Chapter 78

It was the final day of their yacht excursion, and Sophia and her boyfriend, Marcus, wandered hand in hand along the deck, their laughter mixing with the gentle sound of waves. Nearby, Vivi and Damien huddled close together, enjoying the warmth of the morning sun on their faces.

Vivi smiled as she listened to Damien recount a humorous anecdote from his childhood, his eyes sparkling with mirth. "I haven't thought about that in years," he said, shaking his head fondly. "I used to be such a mischievous kid."

Vivi's attention was momentarily drawn to Sophia and Marcus, who were now engaged in a lively debate about the best sailing destinations. She felt a surge of warmth at seeing her half-sibling so happy and carefree. It was a welcome change from the tension and secrets that seemed to permeate their lives back home.

Suddenly, Damien's phone rang, breaking the tranquil atmosphere. He frowned at the unknown number, but nonetheless answered it, stepping away from Vivi to take the call.

Vivi watched his face transform from curiosity to surprise, and then to unrestrained joy. His eyes lit up, and he laughed, a carefree sound that seemed to echo across the deck.

When he returned a few minutes later, his expression was triumphant. "Guess what?" he said, his voice vibrating with excitement.

Vivi's heart fluttered at the look of pure elation on his face. "What is it?"

"The business deal I've been working on just came through!" he exclaimed, his eyes shining with anticipation. "It's a huge success, and it means—"

"You'll be making a lot of money," Vivi finished for him, her own eyes widening as the implication sank in.

Damien nodded vigorously. "Enough to take care of you and your family without relying on Reginald's money." He paused, his eyes searching hers. "We can finally be together, without all the complications and secrets."

Vivi's heart skipped a beat at his words. She knew that this was what they had both dreamed of—a future where they could be open about their relationship and build a life together. "Oh, Damien," she breathed, reaching out to take his hands in hers. "This is wonderful news!"

He pulled her into an embrace, and she breathed in the familiar scent of his cologne, feeling safe and cherished in his arms. "I know," he murmured into her hair. "It feels like we've been given a fresh start."

Vivi closed her eyes, savoring the feeling of contentment that washed over her. For the first time in a long while, she allowed herself to imagine a future full of possibilities—a future where she could be with Damien without the weight of secrecy and guilt bearing down on them.

"We should celebrate!" Sophia exclaimed as she and Marcus approached, their eyes alight with happiness for the couple.

Damien grinned. "Absolutely. Let's make the most of our last day on the yacht."

As the day turned to dusk, Vivi and Damien sat side by side on the deck, sharing a bottle of champagne as the sun dipped below the horizon. The sky was painted with vibrant hues of orange and pink, casting a magical glow over the water.

"I have another surprise for you," Damien said, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

Vivi's curiosity piqued. "Oh really? What is it?"

"You'll have to wait until later," he teased, leaning closer and whispering in her ear. "But it's something I think you'll enjoy."

Her anticipation built throughout the evening as they dined under the stars and savored the delicious meal prepared by the yacht's chef. As dessert was served, Damien stood and took her hand, leading her to the deck.

"Close your eyes," he instructed.

Vivi obeyed, feeling the gentle breeze on her skin as Damien guided her forward.

"Are you ready?" he asked.

She nodded, her heart racing with excitement.

"Open your eyes," he said, his voice filled with anticipation.

Vivi obeyed, and her breath caught in her throat at the sight before her. The night sky was illuminated with dazzling fireworks, each burst of color more spectacular than the last.

"Oh, Damien!" she exclaimed, turning to him with tears in her eyes. "It's beautiful."

He pulled her into his arms, and they stood together, watching the fireworks light up the night.

"I love you," he whispered, his voice hoarse with emotion.

"I love you, too," she replied, her voice soft and filled with wonder.

They stayed like that for what felt like an eternity, wrapped in each other's arms, with the fireworks painting the sky above them. It was a moment Vivi knew she would cherish forever, it was a moment that seemed to crystallize their love and the possibility of a future together.

…

The morning sun cast long shadows across the yacht's deck as the group prepared for departure. Vivi stood at the railing one last time, her hands gripping the polished wood as she watched the waves lap against the hull. The salt air filled her lungs, and she took a deep breath, drawing strength from the peaceful moment.

Behind her, crew members bustled about with their luggage. Sophia and Marcus chatted animatedly about their return plans while Damien supervised the loading of their bags.

Vivi's heart felt lighter than it had in months. The weight of her decision settled firmly in her mind - no more hesitation, no more doubt. The divorce papers were already drafted and waiting in her personal email, requiring only her signature once they reached home.

"Ready to go?" Damien's voice came from behind her. His hand found the small of her back, warm and reassuring.

She turned to face him, drinking in his features in the morning light. "Yes, I'm ready."

They joined Sophia and Marcus near the gangway. The four of them made their way down to the waiting cars that would take them to the airport. Vivi settled into the plush leather seat beside Damien, while Sophia and Marcus took the car behind them.

As they drove through the winding coastal roads, Vivi's thoughts drifted to the mansion - to the life she would soon leave behind. The divorce would cause a scandal, she knew that.