Chapter 130

Olivia instinctively understood Victoria's intentions behind the arrangement. She was deeply touched by her friend's thoughtful gesture.

The exhibition had finally ended, giving Olivia a much-needed chance to breathe.

The Whitmore Holdings team wasn't expecting her back immediately, and Gregory's studio was in its seasonal lull.

The timing was perfect for Olivia to take a step back and clear her mind. She had considered going out, but before she could, Natalie burst through her door, panting with excitement.

"Sweetheart, do you realize you're trending right now?"

Natalie's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm.

Olivia tensed, bracing for another wave of bad news. Her pulse quickened with unease.

But Natalie quickly shoved her phone into Olivia's hands, directing her to a link she'd sent.

Olivia's anxiety melted into relief as she scrolled through the post. Photos of her modeling vintage dresses at Genevieve's boutique had unexpectedly gone viral.

Genevieve, protective of Olivia's privacy, had kept her identity hidden.

Yet, the recent exhibition had led curious netizens straight to the stunning woman in the photos.

The comments section buzzed with admiration.

"She's breathtaking. What a waste that she's not in entertainment."

Natalie leaned in, eyes gleaming. "The industry isn't just glamour and drama, but my family owns a talent agency. It's no rival to the Blackwoods, but they'd back you fully. Olivia, this could be your moment. Imagine having wealth, fans, and influence. Evelyn would think twice before messing with you. With a little luck, you could carve out your own empire. Doesn’t that sound tempting?"

For a second, Olivia felt the pull of the idea. But then reality crashed back in. She gestured to her throat, signing, I'm mute. Have you ever heard of a star who can't speak? I couldn’t act. I'd just be a pretty face. I don’t want that. Let’s drop it.

Natalie hesitated, watching what she saw as a golden opportunity slip away. Still, she squeezed Olivia's hand. "It's okay. You'll always be incredible to me. Whatever you decide, I support you."

Olivia smiled warmly, touched by her friend's loyalty. But she couldn’t linger—she had urgent matters to attend to.

After Natalie left, Olivia texted Isabella.

Since Olivia hadn’t been at Whitmore Holdings lately, Isabella had been occupied with her own work.

So when Olivia unexpectedly requested a meeting, Isabella assumed something was wrong and rushed to the café.

"Is everything alright?" Isabella scanned Olivia with concern. "I heard you've been dealing with Miss Ellington. Has she been giving you trouble?"

Olivia laughed softly, warmth flooding her chest. She shook her head, then signed, I need a favor. I need to contact Alexander, but I don’t know his schedule.

She hesitated, worried that showing up unannounced might cause problems.

Isabella’s expression shifted slightly. "Is it urgent?"

Olivia considered, then signed that while it wasn’t an emergency, she did have something important to discuss.

Isabella stood abruptly. "Give me a moment—I need to make a call."

Olivia watched her step away, unease coiling in her stomach.

Ten tense minutes later, Isabella returned. "Alexander’s swamped. He won’t be able to meet, but William can see you instead?"

Olivia agreed without hesitation.

It had been too long since she’d last seen William. Her days had been a whirlwind of tasks, leaving no room for anything else.

She also sensed tension from most of the Whitmores. They seemed displeased with the arrangements Alexander and William had made for her.

Wanting to avoid conflict, Olivia had minimized contact with the rest of the family.

Steeling herself, she climbed into the car with Isabella, unaware they were heading to Mercy Hospital.

Olivia frowned. William was sick? The news had been kept so tightly under wraps that not even rumors had leaked.

William’s status granted him an exclusive VIP suite on the hospital’s restricted upper floor. Access required a special keycard.

Olivia hesitated at the elevator.

Isabella glanced back. "Everything okay?"

Olivia signed, I understand the family wants privacy. Since I’m not family, maybe I shouldn’t go up. I can visit when he’s better.

Isabella shook her head gently. "William has always said you’re not an outsider to him."

The words struck Olivia like a warm embrace, bringing unexpected tears to her eyes. She hadn’t realized how much his acceptance meant.

Resolved, she followed Isabella upstairs.

Other Whitmores lingered in the hallway, their expressions far from welcoming.

Nearby, muffled sobs sent Olivia’s nerves on high alert.

Isabella squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Don’t worry. It’s not as bad as it looks. They’re just dramatic."

Before they could enter, a man blocked their path.

Tall and striking, his gaze was ice-cold. Disdain dripped from his voice as he addressed Olivia. "Miss Sinclair, isn’t it inappropriate to bring an outsider here? My grandfather’s condition is private. Can you guarantee no leaks?"

Isabella remained calm. "Mr. Hawthorne, this is Olivia Blackwood. William knows and trusts her. If you doubt me, confirm with Alexander Whitmore."

Julian Hawthorne clenched his jaw but stepped aside reluctantly.

As they moved forward, Isabella whispered, "That’s Julian. William once had a daughter he adored, but she fell for a man with no ambition. William couldn’t tolerate it. She eloped, hoping to change his mind. He cut ties completely."

The weight of the story settled over Olivia as they stepped into the room.