Tempted by Her

Chapter 10: Shopping Surprise

As the clock in the office neared 4 p.m., Ava’s excitement was palpable. She carefully packed her things into her bag, making sure nothing was left behind, then headed toward the exit to clock out.

Monica, ever watchful, noticed her and crossed her arms, eyes narrowed. “What do you think you’re doing? Do you think this is your college where you leave whenever you want?” she snapped.

Ava didn’t rise to the bait. Instead, she calmly looked Monica in the eyes and said, “The boss asked me to clock out. I have somewhere to be with him by 8 p.m.” She added the words with a subtle smirk on her lips, deliberately knowing it would irritate Monica.

Monica’s mouth dropped slightly in shock. She had always accompanied Damian during evening outings, even when previous PAs were around, and no one dared go out with him without permission. Seeing Ava casually state it as a command left her fuming.

Ava ignored the sharp glares and walked toward the elevator, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. She pressed the button, and just as the doors began to close, she was stopped by the Director, Ethan Caldwell, Damian’s trusted friend and right-hand man.

“Miss Ava,” he said, gesturing her over. “The boss asked me to take you to the clothing store. You need to get outfits and jewelry for tonight.”

Ava froze for a moment, her eyes widening in surprise. Monica, who had followed her into the elevator out of curiosity, looked equally stunned. He’s never sent anyone else before, Monica thought bitterly. For as long as she had been going out with the boss, Damian had never sent anyone, let alone entrusted someone else with this task. Jealousy and disbelief rose in her chest, burning her face red.

Ava nodded politely, trying to hide her shock and excitement. “Of course,” she said softly, following Ethan out of the building and toward his sleek black car waiting outside.

The drive was quiet, the hum of the city filling the silence. Ava’s mind raced with anticipation, wondering what kind of clothing and jewelry Damian had in mind. Ethan’s presence was professional, yet there was a subtle air of sophistication about him that Ava couldn’t help but notice.

They arrived at LaVelle Couture, one of the most prestigious and popular clothing stores in Los Angeles. Ava’s eyes sparkled with awe. She had always dreamed of owning something from here, and now, she had the opportunity.

Inside, the store was a wonderland of fabrics, glittering jewelry, and sparkling shoes. Ava’s hands brushed over luxurious gowns and elegant heels, her excitement growing with every step. She carefully selected a burgundy evening gown that hugged her curves and a pair of matching heels. She added a few delicate pieces of jewelry, imagining how they would complement the outfit.

Ethan, however, gently stopped her. “No, you need to pick more. Damian has sent a budget that covers much more than just a single outfit. You must choose as many pieces as you can until the money is exhausted,” he instructed calmly.

Ava hesitated. “I… I thought just one dress and some jewelry would be enough,” she said, feeling slightly overwhelmed.

Ethan shook his head with a small smile. “No, the boss wants you to have plenty. Consider this an opportunity to prepare for everything he might require tonight—and beyond.”

Reluctantly, Ava began selecting additional outfits, shoes, handbags, and accessories, her hands shaking slightly with excitement. She didn’t forget Tessa. Carefully, she picked elegant pieces for her best friend, imagining Tessa’s wide-eyed grin when she saw them. By the time she finished, Ava was carrying a small mountain of shopping bags, her heart pounding with exhilaration.

They left the store at 5:30 p.m., the late afternoon sun casting a golden glow over the streets. Ava considered flagging a cab, but Ethan insisted. “I’ll take you home,” he said politely.

When they arrived at Tessa’s house, a sleek, flashy car was parked in front of the door. Tessa, curious, came rushing outside and froze at the sight. Ava emerged from the car, grinning, as Ethan brought out the bags from the trunk.

Tessa’s eyes widened as she took in the man’s features. Tall, impeccably dressed, and strikingly handsome, he radiated a quiet power and elegance. For a brief moment, Tessa was lost in thought, completely distracted by his presence.

“Hi,” Ethan greeted politely, his deep voice cutting through her daze.

Tessa blinked, caught off guard, and barely managed to nod. Ava gently tapped her friend on the shoulder, bringing her back to reality. “Tessa, this is Ethan, my boss’s trusted friend,” Ava introduced.

“I’m Tessa, Ava’s best friend,” she replied, finally collecting herself. They exchanged names and a quick, polite handshake.

“I must leave now. Damian will be expecting me,” Ethan said smoothly. With a final nod, he walked to his car and drove away, leaving both girls staring after him.

Tessa spun around, eyes wide with disbelief. “Girl… that guy is so hot! I… I can’t even—” she stammered, laughing in shock and delight.

Ava chuckled, shaking her head. “Focus, Tessa. Let’s get these bags inside before I collapse under the weight.”

The two friends carried the bags inside, their laughter filling the house. For Ava, tonight promised not just a new chapter in her career, but a night full of surprises she could barely imagine—and one she would never forget.