Having been friends for years and sharing countless memories, like the times heâd carried her down the mountain, they had never before felt this kind of spark between them, leaving them both momentarily bewildered.
It was a good feeling, but it came so suddenly that Olivia wasnât accustomed to it.
Dylan was thoughtful towards Olivia.
Having grown up abroad, perhaps he was more open-minded when it came to relationships.
However, she was different; her essence hadnât been shaken by Raphael just yet.
Dylan decided to be patient and do this right.
He hesitantly touched her feet again and then let go.
Lifting her gently to the bed, he tucked her in with a blanket.
Looking into her eyes, he offered, âShould I get you a bathrobe to change into? You might sleep more comfortably in it.
â
Olivia wasnât used to such attention.
She wrapped her arms around his neck, playing the seductress.
âThis is good enough.
â
âStubborn girl.
â Dylan chuckled.
He stood, fetched her a glass of warm water, and watched as she drank it all.
Then he took her room key card to move her luggage over from her previous room.
Olivia, delicate yet hardworking, had her clothes and even underwear neatly folded inside.
She obviously favored light colors.
Suddenly, Dylanâs handsome face flushed red.
In truth, he felt a strong attraction to her.
It was stronger than he had expected, and certainly more than Olivia realized.
He finished packing and carried her luggage to leave the room.
When Dylan stepped into the elevator, he didnât expect to encounter Raphael there.
Both men were tall and strong, which made the elevator feel particularly cramped.
They both Looked up silently at the red numbers flickering above, one appearing relaxed while the other was clearly on edge.
Raphael noticed the suitcase.
It was Oliviaâs.
They were moving in together already.
That was quick.
Raphael mused to himself, a trace of irony in his thoughts.
With a ding, the elevator came to a halt at the 22nd floor.
Dylan exited, dragging the luggage behind him.
From behind, Raphaelâs icy voice cut through.
âYou think you can take my place?â
Dylan paused and turned slowly to face Raphael.
Normally, Raphael would appear energetic and lively, but today, his expression was dark, his demeanor stormy.
With a slight smile, Dylan responded, âMr.
Jones, I believe relationships arenât about replacement but about presence.
Yes, Olivia cared for you, but Iâve been the one there for her through everything.
And Mr.
Jones, havenât you done the same? Olivia may hold a place in your heart, but isnât it Sharon, your assistant, who has always been by your side? Between you and Olivia, thereâs no room for blame, nor is anyone entirely innocent.
Youâre upset because she chose me.
But think about it, how many opportunities did you let slip by? How long has she been available? How did you treat her? I think you were with her last night, but you made her cry and hurt her.
And please, you really think that your being with her will tick me off? I did have many girlfriends before, but I promise, from now on, Iâll stay away from any woman who makes Olivia uncomfortable.
When Iâm with her, I donât ask for anything.
I just want to see her happy and smiling.
Mr.
Jones, having Olivia should be a blessing, but you lost her.
Youâre now strong and capable, yet you choose to hurt her over and over.
â
Dylan ended with a light smile and walked away.
The sound of Dylanâs leather shoes echoed down the hallway like a victorâs anthem, highlighting Raphaelâs miserable state.
When Dylan came back, Olivia had already fallen asleep.