Chapter 41

• In the weeks that followed his visit to Charlotte’s studio, Damien found his thoughts relentlessly drifting back to her. It surprised him how often he would pick up his phone, scroll through his contacts, and pause over her name. His resolve weakened each time he glanced at the well-worn sketch of Ester’s necklace that lay on his desk, a reminder of the duty he had to his fiancée. But the urge to connect with Charlotte tugged at him, igniting a simmering yearning that refused to be ignored.
• On an impulse one breezy afternoon, while the sun flooded his apartment, Damien decided to call her. He told himself it was simply to check on the progress of the necklace, their ongoing collaboration still fresh in his mind. But deep down, he knew it was more than that—he craved the sound of her voice.
• “Hello?” Charlotte’s voice was warm and inviting, instantly soothing his restless heart.