**Chapter 4: Facing the Storm**

The sound of cars pulling up outside her house signaled the arrival of the paparazzi. Ashley squared her shoulders, preparing herself for the media storm that was about to descend upon her. Liz appeared by her side, a determined look on her face. "Ready to do this?" Liz asked, her voice low and steady. Ashley nodded, taking a deep breath. She had been in tough spots before, but this was different. This was her personal life, her relationship, and her child that were about to be scrutinized by the world. The two women made their way to the living room, where a plan was already in motion. A sleek black SUV was parked at the curb, its tinted windows reflecting the flash of cameras like a mirror. A burly security guard, hired specifically for this occasion, stood by the door, his arms crossed. "Time to go," he said, his voice firm. Ashley nodded, feeling a sense of resignation wash over her. She glanced out the window, where a sea of cameras and microphones waited. The paparazzi were a rowdy bunch, shouting questions and jostling for position. Liz handed her a pair of sunglasses and a baseball cap. "Put these on," she whispered. "We'll try to get you out of here without too much drama." Ashley complied, pulling the cap low over her eyes and slipping on the shades. She felt a sense of anonymity wash over her, a fleeting sense of freedom. The security guard opened the door, and Ashley slid into the SUV, Liz following close behind. The door closed with a thud, and the vehicle began to move, slowly making its way through the crowded sidewalk. The paparazzi swarmed, their cameras flashing like fireflies as they tried to get a shot of Ashley's face. But she remained hidden, her features obscured by the sunglasses and cap. As they pulled away from the curb, Ashley felt a sense of relief wash over her. They were almost safe. Almost. The SUV picked up speed, weaving through the crowded streets of Los Angeles. Ashley's heart still racing, she leaned back in her seat, trying to calm her nerves. Liz reached out, placing a reassuring hand on her knee. "You're doing great, Ash. We'll get through this." Ashley smiled weakly, feeling a surge of gratitude towards her friend. She knew she couldn't do this without Liz, who had been her rock through all the ups and downs of her career. As they drove, Ashley's mind turned to Avan, and what the night might hold. She couldn't wait to see him, to be in his arms and forget about the chaos that surrounded her. The SUV turned onto a side street, and Ashley caught a glimpse of a familiar building in the distance. The entrance to the Four Seasons Hotel was flanked by a pair of sleek black sedans, their drivers waiting by the door. Liz nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "We're here." The SUV pulled up to the curb, and Ashley felt a sense of excitement build in her chest. She slipped off the sunglasses and cap, smoothing her hair as she prepared to make her exit. The door opened, and Ashley stepped out into the warm evening air, her eyes scanning the crowded lobby for a glimpse of Avan's familiar face. And then, she saw him. Standing by the bar, his eyes locked on hers, a small smile playing on his lips. Ashley's heart skipped a beat as she smiled back, feeling a sense of joy wash over her. She had made it through the storm, and now, she could finally be with the one person who made her feel whole.