From Mob Princess to Mugshot Photographer novel Chapter 53

**Chapter 17**

Since the moment Olivia had stepped out of the sterile confines of the hospital, Ethan had embraced the role of her unwavering protector with a fierce determination. He had woven himself into the fabric of her daily life so effortlessly that it felt as though he had always belonged there—a silent sentinel, ever-watchful, accompanying her through the smallest of routines.

Each dawn, before the sun cast its golden rays across the horizon, Ethan would rise from his warm bed, driven by a sense of purpose. He would tiptoe into the kitchen, the soft clinking of pots and pans echoing in the stillness, as he prepared her medication and a hearty breakfast. A cheerful sticky note, bright against the wood of her nightstand, served as a gentle nudge for her to take her pills—an emblem of his thoughtfulness. The rich, comforting aroma of oatmeal bubbling on the stove filled the air, wrapping around them like a warm embrace, promising a day filled with care.

In the afternoons, he would sit beside her, diligently poring over case files, though his focus often drifted. He was acutely aware of every subtle shift in her mood, every fleeting expression that crossed her face, especially when pain flared up unexpectedly. “Is the pain acting up again?” he would ask, concern lacing his voice, his eyes searching hers for reassurance.

As night fell and shadows danced across the walls, Olivia would sometimes wake abruptly, her heart racing from nightmares that clawed at her peace. In those moments, Ethan would be there, a calming presence against the backdrop of her fears. The warm glow of the lamp illuminated his figure as he leaned against the door frame, a glass of warm milk in hand. His gentle touch, as he massaged her temples, felt like a soothing balm, his soft reassurances a lifeline that made the darkness seem a little less intimidating.

Every act of kindness, every tender moment of support, filled Olivia with an overwhelming sense of gratitude that began to blossom into something deeper, something she was just starting to fathom.

Two weeks later, the atmosphere shifted dramatically as Ethan and his colleagues gathered to celebrate a successful operation in a lively restaurant. The air was thick with laughter and camaraderie, a joyous symphony that enveloped them.

Captain Donovan stood, his voice booming with pride as he raised a toast, celebrating their hard work and dedication. Caught up in the excitement, Olivia lifted her glass, but before she could sip, Ethan swiftly took it from her grasp.

“You’re not fully healed,” he declared with a firm conviction, his gaze steady on hers. “No alcohol for you.”

In a swift motion, he replaced her glass with a steaming mug of honey-lemon tea, a thoughtful gesture that prompted playful teasing from their comrades.

“Any toasts for her? I’ll take them,” he announced, his voice calm against the backdrop of laughter.

The squad erupted in playful banter. “Look at Consultant Ethan playing bodyguard for Officer Hayes!”

Unfazed by the lighthearted jabs, Ethan adjusted his glasses, his attention drifting to Olivia’s flushed cheeks. “Damn right I am,” he replied, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth, his eyes sparkling with a mix of pride and affection.

That night, he raised his mug high for every toast intended for her, a silent vow to protect her always.

Later, as the night deepened, they found themselves outside Ethan’s apartment building, the cool night air wrapping around them like a comforting blanket. Olivia leaned against a slightly swaying Ethan, her laughter dancing with the crisp air. “You can’t hold your liquor, but you still have to show off?” she teased, a playful glint illuminating her eyes.

He leaned closer, his breath warm from the whiskey, sending delightful shivers down her spine. “Only… I only dare to get this wasted when you’re around…”

His words ignited a warmth that spread across her cheeks, an unexpected rush of emotions that caught her off guard.

“You’re such a smartass… Next time, sober up. With or without me. Got it?” she replied, her tone playful yet firm, a challenge hanging in the air.

His dazed eyes offered no sign that he had fully grasped her words, lost in the moment.

As they stepped into the elevator, he suddenly grasped her hand, pressing it against his chest with a fervor that made her heart race.

“This thing right here?” His voice was rough, gravelly, filled with an intensity that made her breath hitch. “It hasn’t beaten right since the day I met you.”

