Chapter 20 – Why Did He Sacrifice Himself?
Nathan’s grip tightened around Olivia’s wrist.
His dark gaze searched her face, seeking something—some hint of the truth. But, as always, she remained unreadable.
After completing the hospital discharge procedures, they made their way to the parking lot. Olivia, lost in thought, was distracted.
Then—
VROOM!
A black car suddenly accelerated toward them from the corner.
It happened too fast.
The roar of the engine, the screech of tires, and the panicked cries of bystanders rang in Olivia’s ears.
“Mommy!”
“Ms. Olivia, watch out—!”
Before she could react, a strong arm yanked her back.
A warm, firm hand grasped her wrist.
And in the next instant—
She was pulled into a secure embrace.
A familiar yet distinct scent surrounded her—a mix of cologne and something uniquely him.
Olivia inhaled sharply, and suddenly—memories rushed back.
She was ten years old again, walking down the street, blissfully unaware of the speeding car heading toward her.
Back then, Nathan had been the one to save her.
He had rushed forward without hesitation, shielding her with his own body. She had been unharmed, but he had been injured—his head bleeding from the impact.
Why?
If he truly hated her, why had he risked himself back then?
And why—years later—had he turned so cold, so ruthless? Why had he driven her away?
I don’t understand this man at all…
Her mind spun with questions, but before she could process them, a cold, familiar voice snapped her back to reality.
“What’s wrong with you? Why are you so careless?”
The warmth of his embrace evaporated, replaced by his sharp, scolding tone.
Olivia’s sentimental emotions vanished instantly.
She let out a self-deprecating chuckle.
Maybe… he just wants me to suffer a worse fate.
With that thought, she stepped out of his embrace without hesitation. Her voice was cool, detached.
“Thank you, Mr. Carter.”
Nathan’s brows furrowed slightly.
After all these years, this woman is as clueless as ever.
—
A small figure suddenly rushed forward and clung to Olivia’s legs.
“Mommy, are you okay?”
Liam’s little voice trembled with worry. His chubby cheeks were pale from fright.
Olivia immediately knelt down, wrapping him in a comforting hug.
“I’m fine, sweetheart. I’m sorry for scaring you.”
Liam sniffled and nodded, though his tiny hands clung tightly to her sleeve. Then, he glanced up at Nathan, his bright eyes filled with admiration.
“Daddy is really amazing! He’s so fast!”
But Olivia didn’t respond.
She simply picked Liam up and carried him to the car, her demeanor calm and collected. She didn’t spare Nathan another glance.
—
The car ride to the DNA testing center was quiet.
Nathan’s phone rang, breaking the silence.
He answered, and Emily’s sharp voice immediately filled the car.
“Nathan! Why haven’t you come back yet?”
Her tone was accusatory—impatient.
Nathan’s gaze darkened.
“What do you think?” His voice was cold.
Emily scoffed. “Why are you still there? You don’t even know if the child is yours! What a waste of time! Come back immediately!”
Nathan clenched his jaw.
“I’ll return once the child’s DNA is confirmed.”
Emily’s frustration only grew.
“Why won’t you just give up?! Fine! If you refuse to listen, I’ll come too! I want to meet that woman and see what kind of tricks she’s playing!”
Nathan’s eyes narrowed.
“No need,” he said flatly. “I can handle this on my own.”
He didn’t want complications—especially not with Emily and Olivia in the same room.
But Emily was persistent.
“No! I won’t acknowledge that child without seeing the test results myself!”
Nathan paused.
His mother’s actions toward Liam flashed through his mind.
Finally, he exhaled and said icily, “Fine. You can go to the DNA testing center.”
She can come… and apologize to Liam for what she did.
Emily, unaware of his true intentions, huffed in satisfaction.
“Good! I’ll be there immediately!”
