Delay 177

Posted by ADMINMMADMIN, ? Views, Released on September 26, 2025

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Chapter 177

By five o’clock, I was gathering my things to head home when Dominic appeared in my doorway, his tall frame filling the space. There was something different about him–a lightness I hadn’t seen before. Ills posture was relaxed, shoulders less tense than usual, and his eyes held a secret anticipation.

“I have a surprise for you,” he said, his blue eyes sparkling with mischief.

“Please tell me it’s not more bad news about Elizabeth,” I replied, only half–joking as I tucked a strand of hair behind

my ear.

His lips curved into a genuine smile that transformed his usually serious face. “Trust me, this is good news.”

He pulled out his phone, tapped the screen a few times, then slipped it back into his pocket. “Your schedule for the next three days has been cleared.”

“Cleared?” I echoed, confused, setting down the portfolio I’d been about to pack. “Dominic, I have meetings with the production team tomorrow, and-”

“All rescheduled,” he cut in smoothly, extending his hand to me. His fingers wiggled slightly in a playful gesture I’d never seen from him before. “We need some time. Just us.”

Something in his tone made my heart flutter. I placed my hand in his, marveling at how perfectly they fit together, how natural it felt to touch him. He led me to the elevator and down to the parking garage, where the car waited, engine already purring quietly.

“Where are we going?” I asked as he helped me into the passenger seat, his hand lingering supportively at my waist.

“You’ll see,” he replied, a rare playfulness in his voice as he closed my door and walked around to the driver’s side.

One hours later, we pulled up to a modern beach house perched on the edge of a private stretch of coastline. The sun was beginning its descent toward the horizon, casting golden light across the waves that lapped at the pristine sandy shore. The house itself was stunning–glass and natural wood blending harmoniously with the coastal landscape, large windows reflecting the orange–pink sky.

“It’s beautiful,” I breathed as Dominic helped me from the car, my eyes wide as I took in the panoramic view.

“One of Sterling Group’s vacation properties,” he explained, taking my hand. His thumb absently stroked my knuckles as he spoke. “Currently reserved exclusively for us.”

I gazed at the scene before me–endless ocean stretching to the horizon, private beach of pale golden sand, and not another soul in sight. Seabirds wheeled overhead, their calls mixing with the rhythmic sound of waves. The air was fresh with salt and something floral from the native plants lining the property.

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Chapter 177

“This is better than any vacation spot I could have imagined,” I said, squeezing his hand.

Dominic led me through the house, each room more stunning than the last with floor–to–ceiling windows that framed the ocean view. The decor was minimalist but luxurious–all clean lines, natural materials, and subtle elegance. His hand never left mine as we explored, and I noticed how his eyes kept drifting to my face, gauging my

reactions.

“The bedroom is upstairs,” he said, guiding me to a spiral staircase of pale wood and glass. “Why don’t you change into something comfortable? I’d like to take you for a walk on the beach before sunset.”

In the master bedroom, I found my suitcase already unpacked, clothes hanging neatly in the closet. I smiled, wondering when Dominic had arranged all this. I selected a simple white sundress and a light cardigan for the evening breeze, then slipped my feet into sandals.

When I descended the stairs, Dominic was waiting by the door that led directly onto the beach. He’d changed into linen pants and a loose white shirt that made his tanned skin look even darker. My heart skipped at the sight of him, so different from the intimidating CEO in his tailored suits. His hair was slightly tousled by the sea breeze, and he looked younger, more carefree.