CHAPTER ONE - The Unexpected Encounter

Ava Hart stood in front of her closet, hands on her hips, surveying the array of dresses hanging before her. The high-profile business event she was attending on behalf of her firm loomed large in her mind, and she wanted to make the right impression.

"Too flashy," she muttered, pushing aside a sequined number. "Too casual," she said, frowning at a floral sundress. Her eyes landed on a sleek, navy blue sheath dress. "Perfect."

As she slipped it on, her roommate, Jess, poked her head into the room. "Ooh, looking sharp, Ava! Big night?"

Ava smoothed down the fabric, turning to check her reflection in the full-length mirror. "It's that networking event I told you about. The one with all the bigwigs from the finance world."

Jess whistled low. "Fancy. You nervous?"

"A little," Ava admitted, reaching for a pair of modest pearl earrings. "But I've got this. It's just schmoozing, right? I can handle schmoozing."

"You'll knock 'em dead," Jess said with a grin. "Just don't let any of those stuffy executives bore you to tears."

Ava laughed, slipping on a pair of sensible but stylish heels. "I'll do my best. Wish me luck!"

As Ava stepped out of her apartment building, the cool evening air kissed her skin. She hailed a taxi, giving the driver the address of the upscale hotel where the event was being held. As the city lights blurred past the window, she took a deep breath, centering herself.

The hotel lobby was a bustle of activity when she arrived. Men in sharp suits and women in designer dresses milled about, their voices a constant hum of conversation punctuated by the occasional burst of laughter. Ava straightened her shoulders and made her way to the ballroom.

The space was elegantly decorated, with crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over the proceedings. Waiters in crisp white shirts weaved through the crowd, offering champagne and hors d'oeuvres. Ava accepted a glass of sparkling water, not wanting to dull her senses with alcohol.

"Ava Hart, isn't it?" a voice to her left said. She turned to see Richard Kensington, a senior partner at a rival firm.

"Mr. Kensington, it's a pleasure to meet you," Ava said, extending her hand for a firm handshake.

He smiled, clearly impressed by her poise. "I've heard good things about your work. How are you finding the event so far?"

"It's quite impressive," Ava replied, gesturing to the room. "Though I admit, I'm more interested in the people than the decor. There are so many brilliant minds here tonight."

Richard chuckled. "Indeed there are. And you seem well-equipped to hold your own among them. Tell me, what are your thoughts on the recent market fluctuations?"

As Ava launched into a thoughtful analysis, she felt herself relaxing. This was her element – intelligent conversation about the work she loved. She and Richard were soon joined by others, and Ava found herself at the center of a lively discussion about emerging market trends.

"You've got quite a head on your shoulders, Ms. Hart," a woman in her fifties said approvingly. "Your firm must be thrilled to have you."

Ava smiled modestly. "Thank you, Ms. Cho. I'm just passionate about what I do."

As the night wore on, Ava continued to mingle, her initial nervousness long forgotten. She was in the middle of a conversation with a group of investment bankers when a commotion near the bar caught her attention.

"Hey, you! Waitress!" a loud, slightly slurred voice called out. "Another scotch, pronto!"

Ava turned to see a man in his late thirties, impeccably dressed in a tailored suit that probably cost more than her monthly rent. His ruggedly handsome features were marred by the arrogant sneer on his face as he snapped his fingers at her.

For a moment, Ava was too stunned to respond. Then, drawing herself up to her full height, she calmly walked over to him.

"I beg your pardon," she said, her voice cool and controlled, "but I'm not a waitress. I'm a guest at this event, just like you."

The man blinked, clearly taken aback. "Oh, I... I'm sorry, I just assumed..."

"You assumed wrong," Ava replied, her gaze steady. "And even if I were staff, that's no way to speak to someone. A simple 'excuse me' would suffice."

A small crowd had gathered, watching the exchange with interest. The man's face flushed red, a mix of embarrassment and amusement crossing his features.

