"How do I even choose?" Oliver chose his first question wisely.

"Choose a lady?" Adeline raised an eyebrow, shrugging, "Find one that fits you."

Neither of them were experienced with the topic. It was clear as day. It must've been because Adeline was an actual woman that Oliver kept prodding though. "Do I have to stick with her?" he then asked, looking as if he expected to get slapped.

"Well, you're not dating someone to marry, you're dating only to date," Adeline said, shrugging, "Break it off if you wish."

"Ah, it's just for, uh... fun," Oliver said. Adeline smiled and nodded like a prideful teacher.

Adeline exhaled though. Time to get serious. "If you really want to date a lady, just compliment her, listen to what she talks about, and maybe give her something nice now and again. That's all there is to it."

"I knew that," Oliver frowned but chuckled a little. He sighed, passing over the half-empty bottle of wine. "Here, keep this." Adeline's hands held the bottle firmly, one of them reaching up to cork the wine.

"Gee, thanks. But I don't think alcohol and recent death are supposed to mix in my household..." Adeline adjusted the bun in her hair, giving Oliver a lopsided smile.

Oliver shrugged, "That's fine. I can keep it at home, but it's still yours."

"Can I come over to drink it tonight?" Adeline asked.

"Tonight's booked for me, apologies," Oliver said, "Quite the intense game of cards planned." Before Adeline said anything else, Oliver murmured, "Can't include any more players."

Adeline rolled her eyes and grinned, "Are you sure you aren't practicing the occult?"

"I'm certain I'm not," Oliver said, "Which reminds me. I need to go pick up some things for dinner tonight..."

"You haven't started dinner yet?" Adeline raised an eyebrow.

Oliver nodded, smiling, "I'm a very irresponsible man." He grabbed the wine bottle and stood up, turning to the bartender and saying, "Treat the lady to a glass of red wine. On me."

Adeline watched as her glass was refilled, to the brim this time.

She brought the glass to her lips, taking one long sip. It was straight sour, and made her want to spit it up. But to keep up appearances, she fought down the alcohol.

Adeline huffed after the drink went down her throat. Wine was overrated.