Page 76 of Billionaire's Second Chance

"Thank you," she whispered, her eyes wet with gratitude and accomplishment.

I glanced down at her belly, that silly smile popping out again.

“We’re not done yet, people," Sandy halted our trance. "There’s still a lot to do.”

“The director is right.” I wrenched myself away from Ava and stepped beside him

All members of the crew on set had their eyes on me. My watch buzzed. I glanced briefly at it.

“The next scene is an outdoor shot. Take thirty and meet us at the pergola,” I ordered.

A cheer rose among the crew while Sandy growled and muttered something under his breath. I grabbed his shoulders and shook him playfully.

“Lighten up, Sandy,” I said. “We're right on track.”

I spun around. Ava had stepped away. My eyes roamed everywhere for her.

“Are you looking for someone?” Sandy inquired.

“Yes, Ava,” I mumbled. "I forgot to give her instructions for tomorrow."

“She’s with the make-up crew,” the all-knowing Sandy informed me.

“So, how’s my friend?” Sandy raised his brow.

“I suppose you mean Francis? He’s recovering pretty well.” I patted his back and excused myself. There was still one more thing I needed to do.

With clarity expanding in my brain, I walked with purpose to my makeshift office.

"Damon, you need to call Robert," Harry chased after me.

"Not now, Harry," I squeezed past him. "I promise I'll call him by the end of the day."

I shut and locked the door behind me and pulled out my phone.

"Damon," she answered after what seemed like twenty rings.

"Hi, Lily," I cleared my throat. "Please don't hang up. I call in peace."

Deafening silence.

"Listen, I um—I want to apologize to you," I began, voice low and ashamed. "You didn't deserve any of this. I really respect you as a woman and a fine actress. Genuinely."

She swallowed loudly. "Damon, this had become such a nuisance. I've moved on. Yet, you keep coming back."

"I'm only trying to make things right," I assured her. "I don't hold any grudges, and I hope you can find it in yourself to do the same."

"Whatever you need. We're good, OK?" She tried to rush me off.

"I believe my lawyer has everything ready, and you should receive payment shortly," I confirmed. "I only wanted to end things on a friendly note, that's all."

"I'm glad to see you're changing, Damon. I don't know what or who is behind this, but keep it up. See you around." She hung up.

I know exactly who is behind it.I exhaled. That smile came back.

23

Ava

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