[ Chicago Med ] Connor and Ava | Hurt by Secrets

Chapter 6

Ava graciously led her friend, Jess, into the opulent surroundings of her all-time favorite luxurious restaurant in the heart of Chicago. The ambiance exuded elegance, setting the perfect stage for the celebration.

"Happy birthday!" Ava exclaimed, a smile illuminating her face.

Jess tried to downplay the gesture. "You didn't have to do this, Ava."

"Come on, Jess. Just enjoy the dinner, please," Ava insisted. "So, tell me, how's your family doing?"

As they settled into their seats, Jess shared the joys of her family life. Her plans to travel across Europe with her husband, the well-being of her parents, and the presence of her loving daughter all painted a picture of happiness and contentment.

"Europe? That's exciting," Ava remarked, her eyes filled with genuine curiosity.

With a twinkle in her eye, Jess turned the conversation back to Ava. "And what about you? Any exciting news to share?"

Ava's face lit up with joy. "Well, last week, he finally popped the question!"

Jess leaned in, her eyes brimming with anticipation. "And... did you say yes?"

Ava nodded emphatically. "Absolutely! Although, I must say, it took him forever to ask."

Jess couldn't contain her happiness for her best friend. "I'm thrilled for you, Ave. Connor has the most captivating eyes, and..."

Ava interrupted playfully, "Wait a minute, why does my best friend sound like she's secretly in love with my new fiancé?"

Jess quickly dismissed the notion, assuring Ava, "No way! I'm a happily married woman deeply in love with my husband. But I must admit, Connor is quite charming. Now, tell me all about the proposal!"

Ava's smile wavered for a moment as she began recounting the story, but soon enough, excitement took over, and she vividly described the Saturday morning that had seemed so real.

However, as Ava awakened from her dreamlike state, she realized the cruel truth—there was no ring adorning her finger. It had all been a figment of her imagination, a fleeting fantasy. 

Frustration and disappointment surged within her, unaware that Connor had overheard her exclamation.

"Bad dreams, or did I ruin your good ones?" Connor asked, his voice filled with concern.

Ava's eyes darted towards him, her frustration momentarily directed at him. "Never mind. What?"

Connor, sensing her distress, gently urged her, "The press conference starts in a couple of hours. You should get ready."

Collecting herself, Ava nodded, and they proceeded to prepare for the eventful day. She chose an elegant ensemble, opting for a white blouse, a tailored gray blazer, and matching pants. Together, they descended the stairs to grab a bite to eat before the day's proceedings.

As they sat down, Ava indulged in a Belgian waffle adorned with cappuccino mascarpone cream and pralines, while Connor savored the crème brûlée French toast with blueberry compote. Amid bites and sips, their conversation turned to Ava's nervousness about the upcoming press conference.

"How are you feeling right now?" Connor inquired, genuine concern etched across his face.

"Nervous, but I know I can get through it, right?" Ava replied, seeking reassurance.

Connor, ever the supportive presence, offered a heartfelt response. "Ms. Bekker, I'll watch you from my seat. You'll be okay."

Ava, grateful for his encouragement, playfully scolded him. "Thanks, but stop calling me Ms. Bekker. You're starting to make me upset rather than nervous."

With a mischievous smile, Connor asked, "Is that a good thing or a bad thing?"

"Babe, would you please stop asking me such questions?" Ava requested, her tone a mix of exasperation and affection.

Understanding her intentions, Connor decided to respect her wish. "Alright, I'm going to stop talking to you right now."

Panicked by his response, Ava quickly clarified, "That's not what I meant. I didn't ask you to stay silent; I just meant to stop with the questions."

Connor, puzzled by the sudden change in demeanor, inquired, "I wasn't planning on doing that. What's wrong with you? Is this about last night? Did I do something wrong?"

Feeling a mix of emotions, Ava composed herself before responding, "No, it's not about last night. Just forget everything I said. Finish your meal. I'm going to the restroom."

She finished the last bite of her breakfast and excused herself from the table, making her way towards the restroom. Unbeknownst to Ava, Connor quietly followed her, securing the entrance to the women's room.

"What the hell, Connor? You can't be in here," Ava exclaimed, her voice a mix of surprise and annoyance.

Connor, undeterred, reassured her. "No one's here, Ava."

Ava glared at him, her expression demanding an explanation. He proceeded to check each toilet cubicle, confirming his intuition.

"See? Nobody's here," Connor stated, his voice laced with determination.

Ava's frustration escalated, and fear began to creep into her voice. "You have to follow me wherever I go now?"

Their eyes locked, their emotions intermingling in the confined space of the restroom. Ava, feeling cornered, sternly warned him, "Get out. You're scaring me, Connor."

Disappointed by her reaction, Connor sighed, his disappointment evident. "You're unbelievable. I'll be outside."
As Ava watched him leave, a wave of conflicting emotions washed over her. Uncertainty clouded her mind, mingling with the love and desire she felt for Connor. Little did she know that their relationship was about to face a significant test, one that would challenge their trust, resilience, and the very foundation upon which their love was built.