บท 248: Leaving

"Alright, I'm not giving you everything. I kept a share for myself. Over the past year, you've managed the studio, and I feel guilty about it. Besides, given our relationship, is there really a need to be so calculative? You're doing great, keep it up. I believe in you," Ava said with a smile. She was truly grateful to Zoe; without her help, the studio wouldn't have survived.

Ava continued with her encouragement and praise until Zoe finally relented, "But seriously, when are you coming back? It's really lonely here without you."

"Hmm… it might be a while. You know my situation. Even if I went back, I couldn't focus on work. It's better to take a good break. So, please take care of the studio, Zoe."

As their conversation grew more animated, Alex passed by Ava's room and overheard her. Smiling, he realized she must be talking to Zoe. He felt relieved, as he worried that Ava staying home every day might make her feel stifled.