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Chapter 9: The Growing Tension
Terakhir Diperbarui:
2025-01-06 22:26:56
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THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 10: The Unexpected Conversation
Something felt different tonight. I stumbled into the dark living room and came to a halt. Nicholas was sitting by the fireplace, shirt sleeves rolled up, tie undone, and a tumbler of whiskey in his hand.He appeared to be a man with too many ideas and nowhere to put them rather than the calculating billionaire I had grown to know. It was rather soothing to hear the rain hitting the penthouse windows. I was unable to fall asleep because it was late—past midnight—again.He glanced at me as his head turned slightly. "You are, too." His expression had an unguarded quality that I don't often see. For a moment, I considered leaving him to his thoughts. But instead, I moved over and slipped into the armchair across from him. The silence was filled with the crackle of the fire between us."Had trouble sleeping?" I took a chance. “No.” He twirled his glass of golden liquid. "I'm thinking about too much."I paused, not knowing if I should continue. Although Nicholas wasn't the kind to open u
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-07THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 11: A Sudden Moment of Intimacy
The hush that pervaded the art center accentuated every creak of the wooden floorboards and the rustle of the wind outside. Staring at the strewn-about papers and paints I hadn't had the energy to put away, I stood in the main gallery.It had been a cruel day. Our already precarious budget was in ruins due to a last-minute cancelation from a significant source. I had been pleading, arguing, and attempting to keep everything afloat over the phone for hours. I was emotionally spent by the time the day's doors had closed.But my thoughts weren't focused on the task, even as I stood surrounded by the ruins of a dream I wanted to preserve. It kept going back to the previous night's note.Industries Blackthorn.I had been plagued by the words all day. I hadn't dared to ask Nicholas about it. I wasn't certain if I would like to know or not. The front door opening jolted me out of my trance. My heart jumped, and I spun around as my palm instinctively went to my chest."Calm down. It's me.”N
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-08THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 12: Nicholas’s Vulnerable Moment
The rain drummed softly against the windows in the penthouse, filling the quiet between us. I absently traced designs on the soft fabric of the throw pillow in my lap while snuggling up on the couch's edge. Nicholas sat rigidly in his chair across from me, holding a tumbler of amber liquid.Tension had grown between us since the mysterious phone call the previous evening. We hadn't discussed it much, but Nicholas was preoccupied. His normally composed manner was unraveling like a thread tugged too tight.I was the first to break the stillness. "Will you tell me what's happening, Nicholas?"He took a moment to glance at me. Rather, he continued to stare out the window at the dusky skyline. With a last sigh, he placed the drink on the table. "There's a lot people don't understand about me," he said in a low voice that had a hint of edge that I couldn't quite place. I raised an eyebrow. "That alone is clear." His lips suddenly created a smile, but it never got to his eyes. He moved fo
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-08THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 13: The Shock of the Pregnancy Test
The large windows of the penthouse let in a lot of morning light, giving the space a subdued gold hue. Staring at the harmless white stick on the marble surface, I sat at the edge of the bathroom counter. Every beat of my heart reverberated in the quiet surrounding me as it pounded in my chest.Good.The word looked up from the test like an unwanted visitor, mocking me. I blinked, hoping the letters might reorganize into something less drastic. However, they didn't.This cannot be taking place.I grabbed the counter's edge for support since the air felt too thin. My thoughts were racing, going over the potential outcomes, the ramifications, and the sheer magnitude of what this meant.How?I knew how, anyway. I wasn't naïve. My mind returned to that one night of unexpected intimacy with Nicholas. It was a night that none of us wanted to talk about, acting as if it had never occurred. And now...My stomach rumbled.I wanted to cry, scream, or do something to let go of the enormous wave
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-08THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 14: Hiding the Secret
Silence dominated the days following Nicholas's discovery of the pregnancy test. He hadn't brought it up again as though the memory of the test had vanished. However, I was aware. Nicholas Scott remembered, and I could tell by his cool-headedness that he was waiting for me to bring up the big issue.I wasn't prepared for that discussion.Rather, I made a choice—one that was fueled by uncertainty and anxiety. However, I would not tell anyone about this for the time being.However, secrets consumed you and eroded you until the weight of what you chose not to disclose was all left.Like other mornings, it began with the bedroom curtains letting in the dim light of dawn. Another wave of nausea swept over me, and I sat at the edge of the bed, gripping my stomach. The subtle scent of Nicholas' coffee coming from the kitchen made it worse.I stumbled into the bathroom and retched before I could even close the door. I pressed myself against the counter and wished the feeling would go away as
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-09THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 15: Nicholas's Growing Suspicion
