Chapter Twenty-Six

Past

I t has been two weeks since Damian surprised me by buying a freaking mansion for us.

In those two weeks, the mansion has become my personal space because I’ve spent almost every single day in it. Except the nights.

Even when he isn’t around half the time, it still feels like he’s with me. This place has Damian’s essence. That’s why I like to spend time here than the campus café or my apartment.

Damian’s got his private chef here, and my taste buds have never been happier. From fancy breakfasts to late-night munchies, every meal feels like a Michelin-star experience. It’s almost eerie how each dish aligns perfectly with my tastes, especially since I’ve never mentioned my favorite foods.

He has gone so far as to arrange for a dedicated driver to take me to and from the mansion. Has made sure the place is filled with all the things I need. Including stationaries for school work.

Take yesterday for example. We were lounging on the plush couch after devouring another delicious meal for lunch. My head was resting on his muscled thigh while he was on a phone call, his fingers playing with my curls.

Those lazy moments are my favorite. Anyway, I was browsing Pinterest as usual for cute mugs and all of a sudden something dropped on my lap. It was a beautifully wrapped gift box. I looked up and saw Damian was now leaning back against the couch, his piercing dark gaze was shut, his thick long lashes resting over his cheeks.

The whole gift box thing temporarily slipped my mind, and I found myself frozen, unable to utter a word or move an inch. He looked so serious even when his body was relaxed. So dauntingly sophisticated in his black shirt and trousers.

And there it was again, the intense attraction that tugged my insides as I admired his beautifully symmetrical features. He was just... so damn hot. My eyes drifted downward, until they landed on his mouth.

“Take a peek inside that gift box; might be more interesting than my face.”

Hot flush covered my face and I felt my ears heating. I jerked up in a sitting position.

I wasn’t staring. Okay, I was staring so what? He is so fine I can’t help it. I could spend an entire day just staring at him and not get bored. He doesn’t have to be so smug about it!

I don’t get enough time with him as is, and here he was, gloating!

He slowly peeled his eyes open, then hauled my stiff body on his lap. The moment his scent hits me, anger leaves my body.

“Open it.”

I complied, unwrapping the gift box then gasp out loud.

“Damian!” I threw my arms around his neck, tearing up. Nestled within the folds of tissue paper, was a limited-edition candy pink mug with my initials. The exact same one from my saved pins on Pinterest.

Even dad didn’t spoil me this much.

That afternoon, I kept saying I love you over and over while I smothered him with kisses. And at that moment I didn’t care why he never told me he loved me. Because his actions told me enough. The satisfaction in his eyes whenever I gave him those three words were enough.

In my heart, I know he loves me. He’s not the kind of man to say it outright, but his actions speak louder than any words ever could. A man like him wouldn’t put in so much effort, wouldn’t go to such lengths, unless what we had was real.

He might look all tough on the outside, but deep down, he’s a softie. Of course, I’d never tell him that—he’d just give me that scowl.

He thinks he can scare me with his scowls but truth be told, he looks so sexy when he does that. His frowns… I’ve come to crave it just as much as his smiles.

The way his dark brows furrow makes me want to do something reckless. Like pull him in and kiss the hell out of him. And not stop there. But then, I remind myself—Damian isn’t the kind of man who gets controlled. He’s the one in charge. Always.

And the thought of him in control only fills my mind with crazy scenarios. Very crazy, very hot scenarios. That includes me and him with no clothes. I feel hot rush of butterflies in my stomach just thinking about the things I want Damian to do to me.

I’m more than ready to take things further but he seems content with kisses. Though the intensity of his kisses tells me otherwise.

His taste, his scent makes me crazy. The look in his eyes whenever he breaks the kiss coupled with the rise and fall of his broad shoulders does something to me.

I can’t wait to kiss him again tonight. We’re set to have dinner on the rooftop deck, followed by a movie marathon. It’s Friday, so there’s no need to worry about early morning classes tomorrow, and I’m really excited.

For now, I’m running late for my morning class but I’m heading to the mansion instead because, of course, I managed to forget my books there.

Using my key, I let myself in and go straight to the master bedroom.

I remember I dropped them somewhere in the master because I was tired and wanted to take a nap.

I’m out of breath by the time I reach the door. Damn, I’m never going to be careless again. I hate running around first thing in the morning. Especially without coffee.

I enter and hurry to the nightstand. “There you are.” I smile as I pick them up before putting them into my satchel.

I’m about to turn back to the door when unexpectedly, the bathroom door swings open, and Damian appears, making me jump.

The white towel around his waist sits dangerously low, barely doing its job. He was in the middle of drying his hair with the other towel but freezes when he sees me.

