Chapter 573

"Next time," Liam Sullivan replied calmly, his expression unchanged.

Vivian Bennett didn't press further, only saying softly, "You'll have to make it up to me next time."

"Hmm."

Liam picked up his knife and fork again, meticulously cutting the steak on his plate with an elegance that was almost mesmerizing. Once finished, he slid his plate toward her and took hers in exchange.

Vivian was slightly taken aback, feeling unexpectedly honored. "I could have done it myself."

"Don't refuse," Liam's tone held an undeniable authority, yet his long fingers had already picked up the nearby wine glass, raising it toward her. The candlelight reflected in his deep eyes, spreading a rare, indulgent gentleness. "For the rest of our lives, I'll be in your care, Mrs. Sullivan."

His voice was low, each word clear, carrying a weight of solemn sincerity.

Vivian's heart trembled.

She had never imagined that a man as aloof and reserved as Liam could utter words so close to romantic. For a moment, astonishment, joy, and an indescribable ache surged within her, making her breath catch.

She shook her head, dispelling the jumble of emotions, a faint smile curving her lips as she also raised her glass, gently clinking it against his. "Mr. Sullivan, I'll be in your care as well."

She tilted her head back and drank it all.

The red wine slid down her throat, warmth spreading quickly. A faint blush soon colored her cheeks.

In the flickering candlelight, Liam watched her increasingly dazed eyes and asked softly, "Drunk?"

Vivian shook her head. "This little bit isn't enough."

"But your face is very red." His voice grew even lower and more magnetic, like the richest notes of a cello, his gaze openly intense.

Vivian touched her warm cheek, feeling somewhat self-conscious as she averted her eyes. "It's the atmosphere... it's making my heart race."

"Then why not have a few more glasses?" A faint smile touched the corner of Liam's mouth, gentle and inviting. "It's the perfect atmosphere for it."

Whether it was his overly captivating voice or the fact that he was actively encouraging her to drink—something she found unusual—Vivian narrowed her slightly blurred eyes, studying him carefully. "I have a feeling... you're up to something."

Usually, urging someone to drink made her think of men with ulterior motives, but Liam clearly wasn't that type. Yet his intentions eluded her.

Liam seemed intent on keeping her guessing, speaking leisurely. "We've been together for a while now. Statistically speaking, it's time to consider having a child. A little wine in the evening can set the mood. Who knows... with enough effort, we might have a little one who looks like you and me."

He stared at her, his gaze so deep it seemed to pull her in.

Vivian stared back blankly for a moment before the deeper meaning of his words sank in. Her cheeks flushed even hotter, and she shot him a reproachful look. "Don't say things like that so seriously..."

She had been pondering his words so earnestly, only to realize he meant... putting in the "effort" tonight.

"So, are you drinking or not?" The coaxing tone in Liam's voice grew stronger, like a feather lightly brushing her heart, making it itch with anticipation.

Vivian wrestled with the decision for a moment before asking quietly, "What if I really get drunk?"

Liam was exceedingly patient. "I won't let you get drunk."

"You don't know my tolerance," she muttered. "What if I do get drunk? Then nothing will happen."

Liam chuckled softly. "At the very least, I certainly won't be drunk."

Vivian pressed her lips together, her cheeks as red as sunset clouds, a shy, shimmering light dancing in her eyes.

Deep down, she too longed for a child.

Although her life with Liam was sweet enough as a couple, adding a little life would make their family more complete and bring her even greater peace of mind.