Chapter 146

Olivia texted Alexander: "Then it hit me. I don't need to run anymore. I'm okay now. Everything's fine."

Alexander instantly recognized the hidden pain in Olivia's message. His fingers flew across the screen. "Olivia, what's wrong? Talk to me."

Tears threatened to spill as Olivia fought to maintain composure. With trembling hands, she typed: "I'm fine, just tired. Need rest. Don't worry about me, Mr. Hayes. You've got enough on your plate."

The moment she sent it, Olivia powered off her phone. She drew her knees to her chest, burying her face in them. Silent sobs wracked her body.

She hated this weakness but felt powerless to stop it. No one else should bear her burdens.

With the troublemakers gone, Liam felt momentary relief.

Sebastian observed Liam's tension. "Mr. Blackwood, the doctors report Olivia's condition has improved significantly. Perhaps a hospital visit would benefit you both."

Liam rubbed his temples, eyes shut tight. "She clearly doesn't want to see me. Why force it? Has she asked for me even once?"

Truthfully, she had - just days ago.

Liam had cleared his schedule only to be stood up without explanation.

Sometimes he wondered if his leniency made Olivia take him for granted.

Sebastian cleared his throat. "There might be a misunderstanding. The nurses say she stares out the window all day, looking devastated."

Liam's icy gaze snapped to Sebastian. "You know exactly why."

Sebastian fell silent. He did know.

Margaret, Richard and Catherine had always resented Olivia.

Meanwhile, Blackwood Enterprises' rivals had become unusually coordinated, creating major problems.

The pregnant manager incident had nearly ruined Liam. Next time, he might not be so lucky.

Despite their strained relationship, Olivia remained his legal wife.

Sebastian sighed. "Maybe if you explained the pressures you're facing..."

Liam swirled his wine, emotions unreadable. "She blames me for everything. No explanation would change that. Why bother?"

He took another sip.

Suddenly, frantic knocking interrupted them.

Liam raised an eyebrow as Sebastian answered.

Evelyn burst in, tear-streaked and disheveled. She lunged for Liam but Sebastian intercepted her.

"Miss Hartley," Sebastian said politely but firmly, "Mr. Blackwood needs rest. Perhaps this could wait?"

Evelyn shoved past him. "Liam, I've learned my lesson! I'll never bother Olivia again!" She gestured to herself. "Look at me - haven't I suffered enough? I'll behave, I promise! Please forgive me!"

Her tear-filled eyes pleaded. Country life had broken her privileged spirit. The journey back fueled her resentment - both toward Liam's cruelty and his continued use of her reputation.

When acquaintances asked about their "trip together," Evelyn could only smile through the humiliation.

Yet despite everything, one thought of Liam's face melted her anger. She realized her hatred belonged to Olivia, not him.

During her return, she'd nearly died in a suspicious car crash.

That terror had silenced her.

The near-death experience only deepened her obsession.

Liam studied Evelyn over his wine glass. "Do you mean that?"

Evelyn lowered her eyes. "Every word."

Liam clicked his tongue. "Honestly, it wasn't entirely your fault. Olivia overreacted. She could've handled it privately instead of humiliating us both."

Evelyn perked up, pouting. "Exactly! She made me look like the villain while playing victim! If I'd known, I might've pushed her harder!"

Her rant grew increasingly vicious until Liam's sharp look silenced her.

"Sorry," she mumbled, "I shouldn't have said that."

Liam's alcohol-flushed face broke into a chilling smile. He caressed Evelyn's cheek. "No, you're right. It was Olivia's fault. Free tonight? Let's get drinks."

Evelyn's face lit up. "Of course! Where? Here? But with all your employees watching..."

Her cheeks pinked.

Liam's gaze shifted to Sebastian. "Reserve us a table. Take her there in thirty minutes."

As Sebastian left, he shot Evelyn a warning look she chose to ignore.

Boldly, she clung to Liam's arm. "If we drink too much... you could stay at my place. I'll cook for you."

Liam's smile remained, but his eyes turned glacial.