logy hub gleamed under chandeliers of cutting-edge design, a seamless blend of futuristic tech and artistic elegance. Media outlets, a

et elegant black dress Zoe had insisted she buy, though she couldn't shake the feeli

d. "Breathe, Ava. You're

smile. "I'm trying.

f tech magnates, but as if sensing her gaze, he turned. His eyes met hers, and for a moment, the n

e, microphone in hand. His commanding presence

an unveiling. It's a celebration of the intersection between human creativity and techno

ve her a gentle shove, and she managed to step forward, her heart h

that amidst all our advancements, it's our humanity that truly dri

revealing Ava's creation. Gasps filled

ed to shift and change as light danced across the surface. Embedded within the piece were delicate circuits and LE

e hall. Ava felt a wave of relief and pride wash over her, her doub

ser look. Ava was inundated with congratulations and questions, her mind spinning

lk of the night?"He asked, a r

ough her smile betrayed her exhi

rve every bit of it. You've creat

approached them, his presence co

"Impressive work you've done here. But I can't hel

Damian's express

id coolly. "Perhaps you should spend more

ed before he walked awa

that? "

missively. "Don't let him bother

e realized just how high the stakes were for Damian

ent of quiet. The city stretched out before her, its lights glittering like star

ughts? "Damian's voi

w feet away, his tie loosened and a

ll in," she admitted. "To

ce grounding. "It's real, Ava

le when they first met. Now she saw the cracks in hi

fend me back th

be here. And because I've spent too long surroun

in his voice. She wanted to say someth

e locking with hers. "You've c

them shrinking. For a moment, it felt as if the world had

n's phone buzzed, breaking the spell. He gla

said, his tone apologetic.

an Cross than he let on, and she couldn't shake the feeling that whatever

omething was shifting. The night had been a triumph, but it had also revealed cra

into, she wondered if she was ready for what lay ahead. B