In Love, Against All Odds

The Olivia Effect

I swayed to the rhythm of the music, my hand securely wrapped in Patrick's as we moved across the makeshift dance floor in Adri's backyard. The soft glow of string lights overhead cast a warm, golden hue over everything, making the night feel like something out of a dream. Laughter and friendly chatter filled the air, but all I could focus on was Patrick, lost in our little bubble as we danced.

Patrick's hand rested gently on my waist, pulling me closer as the music slowed. I leaned into him, resting my head on his chest, letting the steady beat of his heart drown out the background noise. It felt like a scene from a movie, the world around us blurring into a hazy, beautiful dream.

"You look amazing tonight," he whispered, his breath warm against my ear.

I smiled, feeling my heart skip. "So do you."

I lifted my head to meet his gaze, our eyes connecting in a quiet, unspoken understanding. The necklace he had given me sparkled under the lights, a reminder of everything we shared. The tenderness in his gaze made me feel safe like nothing could ever pull us apart.

Just as he was about to say something, a too-familiar voice interrupted, breaking our moment.

"Hi, Patrick!" Olivia Parker's voice rang out, louder than necessary and brimming with enthusiasm.

A wave of frustration hit me. I hadn't noticed her approaching, but suddenly, there she was, standing right next to us with her bright, unapologetic smile, focused entirely on Patrick. Olivia had this effortless charm, the kind that instantly shifted the mood, and I felt a pang of irritation as she commandeered his attention.

Patrick offered a polite smile, though I sensed his hesitation. "Oh, hey, Olivia."

She gave me a fleeting, dismissive smile before turning back to Patrick. "It's been forever! I've been dying to catch up since I got back. There's so much I have to tell you!"

I clenched my jaw, trying not to let the jealousy flare up. Adri had warned me about Olivia's knack for popping up exactly where she wasn't wanted, but this felt so blatantly deliberate.

"We were just—" I started, but Olivia cut me off.

"Patrick, you have to hear about this art gallery in Paris. It was so your vibe. And I brought you something!" She spoke like I wasn't even there.

I felt my patience slipping. This was Adri's birthday party, yet Olivia had to make her entrance a big event.

Patrick glanced at me, clearly noticing my discomfort, but before he could speak, Adri appeared at my side. Thank goodness for her timing.

"Kat, let's go grab some drinks," Adri said, her voice a lifeline out of this uncomfortable scene. I shot her a grateful smile.

"Yeah, let's," I said, linking my arm with hers. I gave Patrick a quick smile before Adri and I walked away, leaving him and Olivia behind.

As we headed to the drink table, Adri leaned in close. "That girl seriously does not know when she's not wanted."

I sighed, letting out some of my frustration. "She just waltzed up and acted like I was invisible."

"Classic Olivia," Adri muttered, rolling her eyes. "Always has to be the center of attention. But don't let her get to you. You and Patrick are solid."

I appreciated her words, but it was hard to ignore the insecurities Olivia stirred up. I knew Patrick cared about me, but Olivia's constant hovering was starting to grate on me.

As we sipped our drinks, Brailey joined us, looking equally unimpressed. "What's with Olivia clinging to Patrick like that?"

"She's been like this since she got back," I muttered. "I'm trying not to let it get to me, but..."

"But it's obvious she's trying to come between you two," Adri finished, shooting a glare in Olivia's direction. "Don't worry, Kat. We've got your back."

Brailey nodded in agreement. "If she tries anything, she'll get the hint soon enough."

I smiled, feeling better knowing I had them by my side. The night picked up, and I tried to focus on the fun, letting the music, laughter, and dancing lighten my mood.

A little while later, as I was dancing with Adri and Brailey, I saw Patrick making his way toward me, looking apologetic.

"Hey," he said, gently pulling me aside. "I'm sorry about Olivia. She can be a bit much sometimes."

I smiled, though a bit of the frustration lingered. "It's fine. I just... I don't know. She's always around."

He rubbed the back of his neck. "I get it. I'll talk to her and set some boundaries."

I appreciated the gesture, but before I could reply, Olivia popped up again, an annoyingly familiar smirk on her face.

"Patrick, come on, let's dance!" she said, grabbing his hand before either of us could react.

I stared in disbelief as she dragged him onto the dance floor. Adri and Brailey noticed too, their faces mirroring my shock.

"Unbelievable," Adri muttered under her breath.

I stood there, torn between storming over and letting it go. I didn't want to make a scene, but Olivia was pushing me to the edge. She clung to Patrick, laughing at something he said, and I felt my irritation reach its peak.

"Enough," Adri said, determination flashing in her eyes. She and Brailey marched over, and without a second thought, pulled Patrick away from Olivia.

"Excuse us, Olivia," Adri said with a sugary smile that barely masked her frustration. "I think Patrick's had enough of your company for tonight."

Olivia looked taken aback, and Brailey quickly chimed in, "Maybe you should find someone else to talk to, Olivia. Patrick's here with Katherine."

A flicker of anger crossed Olivia's face, but she held her tongue, finally stepping back with a defeated huff.

Patrick turned to me, looking genuinely apologetic. "I'm sorry about all of that."

I sighed, feeling the tension slowly ease. "It's okay. Let's just enjoy the rest of the party."

He smiled, pulling me close again. "Agreed. No more interruptions."

As we started dancing again, I felt the weight of the night lift. With Adri and Brailey supporting me and Patrick holding me close, I knew we could handle anything—even Olivia Parker.

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