Chapter 137: The Midas Family Has a Daughter, Anabelle

Elvis tossed his cigarette butt into the trash can and held Olive in his arms. Her scent offered him a sense of security and belonging—a feeling he’d craved his entire life. An expensive car slowed across the street; Marvin’s handsome face appeared in the slowly descending driver’s window. He watched the embracing couple under the streetlight for a few seconds before accelerating away.

Elvis hugged Olive. "You're hungry. Let's get some seafood."

"But I don't want seafood anymore."

"Then what do you want?"

Olive took his hand. "Mr. Augustine, come with me!"

She led him to the pharmacy and produced a flask. "Come eat with me," she beckoned. Elvis's heart softened. Seeing her sweet face, he knew she was trying to cheer him up. "Okay," he mumbled.

Olive microwaved the food. "Mr. Augustine, our institute's food is delicious! Many people come just for it. It's definitely not worse than Chef Maria's cooking, but you can try it if you doubt." She scooped rice and fed him.

Despite having no appetite, Elvis obediently opened his mouth.

"Isn't it delicious?" Olive asked, her eyes shining.

"Yes, it is," Elvis nodded. Olive ate some, then offered him chicken. "Open up. You need to replenish your strength."

Elvis chuckled, his brow furrowed. "Why replenish my strength? Do you need me to work tonight?"

"Eat! You're cuter when you're quiet!" Olive stuffed the chicken into his mouth, silencing him. He smiled and ate, then fed her in return. They ate until satisfied.

"Mrs. Augustine, should we go home?" Elvis asked.

"I have work here tonight. Going home and back seems like a hassle. Why don't you sleep here with me?"

"Where do you sleep?"

"I'm a student here. I have a dorm," Olive indicated a door with her eyes. Elvis pulled her into his arms. "Then let's go to bed."

In the dormitory, they showered quickly before lying down. Elvis leaned against the headboard; Olive nestled obediently in his embrace. "Mr. Augustine, can you tell me why you're unhappy?" she asked.

Elvis patted her head. "My aunt arrived in LA tonight and visited Grandma at the villa."

Olive sat up, startled. "Your aunt? So you didn't take me home on purpose? You lied about needing a document!" She punched his chest twice. Elvis caught her fists. "My aunt mocked you. She said you only graduated from high school and plans to introduce my brother to a talented medical student. She really likes this girl."

Realizing she'd been mocked for her education, Olive bit her lip, pulled away, and turned her back. "I'm ignoring you. You're all bad people."

Elvis turned to her, his lips brushing her earlobe. "You're angry? Why don't I show you how bad I am tonight?" His hand moved towards her stomach. Olive quickly stopped him. "Mr. Augustine, don't!" He kissed her face.

He stopped, hugging her from behind. His voice, low and husky, murmured in her ear, "My mother and stepmother are actually sisters. Lily, my stepmother, is the eldest daughter of the Midas family; my mother is an illegitimate daughter. My mother lived Lily's life—Lily was sick and bedridden. My mother filled both daughters' roles, earning public admiration. She was a brilliant jewelry designer, creating a classic piece at eighteen." He sighed. "Fate is cruel. My mother and Lily were born on the same day. The city knew the Midas family had a daughter, but only Lily received the recognition. My mother, Anabelle, created the brand, but Lily took the credit."

It was the first time Elvis told Olive about his mother.

"Mr. Augustine, wasn't your mother strong-willed?" Olive recalled Elvis mentioning his mother's self-inflicted Cesarean section.

His features softened. "No, she was gentle, almost childlike, and very indifferent. Her only friend was that old woman—your mother!"

Olive raised her voice slightly, a hint of jealousy in her tone, "I remember! The mother of your bride!"

Elvis's fingers pressed against her shoulder, his dark eyes meeting hers.