Chapter 659

Vivian retrieved two tubes of ointment from the medical kit and handed one to Liam.

"Anti-inflammatory." She paused. "Apply it."

Liam accepted the tube, his fingertips brushing against the cool surface.

"And this." Vivian passed him a small mirror.

He glanced up, noticing she kept only one tube for herself.

"Stop fighting." Her voice was soft. "It's not worth it."

Liam's Adam's apple bobbed. Was she worried about him?

Vivian turned toward Ethan, shoving the remaining ointment and cotton swabs into his hands.

"Do it yourself."

Ethan fumbled with the cap, hissing when the swab touched his wound.

"Hopeless." Vivian snatched the supplies back.

Ethan obediently tilted his face up, a foolish grin still playing on his lips.

She pressed firmly on the bruise along his cheekbone.

"Ow!"

"Now it hurts?" Vivian glared. "Do you even know who Liam is? If he'd fought seriously, you'd be dead."

"He threw the first punch." Ethan pouted. "Besides, keeping someone that dangerous close to you is reckless."

Vivian's hand stilled.

"He wouldn't."

"Four years changes people." Ethan's expression turned grave. "You don't know who he is anymore."

"Shut up." She raised the swab threateningly.

Ethan immediately fell silent, though his eyes sparkled.

Her fingertips, cool with ointment, brushed lightly over his injuries.

Ethan held his breath.

Across the room, Liam stood in the shadows.

He watched Vivian's faint frown as she tended to Ethan.

Noticed the unconscious gentleness of her movements.

And saw the undisguised joy in Ethan's gaze.

"Master?"

Annika appeared behind him without warning.

"Your face..." She stared at his injuries. "Did Ethan do this?"

Liam turned away.

Annika followed. "You're just letting it go?"

He didn't stop walking.

Back in his room, Liam tossed the ointment onto the desk.

The mirror reflected a man with split lips and stormy eyes.

Memories from four years ago flashed through his mind—

Vivian collapsing in a pool of blood.

Ethan cradling her broken body, weeping.

Liam's fist clenched slowly.

If he couldn't have her...

Then no one would.