Chapter 24

• The party was in full swing, laughter and music filling the expansive ballroom as guests mingled in their elegant attire. Damien leaned back against the polished bar, a crystal glass of sparkling water in hand. He was chatting with a handful of colleagues, attempting to enjoy the evening. But the moment the large doors swung open and Charlotte stepped into the room, everything else faded away.
• She emerged like a vision, her emerald gown shimmering with each graceful step. Damien felt his breath hitch in his throat, an unexpected heat coursing through him as he took in the sight of her. Her hair cascaded over her shoulders, and the way she moved—confident, yet with a hint of vulnerability—captivated him entirely. This was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen, and for a heartbeat, he forgot all about everything else, including Ester standing beside him.
• “Damien?” Ester nudged him with her elbow, snapping him back to reality. “You’re staring.”