Chasing His Scentless Mate (Caroline) novel Chapter 282

Chapter 282: Chapter 282 First Week Challenges

Ava’s POV

As much as I craved another night in Joseph’s arms, common sense totally won out. After spending Sunday at Ryan’s house with our friends, I needed to head home and prepare for my new job. Joseph was not taking it well.

"If I’d known you weren’t staying over tonight, I would have handcuffed you to my bed this morning," Joseph complained as he walked me to my door.

I rolled my eyes. "And we wouldn’t have had that amazing day with our friends."

"The day was great, but having you naked beneath me is better than any social gathering," he replied, his husky tone making my knees weak.

I laughed at his pouty expression, though I couldn’t deny the pull I felt toward him. Our bodies fit together perfectly in a way I’d never experienced before—like we were truly made for each other.

"Goodnight, Joseph," I said, stretching up to kiss him one last time.

"Call me when you get in bed," he murmured against my lips.

"So you can talk dirty to me while my mom’s in the next room? Not happening."

I slipped inside, closing the door on his laugh. Mom was waiting in the living room with a knowing smile.

"From that glow on your face, I’d say your weekend was more than just ’good,’" she observed, putting down her mystical witchcraft book.

"It was incredible, Mom," I admitted, flopping onto the couch beside her. "I met some amazing friends and got myself a boyfriend who’s..." I closed my eyes, remembering Joseph’s touch, "...something else entirely."

She looked me over carefully and smiled. "That’s wonderful, honey! I’m so happy for you."

I sighed happily. "Life is really changing."

"Speaking of changes," Mom said, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear, "I’m calling the realtor tomorrow morning to start looking at apartments. I want you involved in choosing our new place."

"I’d love that," I said, suddenly excited about the prospect. "But remember I can only see places during lunch or after work. My new boss seems great, but I don’t want to take advantage in my first week."

"Smart thinking. Are you hungry? I can fix you something."

I shook my head. "No thanks, we ate at Ryan’s. I’m just going to shower and crash—I’m exhausted."

"I bet you are," Mom said with a sly smile that made me blush.

After kissing her goodnight, I headed to my room. Once showered and in bed, I fell asleep instantly, dreaming of deep eyes and strong hands.

Monday morning arrived with nervous anticipation fluttering in my stomach. I dressed carefully in a pencil skirt and blouse before heading to Thorne Enterprises. My excitement quickly turned to confusion when I was stopped at reception.

"I’m sorry, but you’re not on the approved visitor list," the receptionist said with a tight smile that didn’t reach her eyes.

"There must be a mistake. I’m Ava Flynn—Alpha Draven’s new assistant?"

"No mistake," she replied coolly. "Please exit the building."

When I tried to argue, she actually called security. Humiliated, I stepped outside and called Alpha Draven.

"Wait there," he said, voice tight with anger. "I’m coming down."

Minutes later, Alpha Draven strode through the front doors, his expression thunderous.

"Good morning, Ava," he greeted me. "What happened?"

"The receptionist said I wasn’t allowed in. When I insisted, she called security who threw me out!" I couldn’t keep the irritation from my voice.

"Come with me," he said.

After I identified the security guard who’d escorted me out, Alpha Draven called both him and the receptionist over, demanding an explanation. The woman said my entry wasn’t authorized and she had orders to remove me, though she refused to say from whom.

"You’re both fired," Draven said coldly. "Report to HR immediately to process your termination."

Their faces went pale as they slunk away. Draven led me through the building.

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