Chapter 336

"Olivia!" Donovan's voice boomed with uncharacteristic fury. Never in all their years together had he spoken to her with such sharpness.

The man who had always treated her with infinite patience now regarded her with unmistakable disappointment darkening his gaze.

"I understand your concern for Isabelle, but you must realize there were factors beyond Alistair's and my control. Everyone's on edge after what happened."

Though clearly not himself, Alistair had remained at Isabelle's bedside throughout the night. "This entire situation began with my mother. My father never anticipated her actions. Step outside if you doubt me—he's been kneeling in the corridor since midnight."

"What?" Olivia's breath caught. Slowly, her composure returned.

The Kensingtons were known for their unshakable pride. The image of Reginald Kensington spending hours on his knees shocked her to the core. This was clearly his attempt to atone for his wife's misdeeds. Emotions warred across Olivia's face, prompting Donovan to soften his tone.

"I spoke too harshly. I know what you've endured, but we've investigated thoroughly. Those responsible will answer for this. No one ever explained why your mother left, but I'm ready to tell you everything now."

As Donovan unraveled the events of that fateful year, Olivia's understanding deepened.

The Kensingtons had once been the picture of familial harmony. Though Frederick's branch of the family harbored ambitions, they'd never dared make trouble while Alistair lived. Harming Vivienne had never been their intention.

Everything changed with Donovan's birth.

For reasons no one understood, Margaret grew suspicious.

Buried in work, Reginald had little time for his wife during that period.

Convinced of his infidelity, Margaret spiraled into despair. With no alternative, Reginald asked his sister to comfort her. Vivienne agreed without hesitation.

Under Vivienne's gentle care, Margaret's spirits lifted.

Then came the business dinner where Margaret witnessed an unknown woman embracing her husband.

A simple misunderstanding.

Yet in that moment, Margaret shattered. She became convinced Vivienne had been planted to spy on her.

Resentment festered. Margaret envied Vivienne's carefree existence and the unconditional love she received from their family.

Then came the crisis that changed everything—Donovan's disappearance.

The catalyst? Vivienne.

That day, Donovan had begged his aunt to take him out.

Vivienne brought an entourage and made meticulous preparations. Yet in one unguarded moment, he vanished.