Chapter of Namibe Flats for book d
Chapter 62: No One Else Gets to Look-3
“It screams I’m alive, babe. You’re twenty-five, not seventy. Own it.”
Clawn
In the end, Maya had only gotten Harper to back off by insisting on keeping her jean shorts- and unbuttoning the white linen polo for some kind of balance. Originally, Harper wanted her to wear just the long white shirt over the bikini.
“It’s breezy. It’s chic. Let the world breathe,” she’d said dramatically.
But the shirt was so thin, Maya felt practically naked the moment sunlight hit it. It may as well have been made of mist.
So now, standing in the lobby with all eyes subtly (or not-so-subtly) drifting toward her, she felt a hot flush creep up her neck.
This is why I didn’t want to wear this.
She tugged at the edge of her open polo, fingers brushing the waist of her jean shorts. They were a small comfort-something grounded, something hers.
Beside her, Harper glowed like a sun goddess who hadn’t doubted her outfit for a second.
Maya, on the other hand, was hyperaware of everything-the way her top floated open with every step, the heat on her cheeks, the feel of Damien’s gaze pressing in like a slow burn she couldn’t ignore.
Harper’s fearless boldness always made her wonder how anyone could carry that kind of energy so effortlessly. It was both a shield and a gift, something Maya wished she could borrow for just a moment.
“Okay, you are definitely being stared at,” Harper whispered beside her, a wicked grin spreading across her face.
“And not just by Mr. Tall, Dark and Mine-Mine-Mine over there.”
Maya’s brows knit together. “What are you-”
“Oh come on,” Harper cut in, looping her arm through Maya’s and dragging her forward.
“Let’s go say hi to our very beach-ready bosses. Don’t trip-we’re walking in slow motion now.
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“What-what are you talking about-?”
“Slow. Motion. Baywatch moment. Just go with it.”
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Chunner is? Ne One Fine Got to oko 2
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The two of them crossed the lobby, sunlight pooling in behind them like some kind of golden spotlight. Harper looked positively glowing in mustard yellow, but Maya… Maya was unintentionally stealing the entire show.
As they neared, Ashcroft gave an appreciative nod and let out a low, theatrical hum.
“Ladies. You’ve officially raised the island temperature.”
Harper struck a pose, flipping her beach tote dramatically.
“We aim to please. You like the outfit? It’s ‘Tropical Chic on a Budget.’ Catch it on the runway never.”
Damien’s gaze never left Maya. He still hadn’t said a word.
But when she stopped in front of him-closer now-her eyes met his for the first time since stepping out of the elevator.
And something passed between them.
Unspoken.
Electric.
“Boss?” James prompted gently, nudging his arm.
Damien blinked.
Too slow.
Too obvious.
He cleared his throat, forcing his gaze toward James with a sharp nod, as if remembering where he was.
“Right. Let’s get started.”
But his voice had dropped half an octave-and every syllable still lingered on her skin. Benea th the cool facade, a storm quietly raged.
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Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.