The executive affairs

CHAPTER4

Rachel called Ava into her office, a warm smile on her face. "Ava, I know you're struggling to understand Jaren's... let's say, unique personality. But don't worry, I'm here to help."

Rachel leaned back in her chair, a knowing glint in her eye. "First of all, Jaren's a coffee snob. He likes his coffee strong, but not too strong. And for goodness' sake, don't put too much ice or sugar in it! He's very particular about his coffee."

Ava nodded eagerly, taking mental notes. "Got it, Rachel. Strong coffee, minimal ice and sugar. Anything else?"

Rachel chuckled. "Well, Jaren's also a bit of a control freak. He likes things done his way, and he can get a bit... testy when they're not. But don't worry, he's not all bark and no bite. Deep down, he's got a soft spot for those who can handle his... let's call them 'eccentricities'."

Ava smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. "Thanks, Rachel. You're a lifesaver!"

Rachel grinned. "Anytime, Ava. Now go out there and show Jaren what you're made of!"

Chapter 6:A crash course

Ava's eyes widened as she scanned the file, her mind racing with the implications. It was Jaren's medical file, and the contents were shocking. She couldn't believe what she was reading...

"Jaren Voss" the file read, "Diagnosed with Huntington's disease. Prognosis: terminal."

Ava's heart raced as she felt a wave of empathy wash over her. No wonder Jaren was so abrasive and demanding - he was fighting a devastating illness. She felt a pang of guilt for judging him so harshly.

Just then, the door swung open and Jaren walked in, his eyes narrowing as he saw Ava holding his file. "What are you doing?" he growled, his voice low and menacing.

Ava's heart skipped a beat as she froze, the file still clutched in her hand. "I... I was just waiting for you," she stuttered, trying to cover.

Jaren's eyes flashed with anger, but then, something unexpected happened...

Jaren's eyes narrowed, his voice cold and calculating. "I know your secret, Ava. I know what really happened to your stepfather."

Ava's heart raced as she felt a chill run down her spine. "What are you talking about, Jaren?"

"Don't play dumb, Ava. I have proof. You were acquitted, but I know the truth. You're not as innocent as you seem."

Ava's eyes widened in fear as Jaren's words hung in the air like a threat. "What do you want, Jaren?"

"Oh, I think you know. I want you to do exactly as I say, or else I'll make sure everyone knows the truth about your past."

Ava felt trapped, her heart racing with fear. She knew she had to protect herself, but how could she outsmart Jaren's sinister game,?

Ava's tears blurred her vision as she stumbled out of the office, desperate for escape. She couldn't bear the weight of Jaren's blackmail and the secrets he held over her. She needed fresh air, a clear head, and a plan.

As she walked, her mind raced with thoughts of Jaren's mysterious illness. She remembered his cryptic comments, his fatigue, and his evasiveness. Ava's journalistic instincts kicked in, and she began to discreetly research Jaren's condition, scouring the internet and medical databases.

She discovered a rare genetic disorder, its symptoms matching Jaren's behavior. But why was he keeping it a secret? And who could she trust with this information? Ava's investigation had only just begun, but she was determined to uncover the truth, no matter the cost.

Ava's fingers flew across her keyboard, searching for any mention of Jaren's mysterious illness. But the more she searched, the more she realized that something was off. There was no mention of it online, no medical journals, no support groups. It was as if the disease didn't exist.

She felt a shiver run down her spine as she realized the extent of Jaren's secrecy. Why was he hiding this so intensely? What was he afraid of?

Ava's thoughts were interrupted by her phone buzzing with a text from Mia. "Hey, girl! How's it going?"

Ava hesitated, unsure if she should share her discovery with Mia. She was scared, not just for Jaren's secrets, but for her own safety. If Jaren was willing to blackmail her, what else was he capable of?

She typed out a vague response, hiding her fears behind a mask of normalcy. "Hey! I'm good. Just working on some research. Will fill you in soon!"

But Ava knew she couldn't keep this secret locked away for long. She needed someone to trust, someone who could help her unravel the mystery surrounding Jaren's illness. And Mia was the only one she could turn to.

Ava's eyes felt heavy, her mind foggy from the lack of sleep. She had spent the entire night researching, but every lead seemed to end in a dead-end. Frustration and stress had taken their toll, but she couldn't give up now.

With the weekend looming, Ava knew she had to act fast. She needed answers, and Jaren was the only one who could provide them. Taking a deep breath, she reached for her phone and sent him a text:

"Hey Jaren, need to talk to you about something urgent. Can we meet today?"

Her heart raced as she waited for his response. What if he refused? What if he suspected she was getting close to the truth?

But to her surprise, his reply came quickly: "Okay, where and when?"

Ava's mind raced as she suggested a coffee shop nearby. She knew it was a risk, but she had to take it. She was running out of time, and her sanity.

Ava arrived at the location, a trendy café on the outskirts of town, her heart racing with anticipation. She spotted Jaren sitting in the corner, his eyes fixed on her as she approached.

As she slid into the seat across from him, Ava couldn't help but notice the flicker of admiration in his eyes. She had worn a short dress and her favorite cologne, feeling a sense of empowerment and control in the midst of chaos.

But Jaren quickly composed himself, his expression turning serious. "So, what's this about, Ava? You said it was urgent."

Ava leaned in, her voice low and determined. "I know about your illness, Jaren. I've been researching all night. Tell me the truth – what's going on?"

Jaren's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched. I told you not to discuss it outside?"

"I just have to ask you something important about it," Ava replied, her eyes locked on his. "I figured it out myself. Now, are you going to tell me the truth, or do I need to keep digging?"