Olivia
Chapter 139: Olivia
MIA
A Month Later.
Time didn’t erase the grief I felt, but it softened the pain a little. A few months had passed since my dad’s death and Smith Cole’s sentencing, and while the pain still lingered, life had started moving forward.
Uncle Greg had stepped up as the CEO of Evans Group, and surprisingly, he was doing a damn good job. It wasn’t just about running the company; it was about maintaining what dad had built. With Marvin by his side, helping in ways none of us had expected, the company was thriving again.
His kids, Derrick and Amanda, had finally settled into life in New York. Amanda was adjusting well to her new school, making friends and embracing the city. Derrick became quieter but sharp as ever, and had taken a liking to Marvin. Watching my brother interact with them, laughing and being… normal, gave me hope.
Ava moved out of the city after Dad's funeral, she said this city reminded her of him and if she needed to move on, she had to leave.
Aunt Cecilia travelled abroad for another vacation with her family and God knows when I'll see her again, that woman loves her vacations.
As for me, I was trying. The weight of everything still pressed on my chest, but I was learning to breathe again and I'm sure with my family by my side, I'd always be happy.
I heard the front door open and the familiar sounds of my uncle and brother talking as they walked in. I looked up from my spot on the couch as Marvin loosened his tie with a sigh, dropping onto the seat beside me.
“Long day?” I asked, smirking.
“You have no idea,” Marvin muttered, rubbing his temple. “Uncle Greg had me running numbers for hours.”
Uncle Greg scoffed, setting his briefcase on the table. “It’s called work, kid. Welcome to the real world.”
Marvin rolled his eyes. “I’ve been in the real world. You just enjoy torturing me.”
Uncle Greg smirked and poured himself a glass of whiskey. “That’s what uncles are for.”
I chuckled, shaking my head. “At least you both survived another day.”
Marvin leaned back. “Barely.” Then, turning to me, he asked, “What about you? How was your day?”
I shrugged. “Same as usual. Ethan’s taking me out soon.”
Greg raised a brow. “Oh, that's interesting, to where?”
I smiled. “For lunch.”
He scoffed, “Like you don't eat at home.”
“You're just jealous.” I smiled, watching him as he clicked his glass against Marvin’s soda can. “To another long, exhausting day.”
Marvin groaned. “And many more to come.”
Suddenly, my phone rang, interrupting our conversation.
"Liam?" I answered, surprised to see his name on my screen so early.
His voice was full of excitement. “Mia, it has happened! Sophie just gave birth!"
My heart skipped. "What? When? Is she okay?"
"She’s perfect. Born about thirty minutes ago. Sophie’s exhausted but doing great. You should come."
I was already grabbing my purse. "I’m on my way!" I rushed up from the couch
"Where’s the fire?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Sophie had the baby!" I called over my shoulder as I grabbed my coat.
"About time," Greg muttered. "Tell her congratulations from me."
“And me too.” Marvin exclaimed.
I didn’t even stop to respond—I was already out the door.
The moment I stepped into the hospital room, I felt like I might cry.
Sophie looked exhausted but radiant, holding the tiniest little human in her arms. Her mum and Dad were in the room looking at her so lovingly.
Her eyes lit up when she saw me. "Hey, Godmother," she said with a tired smile.
I smiled, “good day Mr and Mrs. Carter.” Then it hit me and I froze. "Wait… what?"
Sophie’s parents nodded to my greetings and laughed when I froze.
Liam grinned. "You heard her."
Tears welled in my eyes. "You’re serious?"
Sophie laughed softly. "Of course, Mia. There’s no one else I’d want for this."
I moved closer, staring down at the baby. "Oh my God, she’s beautiful."
Sophie beamed. "Meet Olivia."
I reached out, my fingers brushing against Olivia’s tiny hand. She wrapped her fingers around mine, and just like that, I was completely in love.
"I can’t believe this," I whispered.
"You better," Liam teased. "Because that little girl is going to be obsessed with you."
I sniffed, laughing. "I think I’m already obsessed with her."
Sophie smirked. "Told you."
An hour later, the door opened, and a familiar voice broke through our quiet moment.
"Am I too late?"
I turned, smiling as Ethan stepped inside.
"You made it," I said.
He walked over, peering down at Olivia. "Wow. She’s perfect."
Sophie smirked. "You two should have one of your own."
I nearly choked. "Okay, let’s not get ahead of ourselves."
Ethan just chuckled. "Come on, Mia. Let’s leave these two to enjoy their time with their baby."
I gave Sophie and Olivia one last look before following Ethan out.
At first Ethan and Liam didn't see each other eye to eye but I'm really glad they let go of their differences for the sake of mine and Sophie’s friendship.
As we walked through the hospital parking lot, Ethan took my hand.
"So," he started, "I’ve been thinking…"
"About what?" I asked, glancing up at him.
He scratched the back of his neck, “You know we've sorted out all the issues, Emily and Nathan are abroad now, free from Smith’s manipulation, my law firm is doing well, your gallery is booming, there's just one more thing I need and my life would be perfect.”
“What's that?” I asked, arching my brow.
He stopped beside his car, turning to face me. "Move in with me."
I blinked. "What?"
He smiled. "I know you’ve been staying with Greg and Marvin, and that’s fine. But I want us to build something together, Mia. No more secrets. No more running. Just… us."
I opened my mouth, but no words came out.
Ethan leaned closer. "Please say yes."
This was it, a new beginning, a chance to truly start over and I already knew my answer.
I stared into his eyes, my heart pounding. “I want nothing more than to be with you, so yes baby, I'll move in with you”
He grabbed my hand, “Thank you sweet thing, I promise you won't regret this decision.”
I chuckled, “ Yeah, you better keep to your word.”
“Yes ma'am, can I take my girl out now?” He laughed.
“Anywhere with you.” I smiled.