Chapter 66: Something to Want-1
Claim
The teasing eventually melted into easy conversation, the kind that flowed without effort. The group lounged across the oversized cushions, the late afternoon sun casting everything in a soft, golden haze. Someone ordered another round of drinks, and soon Harper had everyone laughing with stories from the PR trenches-like the time a junior associate sent out a press release that began with “Dear Insert Name Here,” or how she once caught two interns strategizing” a little too enthusiastically in the supply closet.
Even James couldn’t hold back his laughter.
Maya giggled until her sides hurt, surprised by how light everything felt-how easy. But what caught her most off guard… was him.
Damien wasn’t just composed.
He was at ease.
Shirt sleeves rolled up, one hand lazily cradling his glass, he leaned back against the cushions like the weight of the world had finally loosened its grip. He actually laughed-really laughed-when Harper reenacted a dramatic PR meltdown. And when Ashcroft made a joke about someone packing a ring light for a hike, Damien shook his head with a quiet chuckle, smiling in a way Maya hadn’t seen before.
Even James blinked like he was seeing a rare celestial event.
Ashcroft raised a brow, amused. “Well, damn.”
Harper blinked. “Okay, what is happening right now? Who is this man? I’ve worked under you for almost four years and I swear this is the first time you’ve laughed like a functioning adult.
”
Damien just smirked and took another sip. “Don’t get used to it.”
“Too late,” Harper grinned, nudging Maya with her elbow. “I’m blaming you for this.”
A little while later, just before dusk, the group finally decided to head back to their rooms. The sun had dipped lower in the sky, painting Isla Aurelia in golden tones that shimmered across the water and gilded the edges of everything it touched.
Maya lingered behind for just a moment, letting the breeze dance across her sun-warmed skin, her heart still buoyed by laughter and the sight of Damien so… unguarded.
She sensed it before she turned.
1/3
Chapter 66. Something to Want-1
He hadn’t moved either.
Claim
Damien stood a few steps away, one hand tucked into his pocket, the other hanging loose at his side. His head was tilted slightly, the light casting soft shadows across the strong lines of his jaw. But it was his eyes-dark, unreadable, and locked on her-that made her breath catch.
He didn’t speak.
He didn’t need to.
There was something in his gaze-a tether. Quiet. Certain. Like he wasn’t quite ready to leave this moment either.
Then Harper looped an arm through hers and gave her a playful tug.
“Come on, Maya 2.0. Time to rinse off the sea and look semi-respectable for dinner.”
Maya smiled, glancing away just as Damien finally turned toward the path back. But the warmth in her chest lingered.
And she had a feeling his did too.
Back in their respective suites, they took time to freshen up-showers humming in the background, the soft rustle of fabric and clinking of hangers carrying faintly through open balcony doors left ajar to catch the ocean breeze. The island seemed to exhale with them, slowing as the day slipped into evening.
Dinner was a relaxed affair-seafood platters, grilled vegetables, fresh bread, and easy laughter under twinkling overhead lights. Mary lightened the mood with a hilarious story about a failed HR stunt-a rare glimpse of levity from the woman everyone usually saw as the strict, no-nonsense HR lead. Meanwhile, Harper couldn’t stop nudging Maya under the table every time Damien quietly refilled her water, gently buttered her bread, or carefully passed her a perfectly seared scallop, each small gesture making her heart flutter in secret.
After dessert, as the plates were cleared away, Harper clapped her hands once. “Alright, everyone-listen up! I know we’re all grown adults with jobs, titles, and KPIs, but just hear me
out…”
Ashcroft narrowed his eyes, clearly suspicious. “Uh-oh. That sounds dangerous.”
Harper grinned mischievously. “Campfire bonding time. And I mean real bonding. Blankets, firelight, drinks… and maybe a little game?”
Cedella
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.