Chapter 324

Olivia's fingers tightened around the edge of the design portfolio as the man's playful smirk dissolved into icy seriousness. "You need to decide whether you still wish to operate this auction house," he stated, his voice dropping several degrees.

Her emerald eyes hardened into slits. "Is that a threat, Mr. Blackwood?"

Liam Blackwood merely shrugged, the movement casual yet calculated. "What do you think?"

A dull ache began pulsing behind Olivia's temples. While his intimidation tactics didn't frighten her - she'd faced worse from the Kensington family - she had no desire to invite unnecessary conflict. Even with their backing, she refused to exploit their influence.

He continued smoothly, "Just accept the commission. The Kensington name holds no sway over me. That I only showed you partial designs doesn't mean I doubt your skills." His gloved finger tapped the portfolio meaningfully. "I sought you specifically because I believe only you can execute this flawlessly."

Just then, a small voice piped up, "M-mister?"

Little Isabelle had appeared silently, her tiny hands now clutching Liam's tailored trousers as she stood on tiptoes, her face scrunched in determination.

Olivia's breath hitched as she rushed forward to pull her daughter away.

But to her surprise, Liam crouched down to Isabelle's level, his voice softening noticeably. "Yes, Isabelle? What is it?"

Olivia blinked. Was that genuine warmth she detected?

The child pointed insistently at his silver half-mask. When he didn't react, her small fingers reached up to tug at its edge, clearly intent on removing it.

"Enough!" Olivia snapped, gently but firmly pulling Isabelle back. "What did Mommy say about behaving when we have guests?"

Isabelle buried her face in Olivia's skirt, her little shoulders shaking with silent sobs. Liam unexpectedly intervened, "Children are naturally curious. She meant no harm. I don't mind at all - you shouldn't scold her."

Olivia studied him carefully. "You're fond of children?"

His gaze grew distant. "I have a daughter of my own."

"How... coincidental," Olivia murmured, accepting the designs with renewed determination. "I'll do my best. But remember your promise - no interference with my auction house. It's small-scale; I can't handle complications."

"Agreed." Liam turned to leave.

At the threshold, he paused without looking back. "In seven days, my associate will deliver the first schematic. You'll receive the remaining designs then."

As his figure retreated, Olivia suddenly called out, "Liam Blackwood!"

He froze mid-step.

Her pulse skyrocketed.

When he turned, his expression was unreadable behind the mask. "I neglected to mention - I'll be returning to Eldermere soon. Rumor has it you're going back as well. Convenient timing. This way, it won't disrupt your schedule."

Olivia's stomach dropped like a stone. The momentary excitement drained from her veins.