Chapter 406

Liam cleared his throat, abruptly changing the subject. "But I still need your assistance. I've been drowning in work lately. You, however—you handled that auction house like a seasoned professional. I'm still getting familiar with the business. Without Victor and Richard, they would've played me like a fool."

Olivia studied Liam's unusual charm offensive, suspicion flickering in her eyes. Was this really the same Liam she knew? He had never behaved this way before.

Olivia cut straight to the chase, her voice turning serious. "I can help you, Liam. But on one condition: If I assist you, you'll sell me the company for thirty percent of its value. That's my offer."

At Olivia's words, Oliver, seated in the front passenger seat, widened his eyes in shock and blurted out, "Absolutely not. That's daylight robbery—"

"Ahem!" Sebastian quickly interrupted with a pointed cough, shooting Oliver a warning glance.

Oliver muttered sulkily, "Mr. Blackwood won't agree. This is practically charity, just surrendering to an outrageous demand."

"Alright, but I don't want your money. I'll give it to you for free." Liam stunned Oliver by agreeing with Olivia. Oliver fell silent, turning to stare blankly out the window. His image of Liam shattered—Liam had never acted this way before.

Olivia was taken aback by Liam's immediate compliance. She was about to accept when realization struck her. A businessman like Liam wouldn't agree so readily without an ulterior motive. There had to be strings attached.

Sensing her hesitation, Liam felt a pang of hurt. He gently took her hand, his expression earnest as he met her gaze. "To be completely honest, Olivia, I'd give you anything you asked for, anything at all—as long as it's for you and Isabelle. I mean every word."

Olivia searched Liam's eyes for a long moment. Then, a faint smile touched her lips. "Never mind. I just realized my request might have been unreasonable. I need to reconsider."

Liam's calm facade cracked as anxiety crept in. "Don't worry. There's no risk involved."

But Olivia remained unmoved. She didn't bother responding, instead turning to Isabelle. "Let's go home now."

With that, Olivia led Isabelle out of the car and into another, leaving Liam behind.

Oliver couldn't contain himself any longer and turned around, trying to reason with Liam. "Mr. Blackwood, Ms. Sinclair is beautiful, no doubt, but there are plenty of stunning women out there. Look how she treats you. No respect whatsoever. You need to stand your ground. Don't let her walk all over you. Love shouldn't make you lose your senses."

Liam's patience snapped. In one swift motion, he grabbed Oliver by the collar. "Who put these ridiculous ideas in your head?"

Oliver, suddenly uncertain, lowered his head and mumbled, "I just picked it up from TV dramas. But I swear, I only have your best interests at heart."

Sebastian quickly intervened, sensing the tension. "Mr. Blackwood, he's young and inexperienced. He was only trying to protect you."