Chapter 141

The black SUV glided smoothly along the return route.

Damian Cross's slender fingers tapped rhythmically against the armrest when he suddenly spoke, "Director Grant mentioned they're still struggling to cast the male lead's best friend."

Aria Bennett looked up from her phone with a questioning hum.

"I recommended someone," Damian turned to meet her gaze, his expression open.

Understanding dawned immediately. Aria arched an eyebrow. "Don't tell me it's Nolan Reed?"

The corner of Damian's mouth lifted. "He does fit the role perfectly." His measured tone continued, "Young, talented, and easy on the eyes."

Aria burst into laughter. "Damian, are you serious?" She tilted her head, studying him. "This feels intentional."

"Perhaps a little," Damian admitted freely. His gaze deepened. "I want him to understand some opportunities don't come twice."

Aria blinked. "Did Director Grant agree?"

"He thought Nolan was ideal." Damian paused. "If you're uncomfortable, I can have him reconsider."

Aria waved a hand. "It's fine by me. His choice." She'd reached a point where Nolan no longer unsettled her.

Amusement flickered in Damian's eyes. "He'll accept."

"Then let him." Aria shrugged nonchalantly.

Damian glanced out the window. "Free for dinner? I know an excellent seafood place."

"Sure!" Aria agreed readily. With her mother and brother traveling, she had no family commitments.

Checking his watch, Damian added, "We've time. Would you accompany me to select cufflinks?"

Aria raised an eyebrow. "The great Damian Cross shops for himself?"

"Occasionally," he deadpanned.

Masked and capped, they moved through the mall with discreet harmony. Aria helped choose several elegant cufflink sets while Damian patiently waited during her dress fittings.

"Most men hate shopping with women," Aria remarked.

Damian took her bags effortlessly. "With you, it's no chore."

"Should I call you for all future shopping trips then?" Aria teased.

"At your service." His eyes crinkled with humor.

Passing a cinema, Damian suggested, "Care for a movie? This one's getting good reviews."

Aria agreed, opting for VIP seats. In the darkened theater, Damian held the popcorn, offering it periodically.

After the credits rolled, they arrived at an intimate seafood bistro. Their order just placed, three distinctively styled men entered the private dining room.

"Well, well," drawled a man with mischievous eyes. "Damian Cross on a date? The world must be ending."

Damian remained unflustered. "Roman Vale, Elias Vaughn - my childhood friends. You know Marcus Sterling." He emphasized, "This is Aria Bennett."

Roman whistled appreciatively. "Good taste, old friend." At Damian's warning glance, he straightened. "Ms. Bennett, we've heard so much about you." His meaningful look at Damian continued, "No wonder you've been ignoring our calls."