"My apologies," he said, a hint of a smirk playing at his lips. "I'm Max Bennett. And you are...?"

"Not interested in continuing this conversation," Ava replied smoothly. With a polite nod to the onlookers, she turned on her heel and walked away, leaving Max staring after her, an intrigued look in his eyes.

The rest of the evening passed without incident, and Ava left feeling satisfied with her networking efforts. As she climbed into bed that night, she allowed herself a small smile. She'd held her own in a room full of power players and even put an arrogant jerk in his place. Not bad for a night's work.

The next morning, Ava arrived at the office early, as usual. She was at her desk, reviewing her notes from the previous night's event, when a buzz of excitement swept through the office.

"Did you hear?" her colleague, Tom, whispered as he rushed past her desk. "The new CEO is here! They're calling an all-hands meeting in ten minutes."

Ava's brow furrowed. "New CEO? I didn't know we were getting new leadership."

Tom shrugged. "It was all very hush-hush. Come on, let's get good seats!"

As they filed into the conference room, Ava couldn't shake a feeling of unease. Something about this sudden change felt off. She took a seat near the front, her pen poised over her notepad, ready to jot down any important information.

The room fell silent as the door opened and in walked... Max Bennett, the man from the party. Ava felt her stomach drop.

Max's eyes scanned the room, a confident smile on his face. When his gaze landed on Ava, he paused, recognition flickering in his eyes. The smirk that spread across his face made Ava's blood run cold.

"Good morning, everyone," Max said, his voice smooth and authoritative. "I'm Maxwell Bennett, your new CEO. I'm looking forward to working with all of you to take this company to new heights."

As he launched into his vision for the company, Ava tried to focus on his words, but her mind was reeling. How could this be happening?

After the meeting, as everyone filed out, Max's voice cut through the chatter. "Ms. Hart, a word please?"

Ava steeled herself and approached him. "Yes, Mr. Bennett?"

"I believe we got off on the wrong foot last night," he said, his tone light but his eyes challenging. "I hope we can move past that and work together effectively. In fact, I'd like you to be my personal secretary."

Ava blinked, caught off guard. "I... I'm flattered, Mr. Bennett, but I'm not sure that's the best use of my skills. I have a background in finance and—"

CHAPTER TWO - Disrupted Plans

"And as my secretary, you'll be privy to all the most important financial decisions in this company," Max interrupted. "It's a promotion, Ms. Hart. Unless you'd rather I find someone else who's more... cooperative?"

The threat was thinly veiled, and Ava felt her jaw clench. "No, that won't be necessary. I'd be happy to take on the role."

"Excellent," Max said, his smile not quite reaching his eyes. "You can start by organizing my schedule for the week. I have a lot of... commitments to juggle."

As Max walked away, Ava took a deep breath, trying to center herself. She wouldn't let him get to her. She'd do her job, and do it well, no matter what he threw at her.

Over the next few weeks, Ava quickly realized what a challenge she'd taken on. Max's reputation as a playboy wasn't exaggerated – he seemed more interested in attending parties and charm his way through meetings than actually running the company.

One morning, as Ava was trying to coordinate a crucial board meeting, Max strolled in two hours late, looking like he'd just rolled out of bed.

"Mr. Bennett," Ava said, her voice tight with frustration, "the board has been waiting for you. They're not happy."

Max shrugged, reaching for a cup of coffee. "They'll get over it. Did you reschedule my lunch with Sophia? I promised her we'd try that new sushi place."

Ava's pen nearly snapped in her hand. "Mr. Bennett, with all due respect, that lunch conflicts with the presentation to our biggest investors. The one you've already rescheduled twice."

"Ah, right," Max said, not looking particularly concerned. "Well, push the investors back again. Sophia hates to be kept waiting."

"Mr. Bennett," Ava said, struggling to keep her voice level, "I must insist that you reconsider. These investors are crucial to—"

"Ms. Hart," Max cut her off, his tone suddenly sharp, "I believe I made myself clear. Move the investor meeting. That's an order."

