Chapter 499

Olivia watched as the young woman vanished into the dressing room before continuing her path toward the racetrack. When she arrived, Alexander was already astride his newly acquired stallion, his face alight with pure delight. Spotting Olivia, he immediately dismounted and strode toward her.

"Olivia, you must try him!" Alexander's dimples deepened with his enthusiastic grin. The usually sharp businessman seemed transformed - his youthful energy making him appear years younger.

She pressed her lips together, deliberately stepping back to widen the space between them. "I'd rather not. While I can ride, I wouldn't want to risk injuring your prized possession."

The brief shadow that crossed Alexander's eyes betrayed his disappointment, but he wasn't ready to concede. His voice softened as he tried again. "He's just a horse, Olivia. Quite gentle actually. If you're nervous, we could ride together."

A playful smirk tugged at his lips. "No more excuses. I specifically asked if you wanted to ride before we came."

Olivia found herself speechless. She hadn't anticipated Alexander's obvious infatuation. This wasn't something she'd sought, yet here they stood.

She understood the unspoken rules of their world all too well. Men like Alexander didn't choose partners based on mere attraction. They sought someone who could complement their lifestyle, elevate their status, and prove advantageous in countless ways. She fit that mold perfectly, and it sickened her.

As Alexander's hopeful gaze met hers and the crowd's teasing cheers surrounded them, Olivia felt a wave of discomfort. Her frown deepened, feeling trapped by societal expectations. With a quiet sigh, she reluctantly reached for the reins, her fingers tightening around the leather as she prepared to mount.

Just as Olivia began to swing herself up, thunderous hooves shattered the moment. A dark blur - like a midnight storm - rushed past with startling speed.

The previously calm horse beside Olivia reared violently, breaking free from her grip before galloping wildly across the field. Quick-acting staff managed to corral the frightened animal before any harm was done.

Both Olivia and Alexander turned toward the disturbance. To their shock, it wasn't some natural phenomenon but Liam, riding a magnificent black stallion that dwarfed Alexander's prized purchase.

The powerful black beast was breathtaking - muscles rippling beneath its glossy coat. No wonder Alexander's horse had panicked.

Alexander's expression darkened, though his breeding prevented any outburst. He gestured sharply to staff. "What are you standing there for? Escort this gentleman out."

A staff member leaned in to whisper urgently. Alexander's face shifted from anger to reluctant acceptance. He forced a tight smile as Liam approached still mounted. "Mr. Blackwood. My apologies for not recognizing you earlier."

Though the most influential person present, Alexander hadn't organized this event - hence his unawareness of Liam's attendance. Liam dismounted smoothly, gave Alexander the barest nod, and walked past him without another word.

Alexander's outstretched hand hung awkwardly in midair before dropping to his side. His expression turned glacial.