Chapter 278

Alistair's abrupt departure after delivering his message left Olivia feeling trapped in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. The weight of his words hung heavily in the air between them.

Desperate for guidance, Olivia decided to seek Donovan's counsel. She needed to voice her concerns about the upcoming gala and what it might mean for her position within the Kensington family. The fear of accidentally usurping someone else's rightful place gnawed at her.

Before Olivia could arrange to meet Donovan the next morning, Frederick and his family intercepted her in the grand hallway.

Frederick and Julian wore polite smiles that didn't quite reach their eyes, their formal demeanor barely concealing their true intentions.

Olivia mirrored their strained courtesy with an equally forced smile, attempting to excuse herself from the uncomfortable encounter.

"Olivia," Julian interjected smoothly, stepping into her path with practiced charm.

Olivia's expression immediately frosted over, her body language screaming discomfort at Julian's proximity.

The attendant stationed beside Olivia - ever vigilant in carrying out Alistair's orders - addressed Julian with professional detachment. "May I assist you with something, Mr. Julian Kensington?"

Julian blinked in momentary surprise before recovering his composure. "I came to apologize. Alistair was correct - we should have been more considerate of your feelings yesterday. We acted hastily without even bringing proper gifts. Today, we've rectified that oversight."

With a snap of his fingers, two servants appeared bearing elaborately wrapped packages which they presented to Olivia.

Julian gestured toward the gifts with an encouraging smile. "Please, take a look."

When Olivia hesitated, Julian sighed dramatically. "You don't seem to like us very much. That's my fault entirely. If these gifts don't suit your taste, I'd be happy to find alternatives."

His expression expertly blended concern with subtle manipulation, making refusal seem almost ungrateful.

Olivia studied Julian warily, weighing her options but sensing any protest would be pointless against his persistence.

With reluctant fingers, Olivia opened the boxes.

The first revealed an exquisite couture gown, the second a dazzling array of precious jewels.

At that moment, Seraphina could no longer contain her jealousy. "Those gifts must be worth at least thirty million," she snapped bitterly. "And that dress is custom-made!"

She shot Julian an accusatory glare. "You've never given me anything half as extravagant. Why would you shower Olivia with such treasures upon first meeting? Does she mean more to you than your own sister?"

Julian's smile turned conciliatory. "You've wanted for nothing since childhood, Seraphina. But Olivia has endured hardships alone. It's only right we compensate for lost time with the care she deserves."

Seraphina considered this, her anger visibly dissipating as the logic penetrated her jealousy.

Olivia stared at the extravagant offerings, her brow furrowing with concern. She shook her head firmly, her silent refusal interpreted by her attendant. "I can't accept these. They're far too valuable. Even as a welcome gift, they're excessive. Please give them to Seraphina instead. I simply couldn't."

Julian's tone turned earnest as he pressed his case. "I understand you're being modest, but please reconsider. If you refuse, I'll have to ask Donovan to persuade you. You know how persistent he can be. And if that fails, I'll go straight to Alistair. His greatest wish right now is to see our family united. I'm certain he'd want you to accept these tokens of our affection."