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8

Author: Gia Hunter
last update Last Updated: 2023-08-18 18:15:03

ESTELLE

I was still trying to wrap my head around the fact that the man sitting next to me had been in love with me. If what Linden said was true, then I was not that observant of the people around me.

The Jeep drove smoothly to the main road, and Quinn hadn’t said a word since I got into the passenger seat, but I could feel he

“You know him, don’t you?” I turned my head to him.

“We’ll talk in the villa,” he said calmly. I thought so.

“I wanna know who he is, Quinn.”

“You will.” His focus remained on the road. The villa wasn’t far, so I patiently waited until he dropped the bomb on me.

“Don’t you think he’s old for you?”

“Judgy, aren’t we?” I raised an eyebrow. He was probably right. I didn’t care. “It was just a boat ride with a friend. Nothing more.”

“I saw how you looked at him and kissed him, so there’s definitely a second date.”

I drew a deep breath. “He’s maybe thirty-two or thirty-three.”

“Thirty. From what I heard, he’s quite a lady’s man.” Suddenly his phone vibrated. “Hold o
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  • The Beautiful Billionaire   9

    LINDEN “Where the fuck are you?” I cringed at the voice of Sax yelling from the other line. I just woke up because my phone kept ringing, and now the first thing I heard was his voice cursing me. “Why should I tell you, asshole? You woke me up just to yell at me. Who are you? My mother?” “Sorry, bro. I thought you were already up. It’s eight in the morning.” His voice calmed down. Since the Firm became Osmium, he and Kye resigned as Adley’s details, and Osmium wouldn’t be complete without my brothers. Although Sax and Kye wanted some adventures and were bored protecting clients, I had trust in them that they could handle themselves, so they led Team Phoenix and Hydra. “What do you want?” I got up from the bed, suddenly feeling empty. I already missed the soft and warm Estelle’s body, but I chose to ignore that longingness that it was impossible to fill. “Well, we just came back from the assignment. It was successful, by the way. Then your office is empty except for Padilla.” S

    Last Updated : 2023-08-18

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   10

    ESTELLE “So, you really don’t have a plan to meet again? I guess this encounter is an accident.” I wanted to say I miss him. I wanted to wrap my arms around his neck, cling to and kiss him hard. I saw in his eyes too. We wanted the same thing, but I couldn’t understand his restraint. “We should get inside.” “Or go somewhere else?” I suggested. My desperation just got out of my hand. “I don’t think it’s the best idea.” He didn’t even try hard to hide his hesitation. “Why? Since when?” My head tipped to the side as I cocked my eyebrow. “I’m single, and you are too. You didn’t mind it yesterday.” “That was a mistake, Estelle.” “Why? Tell me why? And I will forget everything that happened between us.” He swallowed hard. He looked hurt. Why? Because he’d been lying to me? Why did he care? Wasn’t it a part of his job to lie and play in deceit? “What is it that you can’t take the leap.” “I told you, Estelle. I’m done with flings. And you deserve—” “If I hear that shit one more ti

    Last Updated : 2023-08-19

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   11

    LINDEN I went back to the hotel, distraught over something I’d done right. I should have told her I was there to bring her home, but what was the point when she already blew my cover? She knew who I was, but my assignment. And she was going home anyway. Somehow, I still accomplished my mission. But I lost something in the end— the chance and her trust. After I called Hope to confirm my itinerary the following day, I went down to Terzo waiting for me. He gave me an odd look the moment he saw my duffel. “I’m going home.” “Already?” “Yeah.” I got in the passenger’s seat of his Maserati Ghibli. “I left tons of work.” “You should chill out sometime. You will never run out of work, but our time is not a guarantee.” “Look at you.” I couldn’t help but chuckle. “How’s your father, by the way?” “He’s doing great. That’s why I’m trying to enjoy before I take over the family business because once I’m in that position, I have a lot of changes to do and might as well disappoint my father

