Chapter 344

Olivia Sinclair couldn't comprehend why Donovan Kensington had brought Alistair Kensington to this place.

After calming Alistair down with gentle words, Olivia pulled Donovan aside. "I understand my choice appears abrupt, and it probably angers you, but there's no alternative. It's not merely about my disillusionment with the Kensington family. There are other pressing matters demanding my attention."

Donovan cleared his throat quietly.

"I do find your decision rather hasty. But what troubles me more is Alistair's mental state. You should bid him farewell properly, Olivia. Whether he's fully aware or not, he listens to you more than anyone. Even when he refuses to speak with others, he always makes an exception for you. Imagine how he'll deteriorate if you depart?"

Olivia's chest constricted painfully as distress flooded through her. She hadn't even contemplated this consequence.

At that moment, Alistair approached them, his face etched with confusion. "Olivia, are you leaving? Can I come with you? Please don't abandon me here with these Kensingtons. They're all strangers to me, and I want nothing to do with them."

Olivia turned to face Alistair, preparing to reassure him and persuade him to remain.

But before she could utter a word, Donovan gently grasped her wrist, giving an almost imperceptible shake of his head, silently urging her to refrain.

Then Donovan offered an awkward smile. "I was hoping you might take our grandfather to your residence. I wouldn't have brought him here today otherwise."

Alistair's eyes reddened with irritation as he snapped at Donovan, "Don't address me like that! Brat, how could I possibly be your grandfather? I'm far too youthful for such a title!"

Olivia felt a vein throb at her temple, her expression turning grave.

"Donovan, are you truly serious about this? It's not that I'm unwilling to take Alistair with me, but I refuse to exploit the Kensington family's power. Given my hectic schedule, I doubt I could properly care for him. What if something happens? That's a situation none of us want to face."

"Moreover..." Olivia's gaze dropped, the light in her eyes dimming. "I couldn't even protect Isabelle, let alone—"

"You needn't worry about that. I've arranged everything," Donovan assured her, his voice steady.

"Alistair was quite influential in his prime, having assisted numerous people and earned widespread respect. It's no exaggeration to say he's acquainted with half of Crestwood's elite, with connections spanning all social circles in Eldermere. I've already spoken with his associates. Should you ever require aid, simply present this." Donovan produced an exquisite jade pendant and pressed it into Olivia's palm.

Olivia examined the artifact, marveling at its flawless, cool surface. This was undoubtedly premium quality jade, far too precious to serve as a mere token.

Her mind flashed back years earlier when she'd encountered a tiny jade fragment in an underground market. Barely the size of a thumbnail, it had sold for fifty million.

As for this piece's value, Olivia estimated it was beyond most people's means. She frowned and returned the jade to Donovan. "Give me something less conspicuous. This is far too valuable to carry around."