Chapter 136

After a brief exchange, Claude proposed a trip to Sereneville. With no classes to attend on Saturday and her long absence from the village, Olivia found the offer tempting. She thought for a while and ultimately agreed.

After Tyler left that morning, she prepared to go. The maid asked, “Where are you off to, Ms. Olivia?

Will you be back for lunch?”

“Er… I’m not sure!” Olivia replied, then quickly left.

Claude was waiting for her at the university, and he courteously opened the car door for her.

Olivia always felt calm around Claude, unlike when she was with Tyler. “Thank you!” she said cheerfully.

“For what?” Claude chuckled. “Come on, let’s hit the road before we get stuck in traffic.”

Olivia thought of what Tyler had said that night and glanced at Claude. What was going on? Why did Tyler warn her about upsetting Claude?

He noticed her gaze. “What is it?”

“I… was just thinking about something.”

“Hmm?”

“Do you think there might come a time when you… hurt me?”

“No way,” Claude replied immediately.

She hadn’t expected such a quick answer.

He looked at her and grinned. “Why would I do that? You’re the first girl I’ve been interested in since I got back.”

“Really?” she asked tentatively.

“Really.”

For some reason, Olivia trusted him. “Okay, I believe you.”

*

The drive took about 3 to 4 hours until they reached Sereneville. Olivia stared out the window, lost in thought as familiar sights passed by.

Claude knew what was on her mind. “Do you remember where your old house is? I can take you there.

“It’s next to the elementary school I used to attend, St. Hope.”

“Alright.”

“No! It’s fine,” she said hurriedly. It was a little too far away.

But Claude knew it meant more than just distance. She hadn’t been happy living with the Joneses maybe she would’ve been happier here in this humble place.

“Let’s go. It’s your home, after all.”

In silence, they pulled up to a small, rundown house near St. Hope School, Olivia was shocked to see her childhood home.

Claude got out of the car and opened the door. He took her hand and led her through a cobweb–filled door.

“What are you doing?” she asked.