Ava's attempts to deflect Bella's teasing were futile, and she couldn't help but smile at her friend's persistence. " Okay, okay, let's drop it, " she said, trying to steer the conversation away from her boss. " How was your weekend? "Bella ignored her question and instead, stared at Ava suspiciously as she grinned " Mhhm, I can smell something brewing "Ava rolled her eyes " It's coffee, duh "" You know that's not what I meant " Bella retorted playfully and they laughed. Their conversation continued, veering away from the subject of Bryan but leaving Ava with a lingering warmth mixed with a tinge of embarrassment at the unexpected teasing from Bella. Bella's playful banter had momentarily lightened Ava's mood, yet the thoughts about maintaining a professional demeanor lingered at the back of her mind. Ava busied herself with work, maintaining her usual efficiency and dedication. Yet, in fleeting moments between meetings and tasks, her thoughts involuntarily strayed back to Bryan,
Setting aside the dishes, she headed for a refreshing shower, allowing the warm water to soothe her tired muscles and clear her mind.Dressed in comfortable loungewear, she settled onto her couch, scrolling through Netflix, searching for a show to unwind with. Just as she was about to select a series, her phone screen lit up with Bryan's name flashing across it. Her heart skipped a beat at the unexpected call." Talk of the devil, " she mumbled to herself with a smile, deliberately delaying answering the call to collect her thoughts. She allowed herself a moment to appreciate the rush of emotions that came with the sight of his name on the screen.Taking a deep breath to compose herself, Ava finally answered the call, her voice calm and collected. " Hi, Bryan. What's up? " she greeted him casually, masking the subtle excitement that danced within her.Bryan's voice, warm and familiar, flowed through the phone. " Hey, Ava. I hope I'm not disturbing you, " he began, his tone laced with
As the morning light filtered through her window, Ava stirred from her sleep, a gentle smile curving her lips. The weight that had burdened her heart had dissipated overnight, thanks to Bryan's unexpected visit and their heartfelt reconciliation. Rising with a sense of relief, she moved through her apartment, the atmosphere tinged with a newfound serenity.With deliberate care, she perused her wardrobe, selecting an outfit that mirrored her inner calm, each garment chosen with the intent of exuding confidence and peace. A touch of makeup brought a subtle radiance to her face, a reflection of the joy she felt within. Examining her reflection in the mirror, she couldn't help but feel grateful for the resolution that had dawned upon her. **********************In the tranquil embrace of his sunlit apartment, Bryan stirred from his sleep, a faint grin illuminating his face as he reminisced about the previous night's crucial conversation with Ava. The weight that had plague
As the day progressed at the office, Ava found herself engrossed in her tasks, her mind occasionally drifting back to the delightful text from Bryan earlier. As she was wrapping up her work and preparing to head home, her phone buzzed softly, signaling a new message from Bryan.Bryan's Message: " Hey, Ava. How about dinner tonight at a new Italian place? "Her eyes widened with excitement and a soft gasp escaped her lips. " Yes! " she whispered to herself, her heart fluttering with anticipation. However, amid the thrill of the invitation, a whisper of doubt brushed against her thoughts.She replied to the text a minute later, trying to make it look casual " Sure, what time? "He replied almost immediately " What do you say to coming to pick you up by 7pm? "" Sounds good " She replied to the text and replaced the phone in her bag. " Are we moving too fast? " Ava questioned silently, a brief moment of contemplation clouding her excitement. Nevertheless, determined to relish the joy of
" Enough, Bella! " Ava said quickly as her cheeks turned a light shade of pink in embarrassment. The smirk remained on Bella's face " So are you ready to talk now, darling? "Ava glared at her " You're one evil b*tch, you know "Bella laughed " And you love me, right? "Ava rolled her eyes " I hate you " she muttered. Bella ignored her comment, knowing Ava didn't mean it and asked instead " So how did you feel when... You know, when he touched you? "Ava stuttered " I... I... " She sighed and stared blankly into space. Bella nodded encouragingly without saying a word as she waited for Ava to talk. " I felt like a woman " Ava mumbled more to herself as images of their night together flashed through her mind. " Huh? " Bella asked as she strained to hear what Ava said. " I felt like a woman, Bella " Ava repeated, louder this time. " Yay!! " Bella exclaimed excitedly. " Relax Ava and enjoy this feeling, okay? I think it's the beginning of something good " Bella added, grinning fro
As Ava and Bella continued their conversation about Bella's budding romance, Bella's keen observation skills caught a movement outside the window." Okayy, I think your man is here, " Bella teased with a mischievous grin, playfully nudging Ava.Ava couldn't help but roll her eyes in response to Bella's teasing. " I'll go get it, " she quipped over her shoulder as she made her way to the door, trying to hide her growing excitement.With an eager anticipation tingling within her, Ava reached the door and pulled it open, revealing Bryan standing on her doorstep. Her breath hitched in her throat as she found herself momentarily speechless, captivated by the sight of him.Bryan stood tall and confident, exuding an air of both sophistication and authority. Dressed impeccably in his chosen outfit, he looked every bit the wealthy and powerful man he was. His attire, complemented by his confident stance, bespoke a sense of grace and refinement.Ava stared at Bryan wordlessly, her heart flutter
" I must say, Ava, you took my breath away. The gown really suits you, " Bryan complimented her once more, his voice sincere and filled with admiration.Ava blushed at his heartfelt words. " All thanks to you for getting me the gown. I could have worn one of the ones I have, though, " she admitted modestly, feeling a slight tinge of self-consciousness.Bryan shook his head gently, dismissing her notion. " No, princess, " he replied firmly but tenderly, his eyes meeting hers in the rearview mirror.The endearing nickname sent a warm flutter through Ava's chest, and she couldn't help but smile at the affectionate term he used. She felt a sense of comfort and reassurance in his presence.Bryan continued driving, engaging in light conversation, making Ava feel at ease. As they ventured toward their destination, a serene ambiance filled the car, punctuated by the subtle exchange of heartfelt words and gentle gestures, setting the tone for a promising evening ahead.As Bryan's sleek car app
With a renewed sense of poise and confidence, Ava walked out of the restroom, the brief but pleasant exchange lingering in her thoughts, adding an extra warmth to the evening.As she made her way back to the table, Bryan's attentive gaze didn't go unnoticed. Concern etched across his features, he looked at her with genuine care." Are you okay? " Bryan inquired softly, his eyes scanning her face thoroughly, searching for any signs of discomfort.Ava offered a reassuring smile and nodded, trying to dispel any worry. " Yeah, I'm fine, " she assured him, masking the lingering surprise from her encounter in the restroom.Their conversation was momentarily interrupted by the arrival of a waitress, who approached their table with a radiant smile. In her hands was a beautifully arranged bouquet." This is on the house, for you both. You won the best couple tonight, " the waitress announced cheerfully, presenting the bouquet to Ava and Bryan.Ava was taken aback by the unexpected gesture, fee