Chapter_220
Olivia sat quietly, listening to Tyler’s phone conversation with Naomi. She couldn’t make out the words, but the tone of their voices told her everything she needed to know. Tyler cared deeply about their baby, and though their exchange lacked any overly romantic gestures or sweet words, the care was evident.
The conversation was simple, grounded in practicality and concern, and that made it feel real to Olivia. It wasn’t the kind of love that was marked by grand declarations or longing glances. Instead, it was the steady rhythm of family love and shared responsibilities—something that, for the first time, Olivia truly understood.
She thought back to something Tyler had once said, about how love, in its many forms, eventually transforms into something more rooted—something tied to family and duty. It made sense to her now. Their relationship, though still new, felt grounded in this quiet understanding, a bond that didn’t need constant expression to be strong.
Looking out the window, she mulled over how complex love could be. It wasn’t just about excitement or passion, but about being there for each other through the quiet moments, the mundane ones that stitched life together.
Tyler hung up the phone and turned to her. “It was Naomi who called.”
“I know,” Olivia replied, still lost in her thoughts. “How is she?”
“She’s doing okay,” Tyler said, his tone calm and reassuring.
Olivia nodded, relief flooding her. “That’s great. I hope she gets even better.”
Tyler paused for a moment, as if considering something before responding, “She will.”
When they arrived home, Maisy was eager to hear about the check-up. Linda quickly filled her in, telling her that the baby was developing nicely and was healthy. Maisy, full of excitement, immediately went to Olivia and touched her belly. “Wow, no wonder you’ve been feeling this way. The baby must be really strong.”
Olivia didn’t mind Maisy’s touch, though she was still getting used to people commenting on her pregnancy. It was all so new to her, the constant attention and concern.
Tyler, noticing Olivia’s slight discomfort, immediately stepped in. “It’s still small. Stop saying that,” he lightly scolded.
Maisy, sensing Olivia needed a break after the check-up, stepped back and smiled. “Make sure to rest well, dear. It’s so important when you’re pregnant.”
Olivia smiled back, softly responding, “Okay, Grandma.”
The maid helped Olivia upstairs to rest, and Tyler watched her go before turning away, his mind elsewhere.
The next morning, as they sat down for breakfast, Ana mentioned taking Olivia to a gathering with other wealthy wives. She looked at Tyler as she spoke.
“Olivia will be coming with me,” Ana said, a tone of excitement in her voice.
Tyler looked up from his newspaper and turned his gaze to Olivia. “Do you want to go?”
Olivia considered her role in the family for a moment. “Sure, I’ll go with Mom,” she agreed.
Tyler didn’t protest. “Okay. Take her, then. If she wants to go, let her.”
Ana beamed, clearly delighted. “I’m so happy to have my daughter-in-law join me. It’s wonderful.”
Olivia fell into a thoughtful silence, sensing the weight of Ana’s words. She understood the stakes now—how important it was for her to maintain harmony in the family, especially while Naomi’s situation remained uncertain. Olivia was determined to avoid any confrontation with Ana, knowing that Naomi’s future was dependent on the baby’s arrival.
To keep the peace, Olivia chose to stay silent and make compromises, at least until the child was born.
“You have great taste, Mom,” Olivia said after a pause, offering a compliment to Ana.
Ana’s smile widened. “You’re so sweet.”
After breakfast, Ana prepared Olivia for the event, carefully choosing outfits that would make her look less like a student and more confident—someone who belonged in this world of wealth and privilege. Olivia eventually settled on a white dress, which Ana admired from the couch.
“My daughter-in-law is truly beautiful,” she said with a proud smile.
Olivia tried to keep her composure, but inwardly, she was still adjusting to the expectations and roles she now had to navigate. Naomi’s life and her future with the family were at the forefront of her mind, and Olivia was committed to ensuring that things went smoothly—for everyone’s sake.