Chapter_104
Olivia’s breath caught in her throat the moment she saw Claude. Her body tensed, and without thinking, she instinctively took a step back, hoping to create some distance.
But Claude, seemingly indifferent to the stir his presence had caused, showed no sign of recognition. His expression remained calm, even pleasant, as if he had no intention of fueling any gossip.
Trying to maintain a lively atmosphere, Ana gave a seemingly casual command. “Olivia, get Claude a glass of wine.”
Startled to hear her name spoken so publicly, Olivia stiffened. She quickly moved to the long table lined with crystal glasses, her hands trembling slightly as she picked one up. Without meeting Claude’s eyes, she handed it to him in silence.
Claude accepted the glass and cast a brief glance in her direction, his expression unreadable. A subtle murmur rippled through the room—Ana hadn’t introduced Olivia earlier, and curiosity was growing among the guests.
Taking full advantage of the moment, Ana stepped forward with a gracious smile and declared, “This is Olivia, my daughter-in-law.”
A wave of surprise swept through the crowd. Everyone knew Tyler’s engagement with Naomi had ended, but this sudden shift in title left them stunned. When had the future mistress of the Harris family changed?
Claude’s brow furrowed slightly. Daughter-in-law? He remembered Olivia as Naomi’s sister. How had things changed so quickly? Confused, he glanced at Olivia again, searching her expression for answers.
Olivia’s heart pounded in her chest. Ana’s announcement had left her shaken, especially with Claude standing right there. The guests, unaware of the deeper tensions beneath the surface, raised their glasses in polite congratulations. Olivia could only force a faint smile as Ana accepted the praise on her behalf.
Only Claude turned away, his gaze falling to the floor.
The party carried on, but the mood shifted. Grandma Maisy, clearly affected by Claude’s arrival, excused herself and retreated to her room. Olivia remained unaware of the deeper strain between them.
Later that evening, while heading back through the quiet hall, Olivia found herself face-to-face with Claude.
“We meet again,” he said gently, his voice tinged with something she couldn’t quite read.
Her heart leapt. Fear crept into her chest. What if he tells Sophie? What if everything fell apart?
Claude took a step closer. “Didn’t expect to see you here,” he said. “You didn’t look like you were in a good place yesterday.”
Olivia looked up at him, eyes wide with panic. Without thinking, she reached out, grabbing the sleeve of his shirt.
“Claude, it’s not what you think,” she whispered, her voice trembling. “I can’t explain right now, but please… please don’t tell Sophie. I’m begging you. Help me keep this secret…”
Her plea was so soft that Claude had to lean in to hear her. Their heads were close, voices low, locked in a whisper shared only between them.
At that moment, Tyler arrived at the Harris Residence. As he stepped into the corridor and glanced toward the garden, his gaze landed on two silhouettes.
It was Olivia and Claude.