She smiled weakly at Devon, then shook her head. Olivia looked too sweet and innocent for him to doubt her.
He stared into her eyes and she met his gaze, causing his heart to race. He couldn't discern her thoughts, but he knew she was contemplating something.
"Well... If you say so, let's say I believe you for now," Devon said. Suddenly, a gust of wind whipped past them, carrying dust. An anxious thought crossed his mind—what if the sand got into Olivia's eyes and blinded her? Then she would be blind and mute. He couldn't allow that. The goddess forbid.
Reacting quickly, he pulled her into a tight hug, shielding her from the dust.
As the dust settled, Devon realized what he had done. He released her quickly, clearing his throat to break the awkward silence as he noticed her flushed face. He knew why; women loved being in his arms, and Olivia was no exception, but he still wanted to tease her about it.
"Are you okay?" Devon asked.