“I understand.” Isabella’s voice was husky, but her gaze remained unwavering. “But Ms. Sterling, I truly have no other choice. I must win this. I have to protect my child. I have to fight for myself.”

Her voice trembled near the end, threatening to break.

Olivia studied her, a complex mix of emotions flickering in her eyes. “You, my dear…” She released a soft sigh, her smile tinged with resignation. “It appears… I find it impossible to refuse you.”

Isabella’s head snapped up, a spark of hope igniting in her eyes. She stared at Olivia, scarcely daring to believe what she had just heard.

“However…” Olivia’s tone shifted, growing serious. “Isabella, you must understand. Helping you means I am directly opposing the Blackwood family and Sophia Reed. That carries significant risk for me.”

“I understand completely, Ms. Sterling,” Isabella responded quickly, her voice urgent. “I would never expect your assistance without offering something in return.”

She considered offering money but immediately dismissed the idea. Someone of Olivia’s stature would find monetary compensation trivial.

“Let’s not speak of payment,” Olivia interjected, waving a dismissive hand. “I am not helping you for money or personal gain. I admire your talent. I sympathize with your situation. More importantly…”

She paused, her gaze intensifying. “I refuse to stand by and watch a designer of your caliber be suppressed and wasted.”

Tears welled in Isabella’s eyes. She looked at Olivia, her heart swelling with profound gratitude and respect.

“Thank you, Ms. Sterling,” she managed, her voice shaking with emotion. “Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your willingness to help me.”

“Now, now, no tears, Isabella.” Olivia smiled gently, shaking her head as she offered a tissue from the coffee table. “Dry your eyes. You are competing in the International Jewelry Design Competition. You must show them your strength, not your tears.”

Isabella accepted the tissue, dabbing carefully at her eyes. She took a deep, steadying breath.

“I will not disappoint you, Ms. Sterling.”

Olivia nodded, a look of approval on her face. “I have faith in you.”

“Then… I should take my leave now, Ms. Sterling.” Isabella stood, offering a deep, respectful bow. “Once the competition is over, I will find a proper way to express my gratitude.”

“Go on,” Olivia said with an encouraging smile. “I will be eagerly awaiting your success.”

After offering one final word of thanks, Isabella turned and exited the lavish living room. She stepped out of the grand villa and approached the sleek black car still waiting at the curb. Her expression tightened involuntarily at the sight of it. She hadn’t expected it to still be there.

With no other transportation options available on the secluded mountain road, she sighed in resignation. She opened the car door and slid into the plush leather seat.

“Where to now, Mrs. Blackwood?” the driver inquired, his tone respectful.

Isabella gazed out the window, her thoughts drifting.

“Back to my studio, please.”

The engine purred to life. Isabella leaned back, closing her eyes slowly, attempting to distance herself from the emotional weight of her conversation with Olivia.

Buzz… Buzz…

The sudden vibration of her phone jarred her from her thoughts. Her eyes snapped open. She retrieved the device from her bag, frowning at the unfamiliar number flashing on the screen. After a brief hesitation, she answered. “Hello?”

“It’s Zoe.” The voice was haughty and familiar, laced with a distinct note of challenge.

Isabella’s brow furrowed. Zoe? Why was she calling now?

“Zoe? What do you want?” Isabella’s tone was icy, edged with sharp caution. They were competitors. They typically stayed out of each other’s way.