CHAPTER NINETEEN - The Unraveling Thread

Max hesitated for a moment, then seemed to make a decision. "Actually, why don't you come with me? I could use your insight on this." Ava blinked in surprise. "You want me to come with you?" Max nodded. "Yes. You're my assistant in this, Ava. I trust your judgment." The word 'partner' sent a warm feeling through Ava's chest. She smiled, grabbing her coat. "Alright then, partner. Let's go save the day." As Ava and Max rushed out of the office, the gravity of the situation began to sink in. Max's driver was already waiting, engine running, as if he'd anticipated this turn of events. "To the airport, James," Max instructed as they slid into the backseat. He turned to Ava, his expression a mix of apology and determination. "I hope you didn't have any pressing plans for the next day or two." Ava shook her head, still processing the whirlwind of events. "Nothing that can't be rescheduled. What exactly are we dealing with?" Max ran a hand through his hair, a gesture Ava had come to rec