Page 9 of Spring Break with a Billionaire

“Thank you,” I grin, setting the glasses back down. “You should get a pair, too.”

He raises an eyebrow skeptically but indulges me, slipping on a pair of heart-shaped, neon-pink frames. The sight sends me into a fit of giggles, and he laughs along, completely unselfconscious. I snap a quick picture with my phone to show Natalie later.

“Absolutely perfect,” I declare, still giggling. “You must get those.”

He shakes his head, eyes twinkling. “Only if you wear yours.”

“Deal,” I agree, and we both burst out laughing again.

We wander slowly through each store, enjoying easy conversation and playful teasing. Cameron patiently follows as I browse, occasionally selecting small items—souvenirs and gifts for Abby and family back home. Each discovery becomes a shared memory between us, strengthening the invisible thread linking our growing connection.

Later, we stop at a cheerful ice cream parlor. Cameron orders mint chocolate chip, and I choose strawberry cheesecake. We take our cones outside, settling comfortably on a bench overlooking the ocean. The evening air warms our skin, a gentle breeze rustling through my hair.

“This is exactly what I needed,” I say softly, savoring a sweet bite.

He smiles gently, gazing out at the water. “Me too. Life doesn’t always give you moments like this—peaceful, genuine.”

“It’s hard for you to slow down, isn’t it?” I guess gently, observing the subtle tension that occasionally flickers across his features.

He nods slowly, expression thoughtful. “It has been, for years. Success came at a price, and relaxation felt like luxury. I was raising my daughter alone and had to make sure she had everything she needed. I forgot how to just be.”

“I understand,” I say quietly, my voice softening. “Sometimes I worry I spend so much energy taking care of others—my students, friends, family—that I don’t remember how to take care of myself.”

He studies me quietly, genuine understanding softening his gaze. “You’re naturally nurturing. It’s clear in how you speak, in the way you listen.”

Warmth blooms in my chest. “Thank you.”

“It’s true.” He reaches over, gently brushing away a loose strand of hair from my cheek, sending tingles dancing down my spine. “But remember to nurture yourself too.”

“Easier said than done,” I admit with a wry smile.

He chuckles softly. “Believe me, I know.”

We share a comfortable silence, watching the waves roll gently onto the shore. After a moment, Cameron’s voice breaks through the quiet, filled with genuine curiosity. “If you could do anything, no limitations, no expectations, what would it be?”

I glance thoughtfully at the sea, considering his question carefully. “Honestly? I’d travel more. See places that exist beyond my comfort zone. Experience life instead of always just thinking about it.”

He nods, his eyes lighting with quiet excitement. “I’ve thought about traveling more, too. Experiencing cultures firsthand, living without a schedule or itinerary. Life isn’t meant to be spent entirely behind a desk.”

I smile gently, inspired by the passion in his voice. “Maybe we should both start. Stop waiting for the right time.”

His gaze softens, a meaningful silence settling between us before he finally speaks quietly, “Maybe we should.”

The conversation shifts naturally to lighter topics—books we’ve loved, favorite movies, childhood memories. I find myself opening up, sharing things I’ve rarely spoken about. Cameron listens intently, occasionally sharing his own stories. Each moment deepens our connection, building trust and intimacy in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

The night passes swiftly, filled with laughter and conversation. Eventually, we make our way slowly back toward the cottage, neither of us eager to end the day.

“I had an amazing time,” I admit softly as we reach the doorstep. “Thank you.”

“The pleasure was entirely mine,” he says sincerely, his eyes warm and lingering. “You’ve reminded me how wonderful slowing down can be.”

“I feel the same,” I whisper, heart fluttering as he gently takes my hand, pressing a soft, lingering kiss against my knuckles.

“Goodnight, Cricket,” he murmurs, eyes intense, filled with longing.

“Goodnight, Cameron,” I reply breathlessly, watching him walk away.

My heart beats rapidly, emotions swirling within me. Tonight didn’t feel like the beginning of a fling, and I don’t think I care.

---