Chapter 39: Ava Gets Ready for the Gala

A wave of nervous energy washed over Ava as she began preparing for the gala. This wasn't just another social event; it was a pivotal moment, a chance to forge connections and finally step into the professional world she'd long envisioned for herself. She wanted to make a statement, but also remain true to herself.Standing in front of her mirror, she carefully unpacked the dress Liam had given her. It was a stunning crimson, a bold departure from her usual understated style. The fabric was a masterpiece of intricate lace and delicate beading, hugging her curves in all the right places. A small card fell out from the folds of the dress. It read, "Can't wait to see you in this. -L" A warm smile spread across Ava's face.She opted for a natural makeup look to complement the dramatic dress. A touch of warm brown eyeshadow accentuated her eyes, a subtle hint of blush highlighted her cheekbones, and a classic red lipstick, matching the dress, added a touch of Hollywood glamour. It was a look that enhanced her features without being overpowering, allowing her natural beauty to shine through.Her dark brown hair, usually pulled back in a practical bun or ponytail, was tonight allowed to flow freely. She carefully crafted a waterfall braid, the intricate weave cascading down her back like a flowing stream. A few delicate tendrils escaped the braid, framing her face and softening the look.Finally, she slipped into the crimson dress. The luxurious fabric felt smooth against her skin, the intricate details catching the light with every movement. It was a dress that exuded confidence and passion, perfectly mirroring the excitement and determination she felt.Satisfied with her reflection, Ava snapped a quick picture and sent it to her best friend Chloe. Almost instantly, her phone buzzed with a reply."OMG Ava! You look FIRE! That dress is incredible on you, and your hair... wow! Liam won't know what hit him 😉🔥"Ava laughed, a blush warming her cheeks. The doorbell rang just as Chloe's face popped up on the screen for their scheduled video call."Girl, you look incredible! Seriously, Liam's going to –" Chloe's voice was cut off by another insistent ring."Oh, that must be him," Ava said, a nervous tremor in her voice. "I'll be right back."She smoothed down her dress, took a deep breath to calm her nerves, and opened the door. And then she froze.Liam stood on her doorstep, looking impossibly handsome in a perfectly tailored suit. His usually tousled hair was neatly styled, and his eyes, already striking with their unusual grey-green color, seemed to sparkle with an intensity that took her breath away. He held a small bouquet of lilies of the valley, their delicate fragrance filling the air.For a heartbeat, Ava simply stared, completely speechless. Liam, taking in her appearance, seemed equally stunned. His eyes widened slightly, and a slow smile spread across his face."Wow," he breathed, his voice a low rumble. "Ava, you… you look absolutely breathtaking."Ava blinked, a wave of heat creeping up her neck. "Oh! Sorry," she stammered, her cheeks flushing even deeper. "You just… wow."Liam's lips curved into a wider smile, and he offered her the lilies of the valley. "The red is perfect on you," he said, his voice husky."Thank you," she managed, taking the fragrant bouquet. "You look pretty good yourself."Chloe, forgotten on the video call, let out a loud whoop. "Told you!" she shrieked, making both Ava and Liam laugh. Ava mouthed a quick "be right back" to Chloe and closed the laptop, her heart still pounding.As they stepped out of the house, they found Sarah leaning against Liam's sleek sports car, radiating an air of playful mischief in a shimmering silver dress that showed off her long legs."Well, hello there!" she exclaimed, giving Ava a slow once-over, her eyes sparkling with appreciation. A low whistle escaped her lips. "Damn, Ava, you scrub up well! Liam, you've got good taste."Liam shot Sarah a look that could curdle milk. He was all for Sarah's usual teasing, but something about her blatant admiration of Ava rubbed him the wrong way tonight. He felt a strange protectiveness towards Ava, a desire to shield her from Sarah's playful, yet sometimes overwhelming, personality.Ava, oblivious to the undercurrent of tension, just laughed, feeling a surge of confidence. "Thanks, Sarah. You look pretty amazing yourself."They settled into the car, Sarah in the front, Ava in the back. The drive to the gala was filled with a strange silence. Ava felt a mixture of excitement and apprehension swirling within her. This was her first foray into this world, a world of investors, industry giants, and cutthroat competition. She desperately wanted to make a good impression, not just for herself, but for Liam and their game.Liam, sensing her nervousness, broke the silence. "So, there are a few people I want you to meet tonight," he began, his voice taking on a professional tone. He listed off a series of names – influential figures in the tech industry, potential investors who had expressed interest in their project, and key players in the gaming world whose opinions could make or break their success. Ava listened intently, committing each name and any accompanying details Liam provided to memory.She visualized their faces based on Liam's descriptions: Mr. Henderson, the venture capitalist with a sharp eye for innovation, but a reputation for ruthless deal-making; Ms. Chen, the CEO of a major gaming company, known for her quiet demeanor and keen business acumen; and Alex Tremaine, the legendary game designer whose endorsement could launch their game into the stratosphere.As they finally pulled up to the grand entrance of the gala, Ava's breath caught in her throat. The building was bathed in golden light, the architecture a magnificent blend of classic elegance and modern design. The sound of music and laughter spilled out onto the steps, mingling with the murmur of conversations and the clinking of champagne glasses. This was it. This was her chance to step into the spotlight and leave her mark.Taking a deep breath, Ava stepped out of the car, her heart pounding with a mixture of anticipation and excitement. The world of possibilities stretched out before her, shimmering and enticing like the lights that beckoned from within the grand hall.