Chapter 80: Family Secrets

Liam's POVAva's outburst, her fierce declaration of possessiveness, had ignited a fire within me, a thrill I hadn't experienced before. It was exhilarating to see her passion, her unwavering claim on my heart. I couldn't resist teasing her, pushing her buttons just to witness the sparks fly.But beneath the playful banter, I sensed a deeper vulnerability, a lingering insecurity that mirrored my own. I gently guided her towards the plush leather sofa in my office, settling her on my lap, her warmth a welcome weight against me."Now," I said, my voice softening, "tell me about your family. What brings them to London?"Ava's playful demeanor faded, replaced by a weariness that tugged at my heartstrings. "They're here for the spoils, Liam," she sighed, her voice laced with a hint of bitterness. "They think my newfound success is their ticket to a life of luxury."She explained the complicated dynamics of her family – her loving but naive grandmother, her manipulative stepmother Evelyn, and her entitled stepsister Jessica."Evelyn wants Jessica to use my influence to land a high-paying job," Ava explained, her voice laced with disdain. "And of course, to snag a rich husband and secure her future."My grip tightened around Ava protectively. The thought of her family exploiting her kindness, using her for their own selfish gain, ignited a protectiveness within me that was as fierce as it was unfamiliar."And what about your grandmother?" I asked, sensing a different emotion in Ava's voice when she spoke of her."My grandma is a saint," Ava said, her eyes softening with affection. "She's the only one who truly cares for me, who supported my dreams even when everyone else scoffed. I was already planning to bring her to London, to give her a taste of the good life she deserves."I nodded, understanding dawning. Ava's loyalty and love for her grandmother were admirable. It spoke volumes about her character, her unwavering devotion to those who truly mattered."And Jessica?" I probed, remembering the flirtatious encounter earlier.Ava's expression hardened. "Jessica is a different story. She's always been jealous, always trying to one-up me. And now, with my company taking off, she sees an opportunity to climb the social ladder, to snag a wealthy man who can provide her with the lifestyle she craves."She paused, her gaze meeting mine with a mix of warning and vulnerability. "And Liam," she added, her voice barely above a whisper, "she has her sights set on you."I chuckled, a mixture of amusement and possessiveness bubbling within me. "Don't worry, Ava," I reassured her, pulling her closer. "I'm immune to her charms. My heart belongs to someone else, remember?"Ava's lips curved into a shy smile. "Good," she murmured, her fingers tracing the line of my jaw. "Because you're mine, Liam Blackwood. And I don't share well."I leaned in, capturing her lips in a kiss that was both tender and possessive. Ava responded with a fervor that matched my own, her arms winding around my neck, pulling me closer.In that moment, the world outside my office faded away. There was only Ava, her warmth, her scent, her love enveloping me like a comforting embrace. I knew that the road ahead wouldn't be easy, that challenges and obstacles awaited us. But with Ava by my side, with our love as our anchor, I knew we could weather any storm.We were a team, a united front, ready to face the world together, our love a beacon guiding us towards a future filled with endless possibilities.