Ava’s POVI woke up to the soft light of morning filtering through the curtains, but my chest felt heavy, as though the weight of the night still lingered. The dream clung to me like cobwebs, vivid and cruel, pulling me back into memories I’d tried so hard to bury.I sat up and began to prepare myself for the day ahead; we were here on a business trip, and I needed to focus on what came next.I found myself staring at the glossy brochure of Logan's company. Every page was like something out of a sci-fi movie: full house smart home systems that practically breathed for you, drones zipping through cityscapes delivering packages, and driverless cars gliding along sleek, futuristic highways. It was impressive—intimidating, even.Still, my gaze kept drifting to the section about their high-end supermarket chain. Compared to the other options, this was familiar territory. I had experience in supermarket chains, though nothing quite as glamorous as what Logan’s company seemed to offer. I wa
Ava’s POVThe moment we stepped into the supermarket, I felt like I’d been dropped into a parallel universe. This wasn’t a grocery store—it was an experience, one that practically screamed exclusivity. Between the marble floors, perfectly curated displays, and a café in the center that could rival any upscale coffee shop, it was clear that this wasn’t the kind of place most people would shop for bread and milk.“Logan,” I said, my tone clipped as I turned to him, “the brochure didn’t mention this place required a membership card or that it catered exclusively to people with deep pockets. That’s a pretty significant omission.”Logan, ever the composed businessman, didn’t flinch. Instead, he nodded, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at his lips. “That’s an oversight on our part. I’ll make sure it’s corrected for future collaborations.”I smirked, though inside, I was rolling my eyes hard enough to strain something. “An oversight, huh?”“Absolutely,” he replied, completely unfazed. “A
Ava’s POVThe atmosphere between us felt heavy as we continued to discuss the project. I leaned forward, trying to keep my tone even but firm. “Logan, with the global economy in decline, your target customer base is shrinking. High-income households aren’t immune to financial pressures, and if you don’t adapt, your market share will inevitably take a hit.”Logan arched an eyebrow, his expression as composed as ever. “Adapt how, exactly? By catering to a demographic that doesn’t value what we offer?”“By reconsidering your approach,” I countered, trying to rein in my frustration. “You’ve built your brand on exclusivity and quality, but even the wealthiest customers are tightening their belts. If you adjusted your strategy—offered something more accessible—you’d be widening your net instead of watching it shrink.”He chuckled softly, a sound that felt more dismissive than amused. “Ava, you’re overlooking a fundamental truth about our business. Our products are the freshest available, fl
Ava’s POVAs the elevator doors slid open, my stomach sank. Leo stood there, his sharp eyes locking onto us like a predator spotting its prey. His expression was a storm brewing, and I could feel the anger radiating off him even before he spoke. Logan stepped out first, his shoulders stiff with tension, and I followed reluctantly, unsure of how bad this was about to get.“Leo,” Logan said, his voice steady but edged with irritation. “What are you doing here?”Leo’s arms crossed over his chest, his posture rigid. “I went to the bar to find you, but you weren’t there. So I came here. And now I see why.”He jabbed a finger in my direction, his lip curling in disgust. “You’re with her.” The venom in his tone made my skin crawl. “Logan, I can’t believe you’re letting yourself be played by this... gold digger.”My jaw tightened, but I said nothing. Logan’s hand twitched at his side, his voice growing harder. “That’s enough, Leo.”Leo let out a bitter laugh, his eyes narrowing. “Enough? I’m
Ava’s POVThe apartment was small but cozy, every corner infused with warmth and personality. The balcony doors were open, letting in a gentle evening breeze that carried the faint scent of blooming jasmine from a plant Daniel insisted on nurturing. The kitchen, though compact, had a charm of its own, with mismatched tiles and a wooden shelf filled with jars of spices, tea, and small knickknacks we’d collected together. But the centerpiece of the apartment was the wall in the living room—our wall.Daniel had painted it himself, a vibrant mural of two figures standing side by side against a starry night sky. He called it our “couple wall,” a symbol of our journey together. I smiled every time I looked at it, remembering how he’d stayed up late, paint smudged on his cheek, meticulously bringing the design to life.Once we were inside, Daniel closed the door behind us, and his hands immediately found my waist. I turned to face him, his green eyes glowing with that familiar, gentle light.
