Chapter 171

"A mutual enemy?" Evelyn's sharp gaze locked onto Julian, her voice dripping with skepticism. "You honestly believe we're on the same level?"

Julian masked his irritation beneath a polished smile. "Actually, my mother is a Clarke. We've only recently returned to the city to reconnect with the Whitmore family. That's why you might not recognize me. But you're certainly aware of Olivia's ties to them." He leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "Frankly, we despise her. We can't fathom how she's manipulated my grandfather into favoring her. He's grown sentimental in his old age, bending to her every whim. Just this morning, she was at Mercy Hospital, coaxing him into leaving her a portion of his estate."

Evelyn's composure fractured. "What?"

The Whitmores weren't as powerful as the Blackwoods, but their wealth and influence were undeniable. Evelyn had assumed Olivia was merely a charity case—a pitiable mute the family indulged out of pity. The idea that William Whitmore would actually bequeath her anything was ludicrous.

Her voice turned shrill. "Has he lost his mind? Why would he leave anything to her? What could she possibly offer?"

Julian sighed theatrically. "Believe me, we're just as frustrated. But my grandfather's mind is made up. Still…" A calculated pause. "I think we can help each other turn this situation to our advantage."

Evelyn studied him warily. "Explain your plan first. Then I'll decide."

Julian obliged, whispering his scheme with cold precision.

A spark of excitement flickered in Evelyn's eyes.

Reading her hesitation, Julian pressed, "If you're having doubts, we can forget it. Regardless of Olivia's inheritance, I remain a Whitmore heir. My share is secure. But if she gains those assets, her status will skyrocket. Imagine what she could do to Liam then." He turned to leave.

Evelyn shot to her feet. "Wait."

Truthfully, her original plan had been similar—just less ruthless. Her backer was inflexible, unlikely to approve drastic measures. But if she borrowed Julian's methods discreetly… The end result would be the same. She just needed to see Olivia broken.

Taking a steadying breath, Evelyn met his gaze. "I'll work with you. But this has to succeed."

Julian smirked. "Naturally. I’ve no interest in failing."

As he walked away from Liam’s villa, satisfaction curled through him. Olivia wasn’t his only target. Alexander Whitmore was fiercely protective of her—if she fell, he’d surely stumble too. Now, he just needed Evelyn to play her part.

After visiting William at Mercy Hospital, Olivia headed to Whitmore Holdings.

Alexander and William had moved swiftly, preparing her new office within days.

Whispers trailed her the moment she stepped inside.

"A mute consultant? This is a joke."

"How does she even communicate? Sign language? That’s hardly professional."

"Careful. The Whitmores are shielding her now. One wrong word, and you’re out."

"Please. You think Mr. Whitmore would fire me over her? I hate nepotism hires."

Isabella, walking beside Olivia, tensed, shooting her a worried glance.

Olivia merely smiled and shook her head, unbothered. She gestured calmly—I heard. But anger is pointless.

Isabella huffed. "They don’t know you. Judging you like this is vile."

Olivia shrugged. Their resentment was understandable. In their eyes, she’d stolen a position they coveted. But words meant nothing. She’d prove herself through action.

The mockery grew bolder.

"Wait, is she deaf too?"

"Probably. Some mutes can’t hear either. Explains why she’s ignoring us."

"Pathetic. We could insult her to her face, and she wouldn’t even know."

Isabella whirled around, glaring at the speaker—Harrison Prescott.

Harrison smirked, unfazed. "Isabella, how’s it feel babysitting a deaf-mute?"

"Harrison," she shot back, "now that I’ve left, you must be thrilled about that manager promotion. Don’t get too comfortable. Gifts like this don’t come twice."

His face darkened. "You—!"

He clenched his fists but held back—they were still on company grounds.

Olivia turned suddenly, typing rapidly on her phone. A robotic voice echoed through the hall:

"Apologies for ruining your fun, but I’m not deaf. I heard every word. Also, as your superior, should I address your unprofessionalism now?"

Harrison stiffened. He’d assumed she was either impaired or spineless. This defiance was unexpected.

His jaw tightened. "Superior? I don’t acknowledge your authority."

Olivia’s smile didn’t waver as she typed again.

"Fortunately, your acknowledgment isn’t required. It’s already company policy."

Silence fell.

Harrison’s face flushed with humiliation.

The game had just begun.