"Take me to Silverwood Estate," Isabella commanded without hesitation. The driver gave a brief nod after a moment's pause. "Right away, Mrs. Blackwood." The vehicle immediately changed direction toward the prestigious estate.

Slowly, Isabella felt her composure returning. There were too many matters requiring her attention. She refused to let Ethan dictate her choices any longer. It was time to reclaim her autonomy and make her own decisions.

The car soon arrived at the grand Silverwood Estate. Isabella stepped out quickly and made her way into the luxurious villa.

Inside, Olivia was arranging a fresh floral display on the coffee table, her movements elegant and precise. She looked up, surprised by the sudden entrance. "Isabella? What brings you here?" Olivia set down the flowers and rose to greet her guest.

Isabella's face revealed her inner turmoil. "Good morning, Ms. Sterling. I..." Her words trailed off. She struggled to find the right way to explain her situation.

Olivia's expression shifted to concern as she studied Isabella closely. "What's wrong, my dear? You look quite pale. Has something happened?"

"Ms. Sterling..." Isabella tried to steady her racing heart, aiming for a voice that sounded both calm and resolute. "I need to ask for your assistance."

Olivia's eyebrow arched slightly, a glimmer of interest crossing her refined features. She gestured toward the seating area, her tone both gentle and probing. "Oh? What kind of assistance would bring you to me personally?"

Settling onto the plush sofa, Isabella clasped her hands tightly. She retrieved a tablet from her bag, powered it on, and navigated smoothly through the interface. A jewelry design soon illuminated the screen.

The design featured an exquisite necklace centered around a rare pear-shaped pink diamond, surrounded by countless smaller white diamonds that created a celestial halo effect. The piece blended classical elegance with contemporary design, radiating breathtaking beauty.

Olivia's gaze sharpened immediately, her decades of experience in the jewelry world allowing her to recognize exceptional craftsmanship instantly. "Is this..." Olivia looked up at Isabella, a note of curiosity in her voice. "Your design?"

Isabella nodded silently. She watched Olivia anxiously, awaiting her professional judgment.

Olivia studied the design again, then spoke deliberately. "This is quite remarkable. The creativity, composition, and attention to detail are truly impressive. It's extraordinary work for someone of your experience level."

Hearing Olivia's praise brought momentary relief, but Isabella's anxiety quickly returned.

Olivia's tone shifted as her expression grew more penetrating. "However, Isabella, you didn't come here merely to show me your design, did you? Please, be direct. What exactly do you need from me?"

Olivia set the tablet aside, folding her hands gracefully as she waited for Isabella's explanation.

Isabella bit her lower lip, acutely aware that she couldn't conceal anything from such an experienced professional.

She openly shared her current predicament and her plans for the International Jewelry Design Competition with Olivia, holding nothing back. "That's everything," Isabella concluded, exhaling deeply as if releasing a heavy burden.

She looked at Olivia, her eyes filled with both hope and apprehension. If Olivia refused to help, Isabella doubted she could find another suitable ally.

The room fell into profound silence.

Olivia remained quiet, her expression thoughtful rather than immediately revealing her position. After a significant pause, she finally spoke, her voice measured and serious.

"Isabella, do you truly understand the magnitude of what you're asking?"

A chill ran through Isabella, as though she were plunging into icy depths. It was clear Olivia was indicating this was no small favor.