Chapter 442
Ana stood by the door, wearing a broad smile as Olivia stepped out of the car.
But the smile faded instantly when Ana realized Olivia was alone. Her eyes flicked to the red bumps covering Olivia’s legs.
Raising her chin with a haughty air, Ana glanced past Olivia and asked sharply, “What’s going on? Isn’t he coming inside?”
“He… he said he needs to go back to Sandalwood Palace,” Olivia answered cautiously, avoiding Ana’s piercing gaze.
Ana’s brow furrowed. “Why would he need to go there when he’s already here?”
Olivia said nothing, her eyes fixed on the floor.
“Tell him to come back,” Ana insisted quietly. “It’s getting late. There’s no good reason for him to leave now.”
Olivia stood frozen, unsure of how to respond.
“What now?” Ana snapped, her voice cold.
Olivia felt the full force of Ana’s glare, as if daring her to disobey.
“Are you defying me?”
Realizing this was an order, not a request, Olivia stammered, “I’m… I’m going,” then turned and walked toward the door.
She hesitated on the steps, silent.
Tyler saw her pause and understood. Firmly, he told the driver, “Let’s go.”
The car pulled away, leaving Ana staring from the living room, her expression darkening.
Olivia closed her eyes briefly — then suddenly heard the car returning.
Puzzled, she looked up.
The driver opened the door, and Tyler stepped out.
He approached her quietly, saying, “Don’t just stand there. Get inside.”
Without another word, he entered the house.
Shaken from her surprise, Olivia quickly followed him.
Ana’s stern expression softened into a satisfied smile. “Welcome home, Tyler. I hope you and Olivia had a great time.”
Tyler caught the meaning behind her words. “It was okay. Why are you still up?”
“Oh, you know me,” Ana replied smoothly. “You two were out, and I was worried. I wanted to wait until you both got home safely.”
“Thank you for your concern, Mom.”
“It’s late. You both should get some rest now.”
“I agree. Good night.” Tyler turned to Olivia, who stood quietly behind him. “Let’s go.”