Chapter 501

Liam contemplated for a moment. "He's being foolish. Regardless, the true villain here is him, and you're just caught between them. You won't upset Alexander. Don't worry about it."

Olivia's heart warmed slightly at his words, but she pouted, "I don't need your help to handle myself."

Liam didn't respond. Instead, with a subtle nudge of his heels, the horse suddenly surged forward. The abrupt movement made Olivia gasp, her face draining of color. She instinctively wanted to turn and bury herself in Liam's chest.

Sensing her distress, Liam didn't slow their pace but gently covered her white-knuckled grip on the reins with his own hand. He leaned close, his breath warm against her ear. "Breathe. Straighten your posture. Hold the reins firmly. There's nothing to fear."

Guided by Liam's steady voice, Olivia's panic gradually subsided. She began to relish the wind rushing past her face and the rich scent of freshly turned earth from the racecourse, her spirits lifting. From a distance, Alexander watched Olivia's radiant smile beside Liam, his expression darkening.

His assistant, noticing Alexander's distraction, whispered discreetly, "It appears Mr. Blackwood has taken a liking to Miss Sinclair, but there's little we can do about that."

"Even though Miss Sinclair is extraordinary, she's not the only remarkable woman in the world. You're searching for a life partner. With your status and abilities, you'll undoubtedly find someone suitable."

Alexander clenched his fists, his chest tight. "What if I told you my interest in Olivia isn't just about marriage convenience? I'm genuinely drawn to her. That's why I can't let Mr. Blackwood have her."

After their ride, Olivia was surprised to find Alexander still waiting. He insisted on showing her around the estate grounds, with Liam following silently behind them, uninvited.

Alexander's patience wore thin, and he shot an irritated glance over his shoulder. "Mr. Blackwood, do you have other business here?"

Liam flashed a roguish grin. "That's an odd question. Whatever plans you have with Miss Sinclair, I intend to share them. Great minds think alike."

Alexander's face paled with annoyance, his lips moving silently in curses.

The afternoon passed quickly, and soon the evening banquet approached. Fortunately, Olivia had brought an extra outfit for the occasion.

Typically, such events required escorts. Alexander had assumed Olivia would accompany him, but Liam remained stubbornly present.

Before Alexander could speak, Liam smoothly took Olivia's hand, his charming smile dazzling the onlookers. His voice, rich and compelling, carried through the gathering. "Miss Sinclair, would you honor me as your escort tonight? Unlike Alexander here, surrounded by friends who could easily replace you, I came alone."

Olivia's lips twitched with suppressed amusement. The rivalry between them was intense, and she'd never seen this playful side of Liam before. Alexander, refusing to concede, said, "Let's allow Olivia to decide."

Still holding her hand, Liam narrowed his eyes at Alexander with an intimidating gaze. "Do you really think she'd dare refuse me?"

Caught between them, Olivia frowned and shook her head apologetically at Alexander, her cheeks flushed. "I'm sorry, Alexander, but I must consider my situation. As a single mother, I can't afford to make powerful enemies."