Chapter 7: The Revelation.

During that afternoon the only sounds came from seagulls and the soothing waves outside the studio's window. At her easel Olivia painted a seascape using her brush to show peace entering her being. From his nearby spot Liam studied her actions while feeling both proud and happy.

Liam picked up the almost done artwork to show me his new preferred piece. Your artwork reveals what needs to be said about Seaview without using words.

Her face lit up from his compliment. Will agrees this artwork needs more than outdoor scenes to impress viewers. The calm we’ve found here.”

His eyes moved through the room to a small picture lying beneath files on his side table. The object caught his notice instantly, so he took it into his hands. Time passed and faded the corners of the photo.

He flipped the photo over to see Olivia at its core and her perpetual smile. He noticed the image of his younger version and saw a new kind of happiness in her expression that had never come before. The man noticed a figure standing behind his laughing group of friends because its half-hidden face created a feeling of discomfort.

Liam started to speak by displaying the photograph to Olivia. “Who is this?”

Her movements came to a stop as the paintbrush held steady above the painting. After she turned to look at him she lost her friendly expression and fear began to appear.

She shot him a tight look and demanded, "How did you get a hold of this?"

Liam directed his finger to the side table when he answered. I wanted to respect your space but this discovery makes me feel it matters. Is it?”

A strong emotion flooded through Olivia and made her throat tight. Over multiple years she built walls to protect her past life. The moment Liam held the photo he broke down her protective barriers she spent years building.

She barely spoke but stated "I recognized this person." "An individual damaged me severely enough I attempted to push the experiences out of my memory."

The worry lines showed on his face as he looked at her. I'm here for you Olivia just ask when you need to talk. Carry your burdens at this moment because I'm here to help you through it.

She carefully picked up the photo while staring at the unknown person in the background to hide her shaking hands. Memories she worked so long to push away came back including painful moments that made her become the protective individual she had become.

She revealed her true emotions when she spoke. With this moment I’m remembering every detail of the past. He was the person I placed my trust in before he completely disrupted my life.

He took her hand while giving her a firm reassuring touch. Being betrayed once should not limit the true self that you are. You have advanced beyond your own power level and remain stronger inside than you think. I’m not going anywhere. Together we will handle this our promise is solid.

Her tears flowed as she stared at his constant support that reached the part of her heart nobody else had touched. By allowing herself to think differently she started to see she might find help dealing with her problems.

The soft sunlight coming through the studio windows made Olivia sense some relief as she enjoyed his company. At this moment Liam showed that true love can be our strongest ally and the key to making us better.

Despite hugging him she remained aware of her challenges preying on her mind. Despite her hardships Olivia discovered for the first time new motivation from having Liam around.