Chapter_158
The atmosphere in the garden buzzed with warmth and festivity. Lanterns swayed gently in the evening breeze, casting a soft golden glow over the guests. Olivia, though overwhelmed, kept a gentle smile on her face, her posture poised beside Tyler as they made their way through the tables.
She could feel the weight of many eyes on her—their curious glances, their whispered observations. Yet, with Tyler at her side and the gleaming ring on her finger, she understood her role tonight. Even if this wasn’t the marriage she had envisioned, she had to fulfill her part convincingly.
An elderly gentleman with silver hair raised his glass and beamed at them. “Tyler, she’s a fine match for you. It’s good to see you settling down.”
Tyler nodded with polite detachment. “Thank you, Uncle.”
Olivia offered a respectful smile. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.”
Another guest, a middle-aged woman in a silk dress, added, “Olivia, you’ve brought a refreshing presence to the Harris family. We’re all so happy for you both.”
Though flattered, Olivia felt the compliments didn’t truly belong to her. They were directed at the image she was now a part of—the well-dressed wife of Tyler Harris, wearing the Heart of Sakura ring, standing beneath fairy lights in a garden filled with the city’s elite.
As the evening wore on, they took their seats at the long banquet table. Maisy, seated at the head, looked pleased as she observed everyone enjoying the dinner. Occasionally, she glanced toward Olivia and Tyler, her expression soft with satisfaction.
Olivia gently placed her napkin in her lap, stealing a glance at Tyler. He was listening to someone across the table, expression unreadable as always. But every now and then, he’d glance at her—not with affection, perhaps, but with something like recognition, as though he knew she was holding it together, just like him.
When dessert was served, a guest raised their glass again, this time directing a toast to the couple. “To Tyler and Olivia—may your days be long and full of joy.”
The rest of the table echoed the sentiment, and Olivia quickly lifted her glass, clinking it softly against Tyler’s. He met her gaze for the briefest moment and murmured just loud enough for her to hear:
“You’re doing well.”
Caught off guard, Olivia blinked, then gave a small nod. “Thanks,” she replied quietly, unsure whether to feel comforted or hollow.
As laughter and conversations picked up again around them, Olivia took a sip of wine and gazed down at the ring on her hand. It sparkled under the lights, dazzling and perfect—just like the life she was now expected to lead.
But beneath the shimmer, she knew: this wasn’t a fairytale. It was a performance, and tonight, they were both playing their roles to perfection.