Chapter 42

Uncle John sat in his dimly lit study, the heavy drapes pulled shut, blocking out the fading light of the day. The room was furnished with dark wood and leather, giving it a somber atmosphere that matched his mood. He looked up as Ava entered, her face pale but composed. She had been through a lot in the past few days, but she carried herself with a grace that John found both irritating and intriguing.

"Ava, my dear," he said, his voice smooth and deceptively warm. "Please, have a seat."

Ava hesitated for a moment before taking the offered chair across from him. She was wary of Uncle John, aware of his dislike for her. Still, she knew better than to show her apprehension.

"Thank you, Uncle John," she replied politely.

John leaned forward, his hands clasped together on the desk. "I want to extend my apologies for the way you were treated. It was a difficult situation for everyone involved, but I hope you understand that we had to act in the family's best interest."

Ava nodded, her expr