Samuel, remembering Olivier, eagerly dialed his number. Olivier answered.

"I'm done. Bring your girlfriend; I'm treating you both to dinner."

"Nope," Olivier refused. "We're spending the night together."

Samuel hissed, goosebumps prickling his skin. "Man, why am I so unused to you being in a relationship? This lovey-dovey stuff is torture!"

"Get used to it," Olivier replied.

"Oh, don't say that," Samuel grinned. "Dinner wouldn't take long. I have to meet her sometime! We'll meet at our usual place. Bring your girlfriend; I'll bring my brother. Be there!"

He hung up before Olivier could refuse. The disconnect tone echoed in Olivier's ears. Samuel Kinney was a busybody.

Night fell. Gwenda was leaving the studio when Olivier texted, "Waiting downstairs." She hurried down. Outside, she saw his car. The window was down, revealing Olivier's handsome face. Gwenda smiled and approached. He got out, pulling her into a tight embrace.

His cologne surrounded her, reminding her how much she'd missed him.

"Missed me?" he murmured, his voice low and close to her ear, his breath warm against her skin.

Trembling slightly, Gwenda ignored the question. "Let's go. It's crowded."

"Nope," Olivier held her tighter, his hand caressing her back. "You haven't answered."

His lips brushed her ear. Gwenda felt her blood rush, her ear flushing. "Olivier, stop"

She pushed him away. Laughing softly, he cupped her face, his dark eyes gazing at her. "I knew you missed me," he said affectionately. "Because I missed you too"

Gwenda's heart pounded. She looked into his eyes, then changed the subject. "August said your project abroad had trouble. Is it solved?"

"You're concerned?" Olivier grinned.

Gwenda's eyes flickered with anxiety. "I was just asking."

"Oh, you little liar!" He knew she cared.

He let go of her, taking her hand. "It's solved. Just tricky. Don't worry."

"Let's go," Gwenda said, wanting to avoid acquaintances.

Olivier's eyes darkened slightly, but he opened the car door for her.

The car started; Olivier still held her hand. Gwenda didn't bother to pull away.

Nearing the restaurant, he said, "I'm not treating you to dinner."

"Huh?" Gwenda was puzzled.

"My friend wants to meet you. He arranged this dinner."

"Why now?" Gwenda was shocked and unprepared.

"It's just dinner. If you're uncomfortable, we can leave." He squeezed her hand.

Gwenda frowned. "I don't think this is a good idea. We're not even dating. I"

"We will be," Olivier interrupted, leaning close. His dark eyes intensified. "Don't tell me you can escape this."

Gwenda looked down. Olivier gently stroked her hair. "Relax. They won't bother you while I'm here."

Gwenda pouted. "I don't even have the right to refuse"

Olivier chuckled. "You can settle the score with me later."