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CHAPTER 16
Last Updated:
2024-12-19 16:37:55
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The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 17
Camille Strikes Again Naomi's POV As I anxiously adjusted the hem of my dress, the enormous ballroom reverberated with the sound of clinking glasses. Roman was going to use this as another chance to show me off like a trophy wife at a charity event. However, something felt different tonight. Camille's smile was as keen as a blade, and her cold stare weighed heavily on me from the other side of the room. I made an effort to ignore her and concentrate on the donors interacting with one another, but the tension in the room was oppressive. "Why do you look to be on the verge of fainting?" I was surprised by Roman's tone, which seemed as uninterested as ever. “I’m fine,” I lied, avoiding his piercing eyes. “Try harder,” he muttered, taking a sip of his drink. “You’re supposed to look like you belong here.” Refusing to give him the satisfaction, I bit back a response. Instead, despite the churning dread in my stomach, I straightened my shoulders and forced a smile. Camille c
Last Updated : 2024-12-19The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 18
The Great Escape Naomi's POVThe ominous silence that pervaded the mansion only deepened my determination. As I stood in my room, holding the hurriedly packed duffle bag, my breath caught. Every heartbeat echoed like a drum as my heart hammered in my chest, urging me to move faster. All I knew was that I had to go, but I had no idea where I was heading. The message I had written, a brief but tragic farewell that would undoubtedly shatter Roman's heart, was resting on the nightstand. I made an effort to ignore the shame I felt in my chest. This was about saving myself, not about hurting him. “I can’t stay here anymore. I can’t keep fighting a battle I’ll never win.”I shook my head and wiped away the tears that threatened to make me second-guess myself. I couldn't allow myself to falter. Roman had made it clear time and time again that his walls were impenetrable, his past a fortress I was never meant to enter. I opened the door with a gentle squeak and looked into the dark
Last Updated : 2024-12-24The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 19
A New Start Naomi's POV The flat was simple, with peeling paint and scuffed floors that revealed tales of past occupants. Though it wasn't much, it belonged to me. The calm was a welcome relief after weeks of turmoil. Yet, the silence was also unnerving. The only chair beside the window caught my My duffel bag sat beside it, the last remnant of a life I was trying to leave behind. I inhaled deeply, ignoring the memories that were about to come flooding back. “This is home now,” I said aloud, my voice breaking the stillness. But even as I said it, doubt lingered. The following morning, the room was bathed in a warm glow as sunlight filtered through the thin curtains. I had tossed and turned on the rough mattress all night, dreaming of harsh words and piercing glances. I needed a distraction. I dug inside my purse and took out my sketchbook. Its battered cover was familiar, almost reassuring. As I turned the pages, I noticed shards of a previous existence—drawings of Roman
Last Updated : 2024-12-24The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 20
Enter Elijah Grant Naomi's POV I couldn't completely shake the specter of