Part ~ 16

                                    

                                          
Viktor's voice came through the line, low and urgent. "Boss, we have a problem. Someone's been snooping around your secret business."
Ivan's expression darkened, his anger boiling over. "Who's that bastard? Tell me!" he thundered.
Viktor hesitated. "I don't know, Boss. But I'll find out quickly."
Ivan's voice dropped to a menacing growl. "I want that person in 24 hours. Do you understand?"
Viktor's affirmation was swift. "Yes, Boss."
The call ended abruptly, Ivan's anger still palpable.
Ava shrank back, intimidated by Ivan's furious expression. His cold, detached voice sent shivers down her spine.
"Leave. We'll talk later," Ivan dismissed her.
Ava quietly exited the cabin, relief washing over her as she stepped outside.
She couldn't shake off the feeling that Ivan's anger was directed at more than just the unknown snooper.
As Ava walked away from Ivan's cabin, she couldn't shake off the feeling of unease. Ivan's anger had been intense, his face twisted in rage.
"Why was he so angry?" Ava wondered.
She had no idea who had called Ivan or what they had discussed, but the aftermath was unmistakable.
"Ivan's reaction was so extreme," Ava thought. "What could have triggered it?"
Her mind whirled with possibilities, but she had no answers.
Just then, her phone buzzed. Sophia's text flashed on the screen: "Hey, everything okay at the office?"
Ava's thoughts were still on Ivan's outburst, but she quickly composed herself to respond.
Ava typed quickly: "Yeah, all good. Just had a meeting with Ivan. He seemed a bit off, though."
Sophia's response came swiftly: "Off? What do you mean?"
Ava typed: "I'll tell you later"
She sent the text and then turned off her phone, slipping it into her pocket.
With a deep breath, Ava refocused on her work, returning to her desk.
Her mind still lingered on Ivan's anger and the mysterious phone call.
Moly, noticed Ava's distraction.
"Hey, everything okay?" Moly asked, concern etched on her face.
Ava forced a smile.
"Yeah, all good. Just lost in thought."
Moly nodded understandingly.
Suddenly Moly leaned in, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "Hey, Ava, want to grab drinks with me after work? We can unwind and catch up outside the office."
Ava hesitated, unsure if she was in the mood.
Moly persisted, "Come on, it'll be fun! We can meet at Blue Moon Pub at 7 pm."
Ava's resolve weakened with each passing request.
"Okay, fine," Ava relented with a smile. "Blue Moon Pub, 7 pm. I'll be there."
Moly squealed in excitement. "Yay! See you then!"
The rest of the day flew by in a blur. Ava found herself looking forward to the evening.
As 5 pm approached, Ava began wrapping up her tasks.

Ava arrived home, shedding her office attire for a stunning black dress. The fitted, sleeveless design accentuated her toned arms and shoulders.
The dress hugged her curves, showcasing her slender waist and flared hips. A subtle thigh-high slit added a hint of allure.
Ava's hair cascaded down her back in soft waves, framing her heart-shaped face. She opted for minimal jewelry – delicate silver earrings and a sleek watch.
Her makeup was understated yet striking: bold eyeliner, subtle blush, and luscious mascara. Her full lips gleamed with a soft, berry-stained gloss.
Slipping into strappy black heels, Ava felt confident and radiant. The overall look was sophisticated, yet undeniably sexy.
As she checked herself in the mirror, Ava's eyes sparkled with excitement. She hadn't dressed up like this in ages.
Blue Moon Pub 
Ava stepped into Blue Moon Pub, her stilettos clicking on the polished floor. The dimly lit atmosphere enveloped her, and the hum of conversation welcomed her.
Heads turned as Ava made her way to the bar. Her confidence soared with each admiring glance.
Spotting Moly waving enthusiastically, Ava smiled and navigated through the crowd.
Moly's eyes widened as Ava approached. "Wow, Ava! You look stunning!" she exclaimed.
Ava blushed, feeling glamorous. "Thanks, Moly! You don't look so bad yourself."
Moly beamed, her bright red dress complementing Ava's black ensemble.
As they hugged, Ava noticed a few curious glances from nearby patrons.
As Ava and Moly settled at the bar, the security personnel approached them with a pair of masks.
"Excuse me, ladies," he said with a smile. "Tonight's theme is 'Mystery Night.' Everyone who enters the pub receives a complimentary mask. Please wear them to maintain the ambiance."
Ava and Moly exchanged curious glances.
"Interesting," Ava said, taking her mask.
Moly chuckled. "Sounds like fun!"
The masks were elegant, black, and adorned with intricate silver designs. Ava and Moly put them on, adjusting the velvety straps.
Now anonymous, Ava felt a thrill of liberation. The mask hid her identity but revealed her playful side.
As they sipped their drinks, Ava whispered, "This is actually kind of exciting."
Moly giggled. "Told you it'd be a great night!"
The pub transformed into a mysterious realm, with masked patrons mingling and laughing.