AVA'S POVJason’s sudden presence in the room turned the carefree atmosphere tense in an instant. “Jason, you came. I thought you said you weren't coming?” Kevin said in a carefree tone, as he stood up to shake Jason's hand, but he ignored him. Instead, his piercing gaze moved from Alex to me, the anger in his eyes evident and undeniable. Kevin seemed to understand the reason for his attitude and simply sat back down beside Sally without saying another word. “Jason,” Alex greeted, his tone polite but Jason ignored him too. His eyes were locked on me completely. “Ava, I need to talk to you now,” he said coldly. I pretended not to have heard him and quickly stood excusing myself, "I’ll be back Alex." My chest tightened as I made my way to the ladies’ room. I needed space, somewhere far from Jason, somewhere to gather my thoughts and calm my nerves. The cool air of the bathroom was a small relief as I leaned against the sink, staring at my reflection. My heart raced. “He
AVA'S POV I could feel my heart racing as the tension in the room rose. Sally and Kevin kept glancing between Jason and Alex not knowing what to say. I looked at Alex and then at Jason. I was done with the drama with Jason. “Okay, Alex…let's go,” I said, trying to stay calm but my heart hammered in my chest. Jason's fist clenched tightly and his eyes flashed with anger but he didn't say anything. “Ava…” he said finally. “I've made my decision,” I interrupted, keeping my voice steady. Sally gave me a proud wink. “Call me when you get home, okay?” I nodded, giving her a small smile. “I will.” “Let’s go,” Alex said gently, his hand resting lightly on my back as he guided me toward the exit. Behind us, Jason’s jaw clenched, and I could almost feel the fury radiating off him. I didn’t look back. Alex looked surprised when I told him I wasn’t going to Jason’s villa but to Sally’s apartment. However, he didn’t ask why, and I felt relieved. The ride there was quiet at first, but
JASON'S POVAva’s words hit me like a slap across the face. I stared at her, my eyes slightly wide hoping she didn’t mean it, but her expression was firm. She wasn’t bluffing and my heart sank. I couldn't sleep last night after returning home from the club because I didn't find Ava anywhere in the house. I tried calling both her and Alex and neither of them answered my call. I was restless the whole night, my thoughts running wild as I waited for the day to break.It's not that I didn't trust Ava – I do. It's Alex I don't trust. Early this morning, I rushed out of the house like a madman to confirm Ava’s whereabouts, without even taking a proper shower so I couldn’t just give up. Not yet! “Ava, please,” I pleaded again, my voice breaking slightly. Her eyes stayed cold. “Don’t make me do it, Jason.” I felt like I was standing on the edge of a cliff, and Ava was the one pushing me off. I wanted to argue, to plead with her to listen, but something about her tone told me it would
AVA'S POV I stared at my reflection in the mirror and was finally satisfied. After what felt like hours of frantic searching, I had finally found a dress that would perfectly complement the earrings. Yes, those earrings – the ones I discovered hidden in Jason's pocket this morning. A pair of delicate and luxurious pearl earrings adorned with diamonds It was created by my favorite designer, Kokichi Mikimoto, one of only five such earrings in the world. Jason is so thoughtful that he would secretly buy the jewelry I like and give it to me as a surprise on our wedding anniversary. Yes, I was sure he would give this gift to me tonight. I kept checking my dress and makeup in the mirror, and couldn't help imagining how stunning I would look in those earrings. My hands smoothed down the fabric of the dress, which clung to my body in a way it hadn't just a few weeks ago. I turned to the side, my eyes drawn to the slight, but unmistakable curve of my abdomen. A secret I had
Ava's POV Liar. He said he would be back soon, but he left me waiting all night. I dragged myself to Campbell Group where I work. The company is owned by Jason’s family, and Jason is the CEO and my boss. Sally Parker, my best friend and colleague, greeted me with concern the moment I walked into my office. “Ava, are you okay? You don’t look well.” Forcing a smile, I nodded. “I’m fine, just tired.” She looked at me skeptical but decided not to press further. “Well, you’ll be pleased to hear that today they’re announcing the new design director. It has to be you, Ava. You’ve worked so hard for it. Congratulations in advance.” “Thanks, Sal. I appreciate your support.” I am somewhat calm because I knew the position would be mine. Jason had assured me and I was ready to take on the responsibilities of the design director. I noticed everyone's phone buzzing with a new notification including mine. “I know it must be the appointment notification.” Sally hurriedly checked her
AVA'S POV I couldn't believe what I had just heard, Laura's words echoed in my ears like a thunderclap. I could feel my chest growing so tight that it became difficult for me to breathe. “You left me and married him, claiming he was the love of your life, so right now I don't care if you got divorced because of me or not.” Jason retorted, his voice laced with bitterness. Every word felt like a needle piercing my heart. “I was young and confused Jason. I'm sorry for the hurt I caused you back then. I thought I loved him but I never did, it was after I married him that I realized I left gold for bronze.” She added, “Jason, it's you my heart beats for.” Laura sobbed, tears streaming down her cheeks. I was breathless, eager to know how Jason would react to the pitiful Laura in front of him, but I was also afraid that his answer would make me a complete loser in our marriage. “It's too late Laura, I'm married.” Jason declared. I watched in a daze, hoping for something. I wanted to
