THE HEIRESS VOW - Chapter 7

Chapter 7: Undercover
Ava’s fingers tightened around Liam’s arm as she scanned the room. Lavish gowns and tailored suits filled her vision, a stark contrast to the simpler life she had carved out for herself. She caught sight of familiar faces, people she had once known intimately but now seemed like strangers.

“Are you okay?” Liam’s voice was low, his concern evident.

Ava forced a smile, her eyes meeting his. “Just… memories,” she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

Liam nodded, understanding flashing in his eyes. “Remember, we’re here for a reason. We need that information.”

Ava took a deep breath and nodded. She adjusted the delicate mask that covered her eyes, grateful for the anonymity it provided. They moved deeper into the room, past the marble statues and grandiose floral arrangements, their target in sight.

At the center of the room, surrounded by sycophants and socialites, was Senator Harrington. His booming laugh carried over the chatter, drawing eyes and ears towards him. Ava felt a pang of disgust. This man, with his practiced charm and immaculate appearance, held secrets that could topple empires.

“We need to get closer,” Ava whispered.

Liam glanced around and then guided her towards the refreshments table, positioning themselves strategically nearby. They picked up champagne flutes, blending in with the crowd. Ava’s eyes never left the Senator, watching as he engaged in animated conversation with an older gentleman.

Ava leaned in closer to Liam, her lips barely moving. “That’s him, the contact. We need to hear what they’re saying.”

Liam gave a subtle nod, shifting slightly to get a better angle. They stood there, feigning interest in the hors d’oeuvres, their ears straining to catch snippets of the conversation.

“I told you, the shipment is arriving on Thursday. It needs to be handled discreetly,” the older gentleman said, his voice gruff.

Senator Harrington nodded, his expression serious. “And the payment?”

“Already taken care of. Just ensure the security is tight. We can’t afford any slip-ups.”

Ava’s heart raced. This was it—the proof they needed. She exchanged a quick glance with Liam, who gave her a barely perceptible nod. They needed to get out of there and report back.

As they turned to leave, Ava caught sight of a woman approaching them. Her heart skipped a beat. It was Victoria, her childhood friend turned socialite queen. There was no way Victoria wouldn’t recognize her, mask or no mask.

“Ava?” Victoria’s voice was filled with disbelief, her eyes widening as she took in Ava’s appearance.

Ava froze, every muscle in her body tensing. “Victoria, hi,” she managed, her voice sounding foreign to her own ears.

“What are you doing here?” Victoria’s gaze flicked to Liam, suspicion clouding her features. “And who is this?”

Liam stepped forward, offering a charming smile. “I’m Liam. Ava and I are here as guests of Senator Harrington.”

Victoria’s eyes narrowed. “Really? I didn’t know Ava was still in touch with the Senator.”

Ava forced a laugh, trying to appear nonchalant. “It’s been a while, but you know how it is with these events. Old connections and all.”

Victoria didn’t look convinced. “Well, it’s good to see you, Ava. We should catch up later.” With a pointed look, she walked away, her posture stiff.

Liam leaned in, his breath warm against Ava’s ear. “We need to move, now.”

Ava nodded, her pulse quickening. They navigated through the crowd, aiming for the exit. But just as they reached the door, a voice stopped them cold.

“Ava, wait.”

She turned slowly, her stomach sinking. Senator Harrington was walking towards them, his expression unreadable. Beside him, the older gentleman from earlier watched them with narrowed eyes.

“I didn’t expect to see you here,” Harrington said, his tone deceptively pleasant.

Ava mustered a smile. “I thought it was time to reconnect with old friends.”

Harrington’s gaze shifted to Liam. “And you are?”

“Her partner,” Liam replied smoothly. “We were just leaving.”

The Senator’s eyes hardened. “Leaving so soon? But you haven’t even had a chance to enjoy the festivities.”

Ava’s heart pounded. “Another time, perhaps. We have an early morning tomorrow.”

Harrington stepped closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. “I know what you’re doing, Ava. And believe me, you’re in over your head.”

Ava’s blood ran cold. She forced herself to meet his gaze, refusing to show fear. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Harrington’s smile was chilling. “Of course you don’t. Enjoy your evening.”

With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Ava and Liam standing there, the weight of his threat hanging in the air.

Liam squeezed her hand, his eyes filled with concern. “We need to get out of here, now.”

Ava nodded, her mind racing. They hurried towards the exit, their pace quickening with every step. As they reached the door, Ava glanced back, her eyes meeting Victoria’s. The look of betrayal on her friend’s face was unmistakable.

Outside, the cool night air hit Ava like a slap. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. “That was too close.”

Liam nodded, his jaw tight. “We have what we need. Let’s get back and report in.”

As they made their way to the car, Ava couldn’t shake the feeling of dread that had settled in her stomach. Harrington’s words echoed in her mind, a stark reminder of the danger they were in.

Just as they reached the car, Ava’s phone buzzed. She pulled it out, her eyes widening as she read the message.

“We know where you are. Leave now or face the consequences.”

Her breath caught in her throat. “Liam, we need to go. Now.”

Liam didn’t hesitate. He started the car, his expression grim. “We’re not safe here.”

As they sped away from the mansion, Ava glanced in the rearview mirror, her heart pounding. She could see headlights following them, gaining speed.

“They’re after us,” she said, her voice trembling.

Liam’s grip tightened on the wheel. “Hold on, we’re going to lose them.”

The car raced down the winding road, the headlights behind them growing closer. Ava’s mind whirled with fear and determination. They had the information they needed, but now they had to survive long enough to use it.