August’s mouth twitched. Olivier’s intimate tone was unsettling.

“It’s delicious…” Gwenda giggled, her eyes half-lidded. She raised her glass. “This is delicious.”

Olivier smelled alcohol on her breath. He frowned. “Did you drink too much?”

“No! I did not. I’m drinking this drink,” Gwenda pouted, correcting him.

August was speechless. “Gwenda, that’s a very strong alcoholic drink.”

“It’s not!” she glared. “That’s bullshit!”

“I was going to drink that,” August rolled his eyes. “Whatever, sit properly. Don’t act like a drunkard.”

“I’m not drunk, you’re the one acting like a drunkard!” Gwenda retorted angrily, then giggled at Olivier. “Look at him, he’s drunk.”

Olivier chuckled, patting her head. His voice softened. “Don’t drink anymore, and sit properly. I’ll take you home after I finish with your cousin.”

“But it’s delicious,” Gwenda pouted, shielding her glass. Her eyes were hazy, but she looked adorable.

Olivier’s gaze intensified. He swallowed. “Behave!”

Gwenda’s eyes fluttered as she stared at him, poking his face. “You’re kinda handsome…” She was clearly intoxicated.

August facepalmed. What an embarrassment.

Olivier, however, looked indulgent. He rested his chin on his hand. “Well, you have good taste.”

August was incredulous.

Gwenda bit her lip. “So handsome. It would be a pity if other women took advantage of you.”

Olivier raised an eyebrow, but August interrupted. “Gwenda Evans, knock it off! Sit up straight and stop talking!” He added under his breath, “Honestly, she has no modesty.”

Gwenda huffed but remained silent. Olivier, however, was lost in thought, barely paying attention to August.

Half an hour later, Olivier suggested leaving. August, sensing the situation was resolved, paid the bill.

As soon as August left, Olivier turned to Gwenda, who was asleep on the table. He pinched her cheek, admiring her fair skin. He almost kissed her.

Gwenda mumbled and swatted his hand. “It itches…”

Olivier leaned close. “May I take you home?”

Gwenda’s hazy eyes opened, focusing on his face. She smiled. “Olivier…”

“Yes?”

“I want to go home.”

“Okay, but you need to get up first.” He helped her up, supporting her waist and arm. She leaned on him heavily. His eyes darkened. He picked up her bag and carried her out.

August returned to see Olivier escorting a drunk Gwenda. He approached. “Mr. Petit, I’ll take Gwenda home.”

“It’s alright, I know where she lives.” Olivier started to leave.

August stopped him. “This…isn’t ideal. I should take her home.”

Olivier stopped, his eyes serious. “Mr. Reed, I assure you, I like Gwenda, but I would never take advantage of her while she’s drunk. You don’t need to worry.”

August was embarrassed. He felt it inappropriate to interfere, yet wrong not to. However, he trusted Olivier’s character, especially given his forthrightness.

After hesitating, August stepped aside. “Then please take good care of her.”