Ava bit her tongue, nodding curtly. "Yes, Mr. Bennett."

As Max sauntered off to charm the board members, Ava sank into her chair, feeling defeated. How was she supposed to do her job when her boss seemed determined to run the company into the ground?

That evening, long after most of the staff had gone home, Ava was still at her desk, frantically trying to salvage the mess Max had made of their schedule. She'd managed to appease the investors for now, but she knew she couldn't keep this up forever.

"Still here, Ms. Hart?" Max's voice startled her. She looked up to see him leaning against the doorframe, his tie loosened and a glass of whiskey in his hand.

"Someone has to clean up the day's messes," she replied, unable to keep the edge out of her voice.

Max raised an eyebrow, looking amused. "You know, most people would be thrilled to work for me. The parties, the connections, the lifestyle... yet here you are, scowling at your computer like it personally offended you."

Ava met his gaze steadily. "I'm here to work, Mr. Bennett. To contribute to this company's success. Not to attend parties or make connections."

"And you think I'm not?" Max asked, his voice low.

"With all due respect, sir," Ava said, "your actions speak louder than your words. If you'll excuse me, I have work to finish."

She turned back to her computer, effectively dismissing him. She could feel Max's eyes on her, but she refused to look up again.

After a long moment, she heard him chuckle softly. "You're something else, Ava Hart," he murmured, almost to himself. Then, louder, "Don't stay too late. Even workaholics need sleep."

As his footsteps faded away, Ava finally allowed herself to relax slightly. She'd stood her ground, but she knew this was far from over. Max Bennett was used to getting his way, and he clearly saw her resistance as a challenge.

Well, she thought determinedly, if it's a challenge he wants, it's a challenge he'll get. I won't let him run this company into the ground, no matter what it takes.

With renewed energy, she turned back to her work, unaware that down the hall, Max was watching her through the glass walls of his office, a thoughtful expression on his face. The game, it seemed, was just beginning.

The morning sun had barely risen when Ava's phone buzzed incessantly, jolting her awake. Bleary-eyed, she fumbled for the device, her heart sinking as she read the stream of urgent messages. Max had decided to skip the crucial investor meeting – a meeting that could make or break the company's future – for a spontaneous yacht party with his friends.

"No, no, no," Ava muttered, panic rising in her chest as she hurriedly dressed. "This can't be happening."

She rushed to the office, her mind racing with potential solutions. As she burst through the doors, Max's receptionist, Linda, looked up in surprise.

"Ava? What's wrong?" Linda asked, concern etching her features.

"Everything," Ava gasped, feeling the onset of a panic attack. Her breathing quickened, and her vision began to blur. "Max... he's gone... the investors... we're going to lose everything..."

Linda quickly guided Ava to a chair, kneeling beside her. "Breathe, honey. Just breathe. That's it, nice and slow."

As Ava's breathing steadied, Linda spoke softly. "Now, tell me what's going on."

Ava explained the situation, her words tumbling out in a rush. Linda listened patiently, then squeezed Ava's hand reassuringly.

"You've got this, Ava," Linda said firmly. "I've seen you work miracles before. Those investors don't stand a chance against your quick thinking."

Ava took a deep breath, drawing strength from Linda's words. "You're right. I can do this. I have to."

With renewed determination, Ava set to work. She had mere hours to prepare for a meeting she hadn't expected to lead. As she pored over financial reports and projections, a plan began to form in her mind.

When the investors arrived, Ava greeted them with a confident smile that belied her inner turmoil.

"Gentlemen," she said smoothly, "I know you were expecting to meet with Mr. Bennett today, but he's been called away on an urgent matter. However, I assure you that I'm fully equipped to address any questions or concerns you may have."

One of the investors, a stern-looking man named Mr. Hargrove, frowned. "And you are...?"

"Ava Hart, Mr. Bennett's executive assistant," she replied, extending her hand. "I've been intimately involved in all aspects of this deal."

