Ava's POV

 

As William and I sat down for dinner that evening, I couldn't help but feel a weight lift off my shoulders.

 

"I really appreciate your offer, William but I think it's time for me to deal with my mother and her greed once and for all. I've been putting it off for too long, and I can't have it hanging over my head anymore."

 

William sighed and took my hand. "I understand, sweetheart," he said. "But you've done enough already. You've tried to reason with her, you've given her chances, and you've worked hard to protect your interests. It's not fair to put this burden on yourself when...