The Billionaire's Intern (Maya Thompson) novel Chapter 146

Chapter 73: Scripted Encounters-1

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 talk inside,” Damien said, already unlocking the door.

The heavy door swung open and shut behind them with a thud of finality.

James didn’t waste a second. He went straight into the recap.

“The contract negotiation was civil-but far from ordinary,” he began. “Ethan seemed very comfortable. The only thing he asked about was the campaign schedule. Then Aimee flagged the updated contract-one that appeared to have been modified just minutes before the meeting.”

He glanced at Damien, his tone sharpening. “The revised terms grant Blackwood Enterprises full exclusivity on endorsement rights for the entire campaign window. No fee. Just accommodations and meals.”

Damien’s jaw flexed, the muscle ticking.

“And when asked why,” James continued, “he said he doesn’t need the money. That he didn’t expect to see Ms. Maya here, and just having the opportunity to spend time with her was enough.”

Ashcroft let out a scoff, arms folded across his chest. “Theatrical little bastard.”

James gave a single nod. “He played the humble card. Said it was his personal choice-and

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that he actually felt indebted to us. Claimed we were giving him something he thought he’d lost for good.”

He paused, then added, “He’s smooth. Really smooth. Said all the right things. Every word felt intentional.”

Damien didn’t respond. He shifted his gaze to James, his tone low and absolute. “Get Trina. I want her here. Now.”

James gave a short nod and stepped aside.

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