Chapter 90

"Mr. Blackwood, you're absolutely correct. I should show my sincerity," Nathaniel said, motioning to his sign language interpreter to fetch the gift from his car.

But Olivia didn't want this. She wasn't the calculating type who obsessed over every penny. Though she understood corporate culture, she wasn't purely a businesswoman. She was nothing like Liam, who put profits above everything.

Olivia quickly gestured to Nathaniel that gifts were unnecessary, conveying she'd gladly help if needed.

The interpreter had already left, and Nathaniel missed Olivia's signals.

Liam caught on immediately.

As Olivia reached for her phone to clarify, Liam stepped closer. "How generous of you," he remarked, eyeing her with undisguised skepticism.

Olivia met his gaze defiantly - she refused to become someone like him.

Moving aside, Olivia typed a message and showed it to Liam. "What's this about?"

"Olivia, you're too kind!" Nathaniel exclaimed, his face lighting up. "Actually, it's for Westfield University's anniversary event. I was hoping you'd give a presentation."

Nathaniel had originally planned a speech, but Olivia's condition made a presentation more suitable.

"It's the Archaeology Department's 50th anniversary, coinciding with Westfield's 80th. As an alumnus, I felt compelled to participate," Nathaniel explained in detail.

Olivia nodded understandingly. Westfield University was nationally renowned, and Nathaniel's invitation was indeed an honor.

"We're inviting several distinguished alumni to share insights. I'd love you to be one of them. Would that work?" Nathaniel asked.

Olivia considered it might just be a panel discussion. Even if she attended, she imagined playing a minor role, especially with experts like Gregory likely present.

Yet Nathaniel's hopeful expression made Olivia agree without hesitation. She nodded her acceptance.

"Thank you, Olivia!" Nathaniel said gratefully, visibly relieved.

Liam scoffed, "Do you even know what this event involves? And you're agreeing so easily?"

Though uncertain what awaited, Olivia felt excited about new experiences. She was open to adventures she'd never tried before.

Liam had questioned her repeatedly. Ignoring him again might make him lose face. So Olivia turned to Liam, gesturing that she simply wanted new experiences and wouldn't embarrass him.

She felt confident. Despite the interrogation, she'd maintained her composure each time.

Liam looked displeased but stayed silent.

When Nathaniel's interpreter returned with the gift, Olivia politely declined, expressing appreciation but suggesting they wait until after her presentation. Accepting it now felt inappropriate.

Unable to insist, Nathaniel simply smiled gratefully.

Liam remained sullenly quiet until they left the Blackwood estate and were alone in the car.

Pulling over, Liam turned to Olivia with intense seriousness. "What's your real game here?"

Olivia met his gaze steadily. Since resolving her inner conflicts, Liam's attempts to unsettle her had lost their power.

"Must you be so friendly with everyone?" Liam pressed.

Olivia signed calmly that if being helpful improved people's view of Blackwood Enterprises, she was willing.

"You're considering my career in this?" Liam raised an eyebrow.

Olivia countered, "Isn't that what partners do? Support each other?"

"I've told you before - you don't need to work or stress about these things," Liam sighed.

Sorrow flickered in Olivia's eyes as she signed, "So I'm worthless then?"

She continued firmly, "Am I less important than your career? You can pretend to dislike me for a project, and I should accept that?"

Earlier, Olivia had absorbed Vincent's words, now voicing her displeasure directly.

"What nonsense are you spouting?" Liam's face twisted in scornful irritation. "Listen - you're more important than my career! More than my job! Have I ever embarrassed you for a project? Never!"

Olivia blinked, emotion washing over her. Could she truly mean more to Liam than his work?

Her thoughts shattered as Liam's phone rang. Evelyn was calling.

"What is it?" Liam answered, his voice filling the silent car. Evelyn's sweet, enticing tones followed.

Liam's voice softened noticeably - an involuntary reaction. Despite his affectionate words to Olivia, his actions spoke volumes. Deep down, Evelyn still held his heart.