Only Them

Part 14

((AUTHOR'S NOTE:  I am so sorry to keep you all waiting.  I do not have set dates for releases of chapters.  A lot has been going on so it's hard to write and even have motivation to continue when under stress.  On top of that, writers block is absolutely terrible.  I want this to be a book you all enjoy.  But I thank you all for being so supportive.  If anybody has any ideas, I'd love to hear them.)) 

Oliver's POV

It took a while for us to think of what to do with our day together but what she chose made me smile a bit. She wanted to go to a beautiful flower garden. This wasn't something new to me. When I needed to clear my head, it would be in a library or garden.

"I know of a beautiful garden we can go to. Do you want to ride with me or take your own car?" I ask.

"I think I'll ride with you this time. If this is a day for you and me, I want to fully spend it with you." She replies quietly.

I could see how nervous she was. This was pretty much a first date for us. But I promised myself that I would make it worth while. Eve is a beautiful woman. Absolutely stunning. And for our first date, she deserve to go somewhere as beautiful as her.  Though, that is impossible.  She is the most gorgeous person I've ever seen. 

I take her small hand in mine and smile at her before bringing her knuckles to my lips.  "Just relax, beautiful." I say, hoping to calm her nerves. 

My fingers intertwine with hers as I begin walking out to my car, her following behind me.  As we got to my car, I open the passenger door for her and wait for her to get in.  Once she is in, I close it and jog over to the driver side.

Once I'm in, I begin driving to my secret spot, though it wasn't really a secret.  It was a public place but not many people like nature or flowers as much anymore so it was always quite quiet. 

As I drive, I place one of my hands on Eve's thigh, my thumb gently rubbing circles. 

It wasn't long before we finally arrived. I park the car, get out, and open her door for her before taking her hand. She closes the door and we begin walking inside the dome-like garden building. But my eyes locked onto her face, waiting for a reaction.

Eve's POV

It was beautiful. My eyes widen as I look around at the beautiful flowers and plants. It was such a breathtaking sight.

I could feel the smile forming on my face as I walked through one of the small paths inside. The 'building' was pretty much a glass dome, letting sunlight come through to shine down on the many flowers and plants.

After the rough day I had, it was nice to be able to just relax and be able to see this.

"Whenever I just need to get out and think, I come here. After the races that we met you, I came here to think. Think about the possibilities of what could be." Oliver said softly as he kept his eyes on me before moving to one of the few benches to sit.

I go over at sit next to him but continue to glance around at the beauty of nature.

"It's always quiet here. Peaceful even." He spoke again.

But I had no words. I just look at him and smile. My eyes softening.

"And now I get to share this all with you." He smiles as he looks at me. 

This sweet gesture was pulling at my heartstrings.  "Thank you, Oli.  This is so beautiful and I am honored that you chose to bring me to your special place." My soft voice spoke.  My eyes were filled with adoration. 

He let out a soft sigh and looked down. "Eve, when Jasper and I thought we were going to lose you because of Maverick, I felt so many emotions.  Hurt, sadness, anger.  But none of those were targeted towards you.  I was hurt because I feel we have a connection and I don't want that to end.  I was angry with Maverick.  He is a good guy... but he has a temper that tends to get him into trouble.  And that man is smart....but also dumber than a box of rocks..." He says while shaking his head softly.  A soft chuckle leaving his lips.

"I don't get angry like Jasper and Maverick do.  I'm actually the most laidback than the other two.  But I was so angry because I thought Maverick ruined everything."  He looked ashamed when it came to his words.

I took his hand gently and intertwined my fingers with his.  "Yes... I was angry at what Maverick did.  And I wasn't planning on giving him another chance.... I didn't want to.  He hurt me.  But... I didn't want to punish you and Jasper for Maverick's mistakes.  Once I calmed down, I would have messaged you two.  You both were there for me when I felt like I had nobody."

He looked back up at me and I gave him a soft smile.  His eyes drifted to my lips then back up at my eyes.  Slowly, I began closing the distance between us and my lips gently met his.  It wasn't a hungry kiss by any means.  It was a slow and romantic kiss.  His free hand gently cupped my cheek.  

As we pulled away from the kiss, he kept his hand on my cheek, causing me to lean into his touch.  My eyes stayed locked on his. 

I had never felt a connection to anybody as much as I did with Oliver, Jasper, and Maverick.  And this moment, being in Oliver's comfort place, I felt even more connected to him.  But I felt the same way with Jasper when we sang together. 

"I just met you three.... and I already feel so connected to you all." I said softly as I kept my eyes on his. 

Oliver smiled.  "I can tell you that we feel the same way when it comes to you, Princess."

It all happened so fast.  But I knew I was falling for them.  And I'm not sure if I'll be able to get back up if I fall.  But if they treat me right and keep me protected, I don't think I will want to get back up.