Gwenda's eyebrow twitched. "This man is really conceited," she thought. "He's so sure I'd like him?"

"But I don't like you at all now," Gwenda said mercilessly. She couldn't deny some feelings for Olivier, but fresh from a terrible relationship, she wasn't ready to jump into another, even with the attractive Olivier Petit.

"It's fine. I'll give you time," Olivier replied, surprisingly unangry. He seemed to answer according to his own desires.

Gwenda felt helpless, her words futile. "What if nothing comes of us getting to know each other better?" she said tiredly. "Love can't be forced."

"So, getting to know me is difficult?" Olivier asked, his gleaming eyes fixed on her.

Gwenda was speechless. After a moment, she said tactfully, "I wouldn't put it that way. It's just"

"Then it's enough," he interrupted.

"What is?"

"As long as it's your own volition. Wooing you is my choice; whether you accept it is up to you. Don't worry about anything else." He spoke sincerely, but Gwenda still felt something was amiss. Were they going in circles?

After a moment, she said, "Then, Mr. Petit"

"Do you truly hate the idea of being with me so much?" Olivier interrupted, gazing deeply into her eyes, a hint of hurt in his own.

Guilt washed over Gwenda. She rubbed her nose awkwardly. "Opposite-gender roommates aren't a good idea. Besides, I can't let you ruin my reputation."

Olivier burst out laughing. "You think too much!"

"Well, of course!" Gwenda snorted, a hint of pride in her tone.

Olivier chuckled. "I can consider not living in your house."

Gwenda's head lifted in excitement, but then Olivier said unhurriedly, "But I have one condition."

"What is it?" she asked, confused.

"You cannot reject my attempts at wooing you."

Gwenda's face turned beet red. Her heart pounded wildly. Suppressing her feelings, she tried to remain calm. "That's against the rules! I refuse!"

"This, or living with you. Take your pick," Olivier grinned, his dark eyes relishing her flustered expression.

Gwenda was stunned for a moment before a thought struck her. "This wicked man!"

After a moment, she nodded helplessly. "Fine but I also have a condition!"

Olivier smiled, motioning for her to continue.

"You have to follow proper courtship etiquette!"

Olivier's smile widened, sly like a fox. He leaned forward, whispering in her ear, "Then tell me, what is the next step of proper courtship etiquette?"

Gwenda's ear itched from his breath. The blush spread rapidly. She moved her head away, incoherent. "How how would I know?"

"Oh?" A charming smile played on Olivier's lips. "Then, I suppose I shall have to go by my own rules."

Without waiting for a response, he lowered his head and kissed her.

000