Logan’s POVThe screen flickered to life as I joined the online meeting with Anderson and Leo. Their faces appeared in the little boxes. Anderson looked worried, his brow furrowed, while Leo seemed his usual confident self. I leaned back in my chair, the leather creaking under the weight of the day’s exhaustion, and reached for the box of cigars on the desk.“Logan! Finally,” Anderson greeted, adjusting his tie. “Thought you were going to ghost us. Again.”I smirked faintly, cutting the cigar’s end. “Some of us still have to work, Anderson.”“Work or brood?” Leo interjected, swirling a glass of what looked like bourbon. “Word on the street is you’re losing your edge.”I lit the cigar with a practiced motion, inhaling the first bitter drag before responding. “And you’ve been talking to the wrong people.”Anderson chuckled, but his expression sobered quickly. “So, what’s the deal? You’ve been off your game. Trouble with that new project? The cooperation with...” He snapped his fingers,
Logan’s POVThe buzz of voices from the online meeting barely registered as I sat back in my chair, staring at the screen. Leo and Anderson were still arguing about some investment strategy, but their words blurred into background noise. My thoughts had drifted, pulled into a vortex I’d tried to avoid. It started with Leo’s earlier comment about Ava—a single spark that reignited memories I thought I’d buried.Ava. Her name echoed in my mind like a melody I couldn’t forget, no matter how much I wanted to. The past weeks had been a whirlwind of emotions, but one moment stood out, refusing to fade. A week after Ava stormed out of my birthday party, I convinced myself to let the dust settle. Our conflict had been a fire fueled by misunderstandings and stubborn pride, but deep down, I thought Ava wouldn’t really walk away. I had been arrogant, assuming she’d eventually come back, ready to smooth things over like she always did.That illusion shattered when Zara, Ava’s friend, appeared in
Ava's POV The metallic hum of the elevator was a familiar sound as I leaned against the cool mirrored wall, scrolling through my phone. My thumb froze over the screen when a new message popped up from Logan's secretary:Good morning, Ava. Mr. Logan regrets not being able to attend your company's party recently. He’s been tied up with urgent matters.A slight crease formed between my brows as I reread the message. Logan missing our event wasn’t surprising—a man like him had no shortage of priorities. Shrugging it off, I slipped the phone back into my bag just as the elevator dinged, signaling my arrival at the studio floor.The moment I stepped out, a vibrant display of color greeted me. A large bouquet of deep red roses and lilies sat prominently on the table in the breakroom, their fragrance subtly perfuming the air. I stopped in my tracks, blinking at the unexpected sight.“What’s this?” I murmured, stepping closer.“Congratulations, Ava!” My coworker Emma’s voice chimed from acros
Ava’s POVMy mind felt like it was swimming through a thick fog as I gradually woke up from what felt like a coma. My body was heavy, yet a strange warmth coursed through my veins. My senses were heightened, and I felt an unfamiliar heat spreading through me. As my eyes fluttered open, I realized I was in a luxurious hotel room, one that I didn't recognize at all.The soft sound of water running caught my attention, and I turned my head to see a man showering in the glass-enclosed bathroom. Panic surged through me. Where was I? Who was this man? My heart raced as I looked around the room, noticing clothes strewn about, and none of them belonged to Daniel.Fighting the rising sense of dread, I swung my legs over the edge of the bed and tried to stand, my knees wobbling slightly. I needed to get out of here. I stumbled towards the door, my vision still a bit blurry, but determined to escape. Just as my hand touched the doorknob, a strong arm wrapped around my waist and lifted me off my
Ava’s POVI weaved through the glittering crowd, my heels clicking softly against the polished floors as I searched for Daniel. The estate was massive, and between the lavish decorations and the endless sea of well-dressed guests, finding one person felt like an impossible task.On the way, I ran into a small group of my colleagues, who were huddled together near the wine bar, sipping from crystal glasses and laughing a little too loudly. The unmistakable buzz of gossip filled the air, and before I could slip away unnoticed, one of them spotted me."Ava! Come here, you have to hear this," Emma, one of the more outspoken ones, said with a mischievous grin.I hesitated for a second but decided that a quick chat wouldn’t hurt. Besides, maybe someone had seen Daniel."What are you all talking about?" I asked, accepting the glass of wine someone handed me."Oh, just the latest scandal," Lisa smirked, swirling her drink. "You know the financial man, right?"I raised an eyebrow. "Which one?