Between Nicholas and I, the quiet had thickened, strained like a thread about to break. Every second felt like a deliberate dance, in which I shifted to sidestep his inquiries, and he got closer to the truth.However, Nicholas Scott was not a man who remained in the dark for very long.I saw it in his eyes first. I could feel his gaze on me during breakfast as I pushed scrambled eggs around my plate in an attempt to divert my attention.His tone was surprisingly composed as he remarked, "You haven't even touched your food."I forced a grin as I looked up. "I simply don't feel particularly hungry this morning."His forehead creased, and I briefly believed he might relax. As he sat back in his seat and looked at me with such unflinching focus, I felt nauseous. He responded, "You've been saying this a lot lately. “I’m not hungry.”Weary. Agitated. “Cassie, is there anything you're not telling me?”"No," I hurriedly answered, my words coming out too rapidly.It was too quick for him to a
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-09THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 16: The Confrontation
For days, the storm had been building. Every look Nicholas gave me was more pointed than the last, and every word we spoke felt like a prelude to a conflict I wasn't prepared to face. However, I ought to have known. Nicholas Scott did not wait for things to get out of hand.It was sooner than I thought it would be.The penthouse walls had long, swaying shadows from the city lights in the late evening. In an attempt to calm the nausea that hadn't subsided throughout the day, I was in the kitchen clutching a glass of water like it was my lifeline.Before I saw him, I heard the heavy footfall. Nicholas entered the room with an expression of icy resolve etched on his face."We're conversing," he declared, his tone unaffected by disagreement.With my back to him, I froze. "How about?" My voice trembled as I asked."Whatever it is that you have been keeping from me."His comments were like lightning bolts; I had no time to evade or deflect them.I grabbed the counter for balance as I turned
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-10THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 17: The Fallout
The penthouse was oppressively quiet. The uncomfortable silence that followed our confrontation seemed to magnify every creak of the floors and every muted sound of the city beyond. Now that we were strangers, Nicholas and I were cautious not to cross paths with one another.However, his remarks continued to weigh heavily on me."You broke my trust."When he said it, I couldn't help but notice the expression in his eyes—a mixture of betrayal and an unidentified emotion. Trust wasn't given lightly to someone like Nicholas Scott. And I had broken it.The days that followed were a blur of tense civility. We didn't talk unless we had to, and even then, the words were cold and cut. With his office door closing behind him and his brief, silent dinners as the only reminders of his presence in the penthouse, Nicholas lost himself in his work.Even though I pushed myself to prepare for the art center's next display, the guilt returned. I could feel the pain of my decisions every time I saw him
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-10
Bab terbaru
THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 200: The Beginning of Forever
On the balcony of their family estate, Nicholas and Cassie stood gazing out over the vast countryside they had created together, the evening air heavy with the aroma of roses in blossom. Inside, the celebration was illuminated by lights that twinkled like stars underneath them. Love and tradition were woven into every note of the music and laughter that floated up to where they stood.After breathing, Nicholas relaxed his arm around Cassie's waist and absorbed everything. Years of commitment, tenacity, and everlasting love had resulted in the magnificent palace that had once only been in a dream.Every stone and meticulously maintained garden had the mark of their voyage, which had been everything but simple but well worth every obstacle they encountered.With her head resting on his shoulder, Cassie leaned into him. "Remember the first time we stood here?” She whispered, a soft smile pulling at her lips. "All we had were ambitions and an awful lot of fear."Nicholas laughed, his tone
THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 199: Preparing for the Future
Anticipation filled the conference room. The foundation and the company's top executives were waiting for their decision while Emma and Ethan stood near the head of the long, polished conference table with their parents seated beside them. This was not just another board meeting but the start of a new era in their family's history.Leaning back in his chair, Nicholas proudly observed his kids. Emma listened carefully, her poised confidence radiating across the room, while Ethan was immersed in conversation with one of their important advisors, his keen mind already planning the next moves. They were prepared—more than prepared.Under the table, Cassie, sitting beside him, gave his hand a light squeeze. He looked at her and saw the knowing smile in her eyes, the wordless recognition that they had done their duty.This resulted from the sacrifices, the late hours, and the difficult choices.They had invested years in creating this legacy grounded in purpose as much as an empire of influ
THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 198: A Family Celebration
The golden glow of lanterns illuminated the large yard where the family had gathered, and the estate laughed. A big table with fresh flowers and flickering candles was arranged beneath the starry canopy. The family was celebrated tonight, far more significant than accolades or public recognition.As Emma and Ethan entered the brightly illuminated room, there was a chuckle and the sound of glasses breaking. Nicholas and Cassie, their parents, were sitting behind the opulent fireplace, their hands joined together in a silent moment of satisfaction. Their love remained steady even though they knew the marks time had left on their faces.This commemorated the pursuit they had all taken together, not simply a party. It was about the victories, defeats, risks, and constant belief that they were making something bigger than themselves.The outside world could wait for once. The warmth of shared memories and the promise of a future they had all built together replaced the burden of responsibi
THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 197: The Initiative Expands to New Horizons
