Chapter 302

Claude took a deep breath to calm down before saying, “I haven’t been feeling well. I’m sorry, Olivia.”

Olivia had noticed his sadness recently. She could see the sorrow in his eyes and guessed it was because of Morgan, especially since it was the anniversary of Morgan’s death just a few days ago.

When Olivia stayed quiet, Claude continued, “I just can’t stand seeing you unhappy here. I don’t know why, but I care about you too much. I don’t want to see you hurt or hurt yourself trying to make others happy. I don’t want you to feel insecure and bad about yourself.”

He had a slight, mocking smile as he added, “Maybe because…” but he didn’t finish his sentence.

Olivia asked, “Do I remind you of Morgan?”

Claude was visibly shocked by her question. He looked at her, clearly not expecting her to say that. But then, all the sadness in his eyes was gone the moment he saw her.

He didn’t say anything at first. Then Olivia said, “I’m not Morgan, Claude.”

“I know,” Claude replied. Just when Olivia thought he was back to his normal self, he added, “You and Morgan are different. I shouldn’t have compared you two. I just can’t help caring for you.”

His voice was soft and a bit rough, but his words were kind.

Olivia stepped back, surprised by his words. So, his sadness wasn’t about Morgan?

In the world of the upper class, Olivia felt like an outsider, an unimportant illegitimate daughter overshadowed by Naomi. She thought Claude was kind to her because of Naomi or Morgan, but his kindness wasn’t because of Morgan.

She was confused. His care for her was different from how he felt about Morgan. It was a quiet kind of caring.

Hearing this made Olivia feel relieved and happy. She wasn’t a replacement for anyone.

Then, Claude came closer again. This time, Olivia didn’t move away. She looked down at his feet as he stopped in front of her.

“Olivia, I don’t want you caught between Naomi and Tyler. Would you come with me?” he asked, offering his hand again.

Olivia was surprised by her own reaction. She felt drawn to his hand, wanting to reach out. Her hand actually started to move towards his.

Claude watched her hand, his eyes filled with anticipation. Ho waiting for it to touch his like a butterfly landing.

ready to hold her hand, But just as she was about to reach out, they were interrupted by someone calling, “Ma’am.”