Ava woke with a renewed sense of purpose. Sarah's story of Liam's past had stirred a deep empathy within her, along with a fierce determination to prove that her love was genuine, untainted by any ulterior motives. She was determined to break down the walls Liam had built around his heart, to show him that true love, built on trust and mutual respect, was possible.The exhaustion from the amusement park adventures had thankfully granted her a deep and restful sleep. As she reached for her phone, a playful grin spread across her face. She typed out a message to Liam, her fingers lingering on the heart emoji before hitting send.Good morning, Mr. Blackwood ❤️A few minutes ticked by, and her phone finally buzzed with a reply.Morning, Ms. Bennett.Ava's smile faltered slightly. Liam's response was polite, professional, and utterly devoid of any warmth. She realized that the scars of his past ran deep, that his guarded nature wouldn't easily crumble, even in the face of her heartfelt confession and their shared kiss.Undeterred, Ava decided to give him space. She knew that pushing him would only reinforce his defenses. Instead, she would focus on building her company, proving her worth, and showing him, through her actions, the depth of her commitment and the sincerity of her love.She got ready for the day, excitement bubbling within her. Today, she was meeting Sarah to visit the potential office space for her new company. She couldn't wait to see what Sarah had found, to envision her team working together, to bring her game ideas to life.The office space was perfect – a bright, spacious loft with exposed brick walls, large windows overlooking a bustling street, and a vibrant energy that resonated with Ava's creative spirit. She could already picture her team collaborating, brainstorming, and bringing their imaginative worlds to life within those walls.As they discussed the logistics, Sarah, with a dramatic sigh, flopped onto a plush beanbag chair. "You know, Ava," she began, a mischievous glint in her eyes, "you're going to need an assistant. Someone to handle the mundane tasks, schedule your meetings, and maybe even fetch your coffee."Ava chuckled. "I suppose you're right. Though I'm not sure I can afford a full-time assistant just yet."Sarah waved her hand dismissively. "Don't worry about the finances. Mr. Henderson is backing you, remember? Besides," she added with a wink, "a good assistant is an investment."A playful idea sparked in Ava's mind. "Actually, Sarah," she said, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "I have a specific type of assistant in mind."Sarah leaned closer, intrigued. "Oh? And what type would that be?"Ava's grin widened. "I want a hunk. A tall, muscular, ridiculously handsome hunk who can double as my bodyguard."Sarah's eyes widened in surprise. "A bodyguard? Ava, are you sure that's necessary?"Ava's smile turned mischievous. "Oh, it's not about necessity, Sarah. It's about sending a message."Sarah, understanding dawning in her eyes, couldn't help but laugh. "To Liam, you mean?"Ava nodded, her grin widening. "Exactly. I want to see how Mr. Grumpy Bachelor reacts to having a gorgeous hunk following me around."Sarah, though amused by Ava's plan, couldn't help but express a note of caution. "Ava, are you sure this is a good idea? You don't want to provoke Liam or jeopardize your relationship."Ava's expression turned serious. "I know what I'm doing, Sarah. This isn't about hurting Liam. It's about showing him that I'm not some damsel in distress who needs his protection. I'm strong, independent, and capable of making my own choices."She paused, her eyes gleaming with determination. "And if a little jealousy is what it takes to get Liam to open up, to finally let go of his past and embrace our future, then so be it."Sarah, convinced by Ava's conviction, nodded in agreement. "Alright, Ava. I'm in. I'll find you the most distractingly handsome bodyguard money can buy."Ava's grin returned, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Perfect. Just don't tell Liam."Sarah winked. "My lips are sealed."As they left the office space, Ava felt a surge of excitement. She was building her company, her team, her future. And she was doing it on her own terms, with a playful plan to nudge Liam out of his comfort zone and into the open arms of their love.