[Previously titled 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲]
❝No, Ace. I can't do it," I sob.
"I know you can take more than that, sunshine, come on," he encourages, pummeling into me in fervent motions. "One more for daddy, yeah?" He coaxes in a gruffly voice...
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O L I V I A
It's been days since I confronted Ace in the studio. I tried to distance myself from him, but his sincere apology made me question my feelings.
I'm torn between my heart and my head, between my feelings for him and the reality of his marriage and upcoming fatherhood. And then there's Jaxon, who surprisingly brings me comfort. His presence feels like a safe haven in my emotional storm, and I'm grateful for it.
Yet, even with Jaxon's support, I can't shake my intense feelings for Ace. They linger like a constant ache in my chest. I want to move on and find someone better suited for me, but the bond with Ace is strong.
The next day, me and my friends gather at a bar before the winter break. Laughter fills the cozy space as we chat and sip our drinks. We discuss our plans for the break—Sam's trip to a mountain cabin, Everett's family visit, and Isabel's internship and upcoming projects.
"And what about you, Liv?" Jordan turns her attention to me, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Got any exciting plans for the break?"
I take a sip of my drink, suppressing a smile. "I'm going to spend some time with my mom," I reply and, Jordan and Sam exchange knowing looks before bursting into laughter.
"Oh, come on, Livia," Sam teases, nudging me playfully. "Don't tell me you're spending the entire break with your nose buried in books,"
I roll my eyes, feigning exasperation. "No, I promise I won't be buried in books the whole time. I'll also be buried in blankets and hot chocolate,"
Jaxon chuckles beside me, joining in on the teasing. "Sounds like a thrilling break,"
I shoot him a playful glare. "Oh, please. Mr. 'I'm-going-to-stay-at-home-and-watch-movies' can't talk,"
He raises his hands in mock surrender. "Hey, I'm all for a cozy winter break. It's a well-deserved rest,"
As we talk and joke around, the feeling of friendship surrounds us, and it feels good to be with people who care.
"So, Liv," Jordan leans in, a sly grin on her face. "Any special plans with Mr. Winter Snuggle Buddy over here?" She teases and my cheeks flush slightly, and I shoot Jaxon a playful look.
"Oh, you know, just some cozy moments by the fire," I say and Jaxon winks at me, playing along.
"Can't wait to cuddle up with some hot chocolate and a good movie," he replies.
Our friends erupt into laughter, and I laugh too. It feels good to have these fun moments, a break from my heavy thoughts. We keep laughing and talking, our bond growing stronger.
As the conversation and laughter continue around me, my mind finds its way back to Ace. It's hard to forget our time together, the intense emotions, and the complicated feelings I have about it.
