Chapter 47

Alexander's question cut through the tense atmosphere like a scalpel, demanding clarity in the midst of uncertainty. "As the newly appointed advisor to our company, what exactly is your strategy? How do you define your responsibilities?"

The inquiry sounded deceptively simple, the kind one might encounter during a routine corporate interview.

William's face darkened visibly, his irritation flaring at Alexander's blunt approach. He moved protectively closer to Olivia, ready to shield her from what he perceived as undue interrogation.

But Olivia remained unshaken. With graceful composure, she raised her hands and began signing her response.

As Olivia articulated her thoughts, William translated each gesture with precision. "Since Mr. Whitmore founded this company based on his passion for antiquities, our acquisitions should align with his personal tastes rather than chasing market trends. Blindly following fluctuations only makes us vulnerable to dealer manipulation. Certain periods are artificially inflated in value - a tactic that benefits merchants at the expense of newcomers like us."

She continued, her gestures fluid and confident. "Regarding restoration and authentication services, I propose we eliminate separate fees. Instead, we should cultivate long-term relationships with serious collectors. By becoming their trusted intermediaries for future acquisitions, we create sustainable revenue streams beyond one-time service charges."

Alexander waited patiently for each translation, his initial skepticism gradually giving way to thoughtful consideration.

William couldn't contain his pride as he conveyed Olivia's final points. "You see? Henry's protégé possesses remarkable business acumen. Olivia's strategy far surpasses your initial proposal, wouldn't you agree?"

Just minutes earlier, Alexander had doubted Olivia's qualifications. Now, his expression revealed nothing but professional respect.

His original plan had been straightforward - ride market trends for quick profits through strategic buying and selling.

But Olivia's analysis illuminated the pitfalls of such an approach for a fledgling company. Her vision offered stability and growth potential that resonated deeply with their long-term objectives.

Before William could prompt him, Alexander reached for his glass and drained it in one decisive motion. "I owe you an apology," he admitted, his voice carrying genuine contrition. "I underestimated your capabilities. Given your... domestic situation," he chose his words carefully, "I assumed you'd been completely removed from the business world."

"She was Henry's brightest student!" William interjected proudly. "There was a time when Liam—" He caught himself abruptly, coughing into his hand before redirecting. "Henry intended for Olivia to take over the family enterprises!"

Olivia's eyes widened in surprise. This revelation was news to her, but William quickly steered the conversation elsewhere.

"Regardless, Olivia, we'd be honored to have you as our advisor," William said earnestly, his gaze intent. "What do you say?"

Olivia shook her head gently, offering William a warm but regretful smile.

She gestured her need for time to consider, explaining there were personal matters requiring careful deliberation.

The unspoken truth hung heavily in the air. Liam's insistence on her domestic confinement complicated matters. Her current arrangement at Gregory's studio provided necessary flexibility. Accepting this formal position would undoubtedly provoke Liam's wrath and potentially strain relations with the Whitmore family.

Alexander raised his glass in understanding. "If my earlier demeanor influenced your hesitation, please accept my sincere apologies—"

Olivia shook her head emphatically, assuring them his behavior wasn't the issue.

Fidgeting with her napkin, she reluctantly confessed her family obligations might prevent her acceptance.

Comprehension dawned on their faces, followed by weighted silence.

Liam's infidelity with Evelyn, along with his other rumored affairs, was common knowledge in their circles. Their silent sympathy for Olivia - the generous, long-suffering wife - was palpable.

As Olivia hinted at Liam's restrictions, disapproval flickered across their expressions. Yet they knew better than to interfere in marital matters. William sighed before making his final offer. "Ten million annual salary, three-year minimum contract. Olivia, when you've reached your decision, contact either Alexander or myself. The position remains open for you."

Leaving the restaurant later, Olivia felt as though she walked through a dream. Twenty million within a year - enough to secure her freedom from Liam's control.

Previously, such wealth had seemed an impossible fantasy. Now, destiny had handed her the key to liberation. She'd underestimated her own worth all these years.

Henry had personally trained her in business strategy, ensuring his mute protégé could navigate the cutthroat world of antiquities. How bitterly ironic that she'd chosen domestic confinement to please Liam, squandering her mentor's faith in the process.

The evening's events replayed in her mind, sparking a long-dormant sense of possibility.

Perhaps she wasn't destined to remain "Liam's worthless wife" forever. If given the chance, she could prove her capabilities to the world.

These hopeful thoughts carried her to the car, where Theodore waited with visible anxiety. "Madam, Mr. Blackwood has called four times inquiring about your whereabouts," he reported urgently.

Two hours at dinner meant Liam had checked on her every thirty minutes.

Olivia's body tensed, dread pooling in her stomach.