Chapter 303
As if awakened from a dream, Olivia turned toward the sudden voice—it was Nina. The enchanted look she had worn moments ago vanished, replaced by shock.
Olivia’s face tightened with dread as she met Nina’s gaze.
Nina stood frozen, eyes locked on the two of them. She saw Claude reaching out his hand, and Olivia’s fingers touching his. At that moment, Olivia had no clear sense of what she was doing—it felt like she was pulled abruptly from a dream, and she hurriedly withdrew her hand.
How could I have done that? she thought, a wave of guilt crashing over her.
The baby was meant to protect Naomi, yet here she was, entertaining the thought of running away with it. Did that mean she wished Naomi harm?
The thought terrified and disgusted her.
Her heart pounded wildly as she faced Nina’s silent, accusing presence.
Claude’s gaze shifted to Nina too, but the warmth in his eyes had vanished, replaced by a chilling coldness.
Nina flinched under his stare but held her ground, saying nothing before quickly turning and leaving.
Only when Nina disappeared did Olivia snap back to reality, panic flooding her expression. She wanted to chase after Nina to explain herself, but Claude’s firm grip stopped her.
“Forget it,” he said quietly.
Her heart still raced, as if she’d been caught in a scandal. “Will Nina tell Ms. Ana about this?” she asked, her voice trembling.
That was her greatest fear.
Claude remained calm. “We were just talking. Nothing happened.”
But Olivia knew better. Anyone who had seen what she’d done might misunderstand too.
Feeling helpless, she clung to Claude’s hand as they watched Nina’s swift departure.
Back inside, Ana chatted with Jordan and the others but kept glancing toward the door.
Where did they go? They’ve been gone too long, she wondered, concern knitting her brow.
She worried for Olivia—pregnant, vulnerable—and that Claude had taken her away alone.
After about half an hour, Nina returned. Jordan and Katrina both looked at her expectantly.
Nina hesitated, panic evident in her stance as she approached Ana.
“What’s wrong?” Ana asked gently.
Nina thought for a moment before answering, while Katrina pressed, “Where did Claude take Olivia?”
“Mr. Claude took Madam out for a stroll,” Nina said, choosing her words carefully.
Ana sensed something was off. Her frown deepened as she asked, “Where are they now? Is Claude still with her?”
“They’re in the back garden,” Nina replied.
“Bring her back,” Ana ordered firmly.
As Nina moved to obey, Olivia appeared, walking toward Ana with a nervous look on her face.