Beyond the vow (a love born in shadows)

Olivia started outside the window of her magnificent bedroom, her ocean-blue eyes fixed on the city skyline. The sunlight danced across the waves of her blonde hair as she sighed, feeling trapped in her luxurious prison. Her 24th birthday was around the corner and with it comes the constant reminder of her parents expectations "The West family heiress must take over the family business," her father would always say. But she longed for something more- freedom , art and adventure. She was more thankful of the fact that her parents never deprived her of expressing her emotions with art. Olivia had a secret art studio in the attic of their mansion,it was her sanctuary, where she could escape from the suffocating world of luxury and unleashed her creativity. As she made her way up to the attic, sound of her footsteps was masked by the hum of the air conditioning. She pushed open the door and a wave of familiarity welcomed her,the smell of turpentine and oil paints enveloped her and she felt a sense of freedom she couldn't find elsewhere. The sight didn't last Long as the sound of her mother's loud piercing voice sounded from the hallway "Oliva, dear! Come downstairs. we need to talk." Olivia's heart sank as she reluctantly left her studio and made her way downstairs,where her mother was already waiting in the dining room. "What is it mother?"she asked trying not show her frustrations "We need to discuss your future dear, your father has a meeting with the Woodson soon and we need to prepare you." Mrs West said with a straight face chewing on her lunch Olivia's heart sank further. The Woodsons. She had heard the rumors, a powerful family with a ruthless business empire. What did her parents have planned? Just then the doorbell rang, and the sound of heels clicking on the marble floor echoed through the hallway "Ah, that must be Samantha" Mrs West said trying to stand up on her feet "Don't worry mom I'll let her in " Olivia chipped in as she rushed forward using her thumb to Access the lock "Hey girl , what's up?" Samantha smirks pulling Olivia in for a hug " I saw your mom's car parked outside I was surprised since it was unusual so I thought I drop by" she added Olivia smiled pulling from the hug "So you didn't stop by because of me huh ?" She pout and they both laughed Samantha was Olivia's Best friend they had met in college and I've been best of friends since then. "Good afternoon Mrs West" Samantha greeted not without acknowledging the tension in the dining room "what happened the tension in this place can be cut with a knife" Samantha chuckled picking up an already sliced apple Olivia's face darken as she mouthed "Woodson"to Samantha who nodded almost Imperceptibly. "I was just telling Olivia about the meeting with the Woodson" Olivia's mother said her tone light but firm Samantha's expression turned serious "I know all about it Mrs.West I have been doing some research on the Woodson. They're not exactly reputable." Olivia's eyes widened in surprise "Samantha!" She calls in a scolding tone Samantha just rolled her eyes " I mean they are known for their ruthless business tactics and questionable ethics "Samantha said her voice was low and serious Olivia's mother frowned, her expression disapproving. "Samantha,dear you don't understand the complexities of business. This merger would secure our family's legacy and fortune." "I understand the potential benefits of the merger,Mrs. West,but I'm only worried about the implications for Liv's happiness and well-being," Samantha said, her voice gentle but firm. " Have you maybe considered the possibility of…unforeseen consequences?" She added worry evidently in her voice Olivia's mother raised an eyebrow,her expression thoughtful. "Go on, Samantha,what do you mean?" Samantha hesitates, choosing her words carefully so she doesn't offend her. "Only that the Woodsons have a reputation for being…formidable business partners. I want to make sure that Liv is prepared for what lies ahead." Olivia nodded, appreciative of Samantha's tactful approach "thanks Sam I share your concerns." Olivia's mother sighed, her expression a mix of understanding and frustration. "I know this isn't ideal, Liv, but sometimes sacrifices must be made for the greater good. Your father and I will discuss the details with the Woodsons and ensure your future is secure." Mrs West said turning to her daughter as she held her hands and smiled Samantha's eyes met Olivia's, and they shared a silent understanding. This was far from over. Mrs West left the girls to themselves as she went for the stairs Samantha grasped Olivia's hand, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint. "Hey?, let's get out of here for a bit. I have an idea." She grins as She pulled Olivia toward the door, whispering, "Let's sneak out to the garden and grab some fresh air. We can pretend the Woodsons don't exist for a little while longer." Olivia smiled, feeling a welcome reprieve from the tension. "You're the best, Sam." As they slipped out into the garden, the warm sunlight and sweet scent of blooming flowers enveloped them, offering a temporary escape from the looming merger and Olivia's uncertain future. As they strolled through the garden, Samantha led Olivia to a secluded spot behind a hedge. With a flourish, she revealed a beautiful painting easel, set up and ready to go. "I brought it over yesterday, hoping to convince you to take a break and create something," Samantha said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "What do you think?...Let's paint the afternoon away and forget about the Woodsons!" Olivia's face lit up with delight. "Sam, you're a lifesaver! Exactly what I needed." She threw her arms around her friend, feeling a surge of gratitude. As they hugged, Olivia's worries about the merger and her future receded, and was replaced by the joy of creating something beautiful. As the girls laughed and painted, Olivia's parents watched from the terrace, exchanging a warm glance. "They're so close, it's lovely to see," Olivia's mother said, smiling. "Samantha's been a wonderful influence on Liv." Her father nodded in agreement. "Yes, and a welcome distraction from all this Woodson business. Let them have their afternoon of art and friendship." As they observed the girls, Olivia's parents seemed to relax, their expressions softening. For a moment, the tension and stress of the merger negotiations Lessened , and they simply enjoyed the beauty of their daughter's friendship. This didn't last long when a phone call came in distracting their attention, it was a call from the lawyer concerning the arrangements "Is it really that important that it can't wait?" Mr West asked impatiently "Okay we will be there in a minute…"he added and ended the call turning to face his wife "It's a call from the office there was a development with the merger " his voice low and urgent "We need to go"he added and within a blink of an eye they were gone. Olivia's brush strokes slowed as she watched her parents disappear from view. She felt a flutter in her chest, a mix of concern and curiosity. What could be so important that they had to leave like that? She pushed the thoughts aside and focused on her painting, letting the colors and shapes transport her to a happier place. As she worked, she felt Samantha's eyes on her, a silent understanding passing between them. Samantha watched Olivia, sensing her friend's tension. She knew Olivia was trying to focus on her art, but her mind was elsewhere. Samantha's own thoughts turned to the merger, and the impact it could have on their families. She wondered if Olivia's parents had received some news, something that could change everything. She decided to keep her thoughts to herself, not wanting to add to Olivia's worries. Instead, she offered a supportive smile and a gentle nod, letting Olivia know she was there for her. Just as they continue with the painting, smiling and laughing a call came in from Olivia's phone "Is this Ms Olivia West…?" Came a husky yet deep voice "Yes sir… please do I know you?" Olivia asked as she stops painting now focus on the call with Samantha staring down at her "I'm sorry to break this news to you…. Your parents have been involved in a ghastly car crash…