    Last Updated : 2023-08-19

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   12

    ESTELLE “Oh, God! I’m so relieved you’re finally back.” Mom had been hugging me for about a minute, and she hadn’t let me go just yet. “Mom, you have to let me catch a breath.” I couldn’t help but chuckle. Finally, she pulled away and inspected me from head to toe, then to Quinn behind me. “She’s not going anywhere. Leave us, Quinn.” When Quinn shut the door behind him, Mom said, “You look beautiful. Not too tan. And you look happy.” “Because I am.” I couldn’t let go of her hand. I really missed my mother. Mom always looked beautiful and sophisticated at fifty-five. I hoped I would look just like her when I turned her age, and I was her carbon copy anyway. “Are you ready to come back to work?” “This is your office, Mom. The job suits you well. You’re meant to be the CEO of Star LLC.” “What about you?” “I will still be the chairman, contribute to the design, be the consultant, attend meetings, continue with the campaign and donate to charities. Are you okay with that?” “Yes,

    Last Updated : 2023-08-20

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   13

    LINDEN “Oh. I see,” my sister hinted. “Now I know why.” “Can you give me a minute?” I didn’t even bother looking at Willa as I was already marching toward Estelle in an intense fevered stare throwing at me. The people I called my family, brothers, and best friends seemed to understand the awkward situation I was in. They left as I had just walked in carrying a deadly weapon, except Quinn. “Can we talk?” My voice came out a whisper, but she heard me though. “About?” She arched a brow. If I saw in her eyes was right, she was pissed off. “I’ll be in the backyard,” Quinn mentioned before he left us. Yeah, about what exactly? About how I lied to accomplish my mission? “Us.” Way to go, Gabriel Rembrandt. “Wait. There’s an us?” Her sarcasm almost made me cringe and spared me a sharp glance. “I thought you were pretty much clear that there was no us. Excuse me.” “And I thought you didn’t want a relationship.” “Yes. Now, if you’ll excuse me.” When she began to walk back, I quickly

    Last Updated : 2023-08-20

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   14

    ESTELLE “What the hell?” I yelped in surprise to find Linden already sitting next to me in the backseat of my car. “What are you doing here?” “I told you I need to talk to you.” I shot him a sharp glance. “Then a normal person does by calling my office to arrange an appointment.” “I think we both know that we pass beyond that.” “Mr. Linden, would you mind stepping out of the car, please? You’re making my client uncomfortable,” Quinn interrupted. Linden was unbothered and hadn’t moved a muscle. His gaze was still pinning it on. “Just give me two minutes, Hunter. And I wouldn’t do anything to harm Estelle.” “You’re doing a great job showing it, Mr. Linden,” Quinn said. When Quinn got out of the driver’s seat, opening the door for Linden, I butt in, “It’s okay, Quinn. He said two minutes. Just please wait outside.” “Are you sure?” He looked straight at me. “Yeah. I can handle this type of man,” I said in contempt. “What type of man exactly do you think I am?” I faced him, mee

    Last Updated : 2023-08-21

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   15

    LINDEN “Do you think it’s a smart idea?” My mood went gloomy as I settled down to my chair, contemplating whether I should be offended or ignore the fact that Sax doubted my plan. “Don’t you have work to do?” “Just answer me why?” “Are you threatened or something?” He scoffed, and an arrogant smirk appeared on his lips. “Me? A loser like Quinn Hunter threatens Sax Ryder.” When I smiled and grabbed the resume on my table, he just cursed. He knew Quinn was just standing behind him. “He’s standing behind me, isn’t he?” When I ignored to answer his question, he turned to Quinn. “Hunter, welcome to Osmium.” He offered his hand. That was what I loved about Sax and Kye. They just talk, but nothing personal or serious competition around here. The job was a job. “Thank you, Ryder.” Quinn shook Sax’s hand. “Sorry that you have to hear that.” “It’s all right. I’m a loser anyway.” “No, you’re not. You’re about to work at Osmium. Your agency—” “I think that’s enough, Sax. I have work

    Last Updated : 2023-08-21

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   16

    ESTELLE “Agh. I’m gonna regret this.” “Don’t chicken out now. Linden is a good guy.” “Really?” I asked exaggeratedly. Sarcasm dripped in my voice. “Since when? Because he’s your boss now?” “Then get to know him. He’s actually a—” “A good guy? You said it already.” “I was about to say a trustworthy person. You have to give it a chance.” His reply was conciliatory. “I hope you’re right.” I looked outside the car window. “This is a business dinner. I know what you’re thinking, so don’t get any idea.” He chuckled. “The only idea I get is he’s a good cook. His father is a chef. When Linden saved money, he bought a restaurant for him. The older Linden doesn’t work in the kitchen anymore but is always in his restaurant. I found that admirable. His father is his hero, Estelle.” “Whatever. I hope I won’t regret this,” I said dismissively. I didn’t want more convincing because I knew I had misjudged Linden. “Just chill out. You can always walk out and call me if he makes you uncomfort

