Chapter 38

Olivia froze in place, her hands trembling as she stared at the extravagant gift. She shook her head violently, signing that she couldn't possibly accept something so precious.

"It's nothing, really." William gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. "Henry adored you. You deserve every beautiful thing this world has to offer."

William's eyes glistened with emotion. The vibrant, brilliant Olivia he remembered had dimmed after marrying Liam. But today, watching her stand tall before the crowd, reclaiming her passion and proving her worth, he caught glimpses of the radiant girl she used to be.

Thanks to William's public endorsement, Olivia became the unexpected star of the evening.

No longer just "Mrs. Blackwood," people now addressed her by name, eagerly shaking her hand. Several guests even attempted basic sign language to communicate with her directly.

Olivia felt transported back to her days as the cherished adopted daughter of the Blackwood family. Not because of her title, but because her talent and capability commanded respect.

"She's too thin." Liam's sharp comment sliced through Olivia's daze.

She blinked, realizing he'd contradicted someone who'd complimented her slender figure.

"Proper nutrition is crucial. My daughter struggles with appetite too, so we hired a team of nutritionists—" a guest explained to Liam.

Olivia expected Liam to brush off the conversation, but to her surprise, he listened intently.

As the event concluded, Liam escorted Olivia to their car. Settling into the plush leather seats, Olivia couldn't suppress a contented smile.

"Happy?" Liam's deep voice cut through the silence.

Olivia nodded cautiously, studying his reaction. He'd always discouraged her from social engagements. Did he think she'd embarrassed him tonight? She couldn't think of any misstep.

"Do you enjoy restoration work?" Liam pressed further.

Encouraged by his calm tone, Olivia nodded enthusiastically, her smile widening. For the first time in years, she felt valued for her own abilities.

Liam's expression darkened instantly. He remembered Olivia's reason for taking the job—to earn twenty million quickly, pay him off, and secure their divorce. Was that smile because she envisioned freedom from him? The thought made his jaw tighten.

Noticing his mood shift, Olivia immediately lowered her head, schooling her features. She assumed her muteness always shamed him.

True to pattern, Liam didn't return to the mansion that night.

But the next morning brought an astonishing development. Descending the grand staircase, Olivia found the foyer crowded with white-uniformed nutritionists and chefs.

Liam leaned against the doorway, phone in hand. When he noticed Olivia, he pocketed the device and declared, "They're here to ensure you eat properly. No more skipping meals."

Olivia's breath caught. This stemmed from yesterday's conversation. Was this Liam's way of caring?

The hopeful thought flickered briefly before she extinguished it. More likely, he found her thinness unattractive compared to Evelyn's curves.

She gave a polite nod.

"They'll prepare all your meals. No more takeout," Liam added sharply, clearly referencing the food Marcus had brought to her studio recently.

Though the takeout came from an exclusive gourmet kitchen near her workplace, Olivia didn't argue.

Hesitantly, she signed a question about taking meals to the studio, explaining that restoration work required her presence and commuting home for lunch would disrupt her schedule.

Liam's response was ice. "Freshly prepared food is superior. Is your work more important than your health?"

Olivia quickly shook her head, acquiescing to return home for lunch. She understood this was less about nutrition and more about controlling her movements.

"Inform the nutritionist of your preferences," Liam said before striding away.

Alone at the dining table, Olivia texted Marcus: "Can I reduce to half-days? Need to lunch at home now."

Marcus replied instantly: "Of course, come whenever you're free."

She exhaled in relief, but then another message popped up: "Does your husband dictate all your meals? This is textbook control. Have you considered divorce? I know an excellent attorney."

Olivia's hands shook violently. Before she could delete the damning message, Liam's shadow fell across the table.

"Who are you texting?" His voice was dangerously calm.