August figured out her purpose. Gwenda chuckled. "You're just too awesome, August. You actually introduced such a kick-ass talent into my studio? I owe you big time."
"Oh, I was just worried that my $10 million would go to waste, so I asked her to help you," August said, snorting in a stuck-up manner.
Gwenda, knowing August had a sharp tongue but a soft heart, said, "No matter what, you helped me out. I'll treat you to dinner tonight."
"You're treating me to dinner?" August raised an eyebrow.
"Yup. It's a thank you for helping me out."
"You do have some conscience after all, but…" August paused. "Could you call Olivier Petit as well?"
"Huh? Why?" Gwenda was puzzled.
"I mentioned it before, right? Reed Corporation wants to develop a business partnership with his company. This is a good opportunity for me to talk to him in person. What, are you unwilling?"
Gwenda felt something was off. "August, are you trying to be nice to me on purpose so you can get that deal with Olivier?"
"So what if I was?" August was frank.
Gwenda facepalmed. "You're using me?"
"You're a businesswoman. You should know I'm not using you; we're helping each other out," August said, his tone extremely annoying.
Gwenda snorted. "What happens if I refuse?"
"That's fine. I can just find him myself," August said scornfully. "Honestly, I'm not asking for much…"
Gwenda remained silent, annoyed. She hadn't expected such high-handedness. Taking a deep breath, she said resignedly, "Fine. But I'm not sure if he'll be available tonight. I'll try to call him though."
"Isn't he wooing you? If you take the initiative, wouldn't he respond?"
"What if he's busy?" Gwenda glanced at the time. "Never mind. I've got to go. I'll call him and ask."
"Alright."
After ending the call, Gwenda tried calling Olivier. The ringing dial made her nervous; her hand tightened around her phone. Surprisingly, Olivier didn't answer. Hanging up, she frowned at her dimming screen. "He didn't answer. Is he busy?"
Just then, her phone rang. It was Olivier. Answering, Gwenda sounded a little embarrassed. "Uh, did I disturb you?"
Olivier, having been in a meeting, left the meeting room, leaving his confused employees behind. He stood in the corridor, a faint smile on his face. His voice unconsciously softened. She rarely contacted him; this was a good sign.
"No, I'm not busy. I just didn't see it."
"Was there something you needed?"
"Er… Actually… I just wanted to treat you to a meal," Gwenda said tactfully, omitting the real reason. "You were always treating me before. It's my turn this time. Are you free tonight?"
"You want to treat me to a meal?" Olivier was surprised. "Since when did pigs fly? Or have I somehow moved God with my sincerity?" He couldn't believe his luck.
"Can't I?"
"No, I was just thinking that maybe I've done too many good things in life, and God was merciful in letting you see my efforts." A hint of a smile was in his deep, mellow voice.
Gwenda's grip on her phone tightened, her ears turning red. "So, are you free for dinner?"
"Of course! You missed me. I've got to show up for sure!" A hint of playful joy was in Olivier's voice.