The truth is revealed.

Ava closed the file and studied him carefully. Her father had already arranged legal measures to strip Ethan of everything the Williams family had given him. Whether he surrendered the shares voluntarily or not, he would have lost them anyway.

But something in her heart softened. Perhaps this was his way of making amends. Perhaps he needed time to reflect on his actions.

"I won't stop you," she said coolly. "If this is what you want, then do as you please. But the shares will remain safe with me. If you ever want them back, or if you'd rather sell them, let me know. I'll buy them from you. You can use the money to start your own business."

Ethan's throat bobbed as he swallowed, processing her words. He had expected her to reject him outright, to shut him down completely. Instead, she had left him with an option—a way back, if he ever chose to take it.