Regardless of whether some drug controlled Edward or he was merely acting, his divorce request was inexplicable. He hadn't experienced a change of heart or found another lover. He’d fallen out with Alexander and Lily, but Olivia had always been loyal. There was no reason for this treatment, especially since she was pregnant. Edward’s actions were heartless.

"Did you ask him why? What's with this sudden decision? Weren't you two fine yesterday?" Lily frowned, searching for an explanation.

Olivia nodded vehemently. "Yes, we were fine. He went out late, and I pretended not to notice. I'm always putting on a good face, so he probably hasn't realized I've suspected anything. Still, he wants a divorce. I cried, begged him to stay, even yelled, asking why. He just insisted on the divorce. I…"

She trailed off, unable to contain her sadness. Before arriving, Olivia had spent a long time composing herself, but her swollen eyes betrayed her efforts. She'd wanted to stay strong for Lily, but the heartbreak was overwhelming, especially recalling his expression.

"Don't cry!" Lily offered a tissue, moving closer. She placed a comforting hand on Olivia's shoulder. "Don't be afraid. Edward has acted strangely lately, beyond our usual understanding. Think of him as two different people."

"Would that help?" Lily sought to reassure Olivia, sensing something amiss with Edward.

"Huh?" Olivia, tears subsided, stared at Lily, confused.

"He's been acting strangely. He risked his life for Alex, but then suddenly turned on him. That's not the loyal Edward we knew. Either he was forced, or…he isn't the person we knew."

Lily spoke seriously, but Olivia shook her head. "No, that's not possible. I recognize my husband, his touch…" Her cheeks flushed. "He's still Edward. But…he might have changed?"

"Such a drastic change? It’s either coercion or some kind of mind-altering drug he's unaware of."

"What?" Olivia, more frightened than upset, gasped. "Edward is controlled? By whom?"

Lily, previously hesitant, decided to reveal the truth. Concealing it would only worsen Olivia's anxiety. "Liv, there's something I haven't told you, for fear of frightening you. There's been an experiment involving substances that control a person's mind and actions."

Olivia's eyes widened in disbelief. "What experiment? Yours? Why didn't you tell me?"

Her distress intensified. Lily held her hand, picking up a glass of milk. "Drink this and calm down. I'll explain slowly."