Never 'Til Now

Chapter 41

Olivia stood in the kitchen, her phone pressed to her ear as she discussed the upcoming birthday plans with Ashley. They whispered excitedly about the surprise party they were organizing for Sam, sharing details and coordinating various elements to make it a memorable celebration.

"We've got Roses Bar booked for the party, and I'm inviting his family. I don't know if Mr. Avery will show up, but I want to make sure Sam's surrounded by loved ones," Olivia shared with determination.

Ashley chimed in with enthusiasm, "I hope that works out for the best. And what about your special pre-party plan?"

Olivia grinned; the excitement was evident in her voice. "I thought about taking him to the skating rink before the party. Just the two of us, you know? A little private celebration to kick off the evening."

Olivia heard soft footsteps descending the staircase as they continued their animated conversation. Realizing Sam was waking up, she quickly ended the call with Ashley. "I'll catch you later. I've got to go. Bye!"

Olivia swiftly hung up and turned to see Sam, his hair tousled from sleep, entering the kitchen. She greeted him with a warm smile, concealing the birthday surprise brewing for him in the coming week.

"Hey," Sam greeted, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He gave Olivia a gentle smile as he made his way to the coffee maker. "Who were you talking to? Sounded like something exciting."

Olivia chuckled, playing it cool. "Just catching up with Ashley. You know how we can get sometimes."

Sam raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Anything interesting?"

Olivia shook her head, feigning innocence. "Just girl stuff. Nothing too exciting."

Sam grinned, pouring himself a cup of coffee. "Fair enough. What are we going to do today?"

"I have a nail appointment," Olivia suggested, joining him and hugging herself to his side. "Did you want to tag along?"

Sam thought for a moment, then nodded in agreement. "Sure. I have a couple of things I need to grab."

Olivia looked at him in mild surprise. "Really? You're up for a trip to the nail salon?"

Sam grinned, teasing her. "Why not? But god bless the manicurist that has to make these hands smooth." He said as he held up his hands that were dry and cracked.

Olivia playfully swatted his arm. "I like your hands." She purred sweetly. "I'm betting Angela can work her magic on you."

"We shall see," Sam replied, sipping his coffee. "After we're done, we can wander around town."

As they finished their breakfast and prepared for their day out, Olivia couldn't help but appreciate Sam's easygoing nature. The simple act of him joining her at the nail salon, even in jest, reflected the comfort they had achieved in their relationship.

Once they arrived at the salon, Olivia led Sam to her favorite area, the massage chairs. Sam hesitated at first to sit next to her, but once he saw her relaxed, he took his place.

"First-timer?" Angela asked as she came from the other side of the salon, noticing Sam as a new customer.

"Yeah," Sam admitted, glancing at Olivia for assurance.

"Angela is the best. I promise you're in good hands," Olivia assured him, patting his shoulder.

As Angela worked, Sam gradually relaxed into the experience. On the other hand, Olivia enjoyed seeing her rugged boyfriend embracing the spa day.

Sam's hands were noticeably softer when they left the nail salon, and he couldn't deny joining was a good idea. Olivia held his hand, playfully inspecting Angela's work.