Chapter 326

Olivia offered a polite smile. "Let's postpone that for another day. I just got back and would prefer to spend time with Isabelle today."

Winston's cheeks flushed slightly, his expression tinged with embarrassment. "They insisted your presence is mandatory. Mr. Donovan Kensington has also been summoned. Apparently, this is a family matter requiring everyone's attendance."

A dull ache pulsed behind Olivia's temples at his words. The phrasing left her no room for refusal. "Tell them I'll change my clothes," she conceded through gritted teeth.

After switching into more formal attire, Olivia entered the grand living room.

Just as she'd anticipated, the space overflowed with Kensington family members. Alistair occupied the central armchair, his clouded gaze flickering with confusion. His mental state had declined sharply in recent years, making recognition of faces nearly impossible.

Though Alistair typically ignored everyone's presence, he always brightened at the sight of Olivia.

"Grandfather." Olivia's face lit up as she approached him. "Did you take your medicine like the doctor instructed?"

Alistair nodded absently, patting her hand. "Sweet girl, you seem familiar. Who might you be?"

"I'm Olivia, your granddaughter," she replied, swallowing the familiar lump in her throat. She'd repeated this exchange countless times, yet remained prepared to do so indefinitely.

Without warning, sharp nails dug into Olivia's forearm, yanking her backward.

She turned to face Gwendolyn.

"Enough with the saintly act," Gwendolyn hissed, her expression dark. "You've been here long enough. Have you even acknowledged the other elders? Or is dear Alistair the only one worthy of your attention?"

Margaret scoffed from her nearby seat. "She clearly thinks herself above greeting the rest of us. Winning over Alistair is her only objective—with his favor, she needs no one else."

Olivia's gaze swept across the crowded room. Frederick's branch of the family had turned out in full force. Margaret sat positioned strategically near Alistair, while Julian's smug face made Olivia's skin crawl. She felt little warmth toward most present.

A sardonic smile curved Olivia's lips as she addressed Gwendolyn. "I show respect where it's earned. Grandfather behaves as an elder should. You, on the other hand, greet me with nothing but barbs and backhanded compliments. Don't mistake my restraint for weakness."

Gwendolyn's face mottled with rage. After a tense silence, she sneered, "Your voice may have healed, but instead of showing gratitude to the Kensingtons or proper respect to your elders, you dare criticize me. You're disgusting, Olivia."

Ignoring the outburst, Olivia turned back to take her seat beside Alistair.

Margaret shot Olivia a glacial look before exchanging a subtle nod with Gwendolyn. The silent communication served its purpose—Gwendolyn's anger visibly cooled as she remembered their agenda.

With startling abruptness, Gwendolyn's sneer transformed into a saccharine smile.