    Last Updated : 2023-08-21

Latest chapter

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   Epilogue

    ESTELLE Sixteen months later “Hey, baby.” I couldn’t help but smile. Who would have thought I could be this happy and contented with life? I had a thriving company. I had friends, families, and my baby Rae. And my parents turned out to be good as best friends. And my husband, my best friend, my lover, my anchor. God, how could I be so lucky to have a man like Gabriel Linden? “I’m on my way home. Where are you?” “I’ll be home in one hour. I’m still at Osmium. Do you need anything?” Linden’s company had three times more employees and opened two HQs in Dubai and Qatar. I was so proud of him. No matter how busy he was, he made sure to have time for me and his daughter. “Nope. Just checking how long you would be home.” I took over the chairman chair from my dad, but I always got so excited to go home to him and to be with our baby. “Why?” There was an excitement in his voice. “I could wait a few minutes in the tub. I thought you might wanna join me.” He groaned out a curse. “

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   114

    ESTELLE“Gabriel Rembrandt, do you take Estelle Rae Solace to be your lawful wedded wife, to live together in holy matrimony, to love her, honor her, to comfort her, and to keep her in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?”“I do.”“Estelle Rae Solace, do you take Gabriel Rembrandt to be your lawful wedded husband, to live together in holy matrimony, to love him, to honor him, to comfort him, and to keep him in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?”“I do.”“I give you this ring as a token and pledge of our constant faith and abiding love.” He put the ring on my finger.“I give you this ring as a token and pledge of our constant faith and abiding love,” I repeated as I slipped the ring into his finger.“By virtue of the authority vested in me under the laws of Isola di Marettimo, Italy, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride.”Linden in a solid beige suit was a sight to behol

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   113

    LINDEN It was still surreal watching my father talking with Gustav. I didn’t think it would happen sooner, but looking at them getting along was fulfilling for me and Estelle. “You okay?” Estelle placed her hand on my thigh under the table. “Yeah. You?” I didn’t have to ask because I saw it in her eyes. She looked happy. This must have been her dream for a long time, not seeing her parents at each other’s throats. Willa gave me a questioning look, sitting next to Dad. I slightly shook my head and smiled. “I’ve been to many restaurants, but your food has a distinct taste that I didn’t find anywhere. What’s the secret? Am I allowed to ask it?” Dad chuckled. “It’s all the same. The ingredients we choose but how we prepare and cook are different.” “I also try cooking at home if I have time, but not as close to good as this. Edible, though,” Gustav said. “I can’t cook anything fancy, but I know a few pasta recipes. I just don’t have time, I guess.” Deirdre also enjoyed the menu.

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   112

    ESTELLE“Just follow the design and make sure it’s childproof, but the furniture will arrive on Wednesday,” I told one of the guys from K&B Designs.“Understood, ma’am.”“I’ll leave you all to my staff. If you need anything, just let them know so they can call me. I have an errand to run.”“Got it. Thank you.”I left the house, hoping I could get to talk to Dad before he got swamped with work.I couldn’t shake the guilt off my body. And I felt ashamed of how I handled the situation earlier. Instead, I overreacted when my husband was right the whole time. I was five months pregnant and just risked my baby. I could have reacted worse if I was in Linden’s position. “Well, hello, preggy.” I was glad to see Micah. Honestly, I missed her, but I couldn’t keep her with me since Dad needed her more than I did.“How’s your new boss?”“Awfully good. He doesn’t demand and makes my job a little easier.”“Unlike me?” I arched a brow.She laughed. “Your work is the one demanding. You’re here to see

