Chapter 97

The shrill ringtone cut through the hushed atmosphere of Ava's apartment, disrupting the quiet cocoon she had wrapped herself in. Her phone, an unwelcome intruder, persisted with its insistent call. The name " Jayden " illuminated the screen, triggering a visceral response from Ava. Weariness etched across her face, she let out a subdued hiss, a fleeting release of frustration.

Reluctantly, Ava extended her trembling hand to the phone, her movements languid and deliberate. She hesitated for a moment, contemplating whether to endure another conversation with Jayden. The decision was made for her as the ceaseless ringing refused to yield, demanding her attention.

With a sigh that carried the weight of her exhaustion, Ava pressed the receiver button, silently acknowledging the intrusion. The connection was established, and in the ensuing silence, she braced herself for Jayden's voice to pierce through the airwaves. The ambient stillness held a tension, an unspoken expectation of an excha