Chapter 327

Clearing her throat, Gwendolyn spoke with deliberate slowness, a cunning smile playing on her lips. "I've gathered everyone here today to share some promising news. As we all know, Seraphina has been in delicate health for years. We've assembled the world's leading specialists who will perform a life-changing procedure on her soon."

She paused dramatically, letting the weight of her words sink in. "The surgery carries significant risks. If successful, it could transform Seraphina's quality of life. But if it fails..."

Gwendolyn's voice cracked, tears welling in her eyes as she struggled to continue.

Seraphina stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on her mother's arm. "Mother, please don't upset yourself. This is our best chance. I'll be fine - I promise."

Olivia's brow furrowed. Had they really summoned her all the way here just for this announcement? The Kensingtons couldn't possibly be ignorant of her strained relationship with Seraphina. There had to be another motive behind this gathering.

As if reading her thoughts, Gwendolyn continued, "We need everyone present at the hospital during Seraphina's operation. Your presence will give her strength. The doctors emphasized how critical the recovery period is - it could determine the entire outcome. Hearing familiar voices might make all the difference."

Seraphina broke into theatrical sobs, covering her face with her hands. "I'm such a burden to this family with my constant health problems!"

Olivia suddenly felt the weight of hostile gazes upon her. Looking up, she met Margaret's saccharine smile.

"Olivia," Margaret said with false sweetness, "I know you and Seraphina have your differences, but she's suffering. Can't you set aside your petty grievances for once?"

Olivia returned the smile with equal insincerity. "I'd be happy to help, though I doubt my presence would bring Seraphina any comfort. We both know how much she despises me. My staying at the hospital would only agitate her." She held up a hand before Margaret could interrupt. "But please don't mistake my reluctance for indifference. I'll visit regularly."

She took a deliberate breath before delivering the crucial point. "However, I have prior commitments in Eldermere the day after tomorrow - arrangements made months ago. Unless Seraphina specifically requests my presence, I'll maintain contact remotely after my return."

Seraphina wiped her tears away with a dramatic flourish. "See, Margaret? I told you Olivia wouldn't care. She's probably hoping something goes wrong during my surgery!"

Frederick slammed his fist on the table, glaring at Olivia. "You may act however you please at home because of Alistair's favoritism, but Seraphina is your cousin! How can you be so cold-hearted as to abandon her in her time of need?"

Olivia arched an eyebrow. "Aren't you all going to be there? Why does my presence matter so much?"

Margaret's voice dripped with contempt. "Is that really your attitude? It's sickening how you take everything the Kensingtons offer while giving nothing back. You won't be boarding any plane the day after tomorrow. You will stay for Seraphina's surgery. We're family, and it's time you started acting like it. Refuse, and I'll have no choice but to inform the elders about your shocking lack of compassion!"

When Olivia remained unmoved, Margaret escalated her tactics. With a cruel smirk, she added, "Or do you want your daughter Isabelle to grow up known as heartless as her mother? Don't come crying to me when she resents you for this someday."

Olivia felt the walls closing in, her stomach churning with frustration. The Kensingtons were determined to keep her trapped here. Even if she managed to escape, they'd likely drag her back by force. What exactly were they planning?