Chapter 35

Olivia's breath caught in her throat as she examined the delicate bracelet in her palm. The unmistakable Whitmore insignia glinted under the studio lights, but the engraved date told a different story - not from the founding year, but two years later.

Her fingers trembled slightly as she turned the piece over. The design mirrored Victoria's damaged bracelet with uncanny precision, down to the smallest filigree detail.

Then she found it.

A nearly invisible latch concealed along the inner curve. With careful pressure, the hidden compartment sprang open, revealing its secret purpose. Olivia's pulse quickened as realization dawned - this was the key to restoring Victoria's heirloom.

But why would Liam give her this? He'd never shown interest in her restoration work before. She remembered the storm in his eyes when she'd mentioned earning money for their impending divorce. The man was an enigma wrapped in tailored suits.

Shaking off her thoughts, Olivia reached for her tools. The restoration flowed effortlessly now that she understood the mechanism. Enamel met metal under her skilled hands, the hot-melt gun sealing fractures with surgical precision.

Marcus summoned Gregory to inspect her work. The master restorer examined every angle through his loupe before breaking into a proud smile. His hands moved in quick, approving gestures - "Natural talent," they said. "Just like when I first discovered you."

Olivia ducked her head, signing her gratitude for his mentorship. The personal seal Gregory pressed into the velvet box lid marked his official approval - and her professional triumph.

"Ensure you personally deliver this tomorrow," Marcus instructed as she packaged the finished piece.

When Victoria arrived the next day, her crimson lips curled in a smile that didn't reach her eyes. She accepted the box with careless grace, as if holding a winning card.

That evening, Olivia returned Liam's bracelet to his study, certain he wouldn't notice. But as she prepared for bed, the bedroom door swung open. Water droplets glistened on Liam's bare chest where his robe gaped open.

He tossed the bracelet onto the duvet. "Explain."

Olivia signed that she no longer needed the reference piece.

Liam's jaw tightened. "Keep it." The words came out gruff, almost reluctant.

She stored it in her nightstand, determined to return it after the divorce. Then Liam dropped another bombshell - an embossed invitation fluttered onto the bed.

"The Whitmore gala. You're attending."

Olivia's stomach knotted as she read William Hayes' birthday celebration details. Why would Liam want her there after last time's disaster?

On the evening of the event, Olivia chose an understated navy gown. Even with her eyes downcast, she felt the weight of curious stares as they entered the grand ballroom. The whispers were more subdued this time, the greetings politely restrained.

The ceremony began with family tributes. Victoria took center stage, the golden child basking in attention. Then she presented a familiar velvet box.

"Grandfather, our ancestral bracelet - restored to honor you today."

Olivia's blood ran cold when she saw the broken seal. As William opened the box, her worst fears materialized - deep scratches marred the once-pristine surface.

Victoria's triumphant gaze locked onto Olivia's across the room.

The trap had sprung.