Chapter 281

Olivia was desperately trying to think of a way to redirect the conversation when someone unexpectedly brought up the very issue troubling her.

"Grandfather, I heard you and Donovan are planning a welcome party for Olivia," Julian remarked casually.

The moment Julian revealed this unexpected knowledge, all eyes in the room - including Donovan's, Olivia's, and even Alistair's - turned toward him in astonishment.

Alistair, visibly surprised, demanded, "I did plan this, but how could you possibly know?"

With an effortless smile, Julian explained, "Donovan mentioned it to me, but that's beside the point. I believe we should proceed with the welcome banquet. There are still doubts about Olivia's identity, and this event would solidify her position within our family. The celebration would also prevent any future mistreatment she might encounter in society while serving as our way of making amends."

Alistair considered this perspective carefully, recognizing the potential advantages. He had long wanted to correct past oversights with Olivia, though he remembered her less-than-enthusiastic reaction to his previous suggestion.

At that moment, Olivia subtly winked at Donovan, her expression betraying discomfort about the proposed banquet, silently pleading to avoid what she considered an unnecessary fuss.

Noticing her unease, Donovan discreetly cleared his throat. "Grandfather, we must respect Olivia's wishes in this matter," he interjected thoughtfully. "If she's uncomfortable with the idea, perhaps we should reconsider."

Alistair paused, his brow furrowing as he weighed Donovan's words, acknowledging the importance of considering Olivia's feelings.

Julian, however, quickly countered, "That's true, but Olivia is far too considerate for her own good. She's not one for extravagance and always puts others before herself. If we leave the decision to her, she'll undoubtedly decline just to avoid inconveniencing anyone."

Olivia stared at Julian, shocked by his interpretation. While it was accurate that she disliked causing trouble, she realized Julian was skillfully manipulating the narrative to serve his own purposes, making any objection from her seem unreasonable.

Seizing the opportunity, Julian pressed his case to Alistair. "This might be our only chance. If we don't celebrate her joining the family now, people might interpret it as the Kensingtons not accepting her as one of us."

"It could appear she isn't truly welcome. Moreover, we always mark personal milestones with celebrations - birthdays, graduations, achievements. This event would also help Olivia establish important social connections, ensuring she has support and protection in society."

Julian's argument was polished and convincing, carefully crafted to appeal to both family pride and Olivia's supposed benefit.

Had Olivia not already been wary of Julian's motives, she might have mistaken his persistence for genuine concern.

Eventually, Alistair seemed swayed by Julian's reasoning. He motioned for Olivia to approach.

Reluctantly, Olivia rose and took the seat beside Alistair.