Chapter 74. A Dangerous Proposition

Avery’s POV

The past few weeks had been nothing short of exhausting, but despite the long nights and endless negotiations, my business was thriving. I had built it from the ground up, pouring my sweat, my determination, and my need to prove myself into every deal.

And now, I was so close.

Close to winning the bet with my father. Close to securing my independence. Close to proving that I was more than just the daughter of an Alpha.

Yet, despite all my success, my mind had been elsewhere.

Julian.

No matter how hard I tried to push him out of my thoughts, his presence lingered, haunting me like a ghost that refused to fade.

That kiss…

I squeezed my eyes shut, gripping the edges of my desk.

Days had passed, but I could still feel the way he had pressed me against the wall, the way his hands had gripped my waist, his fingers digging into my skin as if he couldn’t bear to let go. His lips had been demanding, fierce, igniting som