Chapter 96: A Protective Fury

Liam's POVThe applause roared like a tidal wave, washing over Ava as she stood bathed in the golden light, her triumphant smile a beacon that drew all eyes. Pride swelled within me, a fierce and tender emotion that intertwined with the love that consumed my very being. She was magnificent, a phoenix rising, and I, her silent champion, watched from the wings, my heart overflowing with admiration.As Ava descended the stage, a swarm of reporters and photographers engulfed her, their eager questions and flashing cameras a testament to her newfound prominence. I watched from a distance, a contented smile curving my lips. This was her moment, her time to shine, and I wouldn't dare steal her spotlight.But my peaceful observation was shattered by a jarring presence. Jessica, reeking of cheap perfume and swaying slightly on her unsteady feet, materialized beside me, her eyes glazed with a drunken haze."Liam, darling," she slurred, her voice a grating imitation of sophistication, "you were amazing up there. So powerful, so commanding..."I tried to ignore her, my attention fixed on Ava as she navigated the crowd with a grace and confidence that made my heart swell. But Jessica was persistent, her hand snaking out to grasp my arm, her touch unwelcome and clammy."You know," she continued, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "I'm much more fun than Ava. More experienced, more... adventurous."I finally turned to face her, my expression hardening, my patience wearing thin. "Jessica, I'm not interested."Undeterred, she leaned closer, her breath hot against my cheek, reeking of alcohol and desperation. "Don't be like that, Liam," she purred, her voice a grating imitation of seduction. "I can show you a good time. A much better time than that goody-two-shoes Ava ever could."She attempted to wrap her arms around my neck, her intentions clear. That was it. My control snapped.I pushed her away, my voice a low growl that echoed through the sudden silence that had fallen around us. "Get away from me, Jessica."Jessica stumbled backward, her eyes widening in surprise. "Liam, what—"Before she could finish, I landed a swift kick to her shin, the impact sending her sprawling to the floor with a yelp. The room erupted in gasps and murmurs, the sudden commotion drawing unwanted attention.Sarah and William materialized beside me, their faces a mix of shock and concern. "Liam, what have you done?" Sarah hissed, her voice laced with panic.I ignored her, my gaze fixed on Jessica as she struggled to regain her footing, her face contorted in a mixture of pain and humiliation. "Don't ever touch me again," I growled, my voice laced with a venom I rarely unleashed.The cameras flashed, capturing the scene, the unexpected outburst from the usually composed Liam Blackwood. The whispers intensified, the gossip mill churning into overdrive.Sarah and William, ever the damage control experts, quickly stepped in, ushering Jessica away and attempting to divert the attention of the press. But the damage was done. My outburst, fueled by a protective fury and a deep-seated disgust for Jessica's behavior, had created a spectacle, a scandal that threatened to overshadow the success of Ava's launch event.I didn't care. My only concern was Ava. I scanned the crowd, my eyes searching for her, my heart aching with the fear that my actions had caused her further distress.I found her standing near the back of the room, her expression a mix of shock and concern. Our eyes met, and a wave of guilt washed over me. I had wanted to protect her, to shield her from the negativity and drama of her family, but my outburst had only brought more chaos into her life.I mouthed a silent apology, my gaze pleading for understanding. Ava, bless her heart, offered a small, reassuring smile, a silent message of forgiveness that calmed the turmoil within me.In that moment, I knew that despite the chaos, despite the unwanted attention, our love would endure. It was a love that transcended the drama, the gossip, the prying eyes of the world. It was a love built on trust, respect, and an unwavering commitment to protect and cherish each other, no matter the cost.