Chapter 390

Daniel nodded solemnly. "I understand. I'll treat her with nothing but kindness and hope she learns to trust me."

Victoria pressed her lips into a thin line before letting out a derisive laugh, her eyes darkening with unreadable emotions.

When Olivia stepped into the restaurant, an unnatural hush fell over the space after just a few steps. Turning, she saw Victoria looking visibly distressed while Daniel whispered urgently in her ear. "What's wrong?" Olivia rushed toward them.

Victoria quickly composed herself, shaking her head. "It's nothing serious. The hospital just called - my mother fainted. I need to go check on her immediately."

"You should hurry then," Olivia said with genuine concern. "Medical emergencies shouldn't be delayed."

"She has these dizzy spells frequently. I'll just make sure she's stable." Victoria stopped Olivia from leaving, "You were invited for dinner, so I can't just abandon you. Wait here - I'll be back within an hour at most. It's still early for dinner anyway."

Daniel opened his mouth to speak for Olivia, but she responded first. "Alright, I'll wait. Just don't take too long."

Victoria nodded, took several steps away, then threw a meaningful glance back at Daniel.

Recognizing the silent warning in Victoria's eyes, Daniel said with regret, "I'm sorry Olivia, but I need to leave as well."

Olivia simply nodded in understanding.

As they approached the car together, Victoria suddenly changed her mind about going to the hospital. She appeared unsettled and took a step back. "Daniel, would you mind checking on my mother instead? I don't feel right leaving Olivia here alone."

After considering her request, Daniel found it reasonable and drove off without further discussion.

Watching Daniel's car disappear into the distance, Victoria's expression turned icy.

The restaurant's interior boasted exquisite decor.

Olivia had planned to wait in the garden, but soon a waiter approached her. "My apologies, but the garden is reserved for a private event tonight. Fortunately, you've booked a private dining room upstairs."

Following the waiter upstairs, Olivia barely had time to react when the door swung open and two large men lunged at her with practiced efficiency.

Before she could process what was happening, a rough hand clamped over her mouth. The more Olivia struggled, the tighter the grip became until she felt lightheaded from lack of air, forcing her to go limp.

As expected, the pressure eased significantly once she stopped resisting.

The man behind her chuckled darkly. "Should've cooperated from the start. Stay calm and you won't get hurt. Ms. Ellington is being generous - she's found you a suitable husband. Marrying him will keep you from seducing other women's men."

Seducing other women's men? Olivia realized Victoria must have orchestrated this entire setup. White-hot rage surged through her. Despite all her efforts to avoid conflict, Victoria remained relentless. She and Daniel, once close friends, had maintained strict distance for years, behaving like strangers just to prevent Victoria from getting the wrong idea.

Olivia had been considerate of Victoria's feelings at every turn, yet Victoria showed no mercy. Why was she doing this? Bitter tears streamed down Olivia's face as anguish and fury warred within her.

The man sighed, releasing her mouth only to grip her chin firmly. Before she could scream for help, his chilling words cut through the air like a blade.