Beneath the surface

Chapter 9

Two weeks had passed since Ava's return from the resort, and she was fully immersed in her mission. She attended the high-profile business meeting, her focus solely on gathering intelligence.

As she entered the conference room, Max's eyes widened in surprise. "Ava, I didn't expect to see you here," he said, his tone friendly.

Ava smiled politely, her mind on her objectives. "Just here for the meeting," she replied, her gaze scanning the room.

Ethan stood at the head of the table, his expression cold and authoritative. "Let's get started," he said, his voice devoid of warmth.

As the meeting progressed, Ava took detailed notes, her focus on the discussion. Max attempted to engage her in conversation, but Ava's responses were brief and professional.

Ethan's eyes flicked towards Ava and Max, his expression unreadable. When Max leaned in to share a comment with Ava, Ethan's gaze narrowed slightly, but he said nothing.

The tension between them was palpable, but Ava remained focused on her mission.

Ava's focus remained on the meeting's agenda, her notes detailed and thorough. She asked pointed questions, her tone professional and detached.

Max, however, seemed to be trying to break through her reserve. "Ava, do you have any thoughts on the proposal?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with interest.

Ava's response was measured. "I think it's a solid plan, but I'd like to review the financials before making a final assessment."

Ethan's gaze flicked towards her, his expression still cold and unreadable. "I'll make sure to send over the financial reports," he said, his voice devoid of emotion.

The meeting concluded, and Ava gathered her belongings, her expression neutral. "Thank you for the update," she said, her tone professional.

As Ava turned to leave the meeting room, Max fell into step beside her. "Hey, would you like to grab coffee and discuss the proposal further?" he asked, his tone friendly.

Ava smiled, feeling more at ease with Max now. "Actually, that sounds great. I'd love to hear more about your thoughts on the proposal."

Max grinned, seeming to relax in her presence. "Awesome, there's a great coffee shop just around the corner."

As they walked, Ava asked Max questions about his ideas, and they discussed the proposal in depth. Ethan watched them from afar, his expression unreadable.

Ava and Max's conversation flowed easily, and she found herself enjoying his company. "I think we could make some great progress on this project," she said, smiling.

Max nodded, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Definitely, I'm looking forward to working with you."

As Ava and Max walked out of the office building, Ethan watched them from his office window. His expression was unreadable, but his eyes seemed to narrow slightly as he observed their friendly interaction.

Ava and Max's conversation continued, flowing easily as they discussed the project. Ava felt a sense of camaraderie with Max, enjoying his company and insights.

Meanwhile, Ethan's gaze lingered on Ava, his thoughts unclear. He seemed to be studying her, trying to understand her dynamics with Max.