CHAPTER FIFTY ONE - THE UNINVITED GUEST

Max leaned back in his chair, considering. "I think we do. Marissa is a shrewd businesswoman, but she's also fair. If we can convince her that partnering with us is still in North Star's best interest, we have a chance." Ava nodded, then noticed a spot of sauce on Max's chin. Without thinking, she reached out to wipe it away. Their eyes met, and for a moment, the air between them seemed to spark with electricity. Max cleared his throat, breaking the tension. "We should, uh, get back to work. Big day tomorrow." Ava quickly withdrew her hand, feeling a blush creep up her cheeks. "Right. Of course." They worked late into the night, both hyper-aware of each other's presence but carefully maintaining a professional distance. The next day was a flurry of last-minute preparations. Ava and Max rehearsed their presentation, fine-tuning every detail. By the time Marissa Reynolds and her team arrived, they were ready. The meeting was tense at first, with Marissa's skepticism evident in her