Chapter 132

"Olivia," Alexander began, his voice tinged with remorse as their eyes met. "I genuinely regret dragging you into this. The workload has completely consumed me lately—it's been absolute chaos."

Olivia waved off his apology with a graceful hand gesture. Her fingers danced across her phone screen as she typed: "I saw William earlier. He seemed slightly unwell, but nothing alarming. Just stress taking its toll. Some proper rest should restore him."

Watching her understanding response, Alexander's tense features softened into a rare, genuine smile that reached his storm-gray eyes.

"Thank you."

They entered the private hospital suite together.

Olivia typed another message: "Mr. Hayes, what specifically did you need to discuss?"

Alexander outlined the crisis concisely. Whitmore Holdings had suffered a logistics disaster—a critical shipment of antiques arrived damaged. The dilemma lay in determining whether their transportation team or the third-party handling port exports bore responsibility.

Olivia's delicate brows knitted in confusion. She typed: "I don't understand how I can assist with this."

Alexander shifted his weight uncomfortably. "This client represents a decades-long relationship. The damaged shipment contained his most coveted piece—one I spent weeks locating. You're the only restoration expert I trust with this caliber of work."

Olivia blinked in surprise at the revelation. Her fingers moved swiftly: "Restoration is my profession. Why call this a favor?"

Alexander shook his head, his expression grave. "He's notoriously perfectionistic. Unless the restoration is flawless, he'll reject it. While the work may be routine for you, satisfying this client won't be." He hesitated before adding, "My offer stands—join Whitmore Holdings permanently. If your current position dissatisfies you, I'll arrange something better."

Olivia fell silent, contemplating. That Alexander would approach her—knowing his vast resources—spoke volumes about his desperation. Finally, she typed: "I'll accept the commission."

Visible relief washed over Alexander's face, his shoulders relaxing. "Your understanding means everything," he said with heartfelt sincerity.

Later, an unsettled feeling prompted Olivia to message Isabella. Something felt deliberately omitted in Alexander's explanation. Normally she avoided meddling, but genuine concern drove her now.

After persistent questioning, Isabella reluctantly confessed. "Truthfully, this involves your husband. Mr. Hayes forbade me from telling you. I never wanted to keep secrets from you."

The mention of Liam sent Olivia's pulse racing.

As Isabella explained, the puzzle pieces clicked into place. The logistics company Whitmore Holdings partnered with turned out to be a Blackwood Enterprises subsidiary.

Renowned for handling complex international shipments flawlessly, Blackwood's logistics division had served the Hayes family impeccably for years.

Until now.

Both parties vehemently denied fault as accusations flew.

The conflict escalated when the client learned of the damage.

Worse, someone began circulating malicious rumors—claiming Whitmore deliberately sabotaged shipments to extort Blackwood.

This narrative painted the Hayes family as scheming villains.

William's sudden illness amid the scandal only deepened the crisis.

Olivia texted Isabella: "Even if Blackwood's involved, Liam wouldn't condone this. He's likely unaware."

Warmth flooded Olivia's cheeks at Isabella's reply: "You still care for him, don't you?"

Her fingers flew across the screen: "It's not that. I know Liam. He'd investigate thoroughly—whether it involved Blackwood or Whitmore. He'd never let rumors damage the Hayes family unchecked!"

The argument held merit. Liam wasn't one to evade responsibility or scapegoat others. Identifying the truth mattered most.

Isabella sighed audibly. "Olivia, I hate asking, but your help could save Whitmore Holdings. William's too aged for this stress. With Eleanor and Boris handling hospital matters, Alexander bears everything alone. You know how the Hayes family operates."

Indeed she did.

While William raised Alexander impeccably, the rest of the Hayes clan excelled only at shirking responsibilities.

The weight pressing on Alexander's shoulders was almost tangible.

Taking a steadying breath, Olivia typed decisively: "William's always supported me. I'll help however possible. Just tell me what's needed."

Isabella's relief was palpable. "Could you speak with Liam? Not expecting miracles, but perhaps he could mediate..."