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.

secure that plot of land you want. No matter how tough the

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

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

all toasted to

in the toast and added a simple "Thank

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

nodded and turned their attention back to Tyler, clinking

sat quietly, barely touching her food, just waiting for the

asked, "Not hungry?" Olivia, not wanting to upset Ana by leaving