"With all due respect, Ms. Hart," another investor, Mr. Kenji, interjected, "we came here to speak with the CEO, not his assistant."

Ava's smile didn't falter. "I completely understand your concern, Mr. Kenji. But let me ask you this – did you come here to speak to a specific person, or to ensure that your investment is sound and profitable?"

The investors exchanged glances, caught off guard by her directness.

CHAPTER THREE - Under the Surface

"Because if it's the latter," Ava continued, "I can assure you that I'm more than capable of demonstrating why our company is worthy of your investment. In fact, I'd argue that my intimate knowledge of the day-to-day operations gives me a unique perspective that even Mr. Bennett might not have."

Mr. Hargrove raised an eyebrow, looking intrigued despite himself. "Alright, Ms. Hart. You have our attention. Impress us."

And impress them she did. For the next two hours, Ava led the investors through a comprehensive presentation of the company's financials, future projections, and growth strategies. She fielded questions with ease, her quick wit and deep knowledge evident in every response.

When Mr. Kenji raised concerns about recent market volatility, Ava was ready with a quip. "Mr. Kenji, trying to predict the market is like trying to nail jelly to a wall – messy and ultimately futile. What we offer instead is a solid strategy that can weather any storm."

Her comment elicited chuckles from the group, easing the tension in the room.

As the meeting drew to a close, Ava could sense a shift in the investors' attitudes. Where they had been skeptical and aloof at the start, they now leaned in, engaged and curious.

"Ms. Hart," Mr. Hargrove said as they prepared to leave, "I must say, you've given us a lot to think about. Your presentation was... unexpectedly illuminating."

Ava smiled, allowing herself a moment of pride. "Thank you, Mr. Hargrove. I'm glad I could provide some clarity. And please, don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions."

As the investors filed out, Ava let out a long breath. She'd done it. She'd managed to keep the deal alive, despite Max's irresponsible behavior.

Her relief was short-lived, however. Just as she was packing up the conference room, she heard a commotion in the hallway. Max had returned, and from the sound of it, he was not in a good mood.

"Where is she?" Max's voice boomed, slurring slightly. "Where's Ava?"

Ava steeled herself and stepped out into the hallway. "I'm right here, Mr. Bennett."

Max whirled to face her, his eyes blazing with anger... and something else. Was that fear? "You," he growled, grabbing her arm and pulling her towards his office. "We need to talk. Now."

Once inside, Max slammed the door shut and rounded on Ava. "What the hell do you think you're doing, interfering in my business dealings?"

Ava stood her ground, meeting his glare with one of her own. "Interfering? I was saving your business dealings, Mr. Bennett. Or did you forget about the crucial investor meeting you skipped for a yacht party?"

Max waved his hand dismissively, swaying slightly. "I had it under control. Those investors love me. They would've understood."

"Understood what?" Ava shot back, her frustration boiling over. "That you care more about partying than about the future of this company? That you're willing to risk everything we've worked for on a whim?"

"Don't you dare lecture me about this company," Max snarled, leaning in close. His breath reeked of expensive champagne. "I built this empire from the ground up. What have you done, huh? Push papers and answer phones?"

Ava felt her cheeks flush with anger. "I've done everything in my power to keep this company running smoothly despite your best efforts to run it into the ground. Do you have any idea how many fires I've had to put out because of your reckless behavior?"

Max scoffed, stumbling slightly as he moved to sit on the edge of his desk. "Reckless? I'm spontaneous, darling. It's called having a life. You should try it sometime."

"There's a difference between having a life and being irresponsible," Ava retorted. "You're the CEO, Mr. Bennett. People's livelihoods depend on you. Doesn't that mean anything to you?"

For a moment, something flickered in Max's eyes – a hint of vulnerability, quickly masked by bravado. "Of course it does. But you wouldn't understand. You're too busy being perfect all the time."

