Chapter 494

The moment the words left her lips, Willow's tears welled up uncontrollably. Wasn't Aiden supposed to be locked away in the confidential documents room, translating coded messages for days on end? That was why she had never imagined anyone would come to her rescue in such a desperate situation. Her upbringing had taught her one thing above all else—to rely only on herself, no matter the circumstances. Even now, that belief hadn’t changed. Yet, in this moment, she suddenly realized something else: there was still one person in this world who cared for her so deeply, who would swoop in to save her time and again when she needed it most. Aiden held her tightly, his face buried in the crook of her neck. His body was icy cold, yet she could feel the scalding dampness of tears against her skin. In a voice rough with emotion, he murmured over and over, "Willow... don’t be afraid... I’m sorry I was late..." *You fool.* A faint smile tugged at Willow’s lips. *You’re my knight in shining armor,