Chapter 276

He could only hear the sound of running water, but not her response.

The sound of water seemed to grow louder, almost drowning out everything else.

Liam Sullivan felt an inexplicable tightness in his chest and called her name twice more.

Still no answer.

Without hesitation, he twisted the bathroom doorknob and pushed the door open.

The scene inside made him freeze abruptly.

Vivian Bennett was curled up in the corner of the bathtub, her eyes tightly closed. Her teeth were biting down hard on her fingertips, and her entire body trembled uncontrollably.

The shower was turned on to the maximum, icy water violently flushing her body.

The bathtub had long overflowed, water continuously spilling out and soaking the floor.

Liam glanced at the mirror and found not a trace of steam.

His brow furrowed deeply as he quickly stepped forward and reached into the water.

A piercing cold spread from his fingertips.

He looked at the figure huddled into a ball, complex emotions flashing in his eyes.

This woman would rather endure through self-harm than ask for help.

He leaned down and helped her out of the water.

Her skin was icy to the touch, already turning blue from the cold.

Vivian struggled to open her eyes, her blurred gaze trying hard to focus.

"So hot..." Her voice was as faint as a whisper. "And so cold..."

Her tone was both complaining and soft, tender enough to make one's heart tremble.

Liam's Adam's apple bobbed. His eyes swept over her flushed cheeks and moist lips.

Vivian suddenly reached out and wrapped her arms around his neck, pressing her burning cheek against his shoulder.

"Liam Sullivan," she sobbed softly. "I feel so awful... I'm dying..."

Her soft voice carried a helpless plea, like a trapped little animal.

Liam's arms tightened abruptly, pulling her completely into his embrace.

He lowered his head and covered her slightly trembling lips.

Vivian only managed to let out a whimper before he deepened the kiss.

His kiss was domineering and unrefusable, drawing her into surrender.

The faint scent of alcohol lingered between their lips and teeth, making him can't help but be enchanted.

He cupped the back of her head, deepening the kiss.

In this moment, all senses were infinitely magnified.

It wasn't until they were both breathless that Liam pulled back slightly.

Vivian's eyes were misty, her lips slightly swollen. She gasped for air rapidly.

Her soaked clothes clung to her body, outlining her alluring curves.

Liam's breath hitched. He scooped her up into his arms and strode out of the bathroom.