Chapter 88: Distance and Desire (Liam's POV)

The weeks following the attack have been a whirlwind. Aesher Solutions is demanding more of my attention than ever, with new projects and expansions on the horizon. But my mind is constantly drawn to Ava, to her strength and resilience in the face of adversity.It's frustrating that we have to keep our relationship under wraps, a secret hidden from the world. I long to shout my love from the rooftops, to claim her as mine for all to see. But I understand her reasons, her need to establish herself independently, to prove her worth beyond being "Liam Blackwood's girlfriend."Our stolen moments are precious – a quick lunch in a secluded cafe, a whispered phone call late at night, a lingering touch in the elevator. Each interaction fuels the fire within me, a burning desire that grows stronger with every passing day.I watch her from my office window, her silhouette a beacon of light in the bustling city. I admire her determination as she navigates the challenges of building her own company, her passion for her work evident in every move she makes.The news of her collaboration with Henderson Enterprises fills me with pride. Ava is a force to be reckoned with, a woman who defies expectations and shatters glass ceilings. I can't wait to see her company, Aria Technologies, take the world by storm.But with my pride comes a pang of frustration. Evelyn and Jessica, those vipers, are a constant presence in Ava's life, their motives as transparent as their avarice. I long to shield Ava from their negativity, to protect her from their manipulative schemes.Jessica, in particular, is a thorn in my side. Her blatant attempts to seduce me, her flirtatious advances, are a constant reminder of the vultures that circle success, eager to snatch a piece of the pie. I play along, indulging her fantasies, partly to amuse myself and partly to fuel Ava's jealousy.I know she's watching, her eyes flashing with possessiveness, and it sends a thrill through me. It's a dangerous game, but I can't resist the temptation to test the boundaries of our clandestine relationship, to see the fire ignite in her eyes.But beneath the amusement, a protectiveness surges within me. I won't let Jessica, or anyone else, exploit Ava's kindness or undermine her success. I'll be her shield, her protector, her constant in a world that often seems determined to bring her down.I love Ava, with a fierceness that surprises even me. She's everything I've ever wanted, everything I never thought I deserved. And I'll do whatever it takes to protect her, to support her, to cherish her, even if it means playing along with Jessica's charade, even if it means keeping our love a secret for a little while longer.Because our love is worth it. It's a love that defies expectations, a love that will endure, a love that will conquer all.