Chapter 46

The restaurant Jerome had selected wasn't the kind of place just anyone could access. Nestled near Gregory's studio, it exuded an air of refined exclusivity with its understated luxury.

As the group stepped out of their vehicles, a sharply dressed young man greeted them at the entrance. "Grandfather," he addressed Jerome with respectful familiarity.

Jerome made introductions with a proud smile. "This is my eldest grandson, Alexander Hayes."

Alexander, being Victoria's cousin and the heir apparent to the Whitmore family empire, exchanged polite handshakes with everyone present, including Olivia.

Once seated around the elegant table with initial pleasantries exchanged, Jerome took a thoughtful sip of his jasmine tea before addressing Olivia directly. "At the recent gala, my granddaughter may have behaved inappropriately toward you. For that, I owe you an apology," he said with genuine remorse.

Olivia rose quickly, caught off guard by the unexpected apology. She assured him the incident was already forgotten, especially considering the priceless set of azure porcelain he'd gifted her as compensation.

"Your grandfather was instrumental in my early career," Jerome continued, his voice tinged with regret. "I wish I could have supported you better through your difficulties." His meaningful glance hinted at deeper concerns about her marriage.

Olivia understood the unspoken implication. Despite being married to Liam and the carefully maintained facade of their perfect union, she preferred keeping her marital struggles private. She offered Jerome a warm but guarded smile, silently conveying her appreciation while maintaining her dignity.

Jerome's expression brightened as he changed topics. "I hear you're considering starting your own venture." Leaning forward conspiratorially, he added with a chuckle, "I might have an interesting proposition for you."

Olivia hesitated. Liam had been visibly displeased when she began apprenticing at Gregory's studio. Taking on another professional commitment would undoubtedly provoke his temper further. But did his approval still matter? The thought brought a pang of sadness.

She'd come to realize his opinions shouldn't dictate her choices. After years of marriage, she knew exactly what to expect.

"At least hear me out before refusing," Jerome urged, noticing her hesitation.

Olivia met his gaze directly, signaling her willingness to listen.

"As you know, antique collecting has always been my passion - both as hobby and business venture." Jerome's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "I'm establishing a new company specializing in antiques. While Alexander will handle operations, we need an expert consultant. Olivia, would you consider joining us?"

Her eyes widened in surprise at being offered such a responsible position.

"Grandfather, I didn't realize you held Mrs. Blackwood in such esteem," Alexander interjected before Olivia could respond.

There was a barely perceptible skepticism in Alexander's tone as he studied Olivia. The unspoken question hung in the air - was she truly qualified?

Olivia maintained her composure. It was natural for others to doubt her capabilities after years as a sheltered society wife.

Gregory quickly came to her defense. "Olivia's restoration skills are exceptional."

"But consultancy requires more than restoration expertise," Alexander countered. "Gregory, when you opened your studio, it wasn't just about your technical skills, was it?"

Olivia understood Alexander's concern. As the Whitmore heir, he couldn't afford mistakes in their new venture. Beyond restoration, the ability to authenticate pieces was crucial to prevent costly acquisitions of counterfeits.

"Why do you assume Olivia isn't qualified?" Jerome challenged, clearly on her side.

Olivia offered a modest smile. After years away from the professional world, she felt fortunate to have retained her restoration skills at all.

Jerome's faith in her remained unshaken. Turning to Alexander, he proposed, "If you doubt Olivia's expertise, test her. If she answers correctly, you'll toast to her success tonight."

"Agreed," Alexander said, his gaze intensifying as it locked onto Olivia.

Under the weight of their expectant stares, Olivia steadied herself with a deep breath, ready to prove her worth.