Chapter 15

Liam took several steps backward, his face clouding with displeasure.

"I'm sorry," Olivia thought silently. The nausea overwhelmed her, preventing any gestures as she weakly reached for the table napkins instead.

Moments later, Liam helped Olivia sit up, carefully wiping her lips with a tissue. He handed her a glass of water with surprising tenderness. His actions reminded her of their early days together - that same gentle patience she'd fallen in love with.

After assisting her with rinsing her mouth, Olivia leaned back against the sofa cushions, keeping her eyes closed.

"Still dizzy?" Liam's deep voice cut through the quiet room.

She nodded slightly without opening her eyes.

Silence stretched between them until the sound of shuffling feet announced a servant coming to clean the mess. Liam then ordered warm milk from the butler. When it arrived, he helped Olivia drink, his fingers brushing against hers. Gradually, the dizziness faded, and she managed a small grateful smile.

Liam's expression softened as he stroked her hair, his touch feather-light. But his next words sent ice through her veins.

"Remember your place, Olivia. You're my wife. I won't tolerate you getting close to other men."

She nodded mechanically, her mind racing. He could set boundaries for her, but what about his own actions with Evelyn? What did that woman truly mean to him?

Seeming satisfied, Liam stood and left without another word.

When she finally gathered enough strength, Olivia texted Natalie. "How's Daniel? I'm so sorry. This is all because of me."

The reply came instantly. "Don't blame yourself, darling! My brother made his own choices. He'll be out soon - I'm handling everything."

Guilt twisted in Olivia's chest. Daniel had only tried to help her, and now he sat in jail because of Liam's temper.

She had to do something.

Climbing the stairs, Olivia checked the study first - empty. The sound of running water led her to their bedroom. Liam was showering. Was he planning to stay the night? What would Evelyn think about that?

Lost in thought, Olivia didn't notice when the water stopped. The bathroom door suddenly swung open, steam billowing out. Liam stood there, towel slung low on his hips, water droplets glistening on his toned chest. Heat rushed to Olivia's cheeks.

"Waiting for me?" His lips curved in that infuriating smirk.

She couldn't meet his gaze, her eyes dropping to the towel's edge instead. When he stepped forward, she instinctively retreated.

Summoning courage, Olivia signed her request about Daniel, finally looking up at Liam.

His expression darkened immediately. "What is it?"

She gestured carefully - Daniel meant no harm, she wouldn't see him again, please don't make things difficult. She knew Liam's influence. If he decided to pursue this, even Natalie couldn't protect her brother.

"Protecting him now?" Liam's voice dripped with icy sarcasm.

Olivia lowered her head, signing an apology.

"If you're truly sorry, then show me properly." Liam sat on the bed, legs spread in that commanding way she knew too well. His meaning was clear.

Cheeks burning, Olivia knew he wouldn't help unless she complied.

Taking a shaky breath, she awkwardly straddled him, hands resting lightly on his shoulders. Usually he took charge - this role reversal left her clumsy and tense, even causing herself discomfort.

"Fool," Liam muttered, pulling her close.

Olivia bit her lip hard, determined not to make a sound.

The next thing she knew, morning light streamed through the windows. She woke alone in the massive bed, Liam already gone. Had he kept his word?

Her phone showed a message from Natalie last night: "Daniel's free! You talked to Liam, didn't you? I'm sorry you had to go through that, Olivia..."

Relief flooded her. "Is he hurt?" she typed back.

"He's fine. Getting lectured by Dad now! Oh, and that dish you left? Absolutely divine! I ate every last bite!"

Olivia smiled, glad Natalie enjoyed the food she'd prepared. "I'll make something special for you again."

"How about dinner out instead? My treat?" Natalie offered.

Olivia hesitated. Liam had made his expectations clear. But she wasn't his prisoner. After a pause, she accepted.

When Natalie offered to pick her up, Olivia dressed quickly and headed downstairs. The chef was already preparing breakfast.

"Madam, will you be cooking for Mr. Blackwood today?" the butler inquired.

Olivia considered, then shook her head firmly.

Last night's tenderness had felt almost dreamlike, making her feel truly cherished as Liam's wife. But she knew better now. His pattern of hot and cold was just another way to control her, and she wouldn't play along anymore.

With decisive gestures, she informed the butler she was leaving and that the chef should handle all meals. She added emphatically that she wouldn't be cooking anymore.