Chapter_287
Tyler, now dressed in comfortable pajamas, leaned against the doorframe with a relaxed smile. “How was it outside today?” he asked lightly, trying to make conversation.
Olivia didn’t answer, still lying in bed, her gaze distant.
Noticing her silence, Tyler’s smile softened as he gently prodded, “What’s wrong?”
Olivia hesitated, recalling the brief encounter with Sophie earlier but quickly decided it wasn’t worth bringing up. She shook her head slightly, dismissing the thought. “Nothing.”
Tyler sensed her unease but didn’t push further. He was in a surprisingly good mood, his eyes warm and soft as he looked at her. “Do I still reek of alcohol?” he asked casually as he walked toward the window and opened it, letting the fresh air pour in.
Olivia breathed in the cool breeze and relaxed, feeling the last remnants of discomfort leave with the alcohol’s scent. She smiled slightly. “No.”
“That’s good to hear,” Tyler chuckled, his voice light and carefree.
Olivia stayed in her cozy spot in bed, watching him. He looked calm and content in his dark blue pajamas. She found herself momentarily overwhelmed by the sight of him, so she looked away, the emotions swirling in her chest.
Tyler’s voice broke through her thoughts. “Are you hungry?”
Muffled by the sheets, Olivia answered softly, “No.”
But the truth was, she was hungry. She just didn’t want to admit it, afraid it might add to her worries about gaining more weight.
Tyler seemed to sense her reluctance and chuckled, walking toward the door. His smile dimmed slightly as he turned to Nina, who was standing nearby. “Bring some food.”
“Yes, sir,” Nina replied, heading downstairs to prepare the meal.
Olivia observed Tyler as he stood by the door, a small frown on his face. His smiles today had been frequent, and it made her think—was she starting to fall for the kindness in his eyes? Kindness she had never believed was meant for her.
When Nina returned with the food, Tyler approached Olivia’s bed and, in his cheerful mood, said, “Have some chicken porridge to make your stomach feel better.”
Olivia didn’t respond right away but began eating once Nina served the porridge. Tyler sat nearby, reading the newspaper, occasionally glancing at her with a quiet smile.
She felt a swirl of emotions as she watched him. Was it the kindness in his gaze that was pulling her in, or was it something else? She had always thought that kindness wasn’t meant for her, but now she wasn’t so sure.
The next day, Olivia woke up feeling down. She couldn’t quite put her finger on why, but the heaviness in her chest weighed on her. Tyler noticed the change in her mood right away. His gaze softened, and he made a point of being even more considerate, hoping to make her feel better and keep the baby safe.
He looked at her with concern. “Want me to take you out somewhere?” he offered gently.
Olivia, still wanting some space, replied firmly, “I can go by myself, Tyler.”
Tyler studied her for a moment, trying to understand her mood, but then he nodded slowly. “Sure. Any place you’d like to visit today?”
“Anywhere is fine,” she said quietly, not wanting to explain further.
Tyler smiled, trying to hide the hurt in his eyes. “Okay, just tell the driver,” he said. Since Olivia had passed the risky stage in her pregnancy, he was more relaxed about her activities and wanted to give her some freedom.
“Mm-hmm, I will,” she replied, her voice soft but firm.
Before they went downstairs for breakfast, Tyler stopped for a moment and affectionately stroked her head. It was a small gesture, but it made Olivia feel a warmth in her chest.
Later, feeling a bit restless, Olivia decided to go out after breakfast. She let Nina know she’d be leaving with the driver, taking a moment to gather herself before stepping out into the world again.