---- Chapter 18 Life settled into a comfortable, fulfilling rhythm for Olivia. Her business grew. She hired more staff. They moved to a larger office with a view of the Willamette River. Ben's bookstore flourished. They spent weekends hiking, exploring Oregon's coastline, or just curled up with books and tea in Olivia's cozy bungalow. Her garden produced an abundance of tomatoes and zucchini. Mrs. Albright taught her how to make jam. The memories of Ethan, of Ava Miller's life, were like old photographs in a dusty album, rarely opened. When she did think of that time, it was with a sense of detachment, as if watching a movie about someone else. She had healed. More than healed. She had transformed. One day, Maya called, her voice full of news. "You are not going to believe this. Chloe Vance is running for city council. In her hometown in Connecticut." Olivia raised an eyebrow. "Seriously?" "Yep. Her platform is all about road safety and victim advocacy. She's got a slick campaign, a lot of grassroots support. People love a redemption story." Olivia thought about it. Chloe, the social media influencer, reinvented as a politician. ---- It was a testament to her ambition, her resilience. "Will she win?" Olivia asked. "Who knows?" Maya said. "But she's definitely making a name for herself. Anew name." Like Olivia had. Olivia felt a strange sense of... not kinship, but understanding. Chloe was a survivor too, in her own way. They had both escaped Ethan's wreckage and built new lives from the ashes. 2 Olivia found herself reflecting on love. The passionate, all-consuming love she'd felt for Ethan had been a fire, burning bright and hot, but ultimately destructive. Her love for Ben was different. A steady warmth. A gentle flame. It was built on trust, respect, shared laughter. It was real. It was safe. She realized she hadn't given up on love after Ethan. She had just redefined it. She had learned that true love didn't demand, or manipulate, or control. True love nurtured. It supported. It set you free. Olivia smiled, looking out at the rain. She was free. And she was loved. Truly loved. In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. As their romance blossoms, Hector grapples with concealing his true identity to capture Jane's heart. However, their love story takes a tumultuous turn when jealousy rears its ugly head, threatening to unravel the delicate balance they've built. This modern romance novel delves into themes of hidden identities, unexpected love, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship shrouded in secrecy. With its blend of sweet romance and suspenseful twists, "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" stands out for its exploration of hidden feelings and the consequences of revealing long-held secrets. For readers seeking a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, this ongoing story is available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in the world of Jane and Hector as their journey unfolds against the backdrop of hidden truths and heartfelt revelations.