Chapter 512

Liam's pale fingers clutched the bedsheet edge. His voice was feather-light. "Shadow, has the Dark Web contract been issued?"

Vivian Laurent paused while adjusting the IV drip.

"You shouldn't take such risks for me." His long lashes cast shadows across his face. "My life isn't worth saving."

Smack—Vivian slapped his shoulder.

"The life I saved isn't yours to throw away." She leaned down, locking eyes with him. "Remember, your life belongs to me now."

A sudden smile lit Liam's face, tiny sparks flickering in his eyes.

"Why did you take the France contract?" Vivian asked abruptly.

"Organization assignment." His tone was casual, as if discussing the weather.

Vivian's brows knitted together. "The Director's ambitions grow daily." She changed tack. "But that's irrelevant now. Focus on recovery first. Afterward, will you return to the organization or—"

"I've decided." Liam interrupted.

His gaze burned into Vivian. "If I survive this, I just want to be ordinary." His Adam's apple bobbed. "Shadow... can I stay with you?"

The room fell silent except for the IV drip's rhythmic sound.

Vivian turned to organize the medicine box. "We'll discuss it after you recover."

As she grabbed her coat to leave, Liam seized her wrist.

"These past years..." His voice held cautious hesitation. "Were you alright? Just five minutes. Please?"

Vivian looked down at his bandaged hand.

"Two minutes." She relented, waving off the two people by the door. "Give us privacy."

......

Outside, Ethan Roscente's polished shoes had worn a path in the hallway carpet.

When he checked his watch for the third time, the hospital door finally opened.

Only Isabella Langley and Lucas Lefèvre emerged.

Ethan lunged forward. "Where's Vivian?"

Isabella crossed her arms, smirking. "Mr. Roscente has spare time?"

Her fingers flicked, sending a silver needle glinting coldly under the lights.