"Of course," Olivier said, nodding as he helped Gwenda out of the restaurant. August watched them drive away, his frown deepening. He wasn't sure Olivier would keep his word; he wasn't convinced Olivier was the gentleman he appeared to be. Worried, August followed in his own car, instructing his assistant to tail Olivier's.

A screen separated the front and back seats of Olivier's car. The driver headed toward Gwenda's apartment. In the back, Olivier had his arm around Gwenda, his gaze frequently drawn to her lips. He swallowed, his eyes darkening.

"Gwenda," he murmured.

She shifted, burrowing into his embrace. He tilted her chin up. "Gwenda"

"Hmm?" she mumbled, eyes opening blearily as she heard him.

"You said in the restaurant I was handsome," Olivier said, "that it would be a pity if other women took advantage of me. What did you mean?"

His warm breath brushed her flushed face. His dark eyes seemed to memorize every detail. Slightly intoxicated, Gwenda replied, confused, "Well, that you're handsome."

"Then do you like me? Do you want to claim me as your own, and not let other women have me?" His voice was low, persuasive.

Gwenda chuckled, cupping his face. "You're a little narcissistic, aren't you? Since when did I say I liked you?"

Olivier was incredulous. "You liked me first."

Gwenda snorted. Olivier's eyes gleamed as he caressed her jaw. His voice was low and husky. "Yes, I do like you."

"I know," Gwenda giggled. "I'm very charming, right?"

A hint of playfulness danced in Olivier's eyes. "Indeed."

"I knew it!" Her smile widened, her flushed face sparkling with joy. She looked undeniably feminine.

Olivier's eyes darkened. He swallowed, his grip tightening on her jaw. "Since you know I like you, why won't you respond?"

"And why should I?" she asked, confused.

He raised an eyebrow. "Because I like you very much. If you don't respond, I'll be sad."

"Sad?" Gwenda looked at him with hazy eyes. After a moment, she pointed to his chest. "You mean it hurts here?"

"Yes," he nodded, staring at her lips. Desire flickered in his eyes.

"Then I guess I'll respond." She kissed him—a chaste kiss.

Olivier froze, his eyes widening comically. He stared disbelievingly. Gwenda leaned against him, rubbing soothing circles on his chest. "Is this better?" she murmured softly.

The fire in Olivier's heart flared. He leaned toward her, but Gwenda stopped him, placing two fingers between their lips. "What are you doing?"

Stunned, he pulled her hand away. "That wasn't enough. I want more!"

Gwenda tilted her head, her expression making him question her level of intoxication. "But you promised my cousin you wouldn't take advantage of me."