**Chapter 5: A Moment of Solace**

As Ashley's eyes met Avan's across the crowded lobby, she felt a rush of emotions: relief, love, and a deep sense of connection. She smiled, and Avan's smile grew wider, his eyes crinkling at the corners. He excused himself from the bar and made his way towards her, his long strides eating up the distance. Liz hovered discreetly, keeping a watchful eye on Ashley as she was enveloped in Avan's arms. The hug was warm and tight, a sanctuary from the chaos that had just erupted outside. Ashley breathed in the familiar scent of his cologne, feeling her tension melt away. "I'm so sorry," Avan whispered into her ear, his voice low and soothing. "I was worried sick about you." Ashley pulled back, her eyes searching his face. "I'm okay," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Liz helped me get out of there." Avan's gaze flicked to Liz, who nodded in greeting. "Thanks for taking care of her," he said, his voice filled with gratitude. Liz smiled and patted Ashley's arm. "Anytime. I'll leave you two alone now." As Liz disappeared into the crowd, Avan took Ashley's hand, his fingers intertwining with hers. "Let's get out of here," he said, his eyes scanning the lobby. "I have a suite on the top floor. We can go up there and...recharge." Ashley nodded, feeling a sense of exhaustion wash over her. The past few days had been a blur, and she was grateful for the chance to rest and recharge with the man she loved. They made their way to the elevators, Avan's arm around her shoulders, shielding her from the prying eyes of the hotel guests. As they stepped into the elevator, Ashley felt a sense of relief wash over her. She was safe, she was with Avan, and for a moment, she could forget about the paparazzi and the media storm that had been raging outside. The elevator doors opened on the top floor, and Avan led her to a luxurious suite, complete with a stunning view of the city. Ashley gasped as she took in the breathtaking panorama, feeling a sense of awe at the sheer beauty of it all. Avan chuckled and pulled her close. "I'm glad you like it," he said, his voice low and husky. Ashley turned to him, her eyes locking onto his. "I love it," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Avan's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled, his face inches from hers. "I'm glad," he whispered, his lips brushing against hers in a soft, gentle kiss. As they kissed, Ashley felt the world around her melt away, leaving only the two of them, lost in their own little bubble of love and tranquility. For a moment, she was free, free to love, free to be herself, and free to forget about the chaos that had been raging outside. But as they pulled back, gasping for air, Ashley's phone buzzed on her hip, shrill and insistent. She groaned, feeling a sense of dread wash over her. Who could be calling now? Avan's eyes met hers, a hint of concern etched on his face. "Do you need to get it?" he asked. Ashley hesitated, her eyes on the phone. She didn't want to deal with the paparazzi or the media right now. She just wanted to be with Avan, to savor this moment of solace. But something about the buzzing phone nagged at her. It was a call, not a text. And it was probably important. With a sigh, Ashley reached for the phone, her eyes flicking to the screen. Her heart sank as she saw the name on the display: her manager, Mark. What did he want now?