Damien’s phone buzzed in his pocket.
He glanced down, read the message from James, and quietly typed a reply. Without missing a beat, he slipped the phone back into his pocket and looked at Ashcroft.
“I told James to attend the meeting,” he said, voice low and clipped. “Let’s head back to the suite. He’s waiting.”
Ashcroft gave a short nod, falling into step beside him.
They crossed the villa property in silence, weaving through manicured garden paths and open courtyards touched by the golden sun. The warmth of Isla Aurelia didn’t soften Damien’s expression. His jaw was tight. His eyes unreadable.
When they reached the penthouse, James was already outside the door, standing at attention like he’d been stationed there for hours.
“Sir,” James greeted with a nod. “Mr. Ashcroft.”
“Let’s
