Chapter 334

Vivian Bennett gently touched his arm with her fingertips.

The man leaned back in his chair with his eyes closed, weariness etched between his brows.

Her voice softened. "Why don't you rest on the bed?"

Liam Sullivan shook his head, his brow furrowing.

After a long moment, his thin lips moved. "Dirty."

Vivian couldn't help but let out a soft laugh.

The man was unbearably particular.

Yet his serious, resistant expression made her heart soften.

The night grew deeper.

Fine snow began to fall outside, dotting the windowsill.

A snowy mist enveloped the entire night sky.

Vivian leaned against the window, her gaze fixed inside the hospital room.

Two figures, one large and one small, filled her entire world.

He was here, keeping watch.

As if time had stopped just for them.

Seven in the morning.

Pale golden dawn light streamed through the glass, filling the hospital room.

Light and shadow cast a warm glow over the two embracing figures.

Tree shadows swayed outside the window as the accumulated snow slowly melted.

The cold winter morning held an unexpected warmth.

Vivian opened her eyes groggily.

She had slept deeply through the night.

Rubbing her throbbing temples, she suddenly froze.

On the opposite hospital bed, Grace Harper was smiling at her.

"Cousin?" Vivian whispered in delighted surprise.

Grace made a quieting gesture.

She glanced behind Vivian and said softly, "He just fell asleep. Don't wake him."

Only then did Vivian realize Liam was lying beside her.

Sunlight fell on his face, softening his sharp features.

His long lashes cast shadows over his deep-set eyes.

Dappled light danced across the bridge of his straight nose.

Vivian's lips curved upward unconsciously.

She quietly drew the curtains to block the harsh sunlight.

That was when she noticed the strong arms wrapped around her waist.

He held her tightly.

Warmth flooded her heart instantly.

Tiny sparks of light shimmered in her eyes.

"Cousin, when did you wake up?"

Grace's voice remained soft. "Last night. I didn't want to disturb you since you were asleep. The doctor came for rounds this morning. He stayed with me the whole time. He just lay down to rest."

Vivian's chest warmed.

She hadn't expected Liam to be so thoughtful.