Chapter 26

Olivia's breath caught when she spotted Evelyn across the crowded ballroom. Liam's earlier words echoed in her mind - he'd asked Evelyn to postpone their conversation until tonight. Now, with nightfall and Liam's attention clearly divided, Olivia wondered if this was all an elaborate scheme to humiliate her.

But retreat wasn't an option. Liam's strong arm encircled her waist possessively, his gaze sweeping past Evelyn as if she didn't exist. He guided Olivia forward with effortless confidence until they were swallowed by a circle of well-wishers, pushing Evelyn out of sight.

Olivia's eyes darted around, searching for Evelyn's familiar silhouette, until Liam's fingers dug into her side in warning. She snapped her attention forward immediately.

"Mrs. Blackwood, you're even more breathtaking in person. Benjamin Wright - I've worked with your husband for years." A distinguished gentleman extended his hand with a warm smile.

Olivia offered a polite nod and gestured in greeting.

"My wife's vocal cords were damaged in an accident. Please excuse her," Liam interjected smoothly, his voice carrying just the right note of regret.

"Oh, what a shame. She's absolutely radiant," Benjamin murmured, his eyes lingering on Olivia before turning to Liam. "Your devotion to your wife is truly remarkable, Mr. Blackwood. Staying faithful through such adversity is commendable."

Liam chuckled darkly, exchanging pleasantries while Olivia forced a smile. The bitter irony twisted in her chest - she only remained by Liam's side because he hadn't discarded her yet.

Anyone could see she didn't belong here. Not like Evelyn Hartley, whose beauty matched her prestigious lineage. With marriage discussions between the Hartleys and Blackwoods already underway, and Evelyn's effortless social grace, she was clearly the more suitable match.

Olivia wished the marble floor would swallow her whole. Then Liam's warm breath brushed her ear as he whispered, "Dance with me."

Her eyes widened in shock as she turned to face him.

Without explanation, Liam captured her hand and led her to the sunken dance floor at the center of the grand hall. Couples parted like the Red Sea as they approached, whispers following in their wake.

"Is Mr. Blackwood really dancing with his mute wife?"

"Can she even hear the music?"

Olivia's palm grew damp in Liam's grip as the murmurs reached her ears.

"Relax," Liam murmured, his arm tightening around her waist. "Just follow my lead."

As the music swelled, Olivia trembled against him, determined not to embarrass Liam. Her childhood dance lessons surfaced through the fog of years, her movements growing more confident with each step. Liam moved with practiced ease, making her wonder how often he'd danced with Evelyn in this very spot.

"Liam!" The emotional cry shattered Olivia's concentration.

Evelyn stood at the edge of the dance floor, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. Olivia tried to pull away, mouthing "Go to her," but Liam's grip turned vice-like.

"You're my wife," he hissed, his tender expression belying the steel in his voice. "Stop acting like a frightened mouse. It reflects poorly on me."

Taking a shuddering breath, Olivia closed her eyes. For one fleeting moment, she imagined herself back as the beloved adopted daughter of the Blackwood family, dancing with the brother who'd once adored her.

Throwing her head back, Olivia let her hair cascade down her bare shoulders, revealing the elegant lines of her back. The crowd's murmurs shifted from pity to admiration.

"Stunning - she lives up to her reputation completely."

"That kind of grace can't be taught. It's bred into noble blood."

"None of these society girls compare. Not even that Hartley girl who's practically engaged to a Blackwood."

Evelyn's fingers clenched around her champagne flute at the whispers. Not compare? Forcing a brittle smile, she retreated to a shadowed corner and pulled out her phone, dialing with trembling fingers...