LOGINShare
CHAPTER XIV
Last Updated:
2025-01-03 19:10:14
Related chapters
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER XV
The walk to the restaurant was brisk, the cool breeze a welcome distraction from the weight of my thoughts. By the time I arrived, the kitchen was already buzzing with activity. Mr. Reyes was waiting for me, clipboard in hand.“Kirsten! Perfect timing,” he said, motioning for me to follow him. “I wanted to go over the catering details with you.”I nodded, falling into step beside him as he led me to his office. The conversation was straightforward—small events, manageable menus, and flexible hours that could accommodate my current workload. By the end of it, I felt a renewed sense of purpose.“Thank you for trusting me with this,” I said earnestly, clutching the folder of notes he had given me.Mr. Reyes smiled warmly. “You’ve more than earned it, Kirsten. I’ve seen how dedicated you are, not just here but to your family. You’ve got the heart for this kind of work.”His words stayed with me throughout the day, fueling my determination as I navigated the usual rush of customers. By the
Last Updated : 2025-01-03Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER XVI
I missed the way their staff recognized me, smiling warmly and treating me like I was part of their team, even if only tangentially.But what I missed most—oddly enough—was the fleeting, almost intangible connection to the CEO of the company.I’d never spoken to him directly, never exchanged more than polite nods or the occasional acknowledgment and I never see him around the company. And yet, there was something about his presence that lingered in my mind. The way he carried himself—confident, poised, exuding a quiet authority that seemed effortless.Every time I entered that building, I couldn’t help but feel a spark of admiration. To reach the heights he had achieved, to command such respect and success—it was inspiring. It made me wonder about the journey he had taken to get there. What struggles had he faced? What sacrifices had he made?The mystery of who he really was intrigued me. Was he as composed behind closed doors as he appeared in public? Did he carry the weight of his p
Last Updated : 2025-01-03Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER XVII
For the rest of the day, I couldn’t stop thinking about what Mr. Reyes had said. The front desk staff had noticed my absence? It didn’t seem real. I miss her too! I always enjoy talking to her even though she was seem strict. What was it about me, a simple restaurant worker, that had caught her attention?That evening, as I walked home under the soft glow of streetlights, I felt a flicker of something I hadn’t felt in a long time: hope. Maybe my connection to Rockwell wasn’t over after all. Maybe this was just the start of something bigger—something I couldn’t yet comprehend.And for the first time in weeks, I allowed myself to believe that my path, uncertain as it was, could still lead somewhere extraordinary.The day I had been dreading had finally arrived—the day I had to say goodbye to my education, at least for now. Standing on the steps of my college, a mix of emotions churned inside me. Sadness, regret, and a lingering sense of failure clung to me like a heavy weight. This wasn
Last Updated : 2025-01-03Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER XVIII
Lilith nodded, her expression thoughtful. “You’re doing what you have to, and that takes strength. But don’t give up on your dreams, okay? This doesn’t have to be the end of your education—it’s just a pause.”Her words were kind, but they couldn’t fully ease the ache in my chest. “I hope so,” I murmured.The rest of the shift passed in a blur of orders and chatter. I threw myself into the work, letting the routine distract me from the lingering sadness.Later, as I was cleaning up for the day, Mr. Reyes approached me, his usual warm but commanding presence filling the room.“Kirsten,” he said, his voice steady, “I heard you talking to Lilith earlier. About school.”I froze, unsure of how much he had overheard. “I… yeah. I had to withdraw,” I admitted.He nodded slowly, crossing his arms. “I know how hard that must have been for you. You’re one of the most hardworking people I’ve ever met, and I have no doubt that you’ll find your way back to school when the time is right.”“Thank you,
Last Updated : 2025-01-03Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER XIX
“If I may, Mr. Rockwell,” Mr. Reyes added, “Kirsten is an exceptional worker, and she’s been handling everything with remarkable strength. I’m sure she’d appreciate any support or kindness during this time.”“Noted,” I replied before ending the call.As I set the phone down, I leaned back in my chair, staring out at the city lights. My thoughts swirled, more complicated than before. Kirsten’s absence now carried a weight I hadn’t expected—a mix of concern and something else I couldn’t quite name.For reasons I didn’t fully understand, I knew this wasn’t the end of it.I stayed seated in my office, the phone call with Mr. Reyes replaying in my mind. Kirsten. So, that was her name. It fit her somehow—simple, unpretentious, and strong, much like the impression she’d left on me.I shouldn’t be dwelling on this, I thought, but the more I tried to push it aside, the more insistent the thoughts became. Her mother’s health. That’s why she was reassigned. The knowledge tugged at something deep
Last Updated : 2025-01-03Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER XX
I ate in silence, the food good enough to satisfy but not enough to distract me from my thoughts. The brief glimpse of Kirsten earlier had stirred something I hadn’t anticipated—a lingering curiosity, perhaps even admiration for how she carried herself despite her obvious struggles.When I finished my meal, I waved over another staff member to settle the bill.“Did you enjoy your meal, sir?” the young man asked politely as he approached.“It was excellent,” I replied, handing him the payment. Then, I paused and pulled out a crisp bill from my wallet. “This is for someone named Kirsten. Please make sure she gets it.”The staff member’s eyes widened slightly, but he nodded quickly. “Of course, sir. I’ll make sure she receives it.”“Thank you,” I said, rising from my seat.As I left the restaurant, I cast one last glance toward the kitchen, half-hoping to catch a glimpse of her. But she didn’t come out, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that her absence left behind.Still, I felt a quiet
