Chapter 167

The instant Olivia stepped through the police station doors, a swarm of paparazzi descended like vultures. Their camera flashes exploded in rapid succession, capturing her every move as officers guided her toward the waiting patrol car.

The spectacle could have rivaled the arrest of a notorious crime lord, drawing gasps and whispers from bystanders.

"Is that a serial killer they're taking in?"

"Worse," a bystander muttered. "They say she tried poisoning her wealthy husband when he refused to give her money in their divorce."

"No way! She looks so... fragile."

"Don't be fooled by appearances. Women like her use their beauty as weapons. That poor man probably suffered for years."

At Mercy Hospital's precinct, officers immediately ushered Olivia into interrogation.

Since she couldn't speak, they summoned a sign language interpreter within minutes.

After Olivia finished explaining through gestures, the lead detective sighed. "Your story checks out preliminarily, but we can't release you yet. The attempted murder accusation is serious - they claim you poisoned Liam during your marriage. We're awaiting toxicology reports."

Olivia merely nodded. She knew the medical records wouldn't clear her easily. Liam's mysterious condition was a closely guarded secret among his inner circle.

Resigned to her temporary captivity, Olivia rested her head on the cold metal table.

She startled awake hours later when an officer rapped sharply on the table. "Olivia Sinclair? You've made bail. You're free to go."

Bleary-eyed, she checked the wall clock - 2:47 AM. Liam must have pulled strings quickly.

But when she stepped into the lobby, it wasn't Liam waiting, but Alexander.

Alexander's face was etched with concern as he rushed forward.

"Thank God you're alright. I came as soon as I heard. I've retained Nathaniel Bradford - top criminal attorney in Newport. Even if Liam pushes for prosecution, we'll fight this."

Olivia's throat tightened with gratitude. She signed her thanks.

Her fingers flew across her phone screen: You believe I'm innocent? Even after what they're accusing me of?

Alexander shook his head firmly. "I've known you since university. You'd never harm anyone for money." A wry smile touched his lips. "Now, if you'd done it out of spite? That I might believe."

Olivia's lips quirked despite herself.

"Come on," Alexander gestured toward the exit. "Let's get you home."

"Not so fast."

Liam's voice cut through the lobby like winter wind. He strode forward flanked by security, his pallor concerning but improved from earlier.

When Liam and Alexander stood face-to-face, neither man yielded an inch.

Liam's gaze turned arctic. "Mr. Hayes, this is a private family matter. Since when do you enjoy inserting yourself where you don't belong?"

Alexander held his ground. "I'm not inserting myself anywhere. Ask yourself - what has Olivia endured because of you? I don't care why you were hospitalized, but I know she had nothing to do with it. Your people seem more interested in tormenting her than your recovery."

Liam remained unmoved. "And yet, Mr. Hayes, consider what Olivia exchanged for her freedom. Who truly exploited her? You claim to protect her, but lack the means to do so."

Alexander's fists clenched, guilt and frustration warring in his expression. What could he say? No one could have predicted this outcome.

Before Alexander could respond, Liam seized Olivia's wrist. "You're coming with me."

Olivia twisted free effortlessly. Her hands moved sharply: Did you know Evelyn sent me here?

Liam's brow furrowed. "I'm aware. Your point?"

A bitter smile touched Olivia's lips as she signed one final dismissive gesture.

Turning to Alexander, she typed rapidly: Take me home. I've been here for hours and need rest.

She could feel Liam's glacial stare boring into her back but refused to glance his way.

Three steps from the exit, Olivia paused. She sent Liam one final message: I'll attend Evelyn's birthday. I keep my promises. See that you keep yours.

Liam could only watch, jaw clenched, as Olivia slid into Alexander's car and disappeared into the night.

A sudden coughing fit wracked Liam's frame, leaving him trembling.

Sebastian rushed to his side. "Mr. Blackwood! The doctors insisted on bed rest. After today's collapse, we don't know what might—"

"Enough," Liam rasped, regaining his composure. "Take me to the car."

Once inside, Liam pressed his fingertips to his temples, breathing slowly.

Sebastian started the engine toward Mercy Hospital before Liam stopped him. "Not there. The media's camped outside thanks to Evelyn's stupidity. You want my medical records becoming tabloid fodder?"

Understanding, Sebastian changed course. "I didn't tell Olivia the truth, yet she seemed to know something was wrong. Miss Hartley overstepped today - targeting Olivia while completely disregarding your condition. What's our move?"

"Keep her close for now," Liam's eyes glinted dangerously. "She may prove useful later."

Upon arriving home, Liam went straight to his study, ignoring Evelyn's tearful pleas in the foyer.

"Liam, please! I was manipulated into calling the police! Let me explain—"

The study door slammed shut.