Ava sighed, suddenly feeling very tired. "I'm not trying to be perfect, Mr. Bennett. I'm just trying to do my job. And part of that job is making sure this company doesn't fall apart because its CEO decided to play hooky."

Max was quiet for a moment, swaying slightly as he regarded her. Then, abruptly, he straightened up. "Well, if you're so eager to do your job, let's see how you handle this. I want you to reschedule all of next week's meetings. I'm taking a spontaneous trip to Bali."

Ava's jaw dropped. "You can't be serious. We have the quarterly review, the board meeting, the-"

"All of it," Max interrupted, a challenging glint in his eye. "Consider it a test, Ms. Hart. Let's see how well you can juggle my personal plans and the company's needs."

Ava clenched her fists, biting back a retort. "Fine," she said through gritted teeth. "Is there anything else, Mr. Bennett?"

Max smirked, clearly enjoying her discomfort. "That'll be all for now, Ms. Hart. Oh, and do try to smile more. You look so serious all the time."

As Ava left the office, she could hear Max chuckling to himself. She wanted to scream, to quit, to tell him exactly what she thought of his childish behavior. But she couldn't. She had a job to do, no matter how difficult Max made it.

The next few days were a whirlwind of rescheduling and damage control. Ava worked late into the night, juggling Max's demands with the needs of the company. She was exhausted, frustrated, and beginning to question why she put up with it all.

On Friday evening, Ava left the office early for once. Her old friend Sarah was in the hospital for a routine procedure, and Ava had promised to visit. As she walked through the hospital corridors, her mind still buzzing with work concerns, she heard a familiar voice.

Ava's heels clicked against the polished linoleum floor as she navigated the maze-like hallways of St. Mary's Hospital. The antiseptic smell that permeated the air made her wrinkle her nose, a stark reminder of why she usually avoided these places. But for Sarah, she'd make an exception.

Her phone buzzed incessantly in her purse—probably Tim from accounting, fretting over the quarterly reports she'd left unfinished. Ava sighed, pushing away the nagging guilt. Sarah had been there for her through thick and thin; the least she could do was offer the same support now.

As she approached the general surgery ward, Ava's steps slowed. What would she say? It had been months since they'd last caught up properly, their busy lives pulling them in different directions. Would things be awkward? She shook her head, chiding herself for overthinking. This was Sarah, after all.

Room 305 came into view, and Ava took a deep breath before knocking softly. "Come in!" called a cheerful voice from inside. Ava pushed the door open, and there was Sarah, propped up in bed with a magazine in her lap and a bright smile on her face.

"Ava! You made it!" Sarah exclaimed, her eyes lighting up.

Ava felt the tension in her shoulders release as she rushed to embrace her friend. "Of course I did. Wild horses couldn't keep me away," she said, squeezing Sarah's hand.

As they pulled apart, Ava took in Sarah's appearance. She looked tired, with dark circles under her eyes, but her smile was as warm and genuine as ever. "How are you feeling?" Ava asked, perching on the edge of the bed.

Sarah shrugged. "Oh, you know. As well as can be expected when you're about to have your appendix yanked out. But hey, at least I get to rock this fabulous hospital gown, right?" She struck a mock pose, making Ava laugh.

They fell into easy conversation, catching up on months' worth of news. Ava found herself relaxing, the stress of work fading away as they reminisced about college adventures and shared updates on mutual friends. It felt like no time had passed at all.

As the evening wore on, a nurse popped in to check Sarah's vitals. "Visiting hours are almost over," she reminded them gently.

Ava glanced at her watch, surprised to see how much time had flown by. "I should probably get going," she said reluctantly. "But I'll be here first thing tomorrow morning, okay? I'll even smuggle in some decent coffee."

Sarah's eyes twinkled mischievously. "My hero," she declared dramatically. "What would I do without you?"

As Ava gathered her things and prepared to leave, she felt a wave of affection for her friend. She made a mental note to make more time for moments like these, away from the constant demands of work.

Just as she was about to step out, she heard a familiar voice.