For the next few tantalizingly slow seconds, neither one of us is able to move.

A shiver races down my spine. Time momentarily stands still, and an electric charge fills the air.

I try to stop my gaze from drifting over him. I really do but it’s useless. I watch, dry-mouthed as droplets of water drip from his hair onto his well-defined shoulders and run over his pecs, down his chiseled abs.

He shaved his stubble off. And although I love the feel of his stubble against my palm, I ache to stroke his clean-shaven jaw.

My eyes slide down for the second time, tracing his glistening abs again before taking in that delicious V-line that’s half hidden by the towel.

Suddenly there’s a throbbing between my legs. Then I feel myself getting wet. So wet. It surprises me, making me flush hot.

God, I ache for him to touch me. So much that I feel dizzy from the desire washing over me. Devouring him with my eyes has left me panting.

Swallowing thickly, I finally look up only to freeze when I meet his gaze. Oh, no! I just got caught red handed, shamelessly checking him out.

Fuck! I don’t usually swear. Not even in my mind but this situation calls for it because I swear all of my dirty thoughts about him must be written all over my face.

The muscles in his jaw are clenching. Hard. And the way his chest rises and falls tells me he is angry. I made him angry because he knows now. He knows how much of a bad girl I am because I want him to do bad, bad things to me. He is mad at me. Or maybe he isn’t? maybe he is angry because he’s trying and failing to control himself because he wants me so much. The thought makes me giddy.

I clear my throat. “I didn’t know you spent the night here.” I grimace at my stupidity. What am I saying? I should tell him why I’m here instead of asking him—

“I stayed over for an early meeting in the area.” He stops drying his hair and throws the small towel on the bed then stalks over to me. My heart is racing as arousal courses through me. I’m trembling with need by the time he reaches me.

I can feel my nipples straining against my bra and I try to subtly look down. But before I can check, he speaks, “Why aren’t you in class?”

“I forgot my boobs.” Then add, “books!” squeakily.

Oh no, no, no! Why did I say that? I’m such a mess. I forgot my… boobs? Seriously? I want to disappear. Why does my brain do this to me? Okay, breathe. Just breathe. Maybe if I hide my face, he won’t notice. Ugh, why am I like this? This is the most embarrassing thing ever. I want to crawl into a hole right now. I want to—

“Did you eat?” he asks, stopping my train of thought.

“Huh?”

“Did you?” he lowers his head, staring into my eyes. And I’m lost. In his dark, dark eyes.

He shakes me, and it takes a beat too long for my senses to catch up. It hits me then. Damian is touching me. His large, warm hands are on my shoulders. I’m wearing a sleeveless dress that means he is touching my skin. His touch is so electrifying, it sends a shiver down my spine. My senses come alive, every nerve in my body aware of his closeness.

“Angel?”

“Yes?”

“You need to eat.” He leaves me then disappears into the walk-in closet.

He returns just as quickly as he left, dressed in a black shirt and black pants.

“Come.” He offers me his hand. I take it. As he starts toward the door, I dig my heels in to halt his progress. “Actually, I am running late.”

“At least have a smoothie before you go.”

I begin shaking my head but pause when he frowns. “You can take it with you.”

He tugs me along, and I’m surprised when he heads toward the kitchen. My eyebrows knit together in confusion, and I follow him silently. Upon entering, I don’t find the chef there so I get more confused.

“Sit,” he orders, pointing to one of the stools by the counter. I obey, my gaze following his every move.

I watch in amazement as he begins folding back the cuffs of his crisp, expensive shirt. I shouldn’t find it hot but I do. Squirming, I watch the whole scene by sinking my teeth in my lower lip.

I catch a flicker of uncertainty in his eyes as he glances at the unfamiliar appliance. What is he doing? He seems oddly out of place in the kitchen.

He rummages through the fridge, pulls out a bunch of fruits.

“Damian?”

“Hmm?”

He doesn’t look at me as he goes looking for something in the cabinets.

“What are you doing?”

“What does it look like I’m doing?” he says without glancing my way. He is making me a smoothie. I thought he would ask someone else to do it or send Hal to buy one but he’s doing it himself. I’m so stunned that I don’t make a single comment when he begins throwing in leafy vegetables in the blender too.

I’m still mute while he pours the smoothie into the stainless-steel tumbler.

“Here,” he says, finally looking up. I can’t stop myself from climbing off the stool and rounding the counter. The second I’m close, I clasp the sides of his face and kiss him with all the love I possess in my heart.

Damian doesn’t mind in the least because he wraps me in his arms and holds me tight against him.

