Chapter 317

Olivia tenderly stroked Isabelle's soft curls. "This is Marcus."

Little Isabelle was still mastering her words, her pronunciation unclear yet her voice carried an undeniable sweetness that melted hearts.

Marcus exhaled deeply, his expression nostalgic. "I never pictured our reunion like this. You've found your voice, become a mother, and joined the prestigious Kensington family. More than that, you've transformed completely."

Olivia's gaze turned introspective. "Change is inevitable, isn't it?"

"True," Marcus agreed, nodding. "But your transformation is remarkable. I still recall our first meeting in Gregory's studio. Back then, I thought your quiet demeanor was an act - that you were pretending to be docile when bullied. With time, I realized it wasn't pretense. You genuinely endured everything silently. Even when Evelyn and her clique tormented you, you never uttered a word of protest."

A bittersweet smile touched Olivia's lips. "I was foolishly trusting in those days."

The unspoken truth was that Liam had shaped much of her tolerance. The overwhelming gratitude she felt toward the Blackwood family for taking her in had made her endure their cruelty, especially Liam's.

Moreover, Evelyn had constantly insinuated that without Olivia's interference, she and Liam would have been together years earlier.

Evelyn had systematically blamed Olivia for ruining their supposed romance.

Young Olivia had internalized this guilt, carrying the weight of her marriage to Liam like a sin. Now, with clarity, she recognized how her kindness had been weaponized against her.

Marcus cleared his throat, changing the subject. "Speaking of which, your skills surpass mine. Why not create something for your cousin yourself?"

Olivia chuckled lightly. "It's been ages since I last crafted anything. My inspiration feels rusty. Besides, your work would resonate with him better - each piece so elegant and refined."

A faint blush colored Marcus's cheeks at the compliment. "Before I left the studio, Gregory mentioned you with regret. He said you possessed true genius and could have become a master restorer like him someday. But life rarely follows smooth paths. He wondered when he might see you again."

After a thoughtful pause, Olivia responded, "Our paths may cross again. I'll likely return to Eldermere soon. There are... matters requiring my attention." Her eyes darkened momentarily at the thought.

Marcus wisely didn't press for details.

Their conversation flowed easily until Marcus suddenly remembered something important.

"Did you hear about the Blackwood Enterprises' downfall? Ever since they disowned Liam, the company's been collapsing under Richard's chosen management. Whispers say bankruptcy looms near."

He leaned forward conspiratorially. "Stranger still, a mysterious new corporation emerged recently. Rumor claims its foreign owner has been systematically dismantling Blackwood Enterprises by snatching all their major contracts."

Marcus shook his head in disbelief. "The entire situation with Liam makes no sense. The Blackwoods had officially named him heir - he was clearly capable of running the company. Why would he betray his own mother? There are too many missing pieces to this puzzle."