Chapter 4

Evelyn's eyes burned with resentment. Why had Olivia held the title of Mrs. Blackwood for so long when she was utterly undeserving? The injustice of it gnawed at her soul.

Yet her voice dripped with saccharine sweetness. "Of course, she's the respectable Mrs. Blackwood, while I'm just the shameful mistress who deserves everyone's scorn."

Liam ran his fingers through her hair absentmindedly. "Don't be ridiculous."

"Is it ridiculous?" Evelyn's voice trembled with manufactured vulnerability. "I was your first love, your real girlfriend. Now the whole world thinks you betrayed her for me, painting me as some homewrecker." She bit her lip dramatically. "After all I've suffered, don't I deserve some compensation?"

A lazy smirk played on Liam's lips as he loosened his tie. "Fine. What do you want this time?"

Evelyn studied his expression before whispering, "I've been dreaming about that limited edition Aston Martin coupe. It's not even available in the country yet, but I—"

"Buy it," Liam interrupted without hesitation.

Her eyes lit up as she pressed further. "And maybe a Chanel Gabrielle bag? I know it's not that expensive, but the waiting list is impossible unless—"

"Get whatever you want. The entire collection if it makes you happy," Liam said with disinterest.

Evelyn nearly squealed with delight, throwing her arms around him and planting a loud kiss on his cheek. "Darling, I knew you'd spoil me! I promise I'll stop complaining. Our happiness is all that matters!" She beamed at him.

Liam's expression remained unreadable. "Consider it an early birthday gift."

Her face scrunched in an exaggerated pout. "You remembered my birthday? Then why have you been avoiding me? As punishment, you're forbidden from going home next week or seeing your wife. You're spending every minute with me!"

The memory of Olivia's quiet dignity in the car earlier sent an unexpected pang through Liam's chest. Irritated by the sensation, he agreed instantly. "Fine. Whatever you want."

Overjoyed, Evelyn lunged for another embrace.

Liam caught her shoulders to prevent her from hitting the car roof, missing the calculating glint in her eyes as she shifted positions.

Meanwhile, from the bookstore across the street, Olivia stood frozen by the floor-to-ceiling windows. The car hadn't moved, its window still down, giving her a perfect view of Evelyn now straddling Liam's lap, their bodies swaying together.

Though Evelyn's position blocked Liam's face, Olivia could imagine his expression - the same look of contentment he'd once reserved for her.

Tears welled up silently, tracing paths through her carefully applied makeup.

A warm cup of tea appeared in her line of vision.

Natalie followed Olivia's gaze and immediately bristled with indignation. "How do you live like this? He's practically having sex with his mistress in broad daylight! The whole world thinks you're the villain here, when clearly—" She cut herself off with a frustrated noise. "You may not speak, but you outshine her in every way. Any man who cheats isn't worth your tears. I wouldn't take him if he were the last man on earth!"

After years working together, Natalie had become more than a colleague - she was Olivia's fiercest protector and closest friend.

Olivia turned away, signing her gratitude with trembling hands.

"This marriage isn't worth your pain," Natalie murmured, pulling her into a hug. "If you ever get the chance to leave, take it."

Concern etched Natalie's features as she added, "I brought you some pastries. Something sweet might help. Forget about the hotel delivery today - I'll handle the promotional materials. You should rest."

The delivery involved hundreds of heavy magazines requiring multiple trips. Guilt twisted in Olivia's chest at the thought of burdening Natalie.

She signed quickly, insisting she could manage her responsibilities.

Natalie refused to back down.

After a silent standoff, they compromised - they would make the delivery together.