Chapter 85: I’m not taking him back.

Ava ended the call, lowering her phone just as she felt strong arms slide around her from behind. Startled, she tensed and nearly dropped her phone. His embrace felt warm and familiar, yet now it only ignited a bittersweet ache within her.

He nestled his head against her shoulder, inhaling deeply. "Who were you talking to?" he murmured, his lips grazing her ear as he breathed in the faint lavender scent clinging to her skin.

Her reaction was swift and sharp. Ava twisted away, breaking free from his hold. "I don't owe you an answer," she shot back, her eyes flashing with irritation. "I'll speak with whomever I choose—you don't get to ask."

Dylan's face registered a brief flicker of hurt, caught off guard by her sharp words. "Ava, I was just asking... nothing more. I wasn't prying."