Chapter 409

Olivia's fingers clamped around Victoria's wrist with lightning speed, her grip like iron as she anchored the trembling woman in place. The warmth in her emerald eyes vanished, replaced by glacial determination. "Don't bother looking for Daniel. It was me who orchestrated this meeting under his name. I knew you'd never agree to see me otherwise."

Victoria's face twisted in rage, her voice a venomous hiss. "So you admit it! You've been scheming to steal my husband all along! How despicable!"

Olivia remained unshaken by the baseless accusation. "I initially planned to clarify that nothing exists between Daniel and me," she stated coolly, "But now I see it's pointless explaining to someone like you. Why should I care about your opinion? You'd better cooperate unless you want unpleasant consequences." As she spoke, several imposing bodyguards materialized from the shadows.

Though her face paled, Victoria attempted bravado. "You wouldn't dare! You know who I am - harm me and you'll never see daylight in Crestwood again!"

Maintaining her composure, Olivia tightened her grip and pulled Victoria deeper into the private dining area.

"I've met your mother Beatrice. She's a principled woman who values family above all. If I were to reveal your actions, I'm certain she'd support me. In fact," Olivia's voice dropped to a dangerous whisper, "she might even have you imprisoned for what you've done."

Victoria's confidence wavered, panic flickering across her features. She knew Olivia spoke the truth - her mother would never condone such behavior.

Desperate, Victoria forced a laugh. "Then take me to court if you're so confident! Let's see your evidence. I doubt you have any real proof."

"Proof?" Olivia's gaze sharpened like a honed blade. With a subtle gesture, she summoned a bodyguard who dragged forward a bound man. The restaurant staff continued serving as if nothing unusual occurred.

Victoria's eyes widened in realization - this entire establishment answered to Olivia. When the hood was removed from the captive's head, all color drained from her face.

The man immediately began babbling. "Madam Ellington, you must explain! You hired me! I'd never have dared act alone! The money's still in my account - the transaction records prove everything!"

Victoria's knees nearly buckled as her carefully constructed facade crumbled. Olivia signaled her men to escort the shaking woman into a private chamber where they forced her onto the cold marble floor.

Even in defeat, Victoria spat venom. "Olivia, I did it because I loathe you! You had no right to return. Did you think you could waltz back into my life and take everything? You're nothing but a gold-digging whore! Don't think I don't see how you eye Daniel!"

Her voice dripped with malice as she added, "Even with your so-called evidence, what can you do? Any action against me would make you just as guilty. We'll rot in prison together."

Instead of anger, a chilling smile curved Olivia's lips. "You misunderstand, Victoria. I've no intention of breaking the law," she purred. "I simply want you to experience exactly what you inflicted on me."

"You can't do this! Have you no humanity?" Victoria's voice trembled with genuine terror.

Olivia nearly laughed at the irony. The woman who showed no remorse for her cruelty now begged for mercy.