The Beginning Of All Sins

Olivia felt like Tyler was a stranger, but she figured that wasn't surprising since he seemed at ease in this setting.

This was how men earned their money, she realized. She was just too young, and it was her first time experiencing something like this.

If Naomi were here, she'd handle it better, probably even making jokes with Tyler.

After the meal, Tyler grew distant. He drank a bit and seemed slightly tipsy, while the other men became downright obnoxious as they drank more. They started by sipping from the women's glasses and ended up kissing them.

Tyler held his wine glass and looked on, his expression somewhere between sober and drunk.

One of the men declared, "We'll definitely secure that plot of land you want. No matter how tough the owners are, we'll handle it smoothly."

Tyler was eyeing a coastal plot to transform into a port for the Harris Group to enter the trading market. However, the land was mostly owned by the city's wealthy families who preferred to use it for burials, making negotiations tough. That's why Tyler had found a few people who knew the area well and ran businesses there.

Tyler chuckled in response, "I hope so, to avoid clashes. Thanks for your help."

They all toasted to that. Property belongs to Nôvel(D)r/ama.Org.

Tyler joined in the toast and added a simple "Thank you."

When everyone toasted Olivia next, she picked up her glass. Tyler quickly added, "She's pregnant, so she can't drink."

Everyone nodded and turned their attention back to Tyler, clinking glasses with him instead.

Olivia sat quietly, barely touching her food, just waiting for the moment she could leave.

After a sip of wine, Tyler noticed Olivia's disinterest in her meal and asked, "Not hungry?" Olivia, not wanting to upset Ana by leaving early, replied, "I'm not hungry."

Tyler suggested, "You should try to eat something," though his voice lacked warmth.

She still didn't eat. Tyler didn't force her but had the servers bring out dishes that were safe and appealing to pregnant women, also Olivia's favorites.

Reluctant to waste food, Olivia finally started eating but soon put her utensils down again.

The dinner ended at eight.

Tyler and the men planned to play golf next. He told Olivia to go home if she was tired, but she responded, "I'm not tired, Tyler."

She felt compelled to stay through the night, not wanting to irritate Ana, who had been in a foul mood recently.