Ava’s POVThe cool night air brushed against my skin as Logan led me onto the balcony. The noise of the party dulled behind us, leaving only the distant hum of music and laughter drifting through the open doors. The scent of pine and crisp winter air mixed with the faint traces of Logan’s cologne—clean, understated, nothing like the overpowering scents most men in his circle wore.I took a deep breath, glancing over my shoulder toward the ballroom. Luke was nowhere in sight. That was all I needed."Thanks for the save," I said briskly. "But I should get back."I turned to leave, but Logan’s voice stopped me."Do you hate me that much?"His words weren’t sharp or accusatory. They were quiet. Almost curious.I hesitated, caught off guard.Turning slowly, I met his gaze. In the dim light, his expression was unreadable, but something about the way he was looking at me made me pause.*"I don’t—" I stopped myself, exhaling. "That’s not it."It wasn’t a lie, but it wasn’t the full truth eith
Logan’s POVFrom the balcony above, I swirled the dark liquid in my glass, watching the dance floor below with idle amusement. The waltz was slow, deliberate—the kind of dance that turned reality into a dream, a carefully orchestrated illusion.And in the center of it all—Daniel and Ava.My fingers tightened around the glass. Daniel’s hand rested on her waist, his movements smooth, practiced. He smiled, soaking in the admiration of those around him, the perfect picture of confidence. And Ava, wrapped in that emerald dress, moved with effortless grace, oblivious to the storm brewing above her.I exhaled slowly, letting the cool air settle against my skin.I wasn’t sure what irritated me more—Daniel’s unshaken happiness or the fact that Ava seemed to believe in it.How fragile. I took another sip of my drink. How easily this can all be undone.Setting my glass down on the marble railing, I pulled out my phone. The moment the call connected, I didn’t bother with pleasantries."Leave."Do
Ava’s POVI couldn't stop thinking about the watch.This one, with its delicate, hand-painted details, felt too sentimental for him. And yet, he still wore it. What confused me even more was that the woman beside him wasn’t Cassie.Emily’s presence should have explained everything. She was charming, poised, and beautiful. The kind of woman who fit effortlessly into Logan’s world. But the watch… that felt like something different.I shook the thought away as Daniel and I stepped further into the winery, surrounded by the warm hum of conversation and the rich scent of aged wine. The place was a masterpiece in itself—high wooden beams stretched overhead, walls lined with bottles of vintage collections, and delicate chandeliers that cast golden light over the polished floors.Before I could say anything to Daniel, a group of his colleagues spotted us."Ava, you have to come with us!" One of them looped her arm around mine before I could react."We’re going on a tour of the winery, and you
Ava’s POVChristmas Eve should have felt magical—twinkling lights, warm laughter, and the scent of cinnamon and pine filling the air. But as I sat in Daniel’s car, watching the city lights blur past the window, I couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling curling in my stomach.Logan.Daniel had told me earlier, almost offhandedly, that Logan’s company had partnered with his for a major project. And as if that wasn’t enough, Logan had decided to host a grand Christmas Eve party to celebrate.I smoothed my hands over the expensive dress I was wearing—a deep emerald satin, the color chosen to match my eyes. Daniel had picked it out for me, along with the matching heels and the diamond bracelet clasped around my wrist. He had returned from his business trip with bags of gifts, showering me with luxuries I never asked for. A new phone, designer bags, and even a limited-edition perfume that I was certain cost more than my monthly salary. And yet, every time I voiced my concerns, he brushed them of
Ava’s POVThe soft glow of the restaurant’s candlelight reflected in the emerald pendant that now rested against my collarbone. I traced my fingers over the delicate silver chain, still in disbelief at the exquisite gift. The gemstone shimmered, mirroring the very color of my own eyes.“Daniel, this is too much,” I murmured, unable to hide the hesitation in my voice. “You didn’t have to—”Daniel reached across the table, taking my hand in his. His touch was warm, reassuring. “And yet, I wanted to,” he said with a small smile. “You gave me this.” He gestured to the sleek tie clip pinned to his collar. “And don’t even try to say it’s not the same. It means just as much.”I glanced at the gift I had carefully picked out for him, a simple yet elegant tie clip engraved with his initials. It wasn’t extravagant, but it carried meaning—just like this necklace, despite the luxury of it.“You always do this,” I sighed, shaking my head. “You make it impossible to argue with you.”“That’s the goa
Logan’s POVThe bar was dimly lit, the scent of aged whiskey and expensive cologne lingering in the air. The private lounge buzzed with low chatter and laughter, glasses clinking as Leo leaned back, smirking over the rim of his drink."Now, this is a surprise," Andrew drawled, eyeing the woman draped casually across the leather couch. "I thought you were off playing house with your perfect little fiancé."Cassie tilted her head, her lips curling into an amused smile. "Benjamin got boring."I raised a brow. "Bored? Or bored of you?"Leo and Andrew let out low chuckles, but Cassie just rolled her eyes. "Not the point." She swirled the wine in her glass, watching the deep red liquid catch the light. "I was supposed to stay another two months, but honestly? I needed a break. So, I came home early—alone."Alone.That was enough to make everyone pause. Cassie wasn’t the type to ditch a man without reason. Unless she was already looking for something else.Andrew leaned forward, intrigued. "
Ava’s POVI barely tasted the breakfast set before me. The eggs were cooked to perfection, the toast lightly buttered, the coffee rich and smooth—but every bite felt hollow, like I was simply going through the motions. The weight of last night still clung to me, a heavy, suffocating presence that refused to be shaken off.I left as soon as I could, stepping out into the crisp morning air, inhaling deeply as if it could cleanse me of everything. I needed to go home.But when I got there, silence greeted me.Daniel hadn’t called. Not a single message. No missed calls. Nothing.I sat on the couch, my fingers tightening around my phone. He should have been worried. He should have asked where I was. The longer I waited, the heavier the pit in my stomach grew.It was late afternoon when the door finally opened.Daniel stepped inside, his face unreadable—until he saw me. His expression shifted in an instant, a flicker of something dark flashing in his eyes before his lips pressed into a thin