Chapter 407

Liam released Oliver's collar, his voice dropping to a grave tone. "I get it. But don't ever say that again. I know damn well I don't deserve her. No wonder she treats me like this."

Oliver opened his mouth to argue, but Sebastian shot him a warning look, silently telling him to back off.

Despite Oliver's usual composure, something about Olivia always managed to rattle him, making him uncharacteristically agitated. Still cautious of Liam's temper, Oliver asked carefully, "Mr. Blackwood, should we head back now?"

Liam shook his head, his voice heavy with resolve. "No. I'm not going anywhere."

He turned to Sebastian with determination. "Start the car. We're following her."

Olivia had no idea Liam would trail her all the way home. Once inside, she busied herself in the kitchen, preparing dinner for Isabelle. As she carried the dishes out, a servant approached, murmuring about unexpected guests.

Confused, Olivia stepped into the living room—only to freeze at the sight of a familiar figure lounging on her sofa. Annoyance flared instantly, her voice icy. "What are you doing here? Get out."

Liam was on his feet in a heartbeat, crossing the room in long strides. He caught her wrist, his grip firm but gentle. "No. I'm not leaving."

Olivia's expression hardened. "This is my house, Liam. I have every right to kick you out. I get that you want to apologize, but you've done enough. The past is over. I'm moving on. If you keep stalking me, you're just making things worse."

Emotion tightened Liam's throat, but he refused to let go.

"You've got it wrong. I'm not just here for you. I'm here to protect you and Isabelle. I know you don’t care about gossip, but she’s just a kid. If rumors start spreading in high society, what do you think will happen to her? Do you really want to be forced to live abroad forever?"

Olivia's gaze flicked to Isabelle, her chest tightening. After a beat, her tone softened slightly. "I understand what you're saying. But that doesn’t change the fact that I don’t want my life disrupted. You know what I mean."

Liam didn’t argue. Instead, he released her wrist and walked over to Isabelle, crouching to her level. His voice was warm, and soon, Isabelle’s laughter filled the room. Watching them bond so effortlessly twisted something inside Olivia.

After a pause, Olivia took her seat at the table and said coolly, "I only made enough for Isabelle and me. There’s nothing for you."

Liam remained unfazed. "That’s fine. I’m not here to eat. I just want to be with you both during dinner."

But Isabelle, ever thoughtful, didn’t hesitate. She asked a servant for an extra bowl and carefully scooped some of her food for Liam. "Mommy’s cooking is too good not to share! You have to try it!"

Olivia sighed. "Isabelle, if you keep giving your food away, you’ll go hungry."

With a bright smile, Isabelle shook her head. "Mommy, I know you’d never let that happen."

Liam couldn’t help but chuckle as he ruffled her hair. "Isabelle really is the sweetest girl in the world."

Despite her reluctance, Olivia couldn’t resist Isabelle’s pleading eyes—or Liam’s quiet presence. She called for the servant to prepare a few more dishes.

As they waited, Liam did something unexpected.

He removed his mask.