CHAPTER EIGHTY FIVE - ALL OR NOTHING

As they gathered their materials and prepared to face the board, Ava felt a renewed sense of purpose. The road ahead would be challenging, but she and Max had overcome obstacles before. They would face this one together, improvising if necessary, but never backing down. With a nod to each other, they left the room, ready to fight for their vision of Novatech's future. As the sun dipped below the San Francisco skyline, casting a golden glow over the city, Max Bennett stood in front of his hotel room mirror, adjusting his bow tie for the umpteenth time. The Novatech Solutions gala was the social event of the season, and he knew the importance of making a good impression. His tailored tuxedo fit perfectly, but there was a nervous energy about him that no amount of sartorial perfection could hide. A soft knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. "Max? Are you ready?" Ava Hart's voice called from the other side. "Just a second," he replied, taking one last look in the mirror before op