Chapter 14
Apr 30, 2025
Miranda’s POV
The evening air was thick with the scent of blooming jasmine as I arrived at the Aldridge family estate.
The grandeur of the mansion, with its towering columns and expansive verandas, never failed to impress.
Tonight, the estate was abuzz with activity; staff moved swiftly, setting the long dining table under the soft glow of chandeliers, their light reflecting off the polished silverware.
As I stepped onto the veranda, the murmur of conversations and the clinking of glasses filled the air. Familiar faces greeted me with warm smiles, but my eyes instinctively searched for Damon. Scanning the crowd, I couldn’t spot him among the guests.
Noticing my searching gaze, Mrs. Aldridge approached with her characteristic grace. “Looking for Damon, dear?” she inquired, her eyes twinkling with understanding.
I nodded, offering a polite smile. “Yes, I haven’t seen him yet.”
She gestured towards the house. “He’s inside, probably in his study. You know how he gets with his work.”
A cousin nearby chimed in, “Shall I fetch him for you?”
I shook my head, mustering a reassuring smile. “No need. I’ll go find him myself.”
Making my way through the grand hallways of the mansion, I was reminded of the family’s rich history.
Portraits of ancestors lined the walls, their eyes seeming to follow me as I walked. The soft carpet muffled my footsteps, and the distant hum of the dinner party faded as I approached Damon’s quarters.
The door to his room was slightly ajar. I hesitated for a moment before pushing it open further. The sight that greeted me was unexpected.
Damon lounged on a chaise by the floor-to-ceiling window, a towel loosely wrapped around his waist, exposing his toned torso.
A glass of red wine dangled from his fingers, and he appeared utterly relaxed, gazing out at the sprawling gardens bathed in moonlight.
He sensed my presence and turned his head, a slow smile spreading across his face. “Miranda,” he drawled, “to what do I owe this pleasure?”
I felt a flush creep up my neck but maintained my composure. “Dinner’s being served. Your absence is noted.”
He chuckled, taking a sip of his wine. “I lost track of time. Got caught up in some work.”
I glanced around, noting the absence of any documents or laptop. “Work?” I echoed, skepticism evident in my tone.
He smirked, unabashed. “Alright, you caught me. I was enjoying some solitude.”
I sighed, stepping further into the room. “Damon, it’s important we present a united front. Especially now.”
He studied me for a moment before nodding. “You’re right. But sometimes, the noise gets overwhelming.”
An idea struck me. “Then let’s enjoy a few moments of quiet together before heading back.”
His eyebrows shot up in surprise. “You want to stay?”
I nodded, moving to sit beside him on the chaise. “Just for a bit.”
He poured me a glass of wine, and we sat in companionable silence, the only sounds being the distant chirping of crickets and the occasional clink of our glasses.
After a while, I broke the silence. “Damon, why are you really avoiding the dinner?”
He sighed, running a hand through his damp hair. “Family gatherings can be… intense. Expectations, questions, the usual.”
I nodded in understanding. “I get it.”
He looked at me, a softness in his eyes I hadn’t seen before. “I appreciate that, Miranda.”
A movement near the window caught my attention. Turning slightly, I spotted one of Damon’s younger siblings peeking in, eyes wide with curiosity.
Without overthinking, I leaned in, pressing my lips softly against Damon’s. He responded immediately, his hand cupping my cheek, deepening the kiss.
When we finally pulled apart, he looked amused. “What was that for?”
I nodded towards the window. “We had an audience.”
He glanced over, chuckling as he saw the figure dart away. “Guess the rumors will start flying now.”
I smiled, feeling a warmth spread through me. “Let them.”
Damon’s expression grew serious and he kissed me bac
