Chapter 221

Evelyn searched frantically for something to hold water. Spotting some large reeds nearby, she deftly folded their broad leaves into a makeshift cup. Though it leaked slightly, she knew it would work if she moved quickly.

With the leaf cup filled to the brim, Evelyn hurried back to the cave.

Nathaniel remained exactly where she'd left him - eyes closed, unmoving.

Kneeling beside him, she gently shook his shoulder. "Sir? You need to drink something!"

No response.

She tried again, more forcefully this time. "Nathaniel! Wake up!"

Still nothing. A cold dread settled in Evelyn's stomach.

This wasn't right. The man she knew had razor-sharp instincts. He wouldn't sleep this deeply in dangerous wilderness. Only one explanation made sense - he'd lost consciousness.

The realization hit her like a physical blow. That snake bite earlier... Nathaniel had sucked out the venom without rinsing his mouth. Had the poison affected him?

Her hands trembled as she set the leaf cup aside and gripped his shoulders. "Nathaniel! Can you hear me?"

Nothing.

Panic clawed at her throat. Without water, his condition would deteriorate rapidly. Especially if toxins coursed through his veins.

She tried pouring water into his mouth, but it just spilled down his chin. Useless.

Taking a steadying breath, Evelyn made her decision. She took a mouthful of water, cradled Nathaniel's face, and leaned in...

Just as their lips were about to meet, his eyes flew open.

Evelyn froze, their faces inches apart. She swallowed hard and jerked back. "You're awake! Here, drink this." She thrust the remaining water toward him.

Nathaniel's piercing gaze flicked to the leaf cup, then back to her swollen cheeks. Understanding dawned in his sharp eyes.

Then, without warning, his eyelids fluttered shut again.

Evelyn's breath caught. "Nathaniel?"

No response. Her pulse pounded in her ears. What was happening to him? Was he slipping away?