CHAPTER EIGHTY SIX - FACING THE PAST

Ava stepped back, putting some distance between them. "Mr. Moreau... Lucas. I appreciate the offer, but I think you've misunderstood my intentions. I'm here representing Novatech, and that's not going to change." Lucas's smile never faltered, but there was a hardness in his eyes now. "I see. Well, the offer stands, should you change your mind. And Ava?" He reached out, brushing a stray hair from her face. "I can be very persuasive when I want something. And I want you... on my team." With that, he turned and melted back into the crowd, leaving Ava feeling shaken and conflicted. From across the room, Max had been watching the interaction with growing unease. He had seen the way Lucas leaned in close to Ava, the subtle touches, the intense gaze. And worse, he had seen the flush on Ava's cheeks, the way she seemed both drawn to and repelled by Lucas's charm. As the night wore on, Max found his mood souring. He drank more champagne than he should have, his responses to other guests bec