CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND ELEVEN - The Shadow of Maternal Expectations

The soft clink of silverware against fine china and the low murmur of conversation filled the air at Le Petit Château, one of New York's most exclusive restaurants. Ava Hart sat across from Max Bennett, her fingers idly tracing the stem of her wine glass as she gazed at him, still not quite believing the turn her life had taken. "You know," she said, a hint of amusement in her voice, "if someone had told me a few months ago that I'd be sitting here with you, celebrating our relationship going public, I would have laughed in their face." Max's lips quirked into a smirk. "And I would have fired them for even suggesting it." Ava rolled her eyes, but couldn't suppress her smile. "Always so dramatic, Mr. Bennett." "That's why you love me, Ms. Hart," he replied, reaching across the table to take her hand. The moment was interrupted by the maître d' approaching their table, looking slightly flustered. "Mr. Bennett, I apologize for the interruption, but there's a... situation at the entra