Max stood outside Becca's lodging house, adjusting his tie as he gazed up at the charming building. He had been looking forward to this visit all day, ever since meeting Ava in the town square.Taking a deep breath, he knocked on the door, and Becca answered with a warm smile. "Max! Come on in. Ava's just finishing up her chores."As he entered, Max spotted Ava in the corner, dusting a shelf with a flourish. Her hair was tied back in a neat bun, and her apron was spotless. She looked up, catching his eye, and a faint blush rose to her cheeks."Hi again," Max said, approaching her with a smile. "I hope I'm not interrupting."Ava set down her duster, her hands smoothing her apron. "Not at all. I'm just finishing up."Becca bustled over, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Max, can I get you a cup of tea? Ava, why don't you take a break and chat with Max in the parlor?"As they sat down, Max couldn't help but notice the way Ava's eyes sparkled in the soft light. "So, Ava, I have to say,
Sebastian, the CEO of Denizens Pharmaceuticals, sat behind his sleek, mahogany desk, his eyes fixed on the group of shareholders gathered before him. The tension in the room was palpable, the air thick with the weight of their demands.At the forefront of the group stood Reginald Thornton-Furst, Lila's father, his expression stern and unyielding. "Sebastian, our shares have been plummeting for months. We demand to know what you plan to do to rectify this situation."Sebastian's gaze narrowed, his jaw clenched in determination. "I understand your concerns, Reginald, but I assure you, we're working tirelessly to develop new products and expand our market reach."Reginald snorted, his voice dripping with disdain. "Empty promises, Sebastian. We've heard it all before. If our shares don't rebound within the next quarter, we'll have no choice but to remove you as CEO."The room fell silent, the threat hanging like a guillotine's blade, ready to drop. Sebastian's eyes flashed with defiance,
The following morning, at the lodging house, Becca clapped her hands together, a determined look on her face. "Okay, Ava, let's get you ready for that interview! We'll make sure you knock Max's socks off."Ava laughed, feeling a surge of excitement. "Thanks, Becca. I'm a bit nervous."Becca waved her hand dismissively. "Don't be nervous, you'll do great. Now, let's start with your outfit. We want you to look professional, but also showcase your personality."Ava nodded, and together they rummaged through her closet, finally settling on a crisp white blouse and a flowing skirt that highlighted her bright smile.Next, Becca worked her magic on Ava's hair, styling it in loose waves that framed her face. "You look stunning, Ava," Becca said, stepping back to admire her handiwork.Ava blushed, feeling a sense of confidence wash over her. "Thanks, Becca. I feel like I can take on the world."Becca grinned. "That's the spirit! Now, let's practice your interview skills. I'll be Max, and we'll
Lila swept into Sebastian's office, her designer heels clicking on the polished floor. "Sebastian, darling! I hope I'm not interrupting anything important."Sebastian rose from his chair, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Lila, always a pleasure. What brings you here today?"Lila settled into the plush couch, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I've got a proposition for you, Sebastian. You know I've been modeling for a while now, and I've just been offered a contract with Ravenwood Remedy for their new product launch."Sebastian's expression turned thoughtful. "Congratulations, Lila. That's quite an opportunity."Lila leaned forward, her voice taking on a persuasive tone. "Yes, it is. But I have to admit, Sebastian, I'm not entirely sold on Ravenwood Remedy. Their values don't quite align with mine, and I'm not sure I want to be associated with them long-term."Sebastian raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Go on."Lila's smile grew wider. "I was thinking, why not offer me a contract with D
Lila's eyes sparkled with amusement as she gazed at Ava. She wondered how Sebastian knew her. She herself was seeing Ava for the first time. She must have arrived when Lila went to the capital. She wondered if Ava could be a new threat to her carefully knitted plans to win Sebastian back. She would nip this in the bud."Oh, Sebastian, don't be so harsh. I think Ava could be...useful to me."Ava stopped on her tracks, her eyes narrowed, sensing a trap. "What do you mean?"Lila's smile grew wider. "I mean, I will hire you as my personal assistant for a week. I just got a modeling contract today and I need to prepare. You can help me with my schedule, and...other tasks." Sebastian raised an eyebrow. "Lila, I don't think that's a good idea."But Lila waved her hand dismissively. "Oh, don't worry, Sebastian. I can handle Ava. And who knows, maybe she'll surprise us."Ava hesitated, unsure of Lila's motives. But the promise of high pay and the chance to gain insight into Denizens Pharmaceu
Becca's Boarding House, a humble yet welcoming establishment, stood as a beacon of comfort and warmth in the heart of Wet Creek town. The facade, adorned with a cheerful sign creaking in the gentle breeze, presented a cozy appearance, with curtains of faded floral patterns and a porch that invited weary travelers to rest awhile. Inside, the atmosphere was simple yet sincere, with plain yet clean furnishings, and the scent of fresh-baked bread wafting from the kitchen.The common room, a warm and convivial space, featured a roaring fire, plush armchairs, and a well-worn piano, where guests could share tales of their adventures or simply enjoy a quiet evening. Upstairs, the modest yet tidy rooms offered a respite from the rigors of the trail, with soft blankets, featherbeds, and the promise of a restful night's sleep.Becca, the kindly proprietor, ensured that every guest felt at home, serving hearty meals and offering a sympathetic ear to those in need. Her boarding house was a haven f
As the hour drew to a close, Colton reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair behind Ava's ear. The touch sent shivers down her spine, and she felt a flutter in her chest. Their eyes met, and the past seemed to melt away. Colton's eyes burned with a deep longing, and Ava's heart skipped a beat as she realized her feelings for him were still alive.In this fleeting moment, Colton's efforts had bridged the gap between them. Ava's icy demeanor had thawed, and she felt a spark of connection reignite. The air was charged with tension, and Colton knew he had taken the first step towards winning her back.As the moment hung in the air, Colton's face drew closer to Ava's, his eyes locked on hers. He could see the spark of connection, the hint of feelings rekindled. Without thinking, he leaned in, his lips inches from Ava's.But Ava's instincts took over. She felt a rush of anger and betrayal, remembering the pain Colton had once caused her. Her hand flashed up, and she slapped him acros
As Ava headed to the kitchen to prepare dinner, Colton couldn't help but watch her, his eyes fixed on the sway of her hips. He felt a stirring within him, a desire he couldn't ignore.Ava, sensing his gaze, smiled to herself. She knew she had his attention, and she was determined to keep it. She would teach him today, not to mess with seemingly weak beings. If he had not rejected her when mated to him, things would have been different between them. They would have held their mating ceremony by now and she would have grown in love with him, supporting him and ruling their back as a good Luna. She wondered how Sarah could leave him alone to come on this journey. Was she also performing some Luna duties? Or…maybe she was already carrying a pup! And her roving mate was seeking additional avenues to satisfy his pleasures. Well, he would get beyond that today. Ava smiled at Colton, a smile of the slaughterer taking an innocent sheep to its final destination.As they sat down to eat, Ava mad