AVA'S POV The house was quiet as I slowly woke up, the soft hum of the morning light filtering through the curtains. I noticed the other side of the bed was empty and showed no signs of Jason coming in last night. I felt a pang of sadness within me as different wild thoughts ran through my head. The silence of the atmosphere was interrupted by a burst of laughter. I frowned, as I slipped out of bed and followed the sound, the laughter grew louder and mingled with the clinking of dishes. Pushing open the kitchen door I met a scene that stung more than a slap. Jason and Laura were standing at the counter their movement in perfect harmony like they had practiced this routine a thousand times. Laura leaned closer to Jason her hands brushing his as they worked together. Jason, who always seemed so reserved, was laughing at something Laura said. His laughter was so rich and genuine, a sound I hadn't heard often. A pang of jealousy pierced my heart. "Good morning, Ava." Laur
AVA'S POV The days that followed Laura's departure were strange. Jason became more loving and attentive towards me. He cooked for me, bought me flowers, and even took a leave of absence from work to spend quality time with me. It felt like the early days of our relationship. I felt that he was trying to compensate me for all the agony I had undergone during these past recent months. He could not have been more successful. After getting home from work, Jason changed his clothes and went to prepare dinner. And I rested on the couch and watched him busy in the kitchen. He was tall and handsome, and the sunset shone on him through the windows, creating a light halo that removed some of his coldness. He lowered his eyes slightly, and his hands with distinct bony fingers handled the ingredients skillfully. This scene gave me a feeling of peace. “What’s wrong?” He turned around and asked me in a gentle voice. “Babe, will you be able to accompany me to the hospital tomorrow
JASON'S POVAva’s words hit me like a slap across the face. I stared at her, my eyes slightly wide hoping she didn’t mean it, but her expression was firm. She wasn’t bluffing and my heart sank. I couldn't sleep last night after returning home from the club because I didn't find Ava anywhere in the house. I tried calling both her and Alex and neither of them answered my call. I was restless the whole night, my thoughts running wild as I waited for the day to break.It's not that I didn't trust Ava – I do. It's Alex I don't trust. Early this morning, I rushed out of the house like a madman to confirm Ava’s whereabouts, without even taking a proper shower so I couldn’t just give up. Not yet! “Ava, please,” I pleaded again, my voice breaking slightly. Her eyes stayed cold. “Don’t make me do it, Jason.” I felt like I was standing on the edge of a cliff, and Ava was the one pushing me off. I wanted to argue, to plead with her to listen, but something about her tone told me it would
AVA'S POV I could feel my heart racing as the tension in the room rose. Sally and Kevin kept glancing between Jason and Alex not knowing what to say. I looked at Alex and then at Jason. I was done with the drama with Jason. “Okay, Alex…let's go,” I said, trying to stay calm but my heart hammered in my chest. Jason's fist clenched tightly and his eyes flashed with anger but he didn't say anything. “Ava…” he said finally. “I've made my decision,” I interrupted, keeping my voice steady. Sally gave me a proud wink. “Call me when you get home, okay?” I nodded, giving her a small smile. “I will.” “Let’s go,” Alex said gently, his hand resting lightly on my back as he guided me toward the exit. Behind us, Jason’s jaw clenched, and I could almost feel the fury radiating off him. I didn’t look back. Alex looked surprised when I told him I wasn’t going to Jason’s villa but to Sally’s apartment. However, he didn’t ask why, and I felt relieved. The ride there was quiet at first, but
AVA'S POVJason’s sudden presence in the room turned the carefree atmosphere tense in an instant. “Jason, you came. I thought you said you weren't coming?” Kevin said in a carefree tone, as he stood up to shake Jason's hand, but he ignored him. Instead, his piercing gaze moved from Alex to me, the anger in his eyes evident and undeniable. Kevin seemed to understand the reason for his attitude and simply sat back down beside Sally without saying another word. “Jason,” Alex greeted, his tone polite but Jason ignored him too. His eyes were locked on me completely. “Ava, I need to talk to you now,” he said coldly. I pretended not to have heard him and quickly stood excusing myself, "I’ll be back Alex." My chest tightened as I made my way to the ladies’ room. I needed space, somewhere far from Jason, somewhere to gather my thoughts and calm my nerves. The cool air of the bathroom was a small relief as I leaned against the sink, staring at my reflection. My heart raced. “He
