Chapter 429

The days passed in quiet rhythm, and Olivia's health showed remarkable improvement. Her attitude toward Liam softened noticeably, a change he accepted with quiet understanding. After all, he knew the weight of his past mistakes.

As for the search for Victoria, Liam's network remained frustratingly silent. The peaceful days stretched on, yet Liam couldn't shake the feeling that this calm was merely the eye of the storm.

One crisp morning, a flustered maid came rushing to find Liam. "Mr. Blackwood! It's Miss Kensington - something's happened! Please come quickly!"

Alarmed, Liam followed the maid at once.

When they reached Olivia's chambers, the room stood empty save for the sound of running water from the adjoining bathroom. Liam shot a questioning look at the maid, who shifted uncomfortably before explaining.

"Miss Kensington insisted on bathing alone today, though we normally assist her. I waited just outside in case she needed anything. Then I heard her cry out."

The maid twisted her apron nervously. "She must have fallen, but she refused any help. I didn't dare enter uninvited - you know how she gets. Little Isabelle is too young to be of assistance. I had no choice but to fetch you."

Liam's gaze moved to the fogged glass door, already feeling the beginnings of a tension headache. "Wait here. I'll handle this." He approached the door and knocked firmly but politely. "Olivia? Are you hurt? Can we send someone in to check on you? I'll stay right out here."

Silence.

His pulse quickened as he knocked harder. "Olivia! Answer me!"

When no response came, Liam's protective instincts overrode propriety. He forced the door open, steam billowing out to reveal Olivia collapsed on the wet tiles. The sight of crimson streaks against white porcelain sent a jolt through his system.

Steeling himself, Liam grabbed a nearby towel and approached. As he moved to lift her, Olivia weakly pushed against his chest.

"Let me help you up," Liam murmured, keeping his voice calm despite the hammering in his chest. "The floor's too cold, and we need to tend to that cut." When her resistance faltered, he added, "Please."

With visible effort, Olivia finally allowed him to assist her to her feet, though she shrugged off his supporting arm as soon as she was steady. Liam quickly wrapped a dry towel around her shoulders, his eyes dropping to the nasty-looking gash on her leg - superficial but alarming.

Kneeling, Liam began tending to the wound with practiced hands. Olivia watched him with an unreadable expression before finally breaking the silence. "Have you been... looking after me like this all along?"

Liam glanced up, surprise flickering across his features. "Are you feeling more like yourself?" he asked carefully.

Olivia turned her face away, color rising in her cheeks. "I must have slipped. Strangely, the fall seems to have... cleared my mind." She swallowed. "I'm sorry for the trouble. I panicked earlier."

"Don't apologize," Liam said, returning his attention to her injury. "This is exactly where I should be."

She nodded, then suddenly sneezed.