Ava slightly raised her face to look at him, her expression calm. "Yes, cousin."
Her gaze was clear and resolute.
A person who had always been gentle, even in defiance, did so silently.
Liam had originally intended to reprimand her, but suddenly, he couldn't bring himself to. The corners of his lips lifted slightly. "Alright, cousin it is."
He raised his hand and pulled her into his arms.
Ava was unprepared and fell straight into his embrace. The tip of her nose caught the scent of his cologne—an intoxicating blend of tobacco, alcohol, and a faintly unfamiliar sweetness.
It was Sophia's scent.
Disgust welled up inside her. She shrugged her shoulders, trying to break free from his hold.
Liam's arms tightened around her, locking her firmly in his embrace, a possessive undertone in his actions. He spoke with polite detachment to Ethan, "Thank you for bringing her back."
Ethan responded with a smile. "You're welcome."