Page 71 of The Final Straw

I laugh, reaching out and motioning him closer. "Come here."

He eagerly complies, moving over to sit next to me. I kiss him, slow and sweet, feeling the connection between us deepen.

Van watches us with a smile, closing his book and setting it aside. "Guess it's my turn too," he says, pouting.

"Of course," I reply, beckoning him over. He leans in, and our lips meet in a tender kiss that leaves me breathless. The love I feel for each of them is unique and profound, and in this moment, it feels as though nothing could ever break the bond we share.

The afternoon drifts into evening, and we find ourselves lounging in the backyard, the setting sun painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. We sit around the fire pit, the warmth of the flames chasing away the chill in the air. It's peaceful, the crackling of the fire and the soft murmur of our voices the only sounds breaking the tranquility.

Van leans back in his chair, his hand entwined with mine. "This is nice," he says. "Just being together like this."

"Yeah," Kipp agrees, his gaze fixed on the fire. "It's been a crazy few days, but this... this feels right."

Grady nods. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

I look at each of them, my heart swelling with love. "I feel the same way," I admit. "You guys mean everything to me."

Kipp smiles, his eyes softening. "And you mean everything to us, Ollie," he says, squeezing my hand.

As the night deepens, the air grows cooler, and we move closer to the fire. The conversation shifts to lighter topics, our laughter filling the night. It feels good to relax, to let go of the worries, and just enjoy each other's company.

Eventually, the fire dies down, and we head back inside. The house is warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the night air. We make our way to the living room, where Kipp sets up a few candles, their soft light casting a romantic glow.

Van stretches out on the couch, patting the space beside him. "Come here, Livvy," he murmurs seductively.

I join him, feeling a thrill of anticipation. His arms wrap around me, pulling me close. Kipp and Grady sit on either side, their eyes filled with love and desire.

Van's fingers trace along my jawline, tilting my face toward his. His kiss is slow and deep, igniting a fire within me. I melt into him, my body responding to his touch. When we finally break apart, Kipp is there, his lips capturing mine in a passionate kiss that leaves me breathless.

Grady's hands are on my waist, pulling me into his lap. His kiss is gentle but insistent, his lips moving against mine with a hunger that matches my own.

Kipp's hands are on my shoulders, his touch firm and reassuring. "We love you, Ollie," he murmurs in a husky whisper.

"And I love you," I reply, my voice trembling with emotion. "All of you."

Grady’s hands slide to my hips, guiding me as we move together. His bright eyes are locked on mine, his cheeks blushing. "You're everything to me.”

Van's lips are at my ear, his breath hot against my skin. "We'll always be here for you," he whispers.

The room is filled with the sound of our breathing, the warmth of our bodies, and a comforting presence. I feel safe, cherished, and loved in a way I never thought possible.

As I drift off to sleep, I am filled with peace.

Chapter 35

Olivia

My phone rings right after breakfast, and it's Bre.

“Hey! I’ve been getting worried. But the lawyer told Kipp you had to wait a bit to see a judge,” I ramble, not even letting her get a word in.

“Yeah. I spent two nights in the clink. I’m pretty much a hardened criminal now. Had to sell my panties to get some commissary money, like those hot bitches in Orange is the New Black.” She laughs.

“Seriously, though. Are you okay? Crowley told Kipp that you won’t have a trial until after Van’s and then the charges should be dropped because it’s Barbi and you don’t have any priors.”

“He told me the same thing. I’m not worried. I made the choice to beat her face into the clothing rack. I’ll live with the consequences. I model for smutty book covers and write erotic romance books. I doubt anyone will care if I kicked the ass of a rapist. ”

This is just like Bre. Shrug shit off while I panic for the both of us. It’s why our friendship works.

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