Chapter 302
Claude took a deep breath, steadying himself before speaking. “I haven’t been feeling well. I’m sorry, Olivia.”
Olivia had noticed the sadness weighing on him lately. She could see it in his eyes—the quiet sorrow—and she guessed it was tied to Morgan, especially since the anniversary of Morgan’s death had just passed a few days ago.
When Olivia stayed silent, Claude continued, his voice softer now. “I just can’t stand seeing you unhappy here. I don’t know why, but I care about you too much. I don’t want to see you hurt… or hurt yourself trying to make others happy. I don’t want you to feel insecure or think less of yourself.”
A faint, almost teasing smile played on his lips as he added, “Maybe because…” but he didn’t finish the thought.
Olivia’s curiosity got the better of her. “Do I remind you of Morgan?”
Claude was taken aback by her question. He looked at her, clearly surprised she would say that. Yet, as their eyes met, the sadness in his gaze vanished, replaced by something softer, warmer.
He said nothing at first. Then Olivia spoke again, quietly, “I’m not Morgan, Claude.”
“I know,” he replied gently. Just when she thought he had returned to his usual self, he added, “You and Morgan are different. I shouldn’t have compared you. I just… I can’t help caring for you.”
His voice was soft, slightly rough around the edges, but his words carried a kindness that touched Olivia deeply.
She stepped back, caught off guard by his honesty. So his sadness wasn’t just about Morgan?
In the world of the upper class, Olivia often felt like an outsider—an overlooked illegitimate daughter overshadowed by Naomi. She had assumed Claude’s kindness came from his memories of Morgan or ties to Naomi. But now, she realized his care for her was something entirely different.
It was a quiet, genuine kind of caring.
That realization brought Olivia relief and a small spark of happiness. She wasn’t a replacement for anyone.
Claude took a step closer. This time, Olivia didn’t pull away. Her gaze dropped to his feet as he stopped in front of her.
“Olivia, I don’t want you caught between Naomi and Tyler. Would you come with me?” he asked, extending his hand once more.
To her own surprise, Olivia felt drawn to his hand, a gentle pull she couldn’t resist. Her fingers began to move toward his.
Claude’s eyes followed her hand, filled with hopeful anticipation—like waiting for a butterfly to land.
But just as her fingers were about to touch his, a voice interrupted, calling out, “Ma’am.”