65

Tears welled up in her eyes, her voice quivering. " I just wanted you to know how much you mean to me, even if it's not the same for you "

His heart sank at her raw display of emotion " I value our professional relationship, Lauren. But this conversation needs to end here "

Before she could respond, he turned away, striding out of the office, leaving her standing there, visibly shaken. Despite his efforts to maintain boundaries, a sense of unease lingered within him, the weight of Lauren's emotions adding to the burdens of the day.

As he drove home, the conversation replayed in his mind, a persistent nagging at his conscience. The longing for Ava's calming presence intensified, a beacon of solace amidst the turmoil of his professional and personal obligations.

Arriving at the mansion, Alex was greeted by the soothing ambiance of home. He found Ava in the living room, engrossed in a book, the warmth of her smile immediately easing his tension.

" Hey " she greeted, noticing the fatigue