Chapter 325

The man gave a brisk nod before striding away without hesitation. It was as if Olivia's desperate shout of "Liam" had fallen on deaf ears.

Watching little Isabelle's radiant smile, Olivia felt a pang of conflicting emotions. Maybe she was reading too much into things.

She had hesitated before agreeing to the stranger's unusual request. Her scheduled return to Eldermere was just two days away. The coincidence of him traveling to the same destination seemed too perfect. What business could he possibly have in Eldermere?

Her phone vibrated with Donovan's caller ID flashing on screen.

"I just arrived home and found your thoughtful gift," Donovan's warm voice came through. "It's absolutely perfect. Thank you."

Olivia's lips curved into a genuine smile. "Don't mention it. Your support was instrumental in my recovery. If anything, I should be thanking you."

Donovan's tone softened further. "Is Isabelle with you? Work has consumed me lately, and Father's equally preoccupied. Neither of us has had proper time for her."

A frown creased Olivia's brow. "You must take care of yourself. When we visited today, the staff mentioned you haven't slept properly in seventy-two hours."

An embarrassed chuckle came through the line. "I specifically told them not to mention that. Yet somehow you always find out."

Little Isabelle tugged at Olivia's sleeve, bouncing with excitement to speak.

Understanding immediately, Olivia knelt and held the phone to her daughter's ear.

"Uncle Donny!" Isabelle chirped in her sweetest voice.

Donovan's heart visibly melted through the phone. "Have you missed me, little one?"

"Very much!" Isabelle nodded vigorously. "Mommy misses you too!"

Olivia's eyes sparkled with amusement as she suggested, "Shall we go home and visit Uncle Donovan now?"

Upon arriving at the Kensington estate, Olivia found the staff meticulously packing her belongings.

She had informed Donovan about her impending return to Eldermere.

Though reluctant, Donovan respected her decision. His thoughtfulness shone through the perfectly organized preparations, anticipating her potential extended stay.

Despite Olivia's insistence on traveling light, Donovan had ensured every possible necessity was packed under his supervision.

Most luggage had already been checked in under Donovan's arrangements. Olivia's only responsibility was keeping Isabelle safe by her side.

Touched by his consideration, Olivia carried Isabelle toward her room when Winston approached urgently. "Miss Sinclair, you've returned at last. I've been searching everywhere for you."

"What is it?" Olivia arched an eyebrow.

Winston cleared his throat. "Lady Margaret Kensington and Lady Gwendolyn Kensington are requesting your presence. Mr. Alistair Kensington accompanies them. They claim it's a matter of some importance."

Olivia's expression darkened instantly. The last people she wanted to deal with were Margaret and Gwendolyn - especially together. Every instinct warned her against this meeting.