Chapter 16

Nathaniel and Olivia stood there without the intention to move or Know whether to, a mixture of relief and anxiety washing over them, as Nathaniel had just assured Olivia that he would support her through their complex situation. Just as they were about to part ways and return to their respective rooms, the door to Olivia's room swung open suddenly.

In the doorway stood Margaret, Nathaniel's mother, dressed in a satin robe with a concerned expression written on her face. She had apparently heard the voices and had decided to check on her son and his wife.

"Nathaniel, Olivia, what's going on in here?" Margaret inquired, her eyes moving from Nathaniel to Olivia. Olivia couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as she met Margaret's gaze.

Nathaniel stepped forward, trying to maintain composure. "Mother, it's nothing. Olivia couldn't sleep, and we were just having a conversation. That's all."

Margaret's eyes remained fixed on Olivia as she slowly entered the room, her motherly instincts on