Chapter 229

Months had slipped by since Olivia's appearance in the studio, yet the video persisted. Not just lingered, but was prominently featured at the top of Gregory's page.

Tears shimmered in Olivia's eyes as she tapped the phone screen. "I once studied under Gregory. Some of my early works might still be there. Feel free to verify. My craftsmanship speaks for itself, and you're welcome to judge with your own eyes."

Seraphina's gaze sharpened, a flicker of surprise crossing her features. "Gregory Thornton?" Her lips curled into a sly smirk. "How unexpectedly... interesting."

The name lingered between them as Seraphina studied Olivia with newfound interest. She recalled Alistair mentioning Gregory - how he'd always intended to pay the master craftsman a proper visit. When Alistair Kensington praised someone, it meant something. Seraphina never forgot names that impressed her grandfather.

Olivia lowered her eyes with a wistful smile. "I only apprenticed briefly. He's probably forgotten me by now. Not that I have anyone to remind him." Her fingers twisted in her lap. "No family. No connections."

Something shifted in Seraphina's expression, her gaze softening marginally. "Is that so?"

Improving Olivia's living conditions required minimal effort from Seraphina. Her current obsession was Liam, though love hadn't entered the equation yet. It was pure competitive instinct - the more he resisted, the more determined she became. Like a cat toying with a particularly elusive mouse.

With someone else handling the gift for Alistair, Seraphina agreed readily. A faint smile played on her lips. "Very well, you'll handle this. Impress me, and you'll be rewarded. Stay obedient, and I might just treat you kindly. Understood?"

Olivia forced a grateful smile, playing the role of indebted servant perfectly. Seraphina thrived on such displays of submission.

"Remember our arrangement." Seraphina's voice turned icy. "Fail me, and you'll regret it. My patience wears thin these days."

Olivia nodded obediently.

Materials arrived that evening. Olivia hoped for time to perfect the design, but Seraphina demanded immediate results.

With a resigned sigh, Olivia prepared for a sleepless night. By midnight, she sent the completed design to Seraphina's device.

To her surprise, Seraphina actually woke to review it. After a cursory glance, the response came swift and cutting: "Lackluster. Make it more extravagant."

Seraphina insisted the gift needed boldness, not timid elegance. Among the materials provided, only the jade met her exacting standards. Wood lacked sophistication, gemstones screamed vulgarity. But jade - durable yet delicate - would leave its mark on any craftsman's hands.

Olivia exhaled sharply, frustration simmering beneath her calm exterior. In another life, she'd have refused such an unreasonable client. But circumstances had changed irrevocably.

Her hand drifted to her abdomen, where a subtle curve pressed against her thin blouse. Four months along, and though her frame remained slender, the life within grew more pronounced daily. When she pressed her palm against the gentle swell, warmth radiated through her fingertips - a silent conversation with the tiny being she carried.