Chapter 269

Liam's reaction was unexpectedly composed, as though he'd seen this coming all along. He stopped what he was doing and flashed Sebastian a smile - but not his usual practiced one. This smile reached his eyes, radiating genuine delight from within. "You see now, Sebastian? My deception was flawless."

As quickly as it appeared, the smile vanished. "She bought it too," he muttered under his breath.

Sebastian knew Liam meant Olivia. He sighed heavily, contemplating the complicated relationship between the two. Perhaps this was destiny's cruel joke. He silently prayed Liam would find closure soon.

In Sebastian's mind, it might be better for Olivia to remain with the Kensingtons rather than stay by Liam's side. That way, Liam could pursue his ambitions without hesitation.

Outside, storm clouds gathered ominously, lightning splitting the darkening sky as the first raindrops began to fall.

A sharp gust of wind made Olivia sneeze as she stood by the window.

"You should step back from the draft. We can't have you falling ill," Donovan's deep voice cautioned from behind her.

Turning, Olivia greeted him with a warm smile.

As Donovan moved to close the window, his voice carried resignation. "I've been trying to arrange Seraphina's return to Westhaven, but she's resisting fiercely. Given her delicate health, I worry forcing the matter might trigger a relapse."

He studied Olivia's expression carefully, searching for any sign of distress. To his relief, her calm eyes showed no trace of anger or discomfort.

Encouraged by her composure, Donovan continued firmly, "Don't concern yourself with this. My promise to protect you stands - I'll handle everything appropriately. The tension between you and Seraphina is undeniable, and while you haven't shared details, I can guess the source of her hostility. Regardless, my decision remains - she must go."

Olivia blinked in surprise at Donovan's unexpected stance. She'd braced herself for a request to tolerate Seraphina's presence, considering this was the Kensington estate. After all, he'd made public commitments to her welfare. She'd prepared herself to maintain a polite facade, avoiding confrontation if possible.

Donovan's determination to send Seraphina away was beyond anything Olivia had dared hope for. This unexpected support eased her lingering doubts about him considerably.

Feeling lighter, Olivia smiled and signed her response, which was quickly interpreted: "Thank you for your consideration. If this causes you trouble, don't force the matter. I'm safe here - she can't harm me."

Donovan's expression darkened with concern. "You don't understand Seraphina. When she fixates on something, she pursues it relentlessly, consequences be damned. She's cunning but lacks moral restraint. Don't worry - as her cousin, I know how to manage her."

Olivia nodded gratefully.

Changing subjects, Donovan's tone softened. "I'd be grateful if you could spend more time with Alistair, even if it's just quietly keeping him company. Since your arrival, though you've barely interacted, his appetite has improved. Your mere presence seems to bring him comfort."