Chapter 522

The trio settled into a charming countryside cottage. While not as luxurious as their penthouse back in Newport, the rustic charm made it ideal for their temporary home. Warm wooden beams and floral curtains created an inviting atmosphere that instantly put them at ease.

For little Isabelle, every moment was pure magic. Having never experienced rural life before, her boundless energy led her to investigate every nook and cranny. From chasing butterflies to collecting wildflowers, her laughter filled the air as she discovered the simple joys of country living.

Liam, ever the protective father, shadowed Isabelle's every move. "Watch your step, princess," he'd murmur whenever she ventured too close to the stone fence or muddy puddles. His watchful gaze never wavered, though his stern warnings were always softened by an affectionate smile.

While Isabelle napped, Olivia reviewed the show's participant list. Two civilians and two celebrities would join them - a university student and a tech startup founder representing ordinary life, while Olivia herself fell into the latter category. The celebrity lineup included Victoria Ellington, whose younger sister had once caught Donovan Kensington's eye.

Victoria possessed striking features that defied conventional beauty standards. Where others cultivated delicate femininity, she radiated bold confidence that commanded attention. Olivia could understand why Donovan had been so taken with her sister.

The second celebrity was an unfamiliar actress whose breathtaking beauty seemed almost unnatural. Olivia studied her photo, struck by an odd sense of recognition that hovered just beyond conscious memory. Before she could place the face, strong arms encircled her waist from behind.

"Time to call it a night," Liam murmured against her ear, his breath warm against her skin. "Isabelle finally wore herself out. I've drawn you a bath - Hazel will keep an ear out for her."

Olivia turned in his embrace, arching an eyebrow. "Since when did you become so domestic?"

Liam's fingers intertwined with hers as his voice dropped to a husky whisper. "Oh darling, this is just the beginning..." The smoldering look in his dark eyes left little to imagination.

With practiced ease, Olivia slipped free with a playful swat. "Dream on. I'm going to bed."

Emerging from her bath wrapped in a plush robe, Olivia found Liam sprawled dramatically across their bed. The exaggerated pout on his handsome face would've been comical if not for the very real heat in his gaze.

"Really?" She towel-dried her hair with an exasperated sigh. "What's your excuse tonight?"

Liam pointed solemnly toward the window where dark clouds gathered. "Storm's coming."

Olivia crossed her arms. "You haven't been afraid of thunder since you were six."

"True," Liam admitted, his expression turning unexpectedly serious. "But I remember someone who is."

Olivia's breath caught. After all these years, he still remembered her childhood fear. Isabelle, thankfully, shared none of her mother's storm anxiety. During thunderstorms, the little girl would curl protectively against Olivia, offering silent comfort. While the phobia had lessened over time, Olivia still struggled to sleep through severe weather. With filming starting tomorrow, the impending storm promised a restless night ahead.