Watching You Burn In Regret novel Chapter 130

All she could recall was that crushing sense of despair, the suffocating blue as deep and endless as an abyss.

But today, for the first time, Seren realized the sea wasn't only terrifying. It could be peaceful and beautiful too—just like this moment.

The afternoon sun warmed the sand. A gentle breeze drifted in from the calm sea, carrying the scent of salt and freedom. Everything was tranquil, perfect.

The shadow that the ocean cast over her heart began to fade. The fear and anxiety that had haunted her for years seemed, at last, to loosen their grip.

In the past, even hearing the word "sea" would make her tense up. Now, she could finally face it without flinching.

Lennon's gaze lingered on Seren's face.

She had a delicate, heart-shaped face, eyes clear and bright, a dainty upturned nose, lips tinted a soft rosy pink.

Her long, silky hair danced lightly in the sea breeze, dark strands fluttering against her cheeks, making her look serene and lovely.

Just like that first time he saw her, painting quietly beneath the old chestnut tree.

Lennon leaned in, careful not to invade her space but close enough to feel her presence.

Softly, he asked, "Do you want to feel the water?"

"Huh?" Seren turned at the sound, and her lips brushed against Lennon's jaw.

The touch was featherlight, warm—like a whisper of silk.

Seren's heart skipped and stumbled.

If she lifted her gaze just a little higher, her eyes would meet Lennon's lips.

Every feature on Lennon's face seemed sculpted with impossible precision, but his lips—so perfectly shaped—were especially beautiful, almost to the point of envy.

Higher still, she met his eyes, crinkled with a teasing smile.

Her heart spun out of control, her breath coming in uneven waves.

She didn't even know when they'd gotten so close.

For a fleeting moment, she wondered if this was really by chance—or if Lennon had deliberately closed the distance.

But the thought vanished as quickly as it came.

Lennon always seemed so gentle and upright in front of her—a true gentleman. Surely he would never take advantage of a vulnerable moment.

At last, Seren managed to steady her breathing and nodded as if nothing had happened.

"I'd love to."

*

Briarwood Estate.

Willa heard the sound of a car pulling up and rushed outside.

Landing the opportunity she'd dreamed of should have filled Willa with excitement, but the feeling wasn't there.

Sheridan didn't notice. He didn't say anything more—just rolled the window up, and the Rolls-Royce sped away, leaving a swirl of dust behind.

Once the car was out of sight, Willa's eyes darkened.

She'd been following The Talent Gauntlet online, so she knew Seren had joined the show. Seren's talent and poise had already sparked a buzz across social media.

Willa wasn't stupid.

She remembered how annoyed Sheridan looked when she'd asked for his help last night. Yet today, he'd gone out of his way to tell her the deal was done.

It didn't take a genius to figure out why: Seren.

Getting on The Talent Gauntlet should have been cause for celebration, but now it felt like she'd swallowed a bitter pill.

Sheridan was a manipulative jerk—no doubt about it.

Still, this only made Willa more determined. Sheridan's influence was undeniable. If she could win him over, she'd have access to the best opportunities.

She couldn't just sit back and let things happen.

Willa took out her phone, her fingers flying over the screen as she dialed a number.

"Hey, big brother, I need a favor…"