The silence stretched between them, charged with unspoken questions and a tension that crackled in the cool night air. Olivia felt a strange mix of fear and excitement, her heart pounding a frantic rhythm against her ribs.
"Who are you?" she finally managed to ask, her voice barely above a whisper.
The man's smile widened slightly, his eyes twinkling with an amusement that sent a flicker of annoyance through Olivia.
"Someone you shouldn't be talking to," he replied, his voice a husky murmur.
Olivia's chin lifted in a defiant gesture. "And you shouldn't be trespassing on private property," she countered, surprised by her own boldness.
"Perhaps," he conceded, his gaze sweeping over her in a way that made her cheeks burn. "But sometimes, the most beautiful things are found in the most unexpected places."
His words held a double meaning, sending Olivia's mind reeling. Was he referring to the garden, or was there a deeper message meant for her ears alone?
"What do you want?" she asked, her voice firm despite the turmoil within.
He took a step closer, his presence filling the space between them. "More than you can imagine, Miss Rosewood," he replied, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "But for now, let's just say I'm here to offer you a glimpse of a world beyond this gilded cage."
Olivia's breath caught in her throat. The words resonated with a deep longing she had long suppressed. Yet, a part of her remained cautious, aware of the potential consequences of venturing into the unknown.
"And what is the cost of this glimpse?" she asked, her voice barely audible.
The man's smile turned enigmatic. "Only time will tell, Miss Rosewood. Only time will tell."
He bowed slightly, his eyes lingering on her face for a moment too long. Then, with a swiftness that startled her, he turned and melted back into the shadows, leaving Olivia alone on the moonlit terrace with the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air.