From a Wrong Turn to Mr. Right novel Chapter 38

Lavinia Bennett frowned, clearly annoyed. “What’s up with you?”

Daniel Gill bit the inside of his cheek, the quick sting snapping his mind back to its usual calm, icy detachment.

“She went out of her way to bring her stuff to Olivia, but Olivia wasn’t even grateful,” he muttered, obviously irritated.

Catching his complaint against Olivia, a flicker of satisfaction flashed in Lavinia’s eyes.

She gave a small, understanding smile. “It’s fine. It was just a quick trip, didn’t really cost me anything.”

If anything, it gave her the perfect chance to shut down whatever hope Olivia still had.

She might act tough, but Lavinia could practically picture Olivia now—curled up under her duvet, clutching a book and sobbing her eyes out.

The thought sent a wave of smug delight through Lavinia. She lowered her gaze, hiding the triumphant gleam in her eyes.

“She said if there’s anything else of hers left, just toss it,” Lavinia went on, her voice sweet as sugar. “She said it’s all junk to her anyway—no need to bother bringing it over.”

“She may not have taken her stuff, but at least now we won’t have to go through this again. One wasted trip, and now it’s done for good.”

Every word was like a dart, and Daniel felt each one hit home—his heart throbbing painfully in his chest.

He cut her off before she could twist the knife any further. “It’s late. You should get home, get some rest.”

Lavinia nodded, content she’d said enough. She tilted her head up to look at him.

Daniel bent down and kissed her softly. “Goodnight,” he murmured.

A smile bloomed on Lavinia’s lips. “Goodnight,” she replied, voice bright as ever.

She hesitated, looking back over her shoulder at him with each step as she walked away. Three times she turned, reluctant to leave.

But step by step, he’d only pushed her farther away.

What was he supposed to do now? He was really losing her.

***

The sun rose and set. In a blink, it was the day Olivia’s studio reopened.

She was up early, practically buzzing with happiness—so much that even her hair seemed to radiate with excitement.

Her good mood was contagious: Ethan Carter and Susan were both in high spirits too.

After breakfast, Ethan drove Olivia to the studio.

He parked by the curb, turned to her, and grinned. “You’re awfully chipper this morning. What’s got you so happy?”