Chapter 344
“Even if you’re helping to save your sister, he should care more about you! You’re his wife, Olivia!”
Claude’s voice was low but urgent.
Olivia couldn’t tell whether she truly didn’t understand or if she simply didn’t want to. What she knew for certain was that she felt deeply unsettled.
“You’re giving up so much for their relationship,” Claude continued. “But what are you getting in return? A love you can’t even admit to?”
Her head shot up. “No, that’s not true!” she protested.
Claude pressed on, unable to hide the frustration in his voice. “How can they be so heartless? How could they expect you—not just anyone, you, a young woman—not to fall for a man like that? You’ve lived with him, married him, slept with him… how can you not feel anything?”
“I… I don’t…” Olivia’s voice faltered.
Seeing her fragile expression, a sharp ache pierced Claude’s heart. How could Tyler and Naomi do this to her? She was more than just a pawn in their love story.
Reaching out, he touched her arm gently. “Olivia, please… save yourself. Let me help you.”
In that moment, the offer hung heavy in the air. If she left with him now—if she let go of everything—she might spare herself more heartache. She could protect herself, and the baby.
But Olivia shook her head and pushed his hand away. “No! Don’t say another word!”
Claude lowered his voice, leaning close. “Then… love me instead,” he whispered.
Tears welled in Olivia’s eyes. She stared past him, as if frozen.
Claude didn’t stop. His voice was soft, coaxing. “You only married him for the child, right? That means you’re free—you can choose who to love. Why not me?” His words quickened, desperate. “If you love me, you won’t love him anymore. You can protect your sister and their perfect little romance. You’ll be free.”
Olivia backed away, her trembling body pressing against the cold wall. She turned her head, trying to escape his gaze. But then, slowly, her wide, tearful eyes met his. The corridor was silent. The soft overhead lights cast shadows around them.
Their gazes locked. The air between them felt suffocating.
Claude stepped closer, fingertips grazing her cheek. “Only I can save you,” he whispered.
The faint scent of gardenia surrounded him. His deep, unwavering gaze seemed to pull her in. Their faces drew closer… lips mere inches apart…
“Claude!”
The sharp voice jolted them both.
Olivia gasped, breaking the moment, eyes darting upward.
There stood Sophie, her expression a mixture of shock and disbelief.