Chapter 23: Chen Arrival

Ava went back inside where the party was in full swing. Everyone was enjoying themselves, dancing, drinking, and chatting merrily. She walked through the lively crowd and found a quiet corner to sit, lost in thought about what Ambrose had said.

"Didn't I always want to divorce him? What's the big problem now? Do I have to look weak now?" she hissed to herself, frustration mingling with confusion.

Instantly, one of the guys who had always shown interest in her noticed her sitting alone. He walked over with a smile, trying to strike up a conversation. "Hey, Ava! Great party, isn't it? Mind if I join you for a bit?"

Ava looked up, her expression stern. "I'm busy and not interested in any conversation right now," she said curtly.

The guy, not taking the hint, persisted. "Come on, Ava. Just a little chat. It's a celebration after all."

"I said I'm not interested," Ava repeated, her tone firmer this time.

He leaned in closer, his persistence turning into unwelcome insistence. "Oh, come on.