Chapter 41

OLIVIA’S POV Behind me, my mother stepped forward, watching my expression closely. “Yes, I did,” she said with a warm smile. “I got it customised just for you.” I blinked, taken aback. My throat tightened. “For once, I thought that it was…” I trailed off before I could finish, catching myself too late. Her eyes narrowed slightly, and her tone shifted—not unkind, but knowing. “That it was from Dominic?” I gave a soft, embarrassed laugh and nodded. “Yeah, I guess.” She sighed and moved closer, placing a gentle hand on my shoulder. “And why would you think something like that?” I turned toward the mirror again, watching the conflicted expression on my own face. “Because he did this before. Once,” I said softly. “Took me shopping. Picked a dress that matched my eyes… called me beautiful like it was the only truth that mattered. For a moment, I believed him. He made me feel like I was the most amazing woman in the world.” My voice cracked. “And then he shattered it like it never meant anyth