Chapter 436
Olivia paused for a moment to consider Tyler’s question. Ana watched her carefully, waiting for her response. Finally, Olivia said, “That’s fine. I’m not doing anything anyway.”
“Okay, let’s go then,” Tyler replied simply.
And so, Olivia accompanied Tyler. Ana, feeling relieved and pleased, returned to her card game while Olivia followed Tyler to another room for dinner.
The conversation at dinner mostly revolved around work, with Olivia sitting quietly beside Tyler. Under the soft lighting, her complexion looked somewhat pale.
“Just let me know if there’s anything you don’t want to eat or if you need anything,” Tyler said kindly.
“Okay,” Olivia replied politely, maintaining her composure.
Suddenly, a group of women dressed in elegant kimonos entered and sat next to Tyler’s colleagues.
Olivia was startled by the unexpected guests but tried to stay calm.
Tyler, seemingly unfazed as if accustomed to such gatherings, glanced at her. “I’ll have someone bring you water instead of tea.”
“O-Okay,” Olivia stammered slightly, her nerves evident as one of the women in kimono settled beside Tyler.
Since she was seated next to him, the woman seemed unsure of what to do.
Tyler reassured her, “Don’t worry about it. You can leave us.”
The woman nodded and moved away.
Everything was unfamiliar to Olivia. What she had initially thought was a simple meal was clearly something more formal. Tyler offered no explanations and focused on his guests. “Thanks for coming, everyone. Dinner’s on me tonight, so order whatever you like,” he announced to the table.
The atmosphere was somewhat tense, with the men reserved around Olivia. One tried a dry chuckle. “We might not be as experienced as you, Tyler, but we’re sure to enjoy the meal.”
Tyler smiled warmly. “It’s my pleasure to host you all. Have a great evening.”
The men seemed reassured when they glanced at Olivia and saw she wasn’t too uncomfortable. Encouraged, they each reached for the woman beside them and began to drink.
As the evening wore on, the men relaxed, engaging with the women who expertly poured wine directly into their mouths.
Olivia watched uneasily, wishing she could close her eyes and block it all out. She wasn’t used to such an environment.
Tyler, meanwhile, ignored her discomfort, sipping his tea and enjoying the company. After dinner, he mingled freely, sharing jokes and stories about work.
This side of Tyler was completely new to Olivia—jovial, relaxed, and in control throughout the night.