Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

Chapter 1391

The citywide search tightened, and it actually forced Oliver to come out of hiding. But he wasn't searching for Viola-he was searching for Zoey.

She had gone to Hell Monarch Estate to deliver a set of clothing for Courtney today. While she was out, she decided to pick up a few things for the ladies of Skye Embroidery. Afterward, she was making her way back to the workshop through the west alley when Oliver appeared.

Her first instinct was surprise.

Hadn't he told Viola not to tell Zoey about his presence? Why would he risk coming here personally to see her?

"My dear, it is I," came a voice from beneath a wide-brimmed hat.

His face was obscured, but the voice-there was no mistaking it.

For a moment, Zoey was too stunned to speak, but then a surge of fury gripped her. She clenched her teeth, trying to swallow the anger that threatened to consume her. With a swift glance, she confirmed that the alley was deserted.

Her heart sank as she regretted her earlier complacency. She had assumed that since Oliver had gone to Viola, he wouldn't come looking for her. The fewer who knew of his return, the safer he would be. However, it seemed that the citywide search had driven him to desperation.

"What did you say?" Zoey asked. She bit down on her teeth, her voice trembling despite herself. But to Oliver, it sounded more like excitement.

The hat was lifted slightly, revealing a face that had become gaunt and darkened over time. His once- proud brows were now shaved off, making him appear comical.

glimmer of hope in his eyes. He glanced around cautiously, only relaxing once he was sure no one was nearby. "I've

stiffened as she watched him. His feigned

city is looking for you. How dare

sure all of you were safe. I'll leave soon," Oliver said, stepping closer and lowering his voice. "From now on, I'll probably be on the run, hiding wherever I can. Zoey, I know I've wronged you in the past, but I've realized

frustration, bitterness, and anger swirling within her. Yet,

took a step closer, urgency in his voice as he spoke, "You need to quickly gather 3,000 silver coins for me. I

her hand, but Zoey instinctively stepped back. His grasp fell short, and for a moment, a

know I was wrong. Truly, I

met his gaze, her tears barely contained. "Do

never take another concubine, and I

Zoey replied, her voice soft yet firm. "But if you disappoint me, I will never help you

with relief. "My dear, I promise. Once I am safe, I

the moisture from the corner of her eyes. "I don't have 3,000 silver coins on hand. Give me time to borrow it. Where are you staying? How can

his eyes

staying at..." he

didn't want to

choice. Unlike when he had sought Viola's help, he

you still living with that little vixen? You're planning to take the money and run off