Chapter 10: A Misguided Attempt

Liam arrived at the restaurant early, a knot of anticipation tightening in his stomach. He had chosen a quiet bistro, tucked away on a side street, hoping to avoid the prying eyes and gossiping tongues that frequented the more popular establishments. He had opted for a casual look tonight, trading his usual tailored suit for a pair of dark jeans and a soft cashmere sweater. He wanted to appear approachable, to put Ava at ease, to show her that he was more than just the formidable businessman she had encountered.He scanned the room, his gaze settling on the entrance as a familiar figure stepped through the door. Ava. Even in her simple attire – a pair of faded jeans and a white turtleneck sweater – she radiated an understated elegance that caught his breath. Her hair was loose, framing her face in soft waves, and her eyes sparkled with a nervous energy that tugged at his heartstrings.He noticed she wasn't alone. Chloe, her ever-present companion, trailed behind her, a reassuring presence that brought a smile to Liam's lips. He understood Ava's need for moral support, especially after the events of the past week.As they approached the table, Liam rose to his feet, pulling out a chair for Ava with a gentlemanly gesture. Before he could utter a word of greeting, however, Ava spoke, her voice firm, her expression resolute."Liam," she began, her gaze unwavering, "I accepted your invitation for one reason only: to clear the air. I appreciate your concern, and I'm grateful for your help the other night, but I don't want there to be any misunderstanding."Liam's brow furrowed, a flicker of apprehension replacing his initial anticipation. He sensed a shift in her demeanor, a newfound resolve that took him by surprise."Ava, what's wrong?" he asked, his voice laced with concern."The rumours," she continued, her voice trembling slightly, "the things people are saying... it's not true. I'm not your girl, and I never will be."Liam's heart sank. So she had heard the gossip, the malicious whispers that painted her in a false light. He felt a surge of anger towards Daniel, the source of the hurtful rumours, and a wave of protectiveness towards Ava, who was clearly distressed by the unwanted attention."Ava," he said softly, reaching out to take her hand, but she pulled away, her gaze hardening."Please, just listen," she said, her voice gaining strength. "I know you meant well that night, and I thank you for defending me. But your claim on me, your declaration that I belong to you... it's unacceptable. I'm not anyone's possession."Liam felt a pang of guilt. He had acted impulsively that night, driven by a surge of protective instincts and a possessiveness he hadn't realized he possessed. He had overstepped, and he knew it."Ava, I apologize," he said sincerely. "I didn't mean to offend you. I was just trying to protect you.""I understand," she replied, her voice softening slightly. "But I can take care of myself. I don't need a knight in shining armor, especially not one who comes with strings attached."Liam nodded, accepting her rebuke. He had misjudged her, underestimated her strength and independence. He had allowed his own desires, his own need to protect and possess, to cloud his judgment."I'm sorry, Ava," he repeated, his voice filled with regret. "I'll respect your wishes. I won't contact you again."Ava's expression softened, a flicker of sadness crossing her features. She hesitated for a moment, as if battling an internal conflict, then turned and walked away, leaving Liam sitting alone at the table, his heart heavy with disappointment and regret.He watched her go, his gaze lingering on her retreating figure until she disappeared from view. He had wanted to show her a different side of himself, to prove that he was worthy of her attention, but he had ruined his chances with his own misguided actions.He had lost her before he truly had a chance to win her.