Page 10 of Spring Break with a Billionaire

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Cameron

Returning home from my date with Cricket, I find the house quiet, Luke and Natalie out for dinner. Alone with my thoughts, I head out onto the balcony, needing fresh air and space to process everything stirring within me.

Today was extraordinary. The hours I spent with Cricket were filled with laughter and ease, effortless conversations flowing as naturally as breathing. I hadn’t expected to connect with anyone so deeply, not on this trip, not at this stage of my life. Yet, something about her feels special—her warmth, her sincerity, her intelligent curiosity. Each interaction with her leaves me wanting more.

I lean against the railing, gazing thoughtfully at the darkening ocean. The waves roll gently, rhythmic and calming, yet my heart remains restless, racing at the mere memory of her touch, her laughter, the genuine spark in her eyes.

I know what started as curiosity has rapidly grown into something deeper, more profound. What I’d initially seen as an intriguing vacation romance now feels infinitely more complicated. Cricket isn’t someone I can just walk away from at the end of this trip, of that, I’m increasingly certain.

She stirs emotions in me I thought were long dormant. She makes me laugh freely, reminds me of joys I’d neglected while chasing success. With her, I feel seen, genuinely understood, in ways I’d long believed impossible.

The truth settles over me clearly, undeniably: I care for Cricket even though we’ve known each other for a few days. I can no longer pretend our connection is merely casual. She’s sparked feelings that demand acknowledgment, emotions too powerful to dismiss.

I recall the vulnerable honesty in her eyes today, the sincerity behind her words. She’s guarded, careful, yet somehow, she trusts me. That knowledge fills me with a sense of responsibility and deep tenderness. Cricket deserves someone who appreciates her complexities, who truly values the beautiful, thoughtful soul beneath her cheerful exterior.

I want to be that someone. I want the chance to cherish her, to explore what this incredible connection between us might become.

Yet, I’m cautious, aware of the barriers between us: age difference, distance, the realities of our separate lives. But those obstacles pale against the feelings growing stronger each day. I refuse to let fear dictate my choices. Life is too short, too precious, to deny what my heart unmistakably desires.

As night settles fully over Love Beach, stars glitter softly above the dark ocean. I realize suddenly how long it’s been since I’ve felt truly happy, content. Cricket brought laughter back into my life, awakened dreams I’d forgotten I had.

The choice feels suddenly clear. Whatever complexities lie ahead, whatever uncertainties remain, I know I want Cricket in my life. Not just this week, not merely this vacation, but beyond.

A surge of determination fills me, replacing doubt and hesitation. Tomorrow, I’ll share these feelings with her—honestly, openly. I’ll ask her if she’s willing to explore this connection further, together.

And whatever happens next, I refuse to regret taking this chance, embracing the unexpected, beautiful connection forming between us. Life is unpredictable, fleeting. But love—real, genuine, heartfelt—must never be squandered or ignored.

Five

Chapter Five

Cameron

“Are you sure this isn’t too much?” I ask Natalie, glancing around the deck as she lights a few candles on the long outdoor table. The sunset bathes everything in shades of gold and pink, the ocean calm and shimmering beyond the dunes.

Natalie laughs gently, brushing her curls out of her eyes. “Dad, it’s perfect. Romantic, but not overly formal. Cricket will love it.”

“Romantic?” I raise a brow, teasing. “Who said anything about romantic?”

She fixes me with an amused look. “Please. You haven’t stopped smiling since you met her. If this isn’t romance, I don’t know what is.”

“I like her,” I admit quietly, watching the flame flicker as she finishes with the candles. “She’s special.”

Natalie squeezes my arm softly. “I’ve never seen you look this happy. Just relax and enjoy tonight. Luke and I will stay out late and be quiet if she’s still here when we get home.”

“I appreciate it,” I murmur gratefully, feeling a strange, fluttering anticipation in my chest.

When Natalie and Luke finally head out, I busy myself finishing dinner preparations. The scent of grilled fish and roasted vegetables fills the air, the meal simple, perfect for an evening under the stars. My heart beats faster when I hear the soft knock at the front door.

Opening it, I feel my breath catch softly in my throat. Cricket stands on the doorstep, smiling shyly in a flowing, pale-blue sundress.

“Hey,” she whispers, eyes sparkling warmly.

“You look incredible,” I tell her sincerely, stepping aside to let her in.

She blushes softly. “Thank you.”

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