Last Updated : 2025-01-03Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER XXI
The envelope tucked safely in my pocket wasn’t just money; it was acknowledgment. A sign that someone had noticed me—not for my struggles or the weight I carried, but for the effort I put into my work. For the person I was trying so hard to be.As I walked home that night, the noise of the bustling streets faded into the background. My thoughts were consumed by the memory of the man at table seven. He had no reason to go out of his way for me, yet he did. It was such a simple gesture, yet it held so much meaning.For weeks, I’d been surviving, moving through each day like a machine, doing what I had to without question or pause. But tonight, something had shifted. That flicker of hope, fragile as it was, reminded me that my life didn’t have to be defined by hardship aloneI felt a deep sense of relief and gratitude as I handed over the payment for my mother’s upcoming operation. The tip I received from that man—whoever he was—had made all the difference. For the first time in a while,
Last Updated : 2025-01-03Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER XXII
I shook my head, though my chest felt lighter from their words. “You’re all too much. I’m just doing my job.”Jason tilted his head, studying me. “Maybe, but not everyone does their job with as much heart as you do. And don’t think we don’t notice. So, whatever’s weighing you down, just remember—you’re not alone.”His words struck a chord, and I felt my throat tighten. “You’re really good at this pep talk thing, huh?” I teased, trying to lighten the moment.“Hey, I have my talents,” he said, grinning. “But seriously, if you ever need anything—or just someone to talk to—you know where to find me. We’re all rooting for you, Kirsten.”I nodded, feeling a warmth I hadn’t felt in a long time. “Thank you, Jason. Really.”As he walked away to tend to another table, I took a deep breath. For a moment, the weight on my shoulders didn’t feel so heavy. Maybe, just maybe, I could get through this—one step at a time.“Kirsten, table four needs their bill!” one of the waiters called out, snapping m
Last Updated : 2025-01-03
Latest chapter
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER 77
If he noticed I hadn’t been home last night, there would be hell to pay. But maybe, just maybe, he wouldn’t realize it. After all, he hadn’t cared much about where I was before. But fate wasn’t on my side today. The moment I opened the door to the house, I froze. Vincent was standing in the living room, his eyes instantly locking onto me. The sharp intensity of his glare sent a chill down my spine. He didn’t need to say a word—I could already tell he knew. “Where were you?” he asked, his voice low and laced with suspicion. I swallowed hard, struggling to come up with an excuse, but the words wouldn’t come. My heart raced as he stepped closer, his gaze narrowing, demanding an answer. “Well?” he pressed, his tone now sharper. “You think I wouldn’t notice you sneaking out and not coming home last night?” I opened my mouth to respond, but no excuse could cover the guilt I felt. My silence only fueled his anger. I stood there frozen, my mind scrambling for an answer that wouldn’t wo
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER 76
"Relax, my love," he whispered, his lips brushing your ear, sending shivers down my spine. "Let me pleasure you." His fingers reached the apex of my thighs, and I instinctively parted my legs, offering myself to him. His breath caught as he gazed at my glistening core, his eyes dark with desire. "So beautiful," he murmured, his voice hoarse. "So ready for me." His fingers traced my folds, gathering my essence, and I gasped at the sensation, my hips bucking involuntarily. He teased my clit, circling it slowly, making me squirm and beg for more. "Please," I pleaded, my voice breathless. "I need you." He chuckled, the sound low and sensual. "Patience, my sweet. I want to make this unforgettable." His mouth replaced his fingers, his tongue sliding through my wetness, sending shocks of pleasure through my body. He lapped at my sensitive bundle of nerves, sucking gently, then flicking it with the tip of his tongue, driving me to the brink of ecstasy. My hands clutched the sheet
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER 75
Did I walk on my own? Or had he carried me? The details were lost in the fog of my mind, clouded by alcohol and emotion.All I knew was the present. The here and now.We were in a room—an unfamiliar, opulent space. The luxurious decor was nothing like anything I’d ever seen before. It wasn’t his home, at least not one I recognized. Perhaps it was a hotel, though even that felt like a distant thought in the back of my mind. The soft glow of golden light bathed the room, casting shadows on the walls that seemed to flicker and dance.He was with me, his lips trailing over mine with a mixture of tenderness and intensity. His kisses were careful yet demanding, like he was holding himself back but couldn’t quite stop himself from indulging in me. It was a contradiction that left me breathless and confused, my heart pounding so hard it felt like it would burst from my chest.His hands moved over me, tracing the curves of my body with an almost reverent touch. Yet there was a hunger in his mo
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER 74
