But Olivia frowned and protested, This is too much for the kids! Theyre too young for such expensive gifts! Dylan knew Olivia was hesitant about accepting these gifts but felt she couldnt outright reject them in front of the family.
Lifting Leyla, he stroked her hair tenderly and kissed her cheek, then said, Its not a big deal.
They would inherit it eventually since I work hard for my familys sake.
Plus, its not like I can take my money with me when Im gone.
Dylans words brought back memories of the accident to Olivia.
She was upset, but since it was New Years Day, she excused herself after breakfast and stepped out into the garden for a breath of fresh air⦠That was when she noticed new branches sprouting from the wisteria tree.
She seemed lost in thought.
Is something on your mind? Edwin approached and looked at her with curiosity.
Olivia shook her head and replied, Not at all! Im just feeling a little stuffed. Edwin, knowing his sister well, smiled softly and asked, Are you thinking about that accident? After a short pause, he continued, It was just an unfortunate incident, Olivia.
Why not let it go? True, we cant foresee if something similar will happen again; but if we gave up hope every time something went wrong, humanity wouldnt have made it this far.
Since ancient times, our ancestors have battled for survival against all odds, whether the challenges were natural or man-made.
You have to admit were quite vulnerable when faced with such disasters.
While he was talking to her, Olivia stared blankly at the new sprouts.
Edwin gently stroked her hair, and then added, Remember when I first brought Laura home? I hurt her so badly at that time, and she had every reason to despise me.
Yet, she ended up marrying me because we had faith in each other and our love was strong enough for us to tackle our problems together.
If youre unsure about your feelings, ask yourself if you still love Dylan and if you want to be with him for the rest of your life.
Olivia struggled and confessed softly, I never meant to treat him poorly, but I just dont feel the same anymore! Maybe its because Im getting older, or perhaps I cant really forgive him⦠Ive given it my all, but something still feels off.
..
s ...
With that, Edwin handed her a small gift box and said, Happy New Year, Olivia.
Olivia accepted the gift with a soft smile.
Edwin grinned back and teased, Be careful.
Dont go having any more kids! Our family has enough kids as it is! At his words, Olivia, half-amused, half-annoyed, playfully raised her fist at him.
Watching her, Edwin couldnt help but reminisce about when Olivia was just a little girl.
He missed those days, not because they were better, but because back then, Mark was full of life and vigor. In this way, the siblings chatted warmly with each other.
Suddenly, they were interrupted by the sound of the Jones familys driver maneuvering the car into the estate.
Raphael was short on funds at the moment, which meant he couldnt afford to employ many helpers.
Therefore, the driver was here by himself.
Cecilia, concerned that Olivia might feel awkward, offered to accompany Leyla.
But Dylan knew Olivia didnt want to part with Leyla, so he interjected, Ill go with them! Maybe Olivia and I can take a walk afterwards.
At this, Cecilia was at a loss for words.
Just then, Leyla ran over.
Dylan scooped her up and turned to Olivia, saying, Lets go!