The Billionaire's Intern (Maya Thompson) novel Chapter 18

Chapter 14 Controlled Burn 2

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Chapter 14: Controlled Burn-2

Damien let out a low breath. “You ever thought about applying for early mentorship programs?”

Maya turned her head, startled. Her eyes met his for a fleeting second – too brief to hold, but long enough to leave a mark. There was gratitude there. And something else. Something quiet and

unreadable, like even she didn’t have a name for it yet.

Jamie’s eyes widened. “They have those?”

“They do,” Damien said. “Some through Blackwood. Internships for high school students – if your health permits.”

From the corner of his eye, Damien saw Maya fully lift her head now, surprise softening into

something warm.

Jamie was already nodding, excitement flickering to life. “That would be awesome.”

Damien turned toward him. “When you’re ready, have Maya contact my office. We’ll see what we

can do.”

The car fell silent again – but it wasn’t heavy. It was thoughtful. Shifted.

Jamie looked like he’d just been handed a map to another future.

And Maya?

She was staring straight ahead, stunned. Hands clenched tightly in her lap, eyes glistening – caught between gratitude and disbelief.

Damien didn’t speak. He didn’t trust himself to.

Because the weight in his chest had only grown heavier.

Not long after, the car pulled up to the hospital entrance.

The moment it stopped, Jamie was the first to speak. “It was nice meeting you, Mr. Blackwood.

And you too, Mr. Horton.” He leaned forward and gently tapped the driver’s shoulder. “And you, sir. Thank you again for the ride! Take care!”

Damien gave a small nod. James smiled and offered a polite, “You’re welcome.”

The door opened, and Jamie climbed out first.

Maya turned to Damien, her expression reserved but sincere. She offered a subtle bow of her head. “Thank you, Mr. Blackwood. Please take care.”

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Chapter 14 Controlled Burn 2

Then she glanced at James. “Sir.” A soft, silent thank-you in that single word.

But just as she shifted forward to exit, Jamie’s voice cut in.

“May! Wait- not yet!”

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He suddenly ducked back into the car, surprising everyone inside. In one swift move, he shut the door again-and since Maya was seated in the middle, she was caught completely off guard.

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