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   111

    ESTELLE Standing stark naked before me, his big cock rested with pride. Linden joined me in the tub and made a low, masculine, sexy sound as he dipped into the water. We stared at each other— the intensity set my body on fire. I let my foot trace his thigh until I found what I was looking for. My pulse quickened as I rubbed it with my foot. He grew instantly hard. Linden moved his hand, tracing his fingers over my knee, moving circles. I was instantly wet. He flicked his gaze to my bare chest, turning me intensely on. My breasts were heavier. My nipples were hard. Heat rose in my cheeks. Arousal thickened my throat. As he leaned close, he cupped my head and took my mouth. I gasped. He started kissing me slowly but quickly turned hot and greedy, kissing me like he was starving. Not breaking the kiss, he pulled me, encasing me so I could sit astride his thighs. The water splashed. Wrapped my legs around his waist, I sat, rocking my hips against him. I could feel him so hard, pokin

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   110

    LINDEN I knew this would happen. The fucking pillow was getting in our way. I lay on my back while Estelle curled into her pillow. She looked comfortable, though. I only wished she found that kind of comfort in me. A moment later, her body shook. She made fun of me. “I can hear your brain cursing the hell out of this pillow, Gabriel.” She turned her head, grinning. “It’s all right, baby. If only I could take all your discomfort, pain, and weight from you. I already did. What a little comfort you found in your pillow that I wouldn’t give.” “Really?” “Why do you sound so surprised?” She turned to face me. “I don’t know. Couples don’t wanna have babies immediately because they want to spend time together, cuddle, travel, do something fun before they want another responsibility.” “Do you want that?” “Before we got married, you knew what I wanted, but things changed, and I don’t have an ounce of regret for having a baby. Though I’m still scared of this huge responsibility, but I kn

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   109

    ESTELLE Dad and I flew back home as soon as he was cleared to travel. I missed my husband, too. Aside from the overdue board meeting, I had a job that could not wait. “What the— !” Linden’s eyes widened in surprise, lifting me up, but he was also careful not to put pressure on my growing belly. “Baby.” “You didn’t miss me that much, huh?” I wrapped my arms around his neck as I kissed the side of his head. “You have no idea.” He put me down and hugged me. “You smell amazing.” “I’m sorry, husband, but I have to get ready. I’ve moved the board meeting once and can’t be late.” “Wait. Is it today?” He looked at me before he kissed me on the lips. “Yeah. See you later over dinner.” “Yeah. And I have something for you. It’s in your closet.” “Oh. What is it?” I beamed at him. “My long-delayed birthday gift.” I chuckled. “You don’t have to give me a gift.” “I feel terrible already, but I will make it up to you next year.” “It’s okay, Gabriel.” I hugged him. “But I’m gonna be too l

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   108

    LINDEN My team just landed two hours ago from London. Estelle agreed to stay with her father, which made me happy with her decision. I only took a quick shower in the hotel and changed into a white shirt and dark blue pants before meeting Ilya. As fear thickened my throat, I forced a deep breath as I walked into the local bar in Austin. I entered alone, but I trusted my men to do their job. I roamed my eyes and quickly found a white male around my age with buzz-cut dark-brown hair sitting at the corner. He was confident and wasn’t facing the door. Judging by his wide shoulders and broad back, it was indeed Ilya. The only image I had of him was from Gustav. I didn’t want to know how he got into the country undetected. “May I join you?” His gaze lifted from the half-full pint of beer on the table. He stood up and offered his hand. Ilya didn’t smile, but his eyes expressed recognition and appreciation. I shook it firmly before I joined him on the table and motioned and gestured a

  • The Beautiful Billionaire   107

    ESTELLEI blinked in disbelief. And Willa had never been tempted to check his brother online or go to Osmium to visit him. Either she trusted him so much, or she couldn’t endure the agony of knowing how dangerous her brother was facing every day.I mean, gathering intelligence was a risky business. I’d seen movies where people get killed and tortured for information.“She does, but only about the firm, and she doesn’t have to. I’m just protecting her from the risk of knowing the nature of my work.”“Now, I’m more curious.” Willa frowned further.“That’s all you have to know.”“No. I want to know everything.”“Honey, Willa.” Moses drew a deep breath. “The Hover Company has subsidiaries. Hover Defense and Hover Space and Security. They are the largest private gathering information agency. They gather intelligence and information around the globe. We detect threats, support decisions, and share with our government contract agencies. And these guys and among others who work at Osmium are

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