Reluctantly, I break the kiss. “I have to go,” I whisper against his lips. I melt when he tightens his arms around me. Stroking his smooth skin, I gaze up at him lovingly. Then give in to the temptation and kiss his lips softly again. Then kiss his nose. Then his long lashes. Then his forehead before pressing one last kiss on his chin.

“I love you.” I smile sappily as I tell him.

He looks at me with burning possession in his eyes. Then crowds me against the counter, pressing his hard body to my soft one. “Again.”

Still smiling, I comply, “I love you—” he catches the word in his mouth and makes me repeat it again before handing me the cup.

“Taste it,” he urges me when I am about to turn.

Smiling, I do and immediately my eyes water. It starts sweet, but then there’s this tangy kick that hits me, followed by a weird bitter aftertaste. Smothering the urge to cringe, I force a smile. “Mmm.”

“Okay?” he asks and I nod frantically.

“Yes, I love it.” I take another sip.

He narrows his eyes. “Let me have a taste.”

I step back. “Nuh uh. Not happening, sir.” I shake my head. “My boyfriend made this for me. I’m not going to share.” Walking back, I grab my satchel then start running toward the door. “I’ll see you in the evening!”

When I’m inside the car, I stare at the tumbler. Then smile before bringing it to my lips.

◆◆◆

After finishing the marketing class, I gather my belongings and slide my laptop into my satchel. Though tired, I am excited as I navigate the bustling hallways. As I step out of the building, the sunlight baths me with its warmth.

Just few more hours and I’ll be with Damian again. I smile up at the sky. Damian’s smoothie was bitter but healthy and it gave me enough energy to survive the classes. But now I’m hungry. Should I grab a quick bite or head straight to the library?

I’m contemplating my choices when suddenly, a familiar voice calls out my name. “River!”

Turning around, I see dad standing there in a perfectly tailored grey suit. His eyes are covered in sunglasses. His presence exudes confidence and charm, causing a few heads to turn as he walks over to me. I greet him with a mix of surprise and delight.

“Hey, Dad!” I say as he envelops me in a warm hug.

“How’s my favorite person in the world doing?”

“Surviving,” I chuckle, adjusting my satchel.

“How about we grab a coffee at that café over there?” Dad suggests, gesturing toward the café I frequent.

“Sure.” We settle into a corner of the café. I get my usual order while he orders espresso.

I take a sip before saying, “So this was a surprise.”

He carefully sets his cup down, a warm smile on his face. “Aren’t you happy to see me?” There’s a hint of hurt beneath his smile.

“What?” I lean forward, placing my hand over his. “Dad, don’t get me wrong, I’m thrilled you’re here. It’s just that I know how busy you are and yet you’re here.”

“Well, work can wait. Spending time with you is always a priority.”

I nod, appreciating his words. “I love having you around, Dad. It means the world to me, but I also worry that you might be putting too much on hold.”

He sighs, the smile fading momentarily. “I just want to be there for you, you know? You are growing up so fast. It feels like we are… drifting apart.”

A pang of guilt hits me. Ever since I started dating Damian, my focus has shifted, and I’ve unintentionally distanced myself from Dad. Maybe I unconsciously did that because I know I might slip up and tell him about Damian. He won’t view it as a normal relationship because of our ten-year age gap. He is too protective to approve of it.

“That’s not true,” I lower my eyes. “It’s just that life has been a bit hectic lately, and I might not have been as present as I should but dad…” I look up at him. “We are not drifting apart. That’s just not possible.”

In my mind, I vow to myself to make more effort, to find a balance between both my personal life and my relationship with Dad. He’s been a constant support, and I would hate myself for being the cause of his pain. I love both men in my life and I won’t hurt one for the other.

He gives me a soft smile, a sense of relief evident in his eyes. Then, “By the way, sweet pea, I’m throwing a little party next week. I’d really love it if you could make some time to attend.”

I raise an eyebrow, intrigued. “A party? What’s the occasion?”

He leans in, a hint of pride in his eyes. “It’s a celebration of a big merger.”

“A merger? That sounds significant. Tell me more about it.”

He takes a moment to reflect, his gaze distant as he stares out the glass wall. “There was this new competitor who was threatening to take my place,” dad then looks at me, “and this merger was the key to show them their place.” After making that frighteningly serious statement, he smiles. “It was a strategic move that secured our place at the top.”

Dad is a passionate businessman. But I detect a complex mix of emotions in his expression which is beyond mere triumph. As I stare back at him in confusion, His demeanor shifts quickly, and he says, “It’s a moment to celebrate! A big win for the company calls for a grand celebration.”

