After Olivia shared her feelings, she faced strong feelings plus difficult situations she hadn't expected. During this period Liam supported Olivia at her side while she faced regression into her painful past. After sharing her story Olivia found relief but risked exposing buried memories, she had spent time putting away.
As Olivia's old life returned with new problems they needed to deal with them together. Meeting her past life acquaintance at the cafe surprised her feelings. They approached her pleasantly although their arrival caused a dramatic effect. Olivia constructed a friendly grin yet her memories from that period returned too fast.
He recognized her unease at once. The minute they stepped out the café door he put his arm over her shoulders to protect her from her inner turmoil. He maintained a gentle tone to tell her she would not need to face it by herself.
The difficulties kept coming after that. People from Olivia's past town started showing up after neighbors shared the news. People showed up to see her after the assault with either genuine interest or because they wanted to help without knowing how. Some even used their words to reopen her wounds. Over time Olivia's progress in recovery met challenges from different people who threatened her newfound peace
Despite all difficulties Liam's steady friendship emerged as Olivia's biggest support system. No matter what happened he stayed supportive to her and kept her from sinking. During hard times he reminded her of her deep inner strength and helped her keep her balance. At night after dealing with hard situations Olivia went to her workspace. The little light from her desk lamp gently shone in the dim room.
She felt the pale light from outside creating dark lines on the walls. She waited in front of her empty canvas holding a brush but struggled to focus.
He arrived with his hands full of tea in two hot mugs. He set a mug next to her and looked directly at her while staying low. “You've tackled too much pain for someone your age alone" he stated softly. You are physically and mentally stronger than you realize Olivia. The past should not control what you create for your future.
Olivia's determination returned to life because his advice hit her in a meaningful way. Instead of using the brush to avoid her emotions she used it to face them directly. Through her artwork she expressed her emotions by converting things like suffering into art and fright into expectation.
During that period Olivia and Liam supported each other through storms. They defeated their problems successfully because they became closer as a couple. Liam helped Olivia to find her past happiness and energy while showing her the way to bring it back into her life.
Their routine of smiling together with silent beach walks and lengthy talks made up their partnership. Through their shared moments they learned to spot delight in regular tasks including sunlight's warmth feeling the waves splash and sitting next to each other.
On that sunset shore Olivia experienced deep peace as she stood by Liam. The open air blew through her hair while the feels sand calmed her spirit through her toes.
She received the feeling of belonging when she pressed into Liam's side.
He smiled, pulling her closer. “That’s because it is. You’ve built this, Olivia. Through your efforts you made hurt bearable and created a wonderful space.
Jesus Now they'd spend their evening enjoying this moment. For the first time since many years she no longer felt incomplete. The marks from her previous experiences marked her differently now than they did before.
She knew her future lay before her after Liam became her partner. Through their mutual strength they endured while discovering a permanent love. When twilight settled in Olivia realized she had discovered everlasting happiness and decided she would hold onto it forever.