"Dad," Laura began, but before she could say more, Dylan gripped Olivia's hand with sudden urgency.
"Pretend your stomach hurts, Olivia," he hissed under his breath, his tone low and commanding. "I need to get you out of here. Now."
She narrowed her gaze, fury flashing across her face. "I am not doing that bullshit," she shot back in a whisper, but Dylan's expression remained unyielding, hard as a rock.
"Now," he repeated, his voice leaving no room for argument.
Before Olivia could react further, she felt herself obeying. With a sharp inhale, she clutched her stomach, bending forward, her features twisting in fake agony. "Dylan," she whimpered, forcing tears to well in her eyes. "Please… help me."
Her father rose instantly, concern sketched across his face. "Honey, what's wrong? Are you alright?"
"I'll take her to the hospital right now," Dylan jumped in, his arm protectively steadying Olivia as he guided her toward the door.
