Thirty-Two: Love of a Neighbor

Night finally fell upon Ava.

"Thank goodness," she muttered, shutting her laptop. Most nights, the darkness met her still slaving away at work. She was a workaholic who'd push herself and her employees to the brink if a project demanded it. She'd vowed long ago to never let herself rely on a man or her father for financial support.

Ava packed her briefcase and headed for the exit. Most of her employees had cleared out hours ago. Only a handful remained, burning the midnight oil. 

She stepped outside into the crisp spring air, picturing a luxurious massage followed by a marathon sleep session. Her neighbor Mrs. Williams' place would have been the ideal spot for some true pampering. But a visit there meant enduring a barrage of unwanted questions - especially with the rumors swirling about her supposed new boyfriend.