"And then, the brave knight raised his sword..."

Curious, Ava peered around the corner into one of the children's wards. Her eyes widened in disbelief. There, sitting in a chair surrounded by eager-faced children, was Max Bennett. He was reading animatedly from a storybook, his usual arrogance replaced by genuine warmth and enthusiasm.

Ava watched, transfixed, as Max finished the story, high-fiving the kids and chatting with them easily. It was like watching a completely different person – gone was the irresponsible playboy, replaced by a man who seemed genuinely invested in bringing joy to these children.

As Max stood to leave, his eyes met Ava's. For a moment, surprise and something akin to embarrassment flashed across his face. Then, quickly, his usual smirk slid back into place.

"Ms. Hart," he said smoothly, approaching her. "Fancy meeting you here. Don't tell me you're working on a Saturday?"

Ava, still stunned by what she'd witnessed, struggled to find her voice. "I... no, I'm visiting a friend. I didn't expect to see you here, Mr. Bennett."

Max shrugged, his demeanor nonchalant but his eyes guarded. "Just fulfilling a commitment. It's nothing, really. Now, if you'll excuse me..."

He brushed past her, leaving Ava staring after him, her mind whirling with questions.

Monday morning, Ava arrived at the office early, as usual. She was surprised to find Max already there, poring over some documents at his desk.

"Mr. Bennett," she said, hesitating at the doorway. "I have those rescheduled meetings for you to approve."

Max looked up, and for a moment, Ava thought she saw a flicker of... something in his eyes. Appreciation? Respect? But it was gone so quickly she might have imagined it.

CHAPTER FOUR - Unspoken Tensions

"Ah, yes," he said, his tone lighter than usual. "I'm sure you've done an admirable job, as always, Ms. Hart."

Ava handed him the schedule, their fingers brushing slightly as he took the paper. An unexpected jolt of electricity shot through her at the contact.

"About Saturday..." Ava began, but Max cut her off.

"A momentary lapse in judgment," he said dismissively. "Don't read too much into it, Ms. Hart. I have a reputation to maintain, after all."

And just like that, the moment was gone. Max was back to his usual self, already critiquing her scheduling choices and making outrageous demands.

As Ava left his office, she couldn't shake the memory of Max reading to those children, or the brief moment of understanding they'd shared. There was more to Maxwell Bennett than met the eye, she realized. But he seemed determined to keep that part of himself hidden, even from her.

With a sigh, Ava returned to her desk. Whatever complexity lay beneath Max's carefully cultivated image, one thing was clear – her job wasn't getting any easier anytime soon.

Ava Hart was already at her desk, meticulously organizing the day's schedule when a commotion near the elevator caught her attention. Her eyes widened as she recognized the source of the disturbance.

Sophia Rivers, Max's ex-girlfriend and notorious socialite, sashayed into the office, her stilettos clicking against the polished floor. Heads turned as she passed, her presence as commanding as it was disruptive. Ava's stomach knotted with apprehension. Sophia's appearances never boded well for the smooth running of the office.

"Where's Maxie?" Sophia's saccharine voice carried across the room. Her eyes locked onto Ava, a predatory smile playing on her perfectly painted lips. "Ah, Ava, darling. Still here, I see. Be a dear and let Max know I'm here to see him."

Ava took a deep breath, steeling herself. "I'm afraid Mr. Bennett is in a meeting right now, Ms. Rivers. Perhaps you could schedule an appointment?"

Sophia laughed, the sound grating on Ava's nerves. "Oh, sweetie. Max always has time for me. Why don't you run along and check? I'm sure he'll want to see me."

Before Ava could respond, Max's office door swung open. He emerged, his eyebrows rising in surprise at the sight of Sophia.

"Sophia?" he said, a mix of confusion and intrigue in his voice. "What are you doing here?"

Sophia's face lit up. She practically glided across the room, wrapping her arms around Max's neck. "Maxie! I was in town and thought I'd surprise you. Didn't your little assistant tell you I was here?"

