Chapter 43: Chapter 43
As the day progressed at the office, Ava found herself engrossed in her tasks, her mind occasionally drifting back to the delightful text from Bryan earlier. As she was wrapping up her work and preparing to head home, her phone buzzed softly, signaling a new message from Bryan.
Bryan's Message: " Hey, Ava. How about dinner tonight at a new Italian place? "
Her eyes widened with excitement and a soft gasp escaped her lips. " Yes! " she whispered to herself, her heart fluttering with anticipation. However, amid the thrill of the invitation, a whisper of doubt brushed against her thoughts.
She replied to the text a minute later, trying to make it look casual " Sure, what time? "
He replied almost immediately " What do you say to coming to pick you up by 7pm? "
" Sounds good " She replied to the text and replaced the phone in her bag.
" Are we moving too fast? " Ava questioned silently, a brief moment of contemplation clouding her excitement. Nevertheless, determined to relish the joy of the moment, she decided to set her concerns aside for later examination.
With an air of excitement and a fluttering heart, Ava made her way home, her thoughts oscillating between anticipation and a tinge of apprehension.
Upon reaching home, Ava wasted no time and immediately dialed Bella's number, eager to share the thrilling news with her supportive friend.
Bella picked on the first ring " Hey, Ava! What's going on? "
" Bella, you won't believe it! Bryan just asked me out for dinner tonight! " Ava replied, excitement lacing her voice
Bella whistled enthusiastically " That's fantastic! I'm coming over to help you get ready! "
Ava grinned, appreciating Bella's unwavering support and excitement. As Bella's arrival drew closer, Ava's mind flickered momentarily with thoughts about the pace of things with Bryan. But with Bella's imminent arrival and the thrill of the evening plans ahead, she brushed those concerns aside, opting instead to bask in the excitement of the moment.
When Bella arrived, Ava welcomed her with a beaming smile, grateful for her friend's infectious enthusiasm and fashion advice. Together, they dove into Ava's wardrobe, chatting animatedly about outfit choices and sharing in the anticipation of the special dinner date with Bryan.
As Bella arrived at Ava's place, excitement filled the air. The anticipation of a delightful evening out with Bryan propelled their enthusiasm as they delved into Ava's wardrobe, searching for the perfect dress.
Amidst the rustling of clothes and friendly banter, a sharp knock echoed through the apartment. Ava rushed to the door, revealing a delivery person with a sizable package in hand.
" Hello. Are you Miss Ava Thompson? " the delivery guy inquired, a friendly smile gracing his face.
Ava nodded, intrigued by the unexpected delivery. " Yes, that's me. "
" Good. This is from Mr. Hayes, " he said, handing her the elegantly wrapped package.
" Can you sign here please? " He asked, handing her a book and Ava did as she was told, wondering what Bryan had sent to her this time.
With a curious smile, Ava thanked the delivery person, who reciprocated with a nod before bidding them a good day and departing.
Ava and Bella exchanged puzzled glances before eagerly tearing open the package. Inside, nestled amidst layers of tissue paper, lay a breathtakingly beautiful gown, accompanied by a pair of exquisite matching shoes. The gown dazzled with intricate embroidery and delicate craftsmanship, its elegance leaving them both in awe.
Bella gasped in amazement. " Wow, Ava, this is stunning! It's absolutely perfect! "
Ava couldn't help but marvel at the sheer beauty of the ensemble. " I can't believe it. It's from Bryan, " she exclaimed, her voice filled with astonishment and gratitude.
The two friends shared an excited laugh, marveling at the unexpected and thoughtful gesture from Bryan. With smiles lighting up their faces, they admired the gown and shoes, knowing that this exquisite attire would make the evening even more special.
As Bella and Ava stood amidst the whirlwind of excitement and clothing, Bella meticulously helped Ava slip into the stunning gown, adjusting it to perfection. With swift hands, Bella skillfully added the finishing touches to Ava's makeup and hair, both caught up in the thrill of the moment.
Midway through the makeover, Ava, unable to contain herself any longer, felt compelled to confide in her friend. Her lips parted, the floodgate of recent events with Bryan ready to spill.
" Bella, I have something to tell you, " Ava began, her voice tinged with a mix of nervousness and anticipation. She recounted the unexpected texts, the ride home and what ensued between them afterwards, the reconciliation, and the developments between her and Bryan.
Bella's eyes widened in sheer shock. " You did what?! " Her reaction was loud enough to startle Ava, who glanced around hastily.
" Shh, Bella! Lower your voice, " Ava chided, rolling her eyes in a half-serious, half-amused manner.
Trying to contain her faux anger, Bella responded in mock outrage, " All these happened, and you're just telling me now? "
Ava, trying to keep the situation light, replied calmly, " Exactly why I hesitated to tell you in the first place. You're so dramatic sometimes. "
Bella flared up playfully, feigning indignation. " Dramatic? Me? Please! "
With a mischievous smile and a wink, she nudged Ava playfully " And how did you feel? "
" About? " Ava asked, feigning ignorance.
Bella glared at her friend " Don't play dumb dear friend, you know what I'm talking about "
" I don't " Ava replied, meeting Bella's gaze squarely.
Bella smirked which made Ava tensed up. She knew her friend so well and whenever she blessed the people around her with her evil smirk, she was about to do something evil. Ava shuddered, dismissing the thought immediately.
" Well, it won't cost me anything to summarize everything you just said and how he almost fingered... " Bella wasn't given the chance to finish her sentence because Ava cut in.