Chapter 43: The Big Match
Ava had been lulled into a false sense of security. Her life was, for once, starting to feel like it was under control. Her relationship with Ryan—if one could officially call their sarcastic banter and occasional stolen kisses a "relationship"—was something she wasn’t overthinking (a minor miracle). Mei hadn’t orchestrated any outrageous matchmaking schemes in weeks. And business at the tea shop-slash-office was booming.
But Ava should have known better. Peace was always just the calm before Mei’s next storm.
Ava was halfway through reorganizing the tea tins (again) when she caught sight of the mob of cameras outside the shop. Flashes went off like fireworks, and reporters jostled for position, shouting unintelligible questions through the glass door.
"Why are there paparazzi outside the tea shop?" Ava asked, glancing at Ryan, who was lounging at her desk and flipping through client files.
"Maybe you accidentally matched Beyoncé with a barista," Ryan said without looking up.
Mei, seated nearby and knitting something suspiciously sweater-shaped, didn’t even pause her needles. "Or maybe it’s finally my turn for fame."
Ava raised an eyebrow. "You’re knitting. How would that warrant paparazzi?"
Mei smirked. "You underestimate the public’s fascination with my brilliance."
Before Ava could roll her eyes, the door burst open with such force that the bell above it jingled in protest. Two ridiculously good-looking people strode in, radiating chaotic energy and Hollywood-grade stress.
"Oh my God," Ava whispered, her jaw dropping. "You’re Chloe Hart and Jason Black."
"Yep," Jason said, taking off his sunglasses, despite the fact that it was definitely not sunny indoors. He tossed them onto the counter like he was making a dramatic statement. "And we need your help."