Chapter 274

Sebastian's knuckles turned white as his fists clenched. His burning gaze locked onto his sister's forced composure.

"How long are you going to keep lying to yourself, Olivia?" His voice was low but razor-sharp.

"That scumbag Howard doesn't deserve your forgiveness. You know the truth—you're just refusing to face it. Wake up."

"Enough!" Olivia turned away sharply, her chest heaving. She couldn't bear her brother's disappointed stare. Her nails dug into her palms. "I don't believe these documents. Howard, get up."

A flicker of triumph crossed Howard's face as he started to rise—until a small figure barreled into him, knocking him flat.

Theodore planted himself protectively in front of his mother, tiny fists balled. His eyes burned red with fury. "Get out! Don't touch Mommy!"

The air turned to ice. Howard sat sprawled on the floor, his expression darkening before twisting into a sickening smile. "Come here, Theo—"

"No!" The child whirled and buried his face in Olivia's skirt. His small hands patted her back in clumsy imitation of her own comforting gestures. "Mommy don't cry. Bad man said he'll get new mommy... new mommy hits Theo..."

Olivia went deathly pale. She knelt slowly, her voice barely audible. "Who... who hurt you, baby?"

Fat tears rolled down Theodore's cheeks as he pointed a trembling finger. "He took me to see mean lady... She pinched me... slapped me..." His little body shook violently. "Said... said if I tell, he'll make Mommy poor..."

The world spun. Olivia's heart shattered like glass. Her fingers trembled as she wiped her son's tears. "Why didn't you tell me—"

"Lies!" Howard lunged to his feet, face contorted with rage. "You little brat—"

Olivia swung her handbag with all her strength. The blow cracked across his face.

"You monster!" Her scream tore through the room. The bag burst open, scattering its contents. A lipstick rolled to Howard's feet like a drop of blood.

Silence. Evelyn gasped behind her hands. Sebastian's rigid jaw finally relaxed—his sister's reaction exceeded even his expectations.

Howard sat stunned, clutching his cheek. Suddenly he grabbed Theodore's ankle. "Tell them you made it up, son—"

"Don't touch him!" Olivia swayed, her pregnant belly throwing her off balance. Evelyn rushed forward as she doubled over, retching. Cold sweat beaded on her forehead.