The CEO's Vow: His Shadowed Desires novel Chapter 3

The next morning, Ava woke to blessed solitude. She tentatively explored her sore muscles, praying last night had been a nightmare. But the unfamiliar room, the faint scent of Ethan lingering in the air, told a different story.

"He's insane," she muttered, gingerly getting out of bed.

As she stretched, trying to ease the ache in her lower back, she heard the distinct click of a door opening.

"Miss Ava, breakfast is ready."

A young maid stood in the doorway, a tray of food in her hands. Hope flickered in Ava's chest. This was her chance.

She rushed towards the maid, her voice urgent. "Where's Ethan? I need to leave!"

The maid's face fell. "I… I'm sorry, Miss Ava, but I can't do that. Please, don't make this harder than it has to be."

Ava's shoulders slumped. She had to change tactics. She put on her sweetest smile, hoping it would mask the desperation she felt. "Come on, sis, just this once? Please?"

The maid hesitated, her resolve crumbling under Ava's pleading eyes. But then she shook her head, her voice apologetic. "I… I can't risk losing my job. Please, just eat something."

She placed the tray on the nightstand and hurried out, leaving Ava alone with her thoughts. Ava knew she had to play her cards right. Escape would take careful planning.

Later that day, as Ava paced her gilded cage, Ethan strode into the room. He raised an eyebrow at her anxious energy. "Where do you think you're going?"

Ava's heart skipped a beat. "I... I just wanted some fresh air," she stammered, her mind racing.

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