Chapter 154

Olivia turned her phone screen toward Julian. "Your cousin doesn't appreciate dishonesty. If your intentions are genuine, there's no need for proof. He'll recognize it eventually. Deeds reveal more than declarations ever could."

Julian's eyes flickered with sudden understanding. "I see. Thank you for the insight."

Casually changing the subject, Julian continued, "Speaking of which, why are you staying with my cousin these days? Not that I'm implying anything. It's just... certain rumors have reached my ears, and I'm concerned for your safety. Perhaps it would be wiser to remain indoors for a while. If the Blackwoods find you, it might create complications for Alexander."

Olivia studied Julian's expression carefully. His concern for Alexander appeared sincere. Her fingers flew across the screen as she typed, "No need to worry. My stay with the Whitmores is temporary. I'll be departing soon."

"Is that so?" Julian's smile widened as his suspicions were confirmed. Olivia had indeed fled from Liam.

In truth, Julian knew very little about the actual situation. He'd only heard about the recent falling out between Alexander and Liam. The specifics remained unclear. But given Olivia's connection to Liam, Julian had made an educated guess.

Slowing his pace, Julian watched Alexander conversing with the client. A cold chuckle escaped his lips. He'd long abandoned any expectations of Alexander. Perhaps it was time to find a new ally. Julian had been considering potential candidates when inspiration struck.

Alexander rubbed his temples, feeling the onset of a migraine. He couldn't believe the audacity of this mid-level manager, speaking to him with such disrespect. Yet he had no choice. He needed to understand the client's grievances. If resolving them required concessions, he was prepared to comply.

The manager lifted his chin arrogantly. "Mr. Whitmore, how about we share a meal first? Then perhaps I'll consider discussing business matters. Though I may require a small favor in return. I hope that won't be too much to ask."

Alexander's eye twitched, his expression turning glacial. "As long as your requests remain reasonable, I'll see to them immediately. Just remember your end of the bargain."

With those words, Alexander turned sharply and strode away, his face an unreadable mask.

As Alexander departed, Julian approached the nervous manager.

Dropping his earlier bravado, the manager whispered urgently, "Did it work? Can we really pull this off?"

"Without question," Julian replied confidently. "I've sent all the photographic evidence. He's definitely coming. Just maintain your composure, and your future is secured. Don't forget our agreement when the time comes."

When the scheduled meeting time arrived, Alexander had intended to send Isabella and Olivia home first. But chaos erupted.

The primary issue was the manager's incessant demands, becoming increasingly unreasonable.

When Alexander finally caught a breath, he realized how much time had passed. He couldn't simply send Olivia home after making her wait so long.

As Alexander and Olivia entered the private dining room, concern shadowed Alexander's features.

Speaking solemnly, Alexander advised, "If the manager pressures you to drink, ignore him. This matter is between him and me. Don't compromise your wellbeing for my problems. If you feel uncomfortable and want to leave, tell me immediately. Isabella will accompany you. Please don't wander off alone - I wouldn't be able to find you quickly if something happened. And remember to be extra careful given your condition."

Alexander recalled the family physician's warnings. Olivia's health was delicate, her pregnancy requiring constant vigilance. The risk of miscarriage was high, with potential life-threatening complications.

Olivia offered a grateful smile, touched by his brotherly concern. Such protective care was comforting rather than burdensome.

Unbeknownst to them, Liam observed this intimate exchange from a short distance.

Though he couldn't hear every word, fragments like "pregnancy" and "take care" reached his ears.

These snippets, combined with the anonymous photo he'd received - showing Olivia and Alexander sharing a meal, both radiating happiness, particularly Olivia - intensified Liam's discomfort.

Liam struggled to remember the last time he'd seen Olivia so relaxed and joyful.

It seemed only in Alexander's presence could she truly unwind. Did she trust Alexander that completely? And was the child she carried Alexander's? When had this relationship begun?

The more Liam dwelled on these thoughts, the more unsettled he became, his rage building once more.

Noticing the dangerous glint in Liam's eyes, Sebastian leaned in to whisper, "Mr. Blackwood, since you're meeting Olivia today anyway, why not ask her directly?"

Liam merely grunted, restraining himself from storming in immediately.

Alexander had already taken charge of the situation. He settled into his seat, graciously accepting several drinks, hoping the manager might reveal something.

But the previously confident manager now hesitated. "I can't disclose much about this matter. It involves company secrets, and it wouldn't be proper for me to share details. Besides, no amount of discussion will change the situation. The mistake has been made. You might consider alternative strategies to regain my superior's favor."

Realizing he'd been deceived, Alexander shot up, grabbing the manager's collar, fist raised.

Trembling with fear, the manager stammered, "Mr. Whitmore, I swear I haven't lied to you! I don't know the reasons, but someone else does. As I mentioned earlier, if you're willing to offer something, he'll certainly share the information."

Alexander's laughter held an edge of frustration. "Do you enjoy playing games with me? A minor business setback is one thing, but dealing with someone like you is child's play. Did you even consider the consequences before coming here? No matter - I'll show you exactly what they are."

The manager paled, making desperate gestures toward Julian.

Julian dared not speak, attempting to blend into the background. Things weren't going as planned. He'd sent Liam substantial "evidence" of Alexander and Olivia together. What man could tolerate such betrayal?

Moreover, Olivia remained by Alexander's side in the private dining room, while Liam - despite knowing their whereabouts - avoided confrontation.

Just as Julian's anxiety peaked, an icy voice cut through from the doorway. "Mr. Whitmore, let's not escalate this. Not everything he's told you is false."