The silence that followed Ava's presentation hung heavy in the air, a testament to the impact of her words, her vision, her sheer brilliance. Liam, still masked in his carefully constructed facade of professional detachment, allowed a flicker of a smile to play at the corners of his lips."Impressive, Ms. Bennett," he said, his voice carrying a subtle note of approval that sent a shiver down Ava's spine. "Your insights are both innovative and insightful. I'm particularly intrigued by your proposed applications of AI in sustainable energy solutions."Ava, still slightly breathless from the intensity of the presentation and the unexpected presence of Liam Blackwood, managed a composed, "Thank you, Mr. Blackwood. I'm confident that with the right resources and support, we can revolutionize the industry."Liam leaned forward, his eyes locking with Ava's, a silent communication passing between them. He could see the flicker of recognition in her gaze, the hint of curiosity, and perhaps, a touch of apprehension."I believe you have the potential to do just that, Ms. Bennett," he said, his voice low and deliberate. "And I'm prepared to offer you the resources and support you need to make your vision a reality."He turned to Mrs. Sinclair, his tone shifting to one of authority. "I'm ready to take this initiative into account. I want Ms. Bennett to lead the project, with my full backing."Mrs. Sinclair, ever the astute observer, nodded her agreement. "Excellent. I have no doubt that Ms. Bennett will exceed our expectations."Liam reached for his phone, pressing a speed dial button. "Sarah, come to the boardroom, please. And bring the project files on... " He paused, glancing at Ava. "What was the project codename again?""Phoenix," Ava supplied, her voice regaining its confident edge."Phoenix," Liam repeated into the phone. "Bring the Phoenix files."Within minutes, Sarah entered the boardroom, her presence a calming counterpoint to the charged atmosphere. Liam introduced her to Ava, a subtle undercurrent of possessiveness in his tone as he said, "Ms. Bennett, this is my assistant, Sarah. She'll be your primary point of contact for this project. She'll be involved in every step, every decision. You can approach me directly only when absolutely necessary."Ava, though slightly taken aback by the hierarchical structure Liam was imposing, nodded her agreement. She couldn't deny the thrill of having her project greenlit, especially with the backing of a powerful board member like Liam Blackwood.Liam rose from his chair, signaling the end of the meeting. He extended his hand towards Ava, a formal gesture that held a hidden depth of meaning. As their hands clasped, a jolt of electricity passed between them. Ava's hand was soft, delicate yet firm, her touch sending a wave of warmth through Liam's body. He held her gaze for a moment longer than necessary, a silent message conveyed in the depths of his blue eyes.He wanted to linger, to savor the feeling of her hand in his, to trace the delicate lines of her palm, to feel the warmth of her skin against his. But he couldn't. Not yet. He had to maintain the charade, the illusion of professional detachment.With a final nod, he released her hand, the lingering warmth a reminder of the connection they shared, a connection that transcended the boardroom, the business deal, the years of separation.As Liam walked away, he couldn't help but replay the moment in his mind, the feel of Ava's hand in his, the subtle tremor that had run through her fingers as their eyes met. He remembered the softness of her skin, the delicate strength of her grip, the way her touch had ignited a fire within him.He had touched her, briefly, professionally, yet the sensation lingered, a phantom limb reminding him of what he had lost, what he yearned to reclaim. He had held her hand, but it wasn't enough. He wanted to hold her close, to feel the warmth of her body against his, to lose himself in her embrace.He knew that the path ahead would be challenging, filled with obstacles and uncertainties. But he was determined to navigate the complexities, to break down the walls Ava had built around her heart, to prove to her that he was worthy of her love.He had initiated his plan, the first move in a carefully orchestrated game of seduction and ambition. He had entered her world, her domain, and he was ready to play the long game, to wait, to strategize, to win her back, one calculated move at a time.And as he walked away from the boardroom, the lingering touch of Ava's hand fueled his determination, a silent promise that he would not rest until she was his once again.