Chapter 378
Naomi froze at Tyler’s touch — there was no gentleness in it. She forced a faint smile, trying to hide the unease rising in her chest.
“That’s good news. She’s my only sister, and she’s been through so much. I just want her to be okay. I worry about her,” Naomi said softly.
Tyler’s gaze remained sharp, as if he could see everything in her eyes. But there was no warmth in his expression — only coldness.
Naomi’s heart skipped a beat.
“What’s wrong?” she asked quickly, unsettled by the way he was looking at her.
Tyler withdrew his hand abruptly.
“Nothing,” he replied quietly.
Naomi studied his face, sensing something hard and distant lurking beneath his calm exterior.
Tyler didn’t come home until after midnight.
Olivia stepped out of her room to get a glass of water — just in time to see him return. She paused.
He gave her a sharp look.
Their shadows briefly crossed on the floor between them.
Without a word, Tyler passed by and headed into the study.
A heavy silence settled, as if an invisible chasm had formed between them.
After a moment, Olivia turned and went back to her room.
The next morning, Olivia sat motionless on her bed, wrestling with the consequences of her actions.
She knew the scandal was her fault. And in this world, where elite families prized reputation above all, her contract with the Harrises couldn’t be jeopardized — not now.
Just a few more months to endure, she told herself, steeling her nerves against the outside world she longed to avoid.
Finally, she rose and made her way downstairs.
Spotting Ana, she called out quietly,
“Mom?”
Olivia knew Ana well — cross her, and there would be regret; befriend her, and she’d respond politely. But now, Olivia couldn’t predict which side she’d be on.
Ana seemed indifferent, focused on a flower in her hand as if deciding which vase it should go into.
After a moment, she said simply,
“Breakfast.”
She set the flower down and walked toward the dining room.
Olivia followed without a word.
In the dining room, Maisy was already seated.
“Good morning, Grandma!” Olivia greeted.
Maisy smiled warmly, unfazed by the swirling rumors.
“Good morning! You must be starving. Come, have your breakfast.”
Olivia stretched her stiff neck and replied,
“All right.”
Only the three of them were home that morning.
Olivia sat beside Maisy, stealing glances at Ana, who seemed to deliberately ignore her.
She chatted with Maisy quietly as she ate.
For a moment, it felt surreal — as if nothing had changed at all.