Chapter 32: The Weight of Silence
In Sterling Villa,
At poolside, Damien’s friends hurled a heap of questions about the secret wedding and his relationship with Vivienne. Lying against Vivienne would come at a price. So he blamed his parents for the arranged marriage.
Inside the house, Aveline quickly changed into a soft blush satin skirt that flowed gracefully. She paired it with a draped neckline blouse, both catching the light in every movement. She completed the look with delicate heels, a small purse, and minimal jewelry for an elegant, understated look.
She was descending the stairs just as the men were entering the villa, wrapped in bathrobes. That’s when she noticed the cushions on the couch, her armchair beneath the skylight, the wedding and engagement photo frames near the wall, and her floral arrangements in the living hall and dining room were gone.
She shouldn’t have been shocked by Damien’s actions. But still, a twist formed in her gut.
Yet, she kept her expression gentle when Damien approached her like a henpecked husband.
"You look exquisite," he said. His voice was low and warm like a blanket wrapped around.
To keep it natural, her fingers brushed through his damp hair, "Take a shower and dry it. Don’t catch a cold."
He merely hummed in response under many gazes.
Under the gaze of four men and housekeeper, Damien escorted Aveline towards the door. But she paused with her gaze fixed to the painting on the wall.
Damien had completely forgotten about the interior changes, too distracted by his friend’s questions. He opened his mouth, scrambling to think of a way to stop her from reacting infront of his friends. But she turned to him first.