Dylan held the steering wheel with one hand and looked intently into Olivia's eyes. "So, you're saying we can live together and raise children as long as we get along, but we're free to separate if things don't work out? Is that the freedom we have in this relationship?" he asked.

Olivia gave her consent quietly.

Dylan watched her closely for a moment. He longed to marry her, but wouldn't press her against her will. However, he needed to ensure something else in this relationship for himself.

In a subdued tone, he ventured, "If I'm proved to be a good partner, might we consider another child?"

Olivia blushed deeply. "Really, Dylan? Why don't you try having one on your own!"

Embarrassed, Dylan retorted, “I'm a man. I can't give birth, but together, we can have a child."

She accused him of being impudent and made to leave the car.

As Olivia shifted, Dylan gently caught her wrist and whispered, "I was only joking. But living together, shouldn't we follow the normal routines of a couple?" He continued, “I won't push you into anything you're uncomfortable with, but I do hope we'd share our lives fully. If you keep me at arm's length, I'd rather live nearby and just come over to help you and the kids daily."

Olivia agreed with a nod.

“Deal!" Dylan murmured and kissed her softly, whispering his thanks.

His eyes moistened as he spoke, but he restrained himself. As a man, he was not given to overt sentimentality. His way of compensating was to earn more to support the family.

He understood Olivia's desire to stay in Czanch to be close to her parents, and he accepted this.

His career was based in another city, yet he was willing to reside in Czanch if it meant being with her. As long as Olivia was committed to their relationship, he could pursue his career in Czanch.

After their chat, Dylan didn't hit the road right away.

He gave Olivia a moment to cool down. Her eyes were moist and she definitely didn't want others to see this. When she calmed down, she murmured, “Let's go."

Once he was sure she was okay, he started the engine.

As they drove, he held her hand tight.

He wanted a fresh start with her. There was a lot he wanted to share and do with her but he worried about scaring her off...

More than that, he feared she might find him repulsive.

About thirty minutes later, they pulled up at Raphael's villa.

Leyla had been there for days and she was missing her mother terribly. As soon as they stopped the car, she dashed over. When Olivia stepped out, Leyla leapt into her arms like a spoiled child.

Olivia crouched down and planted a soft kiss on her daughter's cheek.

A mix of emotions came over Dylan.

The girl he desired had blossomed into a woman. Olivia was grown-up now and was not as lively as before but Dylan's feelings for her had only intensified. He hoped she felt the same.