Chapter 56

Olivia lowered her gaze, surrendering to the moment without protest. She couldn't bring herself to confess to Margaret that she'd already mentioned divorce to Liam, only to face his stubborn rejection. Even if she had revealed this truth, Olivia knew Margaret would never believe her.

"Do you understand me? Just nod if you do! Honestly, look at yourself! Completely incompetent! How does the Blackwood family tolerate a daughter-in-law like you?" The entire elevator ride down, Margaret continued her relentless criticism, her voice dripping with disdain.

But the moment the doors opened, Margaret's demeanor transformed instantly. Her face smoothed into a practiced, polite smile as she greeted the lobby staff with perfect composure, playing the role of elegant matriarch flawlessly as they exited Blackwood Enterprises.

"Olivia?" A familiar voice called out as they stepped onto the sidewalk. Olivia turned to see Alexander approaching in a tailored suit, briefcase in hand.

She managed a quick wave and forced a smile, grateful for the distraction. She'd informed Gregory about her scheduling conflicts but hadn't yet told Alexander she couldn't accept the consultant position.

"Alexander!" Margaret's entire posture changed, her face lighting up with genuine delight at the sight of the Whitmore heir.

As the future leader of Whitmore Holdings, a company rivaling Blackwood Enterprises in prestige, Alexander commanded Margaret's automatic respect.

After exchanging pleasantries with Margaret, Alexander turned to Olivia. "Have you reached a decision yet? My grandfather is eagerly awaiting your answer."

"What's this about?" Margaret interrupted sharply, her suspicious gaze darting between them.

"Olivia possesses remarkable skills in artifact restoration," Alexander explained. "Our family wishes to retain her as a consultant."

"Olivia? How could she possibly—" Margaret began, her automatic reflex to belittle her daughter-in-law kicking in.

But Alexander cut her off smoothly. "Olivia has already demonstrated her expertise to my grandfather. He's quite insistent on having her join us."

Margaret's eyes widened in shock as she reassessed Olivia. William Whitmore was a respected figure whose opinion carried weight—even Margaret wouldn't dare contradict him openly. She bit back her usual insults about Olivia being "a worthless mute who can only cook."

Seizing the moment, Olivia typed on her phone: "I have personal matters requiring my attention, so I may not be able to commit to the consultant role." She carefully avoided mentioning Liam's illness, knowing how damaging such news could be to Blackwood Enterprises' reputation.

Though clearly disappointed, Alexander didn't press further. "When do you think you'll be available?"

Olivia shook her head uncertainly, typing: "I'm not sure."

While Liam's condition wasn't critical, Olivia didn't know how long she'd continue delivering his meals. He might grow tired of the arrangement tomorrow, or Evelyn might create problems that would force Olivia to stay away.

"Regardless, we'll keep the position open for you," Alexander stated firmly. "That's my grandfather's wish as well. Handle your priorities first, then contact us when you're ready."

Olivia felt both touched by the recognition and apprehensive about Margaret's newfound knowledge. "I should go now—I have afternoon commitments," Alexander said before departing.

The moment he was out of sight, Margaret's pleasant facade vanished. She pinched Olivia's arm sharply. "Why does Alexander treat you so well? Have you been seducing men behind our backs? Have you no shame?"

Olivia shook her head vehemently, but Margaret remained unmoved. This pattern had repeated for five years—no matter how Olivia tried to explain, Margaret never listened.

"If you dare flirt with another man again, I'll make sure Liam knows everything!" Margaret threatened as she turned back toward the building. "I'll show him your true colors! I'll make him divorce you and throw you out!"

Olivia stood motionless, watching Margaret retreat. She made no move to follow or stop her. The Blackwood Enterprises building buzzed with lunchtime activity, employees from nearby offices flooding the streets—hardly the place for a private confrontation with potential witnesses everywhere.

Realizing the potential damage to the family's reputation, Margaret suddenly stopped. She whirled back and grabbed Olivia's arm. "Since that's the case, you're coming home with me. You need to kneel and properly reflect on your behavior. You require discipline!"