Claiming The Unreachable Heiress

Ava Cole was halfway through her morning coffee when her phone buzzed across the marble countertop. The name flashing on the screen made her smile instantly. “Jenna 💗.” She raised a brow. “What are you up to this early, lovebird?” she teased as she answered. “AVA!” Jenna’s scream nearly made her drop her mug. “He proposed! Ethan actually proposed last night!” Ava blinked, letting the words sink in. “Wait… as in engagement ring, down on one knee proposed?” “Yes! And you’re my chief bridesmaid! So, cancel whatever billionaire plans you have, we’re wedding shopping this weekend.” Ava laughed, leaning back against the counter. “I see you’ve already planned my entire weekend for me. Jenna, you’re unbelievable.” “You love me,” Jenna sang through the phone. “And you need a break from all that work. It’s not healthy to be married to your laptop.” Ava rolled her eyes, though her smile lingered. She had built her interior design firm from scratch, and at twenty-three, she was one of Sydney’s most sought-after young designers. She wasn’t against love — she just didn’t have time for it. “Fine,” Ava said finally. “Text me the details. But if you make me try on pink satin dresses, I’m quitting.” Jenna squealed again, and Ava couldn’t help laughing. When the call ended, she stood quietly for a moment, the morning sun spilling across her sleek apartment. Maybe a wedding weekend wouldn’t hurt. She could use a distraction — something that didn’t involve blueprints or meetings. Two days later The boutique was a chaos of lace and laughter. Jenna was twirling in a cloud of white, while Ava sat on a velvet chair, sipping champagne and pretending to take notes on bridesmaid colors. “Okay, be honest,” Jenna said, stepping out in another gown. “Too much?” “You look like a fairy godmother’s favorite,” Ava said. “It’s perfect.” As Jenna went back to change, Ava’s attention drifted toward the door — just as it opened. A tall man stepped in, sharp in a black suit despite the casual afternoon. He wasn’t just handsome — he had that composed confidence that made everyone else look like background noise. He greeted someone at the counter, and his voice — smooth, low — sent an unexpected flutter through her. When his eyes met hers across the boutique, he gave a polite nod, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips before he turned away. Ava blinked, slightly thrown off. She didn’t look at men like that. She didn’t notice them like that. Jenna came bouncing back, completely oblivious. “Did you see that guy? He’s the groom’s cousin, I think. Cassian something. He’s helping with the event planning. Isn’t he gorgeous?” Ava forced a calm tone. “Hmm. I didn’t notice.”