Dylan paused, his actions stilled by her words.

He gazed tenderly at the woman under him and asked softly, "Was that too fast? Olivia, we've known each other for over ten years."

Despite being married for a considerable period, they have never truly been together, mostly because of her pregnancy.

Olivia had always had doubts and hesitations.

Dylan continued his gentle persuasion, a common trait among men. They understood that a woman's true affection often surfaced in moments like these, revealing her willingness to commit fully.

Gradually, Olivia's delicate fingers intertwined with his hair as she succumbed to his coaxing, her body yielding to his touch.

Emotions ignited within them as their bodies connected.

At that moment, Dylan's phone chimed from his pocket, but he brushed it off, his attention solely on Olivia as he trailed his hand along her body, consumed by emotion. Yet the persistent ringing persisted.

Olivia composed herself slightly, murmuring against Dylan's shoulder, "Your phone! Maybe it's about work."

Dylan's gaze darkened as he reached for the phone with one hand, his brow furrowing upon glimpsing the caller ID. Sensing his tension, Olivia gently touched his face and inquired softly, "What's wrong?"

Without a word, Dylan silenced the phone and remarked, "Nothing! Let's carry on."

But Olivia had a sinking feeling about the caller's identity.

It was likely Gina.

The fleeting passion that had briefly ignited within her instantly dissipated. She no longer felt inclined to continue. Slowly, she sat up and leaned against the back of the sofa. After contemplating for a moment, she spoke up. "Dylan, I don't intend to meddle in your social affairs, but I can't condone you maintaining contact with a girl who has feelings for you and pursues you. I understand her father saved you, but you should differentiate between gratitude and affection, Dylan."

Pausing, she added, “Sometimes, choices must be made."

In Olivia's mind, if Dylan chose Gina, even if they couldn't remain friends afterwards, at least their relationship would be clear-cut, free from any future entanglements. However, if they were to be together and he maintained ties with Gina, Olivia doubted she could ever tolerate it.

Dylan shifted and seated himself beside her.

At this moment, he was not in the mood to do it either.

He took out a cigarette from his pocket, lit it, and took a drag.

Then, in a subdued tone, he spoke his mind. “Gina is gravely ill. She may not have much time left, perhaps just one or two years, so I indulge her a bit."

He apologized to her.

Although Olivia was surprised, she retained her composure, refusing to allow Dylan to care for Gina out of kindness, for love, she understood, was inherently self-centered. If a choice had to be made, it must be Dylan's to make.

Olivia straightened her clothes, preparing to stand up.

As she moved, Dylan caught her wrist gently and spoke softly. "I don't have feelings for her."