cousin Grace Harper's hospital bed, tears silently tracing her cheeks.

Liam Sullivan returned from his phone call and saw her slender, solitary silhouette.

In his memory, she had always been resilient and decisive.

But now she seemed as fragile as glass, ready to shatter at the slightest touch.

Each teardrop fell like a weight upon his heart, stirring a sharp, piercing pain.

He strode forward and gathered her chilled form into his arms.

Vivian's face pressed against the warmth of his chest, and all her defenses crumbled instantly.

She clung tightly to his solid waist, her tears soaking through his dress shirt.

Liam looked down at the trembling woman in his embrace, his throat tight.

A thousand unspoken words condensed into a firmer, more protective hold.

He only wanted to tell her—Don't be afraid. I'm here.

She wept for a long time before finally lifting her red, swollen eyes.

"Thank you..."

Her voice was hoarse, but filled with genuine emotion.

Without him, she didn't know how she would have survived this nightmare.

"Finished crying?"

Liam knelt down, looking up at her.

His deep eyes held a gentle light, tender enough to drown in.

Vivian stared at him, momentarily spellbound.

"Vivian."

He called her name softly, a slight curve touching his lips.

"How long do you plan to keep staring with those puffy eyes?"

"Huh?" Vivian snapped back to reality, her cheeks flushing.

She had been caught staring again.

She hastily wiped her tear-stained face and mumbled, "Do they really look that bad?"

Liam chuckled softly. "You always focus on the details."

His teasing finally drew a faint smile from her, lightening her heavy heart slightly.

"Get some rest." He glanced at his watch. "It's midnight."

"I can't sleep." Vivian shook her head, her gaze returning to the hospital bed. "My cousin hasn't woken up yet. I won't be able to sleep."

"Alright." Liam didn't press further. He pulled over a chair and sat down. "I'll stay with you."

Vivian was taken aback. "Aren't you going home?"

He was so particular about cleanliness. How could he stand not changing his clothes?

Liam leaned his head back wearily and closed his eyes.

"I'll go later. I'm staying with you for now."