CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE - The Uncharted Path

Max leaned back in his leather chair, a smug smile playing on his lips as he gazed out the floor-to-ceiling windows of his corner office. The New York skyline stretched before him, a testament to the power and influence he wielded. He turned to face Ava, who stood rigidly by his desk, her face a mask of professional neutrality. "Victor Langston," Max mused, his voice dripping with satisfaction. "Who would have thought he'd come crawling back, practically begging for a partnership?" Ava's brow furrowed slightly. "Max, I don't think—" "That's right, you don't think," Max cut her off, his tone sharp. "You worry. There's a difference." Ava took a deep breath, willing herself to remain calm. "I'm just saying we should approach this with caution. Victor's reputation—" "Is exactly why this is such a coup," Max interrupted again, standing up and moving around his desk. He perched on the edge, looking down at Ava with a mixture of amusement and irritation. "Do you have any idea what this p