Max's eyes flicked to Ava, who was watching the scene with thinly veiled disgust. "No, she didn't," he said, his tone unreadable.

Ava felt a flash of indignation. "I was just about to inform you, Mr. Bennett," she said, keeping her voice level. "As I told Ms. Rivers, you're scheduled for a meeting in five minutes."

Max waved his hand dismissively. "Cancel it. Sophia and I have some catching up to do."

As Max led Sophia into his office, she turned and shot Ava a triumphant smirk. Ava sighed, reaching for her phone to reschedule yet another important meeting.

Over the next few weeks, Sophia became a constant presence in the office. She seemed to take particular pleasure in making Ava's life difficult, dropping by unannounced and demanding changes to Max's schedule to accommodate her whims.

One afternoon, as Ava was preparing for an important presentation, Sophia perched on the edge of her desk, idly examining her manicure.

"You know, Ava," Sophia said, her voice dripping with false sweetness, "I really admire your... dedication. It must be so hard, pining after Max when you know he'll never see you as anything more than his little assistant."

Ava's jaw clenched, but she kept her eyes on her computer screen. "I assure you, Ms. Rivers, my relationship with Mr. Bennett is strictly professional."

Sophia laughed, the sound like nails on a chalkboard to Ava's ears. "Oh, honey. You don't have to pretend with me. It's written all over your face every time you look at him. But let me give you some advice – Max needs a woman, not a secretary playing dress-up."

Before Ava could retort, Max emerged from his office. "Sophia, darling, ready for lunch?"

Sophia hopped off Ava's desk, linking her arm through Max's. As they walked away, Sophia glanced back at Ava, her eyes glittering with malice.

Ava took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She had no romantic interest in Max – the very thought was laughable. But Sophia's words had struck a nerve. Was that really how people saw her?

The tension between Ava and Sophia came to a head during a lunch meeting with potential investors. Ava had spent weeks preparing for this meeting, knowing how crucial it was for the company's future. As she was in the middle of her presentation, Sophia interrupted.

"Oh, Maxie," she said, loud enough for everyone to hear, "did you know that Ava here has been trying to sabotage my chances with you? She's been spreading the most awful rumors about me."

The room fell silent. All eyes turned to Ava, who stood frozen, her mouth agape in shock.

Max frowned, looking between Sophia and Ava. "Is this true, Ms. Hart?"

Ava felt her face flush with anger and embarrassment. "Of course not, Mr. Bennett. I would never-"

But Sophia cut her off. "Don't lie, Ava. We all know how you feel about Max. It's really quite pathetic."

The investors shifted uncomfortably in their seats, clearly unsure how to react to this unexpected drama. Ava's carefully prepared presentation lay forgotten on the table.

Max ran a hand through his hair, his expression a mix of confusion and frustration. "I think we should continue this meeting another time," he said to the investors. "I apologize for the... interruption."

As the investors filed out, Max turned to Ava. "Ms. Hart, I'd like to see you in my office. Now."

The walk to Max's office felt like the longest of Ava's life. Her mind raced, trying to figure out how to explain a situation she didn't fully understand herself.

Once inside, Max closed the door and turned to face her. "What the hell was that about?"

Ava took a deep breath. "Mr. Bennett, I assure you, I have no idea what Ms. Rivers was talking about. I've never spread any rumors about her, and I certainly haven't been trying to... sabotage anything."

Max studied her face, his expression unreadable. "And the other part? About how you feel about me?"

Ava felt her face heat up again. "That's completely unfounded, sir. My feelings for you are entirely professional."

For a moment, something like disappointment flashed across Max's face, but it was gone so quickly Ava thought she must have imagined it.

"Right," Max said, his tone clipped. "Well, I expect you to sort this out with Sophia. I won't have this kind of drama interfering with our business dealings."

Ava nodded, biting back a retort about how it was Sophia who was causing the drama. "Of course, Mr. Bennett. It won't happen again."