FORTY NINE

Lucas’s heart raced as he scanned the beach for any sign of Olivia.

“Olivia!” He shouted again, his voice strained with fear.

As he jogged down the beach, his mind raced through worst scenarios. He cursed himself for stepping away, even for a moment. Just as hexwas about to call Vincent , he saw a familiar figure near the shoreline.

Olivia stood with her back to him, looking out at the ocean, her wavy hair, flowing freaking behind her, and her white sundress fluttering in the breeze. The relief that flooded through Lucas was overwhelming. He sprinted toward her, his breath catching his throat.

“Pretty doll,” He called out, his voice breaking.

Olivia turned, surprise etched on her face, as she saw Lucas running towards her, “Lucas, What's wrong?”

Without a word, Lucas enveloped her in a tight embrace,lifting her off her feet. “God, Olivia,” he whispered, his voice choked with emotion. “I thought something happened to you.”

Olivia hugged him back feeling his heart pounding against hers, “I’m so sorry Lucas, I just wanted to take a walk and clear my mind, I didn't mean to worry you.”

He set her down gently but didn't let go, his eyes searching herswith an intensity that made her heart ache. “You scared the hell out of me.” he admitted, his voice trembling, “I can't lose you.”

She cupped his face in her eyes , years welling up in her eyes. “I'm here Lucas. I’m not going anywhere. I’m sorry I scared you.”

Lucas kissed her deeply, pouring all his fear, relief , and love into the kiss. When they finally broke apart , he rested his forehead against her, taking a moment to steady his breath.

“I love you ,Olivia.” He said softly, his voice filled with sincerity. “More than anything.”

Olivia's eyes widened in surprise, This was the first time Lucas would tell her he loves her. Unsure of what to say , she smiled, tears streaming down her cheeks. “I love you too ,Lucas .”

They stood there for a long time holding each other, as the waves gently lapped at their feet . The world around them seemed to disappear.

Eventually Lucas took her hand and led her to the cabana. “Let's not be apart like that again, okay?” He said, his tone gentle but firm.

“Okay,” Olivia agreed, squeezing his hand, “I'll stay by your side.”

As they settled back on the daybed, Lucas kept a protective arm around Olivia, his grip never loosening. The fear that had gripped him still lingered, but having her safe in his arms was enough to calm his racing heart.

As night approached, Lucas held Olivia's hands, “I think it's time to go to the villa.”

Olivia nodded in agreement, as Lucas led her hand, leading her to the villa, they both walked to their temporary home, Lucas locked the door behind them.

……🌵

The private jet’s wheels screeched as it landed on the remote airstrip in Russia. Massimo and Marco stepped off the plane into the chilly night air, their breath visible in freezing temperature. The men behind them moved with silence efficiency.

Massimo's shar eye scanned the perimeter as they made their way to the waiting SUVs. “We don't have much time.” he said, his voice low and commanding. “Lucas and Olivia must be taken by surprise.”

Marco nodded, his expression grim, “Our men are ready , we know the Villa's layout . We strike hard and fast.”

The convoy of SUVs sped through the deserted roads,headlights cutting through the darkness. Marco and Massimo sat in the lead vehicle.

“How sure are you , about their location?” Marco asked, glancing at Massimo.

Massimo's lips curved into a confident smile, “Very sure. Harris's contact provided exact coordinates. Lucas would regret killing my blood.”

Unknown to Massimo, Marco was responsible for Olga, his sister’s death.

Back in the Villa, Lucas and Olivia sat on the varenda , enjoying the tranquility of the night. The gentle breeze rustled the palm trees.

“This place feels like a dream.” Olivia said, leaning her head on Lucas' shoulder.

Lucas smiled, wrapping an arm around her “I wanted you to have something special, away from all the chaos.”

Olivia looked up at him, her eyes filled with affection, “I appreciate it, Lucas . I feel safe with you.”

Lucas kissed her forehead , his heart swelling with love, “I'll always protect you, Olivia.”

The moment was interrupted by the distant sound of phone ringing. Lucas frowned, standing up to retrieve his phone from the nearby table.

“Who could that be at this hour?” Olivia asked, curiosity in her voice.

“Probably just a routine check-in,” Lucas replied, glancing at the screen. “It's nothing to worry about.”

As he answered the call, Olivia wandered back into the villa, deciding to grab a blanket to keep warm. Lucas's voice faded into the background as she moved through the spacious rooms.

Meanwhile the convoy of SUVs came to a halt at a secluded spot a few miles away from the villa. Massimo and Marco stepped out, their men gathering around them.

“We move in quietly,” Massimo instructed, “No mistakes.”

Marco nodded, checking his weapon. “Let's get this done.”

The group moved through the underbrush, their footsteps muffled by the thick layer of snow. The villa came into view.

Massimo signaled for the men to spread out, encircling the villa, “we take them tonight,” he whispered , a sinister gleam in his eyes, “Lucas, won't see the morning light.”

Back at the villa, Lucas ended the call, a faint smile on his lips, he walked back inside, his eyes searching for Olivia.

He moved through the empty halls, where he finally found her on the back porch , gazing out at the ocean.

“Olivia,” he said, a mix of relief and frustration in his voice, “I thought you had …..”

Before he could finish, a gunshot rang out, echoing through the villa. Olivia jumped, her eyes wide with fear.

“Lucas, what was that?” she whispered, clutching his arm.

Lucas's protective instincts kicked in, “Stay here,” he ordered, moving toward the sound.

As he reached the front villa , a gunshot ran out again. Lucas reached the front, he quickly grabbed his gun. A group of armed men stormed in.

Massimo and Marco stormed into the villa, their eyes locking onto Lucas. “Surprise?” Massimo sneered , his gun aimed at Lucas.