“My love isn’t for Officer Hayes,” he murmured, nuzzling his forehead against hers, the world around them fading into a blur. “It’s for the girl who sneaks chocolate before an op, who needs a night-light after a bad dream, and who shares her umbrella with stray cats… Just Olivia.”

In that moment, something within Olivia cracked open, a realization dawning upon her.

For the first time since her tumultuous past with Alexander, someone had truly seen her, every vulnerability laid bare before him.

Her pulse quickened, pounding against her ribs. “When did it start?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, laden with curiosity and hope.

He grinned, mischief dancing in his eyes, and pulled a necklace from beneath his shirt—a bullet casing pendant that caught the light.

His thumb brushed over it tenderly as he spoke. “Our first op together,” he said, his words wrapping around her like a warm embrace.

He kissed her fingertips softly, his lips lingering against her skin. “Maybe it started a long time ago, the first time I saw you in the field.”

She lifted their clasped hands, showcasing their connection, a silent testament to her choice. “Because he has only ever loved Olivia Hayes.”

“Not some stand-in. Not a disposable bodyguard. Just me.”

As her words hung in the air, Alexander staggered back, as if struck by a physical blow.

He glanced down at the bullet casing necklace resting at her throat, then at her hand firmly held in Ethan’s, and suddenly he was transported back to that rainy night three years ago.

If he hadn’t treated her like a replacement… If he had just opened his damn eyes…

“Fine… Congratulations…” he muttered, his voice laced with bitterness, a defeated tone that spoke volumes.

He turned and stumbled away, knocking a tray of champagne flutes from a waiter’s hands, the sound of breaking glass shattering the tense silence.

Amidst the chaos, Olivia felt Ethan lean in close, his breath warm against her ear. “Do you want me to go after him?” he asked quietly, concern etched in his features.

She shook her head, her expression resolute as she forked a piece of tiramisu. “Let the past rot where it belongs.”

Outside, the neon lights swallowed Alexander’s figure, leaving behind only a faded silhouette, like an old photograph losing its vibrancy.

In the aftermath of that fateful encounter, Olivia felt a profound shift within herself, a weight lifting as she fully embraced her newfound relationship with Ethan. The confrontation with Alexander had served as a catalyst, forcing her to confront the ghosts of her past and recognize the strength that lay in her present. With Ethan by her side, she was no longer a shadow of her former self, but a woman who had reclaimed her identity, her laughter ringing louder and her heart beating stronger. Together, they forged a bond that transcended the pain of old wounds, each moment shared a testament to their resilience and love.

As they stepped forward into this new chapter of their lives, the world around them began to reflect their inner transformation. The laughter that once echoed through the restaurant now felt like a celebration of their triumph over adversity. They had weathered storms both personal and professional, emerging not just as partners in their demanding careers but as soulmates who understood the depths of each other’s struggles. With every shared glance and gentle touch, Olivia and Ethan built a future rooted in trust and unwavering support, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. The shadows of the past faded, replaced by the promise of a brighter tomorrow, where love blossomed amidst the chaos, and two hearts beat as one.

**What to Expect in the Next Chapter?**
As the dust settles from the explosive confrontation with Alexander, the emotional aftermath will ripple through both Olivia and Ethan’s lives. The stakes are higher than ever, and their newfound relationship will face its first true test. With the shadows of the past looming, Olivia must confront her feelings and the scars left by her previous relationship, while Ethan grapples with the weight of his protective instincts and the fear of losing her to the ghosts that still haunt her. Expect poignant moments of introspection, where both characters will have to navigate the complexities of love, trust, and vulnerability.

Furthermore, the investigation that initially brought them together may take an unexpected turn, thrusting them into a web of danger that challenges their bond. As they delve deeper into their cases, they will uncover secrets that not only threaten their professional lives but also test the very foundation of their relationship. With external pressures mounting, will they be able to lean on each other, or will the chaos of their world pull them apart? The next chapter promises to be a gripping exploration of love amidst turmoil, where every decision could lead to either a deeper connection or an irreparable rift. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions as Olivia and Ethan navigate the storm that lies ahead.