Chapter 37: The Finale Match
The moment Ava stepped into the ballroom, she knew she’d underestimated Mei’s ability to throw a party.
This wasn’t just any matchmaking gala—it was a full-blown romantic circus.
Thousands of fairy lights crisscrossed the ceiling, casting a golden glow over the elegantly dressed guests. Tables were adorned with elaborate floral centerpieces that looked like they belonged in a royal wedding, each paired with discreet fortune cookies containing cryptic love advice. A string quartet played softly in the corner, their serene melodies clashing with the frantic energy of over-eager singles who were already speed-dating without supervision.
"This looks... suspiciously peaceful," Ava muttered as she walked in, scanning the room with a practiced eye.
"Give it 10 minutes," Ryan said, stepping in behind her, his hand lightly brushing her back. He was dressed to perfection in a sleek black suit, but Ava could already sense the sarcastic commentary brewing beneath the polished surface. "I’m already sensing a fight brewing near the shrimp cocktail."
Sure enough, Ava spotted Greg (of karaoke machine fame) and Sandra (his equally chaotic counterpart) standing near the seafood table, exchanging heated whispers.
"What is it now?" Ava groaned, rubbing her temples. "Is he still mad she didn’t Venmo him for their last date?"
"Or maybe she’s mad because he brought his karaoke mic to their first one," Ryan quipped.
Ava turned to glare at him, but his smirk was impossible to ignore.
"Welcome to matchmaking," he said, handing her a champagne flute.
"Oh, don’t start," Ava muttered, though a smile tugged at her lips.