Page 53 of Beast

He shakes his head. “Not really. My work is my life.”

I frown, unable to hide my disappointment. “That’s a shame. Everyone needs balance, Gaston. All work and no play...”

His lips curve into a wry smile. “I suppose you have a point. But my work is what’s most important to me.” Then his expression turns serious and his eyes darken. “Or at least, it was.”

Goosebumps rise over every inch of my skin at what he’s implying. I ignore the comment and focus on my food, finishing it off.

The sun-dappled waves, the swaying palms, the delicious food—it all feels so peaceful. And yet, I’m acutely aware that I’m here as Gaston’s captive, not as his willing companion.

I glance at him, studying the strong line of his jaw, the intensity in his gaze as he watches me. There’s an almost predatory quality to him, even in this tranquil setting. I shiver slightly, my appetite waning.

“Is everything alright, mi reina?” Gaston asks, reaching across the table to cover my hand with his own.

I nod, offering him a small smile. “Yes, it’s all wonderful. The food is amazing.”

“I’m glad you’re enjoying it.” His thumb caresses the back of my hand, and I find myself inexplicably leaning into his touch. “You seem a bit pensive, though. Care to share what’s on your mind?”

I hesitate, unsure of how much to reveal. “I was just thinking about...everything. About us.” I meet his gaze, my heart pounding. “Gaston, I meant what I said this morning. If you want me to ever be truly yours, you’ve got to let me go.”

His expression darkens, and for a moment, I fear I’ve pushed him too far. But then he sighs, squeezing my hand gently. “I know, mi amor. And I promise we’ll discuss it further when we return. But for now, I want to enjoy being with you.”

I nod, not entirely satisfied, but willing to let it go for the time being. We finish our meal in relative silence, the tension palpable between us. When the plates are cleared, Gaston stands and offers me his hand.

“Come, there’s somewhere I want to take you.”

I place my hand in his, allowing him to guide me through the quaint streets and then back down toward the coastline. We eventually reach a small, secluded cove, the sand pristine and the water a breathtaking shade of turquoise.

“This is my favorite spot in the whole town,” Gaston murmurs, leading me to the water’s edge. “I come here when I need to think, to find a moment of peace.”

I gaze out at the serene scene, the gentle lapping of the waves soothing my frazzled nerves. “It’s beautiful.”

Gaston steps behind me, his arms encircling my waist. “Just like you.”

I stiffen momentarily, then relax back against him. In this moment, with the sun warming my skin and the sound of the ocean surrounding us, I allow myself to just...be.

We stand there together, silent, for what feels like an eternity. Too soon, the sun dips low over the water. “We should head back before it gets dark,” Gaston says regretfully.

I let him take my hand, hyperaware of the warmth of his palm against mine. While we stroll leisurely back to the boat, I can’t ignore the niggling thought that maybe, just maybe, I’ve glimpsed the man behind the monster today.

22

GASTON

By the time we return to the yacht, it’s dark. The chef has prepared us a light meal as I requested.

“Dinner? I thought we ate enough at lunch,” she says, holding her stomach. “Are you trying to fatten me up?”

I laugh. “No, but I requested a light meal be prepared. Nothing heavy.” I pull a seat out. “Sit.”

She eyes me warily before taking her seat.

The chef brings out a light salad with fresh crab and avocado, while I pour Blake a glass of white wine.

I raise my own glass “To a lovely day.”

She clinks her glass against mine.

“Tell me more about your surfing in competitions. It sounds thrilling.”

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