The morning sun streamed through the large windows of the cliffside villa, painting golden streaks across the polished floors. Birds called out from the trees below, and the ocean crashed rhythmically against the rocks. For Isabella Vicks, it should have felt like paradise a safe haven after months of danger and chaos.
Yet, even in this seemingly perfect setting, unease lingered in the back of her mind. She sat on the terrace, coffee in hand, watching the waves. Damien Hayes moved behind her, stretching slightly, shirtless and relaxed in a way she rarely saw. Despite his casual demeanor, she could sense the ever-present alertness in him the tension that never fully disappeared, even when danger was temporarily at bay.
“Are you thinking about work again?” Isabella asked lightly, turning t
