Ava’s POV The buzz surrounding F&J’s sudden rise was almost overwhelming. What once had been a sinking ship was now the talk of the town. Investors couldn’t stop singing praises, and business analysts were busy publishing articles on how one strategic move turned the company around. It felt strange, knowing I was at the heart of it. Derek’s company, the one that had almost gone under, was thriving, and it was largely thanks to me and my team. Nikolai walked into my office, his expression neutral as always, but there was something in his eyes that told me there was news. I glanced up from my computer, sensing that this wasn’t just another daily report. “Derek requested a meeting,” Nikolai began, placing a document on my desk. “He wants to discuss taking full control of F&J again.” I exh