The meeting room was filled with activity, and the air was thick with expectation. Journalists, donors, and global leaders filled the enormous room, all gazing at the excellent platform where Emma and Ethan stood.Strong words were projected onto a massive screen behind them: The Future of Change: Expanding Our Legacy to New Horizons.Emma inhaled steadily before moving forward. She said in a determined, duty-driven voice, "Today is beyond just a declaration.” “It's a statement of our dedication to the planet and those neglected for far too long. Our endeavor is based on the principle that opportunity should not be limited, which we are bringing to reality.”She looked across the room, meeting the eyes of the advocates, leaders, and visionaries who had come to see this historic event. "We have spent years providing resources, creativity, and education to underprivileged communities.”However, the task is far from finished. Today, we are taking a daring step forward that will permanent
THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 196: The Twins Mentor Others
Ethan and Emma, Cassie's twins, were ready to continue the mentorship program that Cassie and Nicholas had always wanted to establish. The project started with a few chosen youths from underprivileged backgrounds. Still, it quickly gained momentum and caught the attention of forward-thinking entrepreneurs prepared to change the world.Emma's speech weighed significantly on her shoulders. Standing before a large assembly, she inhaled deeply as she spoke. The mentees were young individuals with ambitions that would change the course of history, and her sharp yet empathetic eyes ran across their anxious faces."Leadership isn't about control," she said with a stern yet determined tone. “It's about accountability—the type that demands integrity rather than fame. It's about making decisions that will impact others who turn to you for direction, change, and hope, as well as on your journey for a long time.”“And that journey—your journey—starts here, with all of you. The question is, what k
THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 195: Cassie’s Artistic Legacy
Each item in Cassie's last collection was reverently presented in the vast gallery filled with gentle golden light. As people wandered around, taking in the essence of a lifetime of talent, the room hummed with silent adoration, and the air was heavy with expectancy. Every brushstroke conveyed a tale of hope, suffering, and love. The series, appropriately named Eternal Threads, captured moments too profound for words by weaving her family's trip into rich colors and textured textures.Standing in the show's center, Cassie traced the margins of a significant canvas—a painting of entwined hands that was an abstract yet clear symbol of her family's strong tie. Nicholas stood next to her, acting like a silent anchor, as she prepared to address the crowd.Cassie took a deep breath before stepping onto a small platform at the bottom of the hall to speak when it was finally time. As she gazed out at the faces before her—critics, dealers, associates, and most importantly, family—the audience
THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 194: Nicholas’s Unexpected Opportunity
The sleek lines of the contemporary furnishings and the glittering skyline beyond were illuminated by the golden streaks that the early sun poured over the tall windows of Nicholas Scott's rooftop office. With his mind racing thoughts, Nicholas sat at his desk, tapping absently with his fingers on the gleaming wood. He had never gotten an email like the one that was open on his computer.An invitation.This was not merely an invitation but an opportunity to become a member and leader of a global alliance aimed at incorporating sustainable business practices into all sectors of the economy. The United Nations and several world business leaders supported the project looking for someone with expertise, influence, and creative thinking. Nicholas has been creating legacies and influencing industries for the previous few years, but this? This presented a chance to reshape the future globally.He felt his heart thumping more than it had in a long time.He had spent years trying to balance hi
THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 193: A Milestone Achievement
Under an arrangement of golden chandeliers, the enormous auditorium of the global gala glistened with warm, dazzling waves of light radiating off its marble-polished floor and crystal-clad decor. A beautiful orchestra of hope was in the air as philanthropists, creators, and entrepreneurs worldwide came for the annual Global Philanthropy and Arts Award. The Scott-Hart Foundation eventually received this award, which is granted to institutions that have improved artistic innovation and social effect after years of tenacious efforts.A dining area decorated with luxurious turquoise satin shining in the chandeliers' gold light in the center of the award hall. The expressions on the faces of Cassie, Nicholas, Emma, and Ethan were a combination of pride, excitement, and the unshakable faith that had carried them this far. They sat quietly but firmly. What had begun as a daring notion—a daring wager on the power of art and altruism—had grown into a project that significantly impacted several
THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET LEGACY Chapter 192: The Twins Face Challenges
There was tension in the Scott Foundation's headquarters boardroom. The twins Emma and Ethan sat at the table with stiff expressions and implied contempt. Consultants, department supervisors, and other significant stakeholders were crammed into the conference room, looking at one another as they discussed the subsequent phase of the work they had put so much effort into.Emma stated, "This expansion is necessary," calmly yet assertively. "We possess the means to expand our sustainability initiatives globally. Beyond our existing reach, we can truly make an effect. Why are we hesitating at all?""Emma, it's no hesitation. It's a tactic. We may become susceptible if we grow too quickly without strengthening the basis. Before going too far, we must ensure our current programs are stable."As the advisors exchanged cautious looks, a murmur echoed around the room. There was tension between the twins, who had never argued so openly.Emma bent over. Ethan, “We aren't weak. We've established