AVA'S POV The days following the jewelry store incident felt like a blur. I buried myself in work and avoided unnecessary interactions with Jason. Grandpa had already returned to his house, though his doctor warned us to still be mindful of his health and to avoid stressing or saying anything that could trigger him. That was a relief, I couldn’t bear pretending everything was fine and the thought of him witnessing the tension between Jason and me. Today, Sally called, insisting I come to her apartment. “I have something to cheer you up,” she said vaguely. I hesitated at first, but Sally’s energy was contagious. If anyone could brighten my mood, it was definitely her. When I arrived, I didn’t expect to see Kevin Tyler lounging on Sally’s couch, holding a glass of wine like he belonged there. “Kevin?” I froze at the door, my mind struggling to process his presence. Kevin Tyler, the professional basketball player, also happened to be Jason’s old friend and someone I had
JASON'S POV Ava's words hung in the air, hitting Laura like a blow. Laura's smug expression faltered and her face reddened in anger even the sales associate's mouth dropped as they stared at Ava, then glanced back at Laura.Clearly shocked and curious about why Ava said such words. My stomach twisted as I looked into Ava's eyes. She wasn't angry. No, that would have been better and easier to handle. What I saw in her eyes was resignation when someone was done and didn't care anymore. And I got scared. My mind reeled back to last night, the reason I’d missed dinner with Grandpa and Ava. I had planned the dinner myself, thinking it would be a chance to prove to Ava that Laura wasn't my first choice and that my family came first. I even told myself it was time to take a stand and show her that she mattered more than anything or anyone else. But then Laura called on my way to the restaurant. Her voice trembled over the phone, and she cried telling me she couldn't go on anymore
AVA'S POVThe photo on my screen was like a dagger to my chest. Laura's hands were draped over Jason's shoulder, her lips close to his cheek while Jason's hands were resting on her waist. The intimacy of it was undeniable, and it made me feel sick. My hand trembled as I locked my phone and placed it face down on the nightstand. I wanted to cry, to scream, to throw something. But instead, I sat there in silence, my emotions were a mess inside me. I took a deep breath, telling myself to calm down. What was the point of crying when nothing ever changed? The 10% shares he gave me made me think that maybe – just maybe he values me more than Laura but now I felt dejected again. Jason always seemed to find his way back to her, no matter how much it hurt me. He claims Laura wasn't his first choice yet he stood up both Grandpa and I because of her. I wasn't going to cry, and I didn't, but it still felt like a sharp knife kept piercing my heart all through the night, causing me unbeara
AVA'S POVThe ride home was quiet except for the soft sound of the car engine. Grandpa sat next to me, his lips pressed together, his face dark as he stared out the window. He looked upset, and I felt just as bad. Jason not showing up had ruined what should’ve been a special evening for Grandpa. Why did he make plans when he knew he wouldn't keep them? I wondered what could be so urgent that it kept him from coming. “Grandpa,” I said softly, glancing at him. “I’m sure Jason didn’t mean to miss dinner. He said something came up.” I shouldn't have defended him when I didn't even know the details of why he couldn't make it but I just didn't want to make Grandpa feel down. Grandpa turned to me, his eyes cold. “That boy has responsibilities, Ava. I’m not upset for myself, I’m upset for you. He asked you to set up this dinner, and then he doesn’t even have the decency to show up?” "Why did he make plans that he knew he couldn't keep?" Grandpa asked, lines creasing his forehead.
AVA'S POV My pulse tightened, my thoughts still swirling from my encounter with Laura. What now? I opened the message: "Let's have dinner with Grandpa tonight at his favorite restaurant. 7 pm. I'll meet you both there.♥️" I stared at the message, my chest tightening. Dinner at Grandpa’s favorite restaurant? Jason and I had visited the place before and he told me the story behind it. It is owned by a close friend of Grandpa's late wife, his Grandma had loved it so much. I left work early that day, and the events of everything that had happened still weighed on my mind. As I pulled into the driveway of Jason's villa, I tried to push the thoughts aside. Tonight wasn’t about me and Jason. It was about Grandpa. He deserved a peaceful evening, and I wasn’t going to ruin it with my chaos. Walking into the house, I was greeted by the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. Martha, Grandpa’s caregiver, stood in the kitchen, carefully slicing a loaf while humming an old tune
AVA'S POV I got to my office but my thoughts spiraled. I still couldn’t believe that Jason had agreed. He had actually agreed. When the words left his mouth back at his office, I half-expected him to laugh or take them back, but he didn’t. "Was he playing some kind of trick on me?" I wondered. Jason wasn’t the kind of man who gave up control easily, especially not when it came to the company. And yet, he had just agreed to give me shares – something real, something significant. I must admit, I was moved – my heart softened. Why wouldn’t it? Just 1% of Campbell’s shares is worth hundreds of millions. 10% of the shares was something I could never earn in my entire life, even working as the director of the design department. I decided to put my thoughts aside and focus my attention on a new design I was working on. Not knowing how long had passed, later that afternoon, someone knocked on the door of my office. “Come in,” I said without raising my head. The door opened,