But as I glanced around, trying to spot Sansa, I realized she was nowhere to be found. Determined not to let her absence dampen my mood, I wandered through the crowd, my steps unsteady and my vision slightly blurred. That’s when I saw him. At the bar, sitting alone, was Vincent. My breath hitched, and my heart raced uncontrollably. I stopped in my tracks, staring at him. He looked different—tired, almost defeated. His shoulders slumped as he cradled a glass in his hand, his gaze distant. For a moment, he didn’t notice me, but then his eyes flicked in my direction. Our gazes locked. His entire body stiffened as if caught off guard, and he quickly turned away, fixing his eyes on his drink. That one gesture—it was so unlike him. Gone was the intimidating, commanding Vincent who always seemed to have control over every situation. This man looked… human. Vulnerable. A swirl of emotions coursed through me—fear, confusion, anger—but what surprised me most was the flicker of somet
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER 73
I looked up to see her waving as she approached, her smile as bright as ever. She looked effortlessly chic in her casual outfit, exuding the confidence and warmth I always admired about her.“Sansa,” I said, standing up to hug her tightly. The moment her arms wrapped around me, a wave of comfort washed over me, and for a brief moment, I felt like everything might be okay.“It’s been ages! I missed you,” she said as she pulled away, her eyes scanning my face with concern. “But you… you look tired, Kirsten. What’s been going on?”I tried to smile, but it faltered. “Let’s order first. I don’t want to ruin the mood right away,” I said with a weak chuckle, avoiding her gaze.She nodded knowingly, not pressing further. We ordered our meals, and once the food arrived, she leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand as she waited patiently for me to start.After a long pause, I finally spoke. “Sansa, my life’s been... suffocating. I don’t even recognize it anymore. Vincent—” My voice cracked
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER 72
The road ahead wouldn’t be easy, but it was time to start healing. It was time to take back control of my life. I didn’t know how I was going to do it, but I knew I had to try. Because if I didn’t, I would lose myself completely. And so, with one last glance back, I walked away. Not just from Vincent, but from the version of myself that had let him control my life for so long. It was time to find who I truly was again. I threw myself into work, hoping to drown out the pain of what I had seen. If I kept myself busy enough, maybe I could forget the image of Vincent with that woman—the way he smiled at her, the way he looked so carefree, as if I had never existed in his life. But no matter how hard I tried, the memory haunted me, replaying over and over like a cruel reminder of what I had lost. There was no escape for me, no freedom in sight. I was bound to him, not by love anymore but by the weight of my obligations. I couldn’t leave until I had repaid every ounce of the help he had
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER 71
I couldn't rely on rumors or second-hand stories—I had to see it with my own eyes. Only then would I be able to fully accept the reality of our relationship and force myself to move on. The thought of him with another woman, the possibility that he had already moved on, was eating away at me. But the fear of facing it was almost paralyzing. I knew that if I didn’t see it for myself, I would never truly be able to convince myself to leave. The love I had for him still lingered, haunting me, keeping me tethered to him even though I knew deep down that I deserved more. The past few days had been a blur, spent in a constant state of inner turmoil. I would find myself staring into space, lost in thoughts of him, wondering if he was out there with someone new, wondering if he had already replaced me. The days passed in a haze as I fought with my own emotions. I couldn’t focus on work, couldn’t shake the image of him with another woman from my mind. Every moment felt like I was slowly su
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER 70
Part of me wanted to cling to the memories of the man he used to be, to hold onto the hope that he might change, that he might find his way back to the person I fell in love with. But the other part of me—the part that had endured his cruelty, his indifference, his toxic hold over me—knew better. I couldn’t deny it any longer: this was not love. This was control. This was manipulation. This was not the life I had dreamed of, and this was not the man I had thought I would spend my life with. Tears burned in my eyes as I struggled to keep my composure. In that moment, amidst the pain and the heartbreak, a small, defiant spark flickered within me. It whispered that I deserved better, that I deserved to be free, to be happy, to live a life that was truly mine. It was faint, but it was there—a glimmer of hope, a reminder that no matter how lost I felt, there was still a way out. I just had to find the strength to take it. I don’t know how I managed to survive the fierce argument. All I
Claiming What's Mine: A Billionaire Romance CHAPTER 69
I stood, my heart pounding in my chest. “Where have you been, Vincent?” My voice was steady, but I could feel the anger bubbling beneath the surface.He frowned, clearly caught off guard by my question. “Out. Busy with work,” he said, his tone dismissive.“Don’t lie to me,” I snapped, taking a step closer to him. “I know where you’ve been. I know about her.”His eyes widened for a split second before narrowing into a glare. “What are you talking about?”“Don’t play dumb, Vincent!” I shouted, my voice breaking with emotion. “Jacob saw you. He saw you with another woman, kissing her! Is that why you’re never home? Is that why you’ve been treating me like garbage?”He didn’t say anything at first, but the silence was enough to confirm what I already knew. I felt my heart shatter all over again.“Fine,” he said at last, his voice cold. “So what if I was? Does it even matter?"His words felt like a slap to the face. “What did I expect?” I repeated, my voice trembling. “I expected loyalty,
