Chapter 203

Olivia's spirits lifted instantly at Sebastian's words. The fury in her eyes dissolved, replaced by an involuntary smile. "I knew Liam still cared about me," she murmured, satisfaction coloring her voice.

Yet frustration soon crept into Olivia's tone. "But Sebastian, tell me honestly - is Liam so angry he won't even see me?"

Sebastian exhaled heavily. "Miss Hartley, you're overthinking this. If Mr. Blackwood were truly that upset, would I be here having this conversation? Every word I've spoken comes directly from Mr. Blackwood's confidence. Should Catherine or Margaret decide to visit unexpectedly, you must be extremely careful not to reveal anything."

"Of course," Olivia agreed with an earnest nod.

Her expression darkened with concern. "But Liam's still angry with me. How can I make amends? You've been his closest advisor for years. Any suggestions?"

Sebastian appeared to deliberate before responding, "Perhaps it would be wise to follow Mr. Blackwood's advice. Limit visits to his family and avoid seeing him at Blackwood Enterprises. Some distance might help him appreciate your thoughtfulness."

The suggestion visibly relieved Olivia. "Don't worry, I understand. Though it's shocking how that witch Evelyn managed to seduce Alexander after realizing Liam was out of reach. Since Liam plans to use the child against Alexander, I'll hold off on dealing with her."

With a casual toss of her hair, Olivia added, "I'll wait before visiting Liam again." She strode away confidently in her designer heels.

Sebastian sighed in relief, grateful he'd managed to placate Olivia. At least there would be peace for a few days.

Meanwhile, Evelyn remained blissfully unaware of the tension between Liam and Olivia. Their absence from the Winslow estate allowed her to enjoy several tranquil days.

But Evelyn soon realized this peace wouldn't last.

Returning home from work one evening, Evelyn noticed multiple Rolls-Royces parked outside the gates, sending a chill down her spine.

Recognizing the vehicles, Evelyn considered fleeing, but it was too late.

The security guard spotted her immediately. "Madam, your mother-in-law has arrived," he informed her. "She insists on seeing you immediately regarding an urgent matter."

Evelyn pressed her lips together and began typing on her phone: "I have prior commitments tonight. Please inform her we can reschedule."

Just as she finished the message and turned to leave, a sharp female voice stopped her cold. "Living in my son's house and trying to avoid me? What nonsense is this?"

Evelyn's heart pounded as she spun to face Margaret, her expression turning icy.

Margaret advanced with her entourage, radiating hostility.

Evelyn recalled hearing from staff about Margaret and Liam's falling out over some disagreement, which had strained their relationship and reduced Margaret's visits.

She'd almost believed she'd never see Margaret again.

Yet there she stood, scrutinizing Evelyn's defensive posture with undisguised contempt. "Considering you're still legally married to my son, isn't your reaction to seeing your mother-in-law rather extreme?"

Evelyn responded in sign language, explaining she was divorcing Liam and only staying temporarily for specific reasons. She emphasized any questions should be directed to Liam.

Sign language had been mandatory during Henry's time, but Margaret, who despised Evelyn, had always resented it.

Previously, Evelyn avoided signing around Margaret to please her.

But things had changed. The Winslow family's concerns no longer occupied Evelyn's thoughts. She was living for herself now, embracing newfound freedom.

Margaret scoffed and gestured to her guards. "Can't you see this woman lacks basic manners? Escort her inside. It's disgraceful having her make a scene at the door."

Evelyn's expression turned glacial as she assessed the surrounding guards. Resistance would only worsen her situation.

Muttering curses under her breath about Liam, Evelyn reluctantly followed Margaret into the mansion.

Meanwhile, to appease Olivia, Liam had invited her to dinner.

Adoration shone in Olivia's eyes as she gazed at Liam. With fewer people around, she might have thrown herself into his arms.

Glancing around, Olivia voiced discomfort: "Why choose such a crowded restaurant? All these eyes on us feel rather awkward."

Liam offered a gentle smile. "Isn't this your favorite restaurant? I specifically chose this place, though reservations are notoriously difficult to secure." Olivia nodded, acknowledging the truth in his words.

Indeed, it was the city's most exclusive dining establishment, popular among elite circles. Reservations typically required weeks of advance notice. Liam appeared to have made a thoughtful selection.

Unbeknownst to Olivia, Sebastian had actually chosen the venue.

Liam had insisted they didn't need privacy - the more witnesses, the better.

Had Sebastian not feared Olivia causing a scene, he might have selected a more modest location.

Just then, Liam's phone buzzed. His expression shifted as he glanced at the screen.

Curious, Olivia leaned in.

With practiced ease, Liam angled the phone away. "An urgent work call," he explained.

Despite his efforts, Olivia glimpsed the Winslow estate's main number displayed. She longed to confront Liam about his lie but feared his reaction.

Liam ignored the call, but when it rang again, he excused himself.

Watching his hurried departure, Olivia felt anxiety rising.

Out of sight, Liam's expression turned grim. "Is Evelyn in trouble?" he demanded.

The reply came urgently: "Your mother arrived unexpectedly. The situation seems volatile. You need to return immediately."

Liam immediately headed for the exit. "Keep my mother calm. I'll be there shortly," he instructed before ending the call.

He dialed Sebastian. "Margaret's causing problems for Evelyn again. I'm heading back. Make an excuse to Olivia. Dinner's canceled."

Sebastian hesitated. "Miss Hartley has been suspicious lately. If you leave now, she might create a scene."

"Let her," Liam replied coldly. "I'm done playing these games."

Sebastian exhaled deeply. "Understood."

He knew when Evelyn was involved, Liam's judgment clouded. Once Liam made a decision, no one could change it.

Left with no choice, Sebastian prepared to handle Olivia alone.