She didn't think Olivier was stiff. Even if he was, he'd become quite expert at it!

"That's good, then," she said.

Hearing this, Melanie understood Gwenda's meaning. She nodded repeatedly, saying with gratification, "I don't want to get involved in your young people's affairs. If you two are happy, that's fine."

"Okay," Gwenda replied, nodding sensibly. The subject was dropped.

Olivier returned from his phone call to find them chatting happily. "What are you two talking about?" he asked.

"Oh, just your rebellious childhood," Melanie chuckled, then complained to Gwenda, "He was a naughty boy! In kindergarten, he picked fights and came home bruised. His parents weren't around, so I always had to apologize to the other parents. It was so embarrassing!"

Gwenda smiled, her eyes twinkling. Olivier smiled too.

Before they knew it, dusk settled.

"Madam, dinner is ready," a maid announced.

"Very well," Gwenda said. "It's time to eat. Let's continue our conversation at the table, shall we?"

She helped Melanie to the dining table, and the three of them sat down. After the maid finished serving, she discreetly withdrew.

"Dear Gwenda," Melanie said, "you're quite skinny. Do eat more!" She glanced at Olivier. "Take care of her."

"Yes, Grandma," Olivier replied, smiling as he served Gwenda some food. Leaning close, he whispered, "Eat more, or Grandma will lecture me again."

Gwenda felt a tingle in her ear and instinctively leaned away. It felt as if Olivier's breath had sent shivers down her spine. Melanie smiled subtly.

The dinner atmosphere remained wonderfully relaxed. Gwenda ate a considerable amount.

After dinner, Melanie went upstairs and returned with a wooden box. "Gwenda, this is our first meeting. I don't have much to give you, but please accept this."

Inside was a jade bracelet. Gwenda was shocked and pushed the box away. "Granny, I can't! I came empty-handed. I couldn't possibly accept this."

Melanie chuckled. "You silly child! Your visit is gift enough. Keep it, or I'll get angry!"

Gwenda hesitated, glancing at Olivier. He chuckled, taking the bracelet. "It's lovely," he said, "though I believe my mother has a similar one."

Gwenda waved her hands, her ears burning. "Granny, it's too valuable. I really can't."

"Nonsense!" Melanie glared at Olivier, then softened towards Gwenda. "Please keep it. It's a small token of goodwill. Don't listen to Olivier's nonsense." She glared impatiently at Olivier.

A mischievous smile played on Olivier's lips. He grasped Gwenda's wrist and fastened the bracelet.

"You" Gwenda began.

"Just put it on," Olivier said, smiling tightly. "I agree with Grandma."

Gwenda's face flushed crimson. Seeing Gwenda accept the gift, Melanie smiled with satisfaction. "Remember to visit often! I'd love to chat with you."

"Okay," Gwenda replied, her face still flushed.

"Alright, I won't keep you any longer. Be careful on your way back," Melanie said.

"Right," Olivier replied, and he and Gwenda left the Petit Mansion.

They drove away. Gwenda stared at the jade bracelet, frowning.

Olivier noticed her unease. At a red light, he stopped the car and turned to her.

Gwenda pursed her lips, asking tentatively, "Today's 'blind date' wasn't arranged by Granny, was it?"

Olivier raised an eyebrow. "Why do you ask?"

"Just tell me, yes or no!"