Chapter 95

Memories of Liam's handsome face and commanding presence flooded Olivia's mind, making her pulse quicken. A soft smile tugged at her lips as she recalled their last encounter.

Turning to Nathaniel, Olivia assured him she'd prepared herself for the inevitable skepticism and judgment, emphasizing how little such baseless accusations affected her now. She reminded him those issues had already been resolved, making further concern unnecessary.

Nathaniel exhaled in relief as he studied Olivia's serene expression bathed in afternoon light, feeling an unexpected pang of sympathy. Even someone as extraordinary as Olivia wasn't perfect - her damaged vocal cords remained a cruel limitation.

After parting ways with Nathaniel, restless energy coursed through Olivia. She approached Marcus, explaining she needed to run an important errand that afternoon.

Marcus arched an eyebrow knowingly. "Going to see your husband, aren't you? Why the hesitation? You're married - this should be perfectly normal."

Olivia shook her head solemnly. Things had changed between them. Their marriage stood on the brink of collapse.

During breaks from her restoration work, Olivia had sculpted a small piece - a delicate songbird soaring through wispy clouds, symbolizing resilience and freedom.

Gregory had once expressed interest in acquiring this very piece.

At the time, Olivia dismissed it as merely an experimental work, unworthy of collection. She'd promised Gregory she'd create something more refined if inspiration struck again.

Though imperfect and lacking professional polish, Olivia now believed it carried genuine sentiment - a fitting token of gratitude.

After having it carefully wrapped at a boutique, Olivia headed for Blackwood Enterprises.

Her previous dramatic visit ensured no one dared interfere this time.

The receptionist escorted Olivia to the executive elevator, whisking her to the top floor.

As they arrived, they nearly collided with Sebastian rushing down the corridor. Spotting Olivia, his expression froze momentarily.

"Mrs. Blackwood—" Sebastian caught himself, noticing nearby staff. "Miss Sinclair. What brings you here today?"

Olivia retrieved her phone and typed: Is Liam available?

Sebastian cleared his throat. "He's in, but currently occupied. Perhaps you could wait in the lounge?"

Olivia declined with a shake of her head. She only wanted to deliver her gift of appreciation. If he was too busy, she'd simply leave it with a note.

After a brief hesitation, Sebastian stepped aside, gesturing toward Liam's office.

The door stood slightly ajar.

Voices filtered through the gap - Liam wasn't alone.

Olivia's hand hovered over the handle when distinctive feminine laughter froze her in place. Her heartbeat stuttered, but she maintained outward composure.

Just as Olivia raised her hand to knock, Evelyn's voice carried clearly: "Liam, why bother with that mute wife of yours? She's nothing but trouble. Always causing scenes. If I were her, I'd hide at home to spare you the embarrassment."

Olivia's breath caught. She strained to hear Liam's response.

His low chuckle sent ice through her veins. "True, she's exhausting. Not nearly as understanding as you."

Olivia's heart constricted painfully. Though she'd anticipated this reaction, hearing the words from Liam's lips shattered her. To him, she was merely an inconvenient burden. The cruelest part? Her inability to even voice her pain.

Evelyn's triumphant laughter rang out, grating against Olivia's raw nerves.

Grimacing, Olivia set down her carefully wrapped gift by the door and turned away.

Inside the descending elevator, bitterness coated Olivia's tongue. She'd foolishly imagined suggesting they attend Westfield University's anniversary together - a selfish fantasy where she could prove her independence to Liam. Now, the idea seemed laughable.

Regaining composure, Olivia texted Isabella: I've got free time tonight. Interested in visiting Westfield University?

Unaware of Olivia's presence, Liam watched Evelyn's advances with icy detachment.

He stepped back, his entire posture radiating rejection. "Was this your entire purpose for coming? Are you satisfied now? Please leave."

Evelyn's face darkened. "What do you mean, Liam? You didn't mean what you said? I was just speaking the truth everyone knows - Olivia's a nuisance."

Liam's gaze turned glacial as he gestured toward the door. "Get out. I have actual work to do."

Pouting, Evelyn flounced toward the exit. Outside Liam's office, her stiletto caught on something. Already irritated, she roughly handled the delicate package.

"More useless clutter," she muttered.

Then she froze, recognizing the handwriting on the attached note.

Crouching, Evelyn extracted the sculpture, her eyes gleaming with sudden interest.

Meanwhile, Liam called Sebastian. "Clear my schedule for Westfield University's anniversary."

"Westfield—" Sebastian hesitated. "Is this about your wife?"

Liam's voice turned sharp. "Just make the arrangements."

Despite disapproving of Olivia's public appearances, Liam had tried mitigating the backlash against her - always a step too late.

Lately, Olivia had become increasingly defensive, prickly as a threatened hedgehog.

Abandoning his work, Liam headed not home, but to Olivia's new residence. After several unanswered rings, frustration creased his brow.

He abandoned the doorbell for sharp raps on the wood, growing more insistent.

"Olivia!" His knocks became pounding, his hands aching, yet only silence answered.

Pulling out his phone, Liam debated calling authorities or a locksmith.

A security guard approached cautiously. "Sir, the resident is traveling and won't return for days. You can leave your information—"

Liam's eyes darkened. "She just left, didn't she?"

At the guard's nod, Liam stormed out. His phone rang - Evelyn. He answered abruptly. "You wanted a getaway? I'm free. Pick somewhere."

Stunned, Evelyn recovered quickly. "My choice then. It'll be a surprise."