Chapter 337

Julian Langley stepped forward swiftly, shielding Evelyn Laurent.

"Ethan just gathered branches with Xander Quincy. He has experience now." His tone was earnest. "Let me go with you. Ethan can stay here collecting wood."

Evelyn shook her head gently. "No."

The dense vegetation ahead might harbor snakes.

She remembered Julian's crippling fear of serpents.

Besides, Ethan's combat skills would ensure their safety.

Julian's expression crumpled instantly.

His peach-blossom eyes shimmered, the corners tinged pink. "Evie, why?"

The live chat erupted.

[Help! That wounded puppy look is killing me!]

[Our Oscar-winning actor looks utterly heartbroken!]

[How does he make misery look so gorgeous?]

Evelyn's resolve wavered, but she held firm. "Third Brother, there might be snakes there."

Julian's pupils contracted violently.

Then his face lit up. "You're worried about me?"

"Of course."

His grin turned triumphant as he shot Ethan a smug glance before scowling again. "Ethan Sullivan, you'd better protect her with your life!"

"I will." Ethan's promise carried solemn weight.

His gaze softened as it lingered on Evelyn, tenderness pooling in his eyes.

With an exasperated sigh, Evelyn grabbed her combat knife and headed into the woods with Ethan.

The drone buzzed overhead as crew members trailed cautiously behind.

"What are we looking for?" Ethan kept his voice low.

His attention never strayed from Evelyn's retreating figure.

"Vines." She pushed through waist-high grass. "For weaving sleeping mats."

No way would she let anyone sleep on bare ground.

Insects rustled through the undergrowth. Evelyn moved with measured caution.

Ethan shadowed her silently, poised to intervene at the first sign of danger.