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.

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

stiffened as she watched him. His feigned concern

for you. How dare you

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 my mistakes now.

reddened, a mixture of frustration, bitterness, and anger swirling within her. Yet, through Oliver's eyes,

closer, urgency in his voice as he spoke, "You need to quickly gather 3,000 silver coins for me. I must leave the capital at once. Once I am settled, I will come back to take

Zoey instinctively stepped back. His grasp fell short, and for a moment, a flicker of panic

I was wrong. Truly, I

his gaze, her tears barely contained. "Do you truly understand the depths

I will never take another concubine, and I will never again hurt

trust you one more time," Zoey replied, her voice soft yet

relief. "My dear, I promise. Once I am safe, I will return for you

the moisture from the corner of her eyes. "I don't have 3,000 silver coins on hand. Give me time to

hesitated, his

am staying at..."

didn't want to

but the urgency of his situation left him no choice. Unlike when he had sought Viola's help, he couldn't afford to wait this time-he had to

Are you still living with that little vixen? You're planning to take the money and run off with her, aren't you? Well, that's your business, not mine.