Chapter 268

Ava's POV I rushed into my house, heart still racing from the encounter with Joseph. My whole body was on fire with desire for him. He wasn't just handsome; everything about him was intoxicating: his charm, his scent, the way he looked at me. But despite how much I wanted to spend the night with him, I couldn't. Mom would worry. When I'd left earlier that evening, she'd caught me by the door, eyebrows raised at my gold dress. "Where are you going looking so gorgeous?" she'd asked, leaning against the doorframe with that knowing look mothers have. "Just out with some friends," I'd replied casually. "Friends? Or a particular friend?" Her eyes narrowed slightly. "You don't dress like this for just anyone." "Mom, please. It's just a night out." She'd hesitated, then smiled. "Have fun, sweetheart. Don't stay out too late." Now, I tiptoed through the dark house, relieved to see her bedroom door closed, soft snores coming from within. I headed straight for the shower; I needed to cool down th