The Billionaire's Intern (Maya Thompson) novel Chapter 159

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Chapter 79: Wine, Dine, and “You’re Mine 2

Chapter 79: Wine, Dine, and ‘You’re Mine-2

“Well, well. Congratulations, brother. First official girlfriend at thirty-five.”

Damien gave him a look, then reached for his glass again and raised it. “And what about you? At forty? Or fifty?”

Ashcroft chuckled, unbothered. “I’m pacing myself. Can’t go ruining my reputation all at once.

He took a slow sip of his drink, eyes gleaming with mischief. “Besides, if I ever do settle down, it’s going to be with someone who makes me forget every damn reason I swore not to. “Then he paused, his gaze settling on Damien with something quieter in his expression.” Like you-when you met Maya and knew you found the love of your life.”

Harper blinked. “Wow. That was… unexpectedly poetic.”

Ashcroft smirked. “Don’t get used to it.”

“Could’ve fooled me,” Harper muttered under her breath.

Without waiting for an invitation, Harper looped her arm through Maya’s and gently tugged her toward the balcony.

“Come on, queen of Daya. Let’s catch some air before your man claim you all to himself again.”

“Hey-wait for me!” Ashcroft called, trailing after them with a drink in hand. “I’d much rather hang with my future sister-in-law and honorary cousin than stay back and let Damien roast me for being single.”

Maya laughed, light and unguarded, the sound drifting into the warm night. Damien stood in the doorway, watching her. Watching them. The way her smile bloomed so effortlessly. The way her shoulders relaxed in the presence of people who saw her fully.

There was something anchoring about seeing her this way.

Carefree. Real. His.

A quiet presence approached from the side. James.

“Congratulations, boss,” he said with a polite smile. “Ms. Maya is… perfect for you.”

He trailed off a bit, then excused himself, about to walk away.

But Damien called after him, his voice softer, more sincere.

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Chapter 79: Wine, Dine, and You’re Mine-2

Clay

“I remember what you said back then. She reminded me what love looks like. She softens things… and she’s the woman slowly breaking through the walls I’ve built. She’s the one making me feel something again-something real. You’re right, James.”

Then he turned his gaze to Maya.

“I believe it too… She’s perfect for me. And I need your help to make sure she stays safe.”

James smiled warmly, nodded, and gave a respectful bow.

“You can count on me, sir. I’m truly glad you’ve found your happiness.”

Soon, they all settled in for dinner. Ashcroft and Harper immediately launched into rapid-fire banter across the table, their energy electric and contagious. Damien, ever composed, reached for the wine and poured a glass for Maya first-always her first-before filling his

own.

Maya caught James hovering near the edge and smiled warmly. “Come join us, James. And… could you call in Lee too? He deserves a break.”

Then she glanced at Damien, a touch hesitant. “I hope you don’t mind?”

Damien met her gaze without missing a beat. “Of course not. Anything you want.”

James nodded. “Of course,” he said, then quietly stepped out.

Moments later, James returned with Lee in tow, who looked pleasantly surprised but quietly grateful. They both took seats just as the conversation shifted from light updates to travel horror stories.

It wasn’t long before Harper had the whole table laughing, dramatically reenacting a wardrobe malfunction from her cousin’s wedding a few months back, where she’d been a bridesmaid-complete with wild gestures and mock outrage.