I can’t shake off the feeling that there’s more to the story, but I decide not to press further. “Congratulations, Dad. It sounds like a huge success.”

“Thank you, sweetheart. There’s one more thing. I’d like you to attend the party with Edward.”

I choke on my drink. “Edward McAllister?”

Dad frowns, leans forward and hands me a tissue. “Yes. Are you all right?”

No! Because it’s Edward! Skylar’s brother. The one who Skylar said has a crush on me! I immediately start to shake my head, “Dad, no offense, but I’d rather not—”

He cuts me off gently, “I knew you’d say that, but hear me out.”

I shake my head again. “No, please. I mean, why would you even suggest that? I don’t really know him that well.”

“Because you didn’t give him the chance, River.”

“But—”

“I understand my suggestion might seem a bit unusual, but it’s crucial for our business relationships. Edward’s father and I have been partners for years, and having you two together would strengthen our ties. It’s not just about the event; it’s about presenting a united front and fostering trust.”

I hesitate, my mind racing. Attending the event with Edward is the last thing I want, especially when I have a boyfriend, a fact my dad is completely unaware of.

“I... I don’t know, Dad,” I stammer, attempting to find the right words. Or more like a convincing lie. “It just feels a bit... awkward. And I have other plans that night.”

His expression turns questioning. “Other plans? Sweetheart, this is important for the business, and it would mean a lot to me.”

Internally, I’m torn. I want to be honest with my dad, but revealing my secret relationship is not an option. I have to choose between family obligation and my personal life. I really don’t have any excuse to say no. And besides, I don’t want to hurt him.

“I understand, Dad,” I finally concede, trying to sound convincing. “It’s just... Forget it, I’ll just cancel my plans.”

His face lights up with gratitude, unaware of my internal struggle. “Thank you, sweet pea. It means a great deal to me. You and Edward will make a great impression.”

◆◆◆

After the last class of the day, I swiftly make my way back to my apartment. After a refreshing shower, I opt for a white sleeveless cami crop top paired with high-rise dark flared pants with matching suspenders. Completing the look with few accessories, I select a dainty gold chain, studs, and a watch. I decide to let my curls fall freely. Then, I reach for the perfume and spray it over my wrists and clothes that makes me smell heavenly before leaving.

“Ma’am,” Hal greets me as soon as I enter the mansion.

“Hi,” I smile as I walk with him inside. “I already told you, you can just call me River.”

“I can’t.”

“Why not?”

“Because it’s inappropriate.”

“Says who?”

He doesn’t say anything. I almost roll my eyes. He’s a grump. Just like his boss.

“So, where is Damian?” I look around.

“He’s busy at the moment. Would you like some refreshments before dinner?”

I frown. “Busy?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“But we had plans.” He was supposed to hang out with me. Wasn’t the whole point of buying this place to enjoy each other’s company? We had made arrangements to spend time together after carefully sorting his schedule. Now he is working here as well.

“Where is he?” I ask again and receive the same answer. Hal can be annoying sometimes. While his loyalty to his employer is commendable, he doesn’t have the authority to dictate whether I should keep my distance from my boyfriend. Regardless of his busy schedule, I believe I have the right to know his whereabouts.

When he inquires about refreshments once more, I ask for a Virgin Mojito.

“I’ll be in the entertainment zone. Send it there,” I tell him. He inclines his head and leaves.

As soon as he is out of sight, I go looking for Damian.

After wandering through the never-ending hallways and checking every room in this ridiculously huge place, I come across an intimidating door that is slightly ajar. When I peek inside, I find exactly what I was looking for.

Damian is standing by the floor-length glass wall. The room appears to be a home office. I release a sigh, my hand tightly gripping the door. He looks incredible in that black shirt and trousers. The suit jacket is thrown over the couch at the corner. And although he is facing away from me, he takes my breath away. He’s utterly captivating.

Why was Hal lying? He doesn’t look busy to me. Quietly, I step inside and shut the door behind me. His head turns my way.

“Hey,” I smile but don’t get one in return. I don’t mind as he rarely smiles. But what makes my smile falter are his eyes. They lack the usual glint I see in them whenever I’m around. There’s a hint of bitterness in his dark gaze, tying my stomach into knots.

I want to go to him but a moment of uncertainty holds me back. It feels like I’m standing at the edge of a precipice, unsure whether to take the plunge. Yet, a surge of courage propels me forward. Slowly, I close the distance between us.

When I am standing in front of him, I reach up and cup his jaw. My fingers graze the subtle roughness of his five o’clock shadow. The tension in his jaw is hard to miss but I keep caressing him.

