Beneath the surface

Chapter 16

Max's eyes scanned the crowded beach resort, his gaze lingering on the vibrant atmosphere. That's when he spotted Ariel, his childhood friend, laughing and chatting with her friends by the pool. He made his way over, his confidence growing with each step.

As he approached, Ariel noticed him and smiled brightly. "Hey, Max! Come join us," she said, her voice infectious.

Max joined the group, and Ariel introduced him to Ava. Max's eyes locked onto Ava's, and he felt a spark of attraction. He enjoyed her company, and their conversation flowed easily.

As the evening wore on, Max asked Ava out on a coffee date, but she politely declined. Max was intrigued, but he didn't push the issue.

Days turned into weeks, and Max's professional life took a new turn. He became involved in a project with Ethan's company, and Ava was Ethan's assistant. As they were discussing the project details, Max suggested they grab coffee to discuss the Bohemian Water project intentions.

"Would you like to grab coffee and discuss the Bohemian Water project?" Max asked Ava.

Ava agreed, and they arranged a meeting. As they sat across from each other in a coffee shop, Max couldn't help but notice Ava's professionalism and expertise.

As Max and Ava sat across from each other in the coffee shop, the tension between them was palpable. Max couldn't help but notice the way Ava's eyes sparkled as she discussed the Bohemian Water project. He found himself drawn to her intelligence and passion.

Ava, too, was aware of the chemistry between them. She felt a flutter in her chest as Max's eyes locked onto hers. She tried to focus on the project, but her mind kept wandering to the way Max's smile made her feel.

As they discussed the project's details, their hands touched briefly, sending a jolt of electricity through both of them. Max apologized, his voice low and husky, and Ava's cheeks flushed.

The air between them was charged with anticipation, and it seemed like the project was just the beginning of something more.

Max stood in the midst of the vibrant party, the sounds of laughter and music filling the air. The collaboration party for the Bohemian Water project was in full swing, and he was excited to celebrate with the team.

As he scanned the room, his eyes landed on Ava, and he was struck by her captivating presence. She seemed to shine in the midst of the party, her smile radiant and illuminating her entire face. Her eyes sparkled with amusement as she chatted with some colleagues, and when she turned to Max, her gaze was bright and engaging.

Ava's outfit was elegant and sophisticated, accentuating her curves and showcasing her personal style. The way she carried herself exuded confidence and poise, making her stand out in the room.

Max felt a spark of attraction, and he made his way over to join the conversation. "Hey, looking stunning tonight," Max said, his voice low and smooth.

Ava turned to him, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Thanks, Max. You're not so bad yourself."

The music shifted to a slower tempo, and Max found himself drawn to Ava. "Want to dance?" he asked, his eyes locked onto hers.

Ava hesitated for a moment, her gaze flicking briefly to Ethan, who was watching from across the room. Max noticed the glance and wondered if there was something between them. But then Ava nodded, and Max took her hand, leading her onto the dance floor.

As they swayed to the music, Ava's movements were fluid and natural, and her smile seemed to grow more genuine with each passing moment. The soft lighting of the party highlighted her features, and her hair shone with a subtle sheen.

The tension between them was palpable as they danced. Max leaned in, his voice whispering in Ava's ear, "I'm really enjoying working with you." Ava's response was a soft smile, and her breath tickled his ear, sending shivers down his spine. The music and the moment seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them, lost in the spark between them.