Chapter 25: Ethan’s Offer – The Snake, the Latte, and the Dilemma

The Email That Started It All

Subject: Let's Talk—A Proposal

From: Ethan Chase

Ava had read the email so many times, she could practically recite it in her sleep.

"Ava, I think it's time we buried the hatchet. Let's meet for coffee—I have a business proposition I think you'll want to hear. My treat. Ethan."

She hated how polished it sounded, like he'd written it while lounging in a leather chair, swirling a glass of expensive whiskey, and congratulating himself for being so magnanimous.

"Bury the hatchet?" Ava muttered aloud, glaring at the screen. "He'd rather bury it in my back."

The sound of footsteps broke her train of thought.

"You look like you're about to win a staring contest with your laptop," Ryan said, appearing in the doorway. He had a cup of coffee in one hand and what appeared to be a suspiciously large muffin in the other.