I step closer, pressing my body against his, feeling the rigidity in every muscle. He seemed fine earlier, so what’s happened since then? But I don’t push. This isn’t the moment for questions. Right now, all I can do is try to comfort him, even if I’m not sure what’s going on or how to make it better.

Continuing the tender touch, my fingers trail up into his hair, gently guiding his head down so I can pull him into a hug. He stiffly bends to accommodate me. With one hand in his hair and the other around his waist, I embrace him.

At first, he’s stiff and tries to pull away. I don’t let it deter me. I squeeze him instead. I can be stubborn too. He can’t shut me out. I won’t allow it. I won’t let him suffer alone.

I continue for a few minutes, running my fingers through his hair and keeping my arm securely around his waist. Gradually, I feel the tension in his body begin to ease.

I gently press my lips to his hair, a tender gesture that seems to relax him further. He exhales harshly against crook of my neck before pulling me tighter against his chest. I have to stand on my tiptoes with how hard he is hugging me.

I can feel his heart pounding in his chest as he breathes deeply.

After what feels like forever, he pulls back but doesn’t release me.

I stare up at him. “Did you eat?”

He sighs and leans down to rest his forehead against mine. “Why did you come?”

My heart starts pounding. “W-we had plans.”

“I mean in my life.”

I freeze. He leans back. He is staring at me with an unreadable expression. Too shaken by his words, I try to understand what he was saying. Does he regret being with me? The mere possibility sends waves of insecurity against my fragile heart.

Was I too much for him? I shouldn’t have overwhelmed him with my affection when I knew he was a very private person. Maybe my hugging him when he was having a bad day was a wrong move.

I take a shuddering breath, attempting to mask the hurt. My voice wavers slightly. “I-I didn’t mean to disrupt anything. I just... I care about you. If I’m, you know, too much, I can... I can give you space.” I bite my lip, hoping he’d see the sincerity in my eyes.

A heavy silence hangs in the air. Then he slowly shakes his head. “That’s the last thing I want.”

I’m baffled. Then Damian goes and confuses me by fisting my curls and drawing me close. “It wasn’t supposed to be like this.”

“L-like what?”

“I wasn’t supposed to get close.”

I gaze up at him frowning. I clasp his face with my palms. “What’s wrong, Damian? Did I do something wrong?”

“I’m not a good man.”

I shake my head vehemently. “That’s not true! You—”

“You don’t know me.”

“I do!”

He releases me suddenly. “Being with you is costing me too much.”

My heart thuds in my chest. “You’re leaving me?” My lips tremble as I ask.

“I should. Because if this goes any further, I’m not sure I’d be able to let you go.”

Taking hasty steps, I clutch his shirt with my desperate fingers. “Then don’t. I don’t want you to, Damian.”

“You don’t know what you’re asking for.”

I tilt my chin up. “I know what I want.”

He grips my chin. “What if the price of being with me is more than you bargained for?”

“Then I’ll find a way to pay it. Because you’re worth every damn bit of it.”

He captures my mouth with his demanding one. I let myself sink into the passionate kiss. Wanting, needing this reassurance after suffering the almost heart attack at the thought of him leaving me.

On a choked groan, I reach up and hook a hand around his neck to deepen the kiss. We kiss with a hot, wild urgency that was new. I drive my tongue between his lips and arch into his chest when I get his taste. It’s too much. All these sensations. I can’t keep still as his hands slide down my body. But just as quickly, he drags his mouth away, leaving me unsatisfied.

Groaning, I dig my nails in his chest. “Why do you stop all the time? Don’t you want me?”

“I have to stop.”

“Why?” It comes out as a whine.

“Because if I don’t, every kiss would end with you flat on your back and we both know exactly what that means.”

I’m too stunned to speak.

Damian clasps my hand. “Come let’s feed you.”

I pull at it to stop him. “Are we good?”

He turns his head to look at me. His eyes aren’t cold anymore. “Yes.”

“Don’t ever talk about breaking up.”

He comes back then kisses my forehead. “I won’t. I’ll never let you go now, not even if you beg, angel.”

Later that night, when I casually ask about his morning meeting, he replies with a nonchalant, “It fell through.” I wanted to ask more about it because Damian rarely faces setbacks. He is always on top of things. So I wanted to know why he lost that deal, but I sense no visible distress in his tone.

I attempted to address the incident in the home office but he brushed it off, saying he was preoccupied with work and took it out on me. He apologized for it and promised to never let his professional life affect us.

It wasn’t his cold demeanor that unsettled me—it was the crippling fear of him leaving me. But as I walked out of the mansion, his vow to never let me go wrapped around me like a shield, calming my nerves and making me feel more connected to him than ever.