Ava’s POV

The next morning, I expected everything to feel different.

And it did. Just… not in the way I feared.

Damien sent a car to pick me up for work. Not flashy, not loud—just quiet privilege. Inside, a single note sat on the leather seat.

You’re brilliant. Last night was just the beginning. – D.

My heart flipped. I bit my lip, smiling like a giddy teenager.

But by the time I walked into the building, heels clicking across the tile floor, Damien Cross was back in ...