Chapter 1729
It was quiet in the apartment. Olivia looked at Edward, his head bowed, and sighed softly. She took a couple of steps closer, then stooped to gather the scattered items: a blanket, a shattered glass, and other debris.
She couldn't understand his recent crankiness. His injuries, his inability to stand—the simultaneous wounding and betrayal must have been devastating. She understood and tolerated his temper, but today…
She silently collected the glass shards, carefully depositing them in the trash. Edward watched, offering neither help nor protest. Suddenly, he frowned, impatiently flung a trinket, and snapped, "Stop picking them up!"
The small object struck the back of her hand, forcing it against the sharp glass. Blood welled from a small but deep cut. Wincing, she lifted her hand, staring at him.
Taken aback, Edward hadn't meant to hurt her, but his brow furrowed. "I told you not to pick them up!"
"I'll get a bandage," Olivia said, rising and turning to the faucet to wash her wound. An inexplicable emotion washed over her as the water rinsed away the blood, the burning pain intensifying.
Warm tears welled as she dried her hands and found a Band-Aid. The small cut stopped bleeding, but the pain lingered, spreading like sap through a leaf, consuming her.
Returning, she picked up a large shard and tossed it in the trash. Edward's impatience flared. "Didn't I tell you not—"
"Shut the f*ck up if you don't want to help!" Olivia erupted.
Edward was stunned. Her recent gentleness and submissiveness had clearly unprepared him for her outburst. He moved his lips but remained silent.
Olivia gathered the remaining shards, then fetched a broom and dustpan. Afterward, she opened the refrigerator and took out a beer. Under Edward's gaze, she opened it and drank half the can.
She rarely drank, only keeping beer for Edward or occasional cooking. The sudden half-can left her slightly intoxicated, yet her mind was unusually clear, replaying their conversation.
She burped, a newfound courage swelling within her. Edward remained still, silent, his frown etched deep after her outburst. He watched her quietly.