"Make it up to you?" Gwenda pursed her lips. "Why should I?"

"You said you'd treat me to a meal, but it turns out your cousin wanted to meet me. You lied. You have to make it up to me."

When he put it that way, she realized she was in the wrong. "Fine. How would you like me to?"

Gwenda accommodated his request.

"Well" Olivier's interest piqued, a faint smile touched his lips. "I have to think about it carefully."

Gwenda remained silent, a bad feeling creeping over her.

"Don't worry, it won't be anything you can't afford," Olivier reassured her, giving her a meaningful look. He resumed driving when the light turned green.

Gwenda glanced at him, touching the spot on her cheek where he'd caressed her. Her heart pounded.

They arrived at the restaurant. Gwenda led Olivier into the private room. August was already there.

"August." Gwenda approached him.

August stood, looking at the man behind her. Gwenda introduced them. "Although you've met, I'd like a formal introduction. Mr. Petit, this is my cousin, August Reed."

"Hello," August said, extending his hand. Olivier noted the similarity between August and Gwenda's eyes, and August's probing gaze.

"This is Mr. Petit, Olivier Petit," Gwenda finished.

"Hello," Olivier replied, shaking August's hand.

"Well, we're all here. Shall we sit?" Gwenda asked, trying to remain calm despite her sweaty palms. However, the men, clearly experienced in such situations, were far calmer.

After they sat, August confidently began the conversation without prompting from Gwenda. Olivier responded calmly and politely.

Before the meal, Gwenda remained nervous, fearing a fight. She hadn't expected such rapport; it seemed she was the one getting a free meal. Unable to interrupt, she ate peacefully.

The waiter served the last dish and a bottle of what appeared to be a drink. Thirsty, Gwenda poured herself some and took a sip. It was sweet and delicious.

She continued her meal, unaware that the beverage was causing her to flush.

"Mr. Petit, collaborating on our new product launch would be highly effective. I ask you to consider this seriously," August said, keeping the conversation strictly professional.

Olivier nodded, impressed by August's courteousness. "Don't worry, Mr. Reed. I'll have my employees verify it upon my return. Otherwise, we'll follow procedure."

"Of course," August agreed, clinking glasses with Olivier.

After taking a sip of wine, Olivier finally looked at Gwenda. She was dizzy, holding her glass, a faraway look in her flushed cheeks, a strange smile playing on her lips.

Olivier immediately sensed something was wrong. Watching her worriedly, he asked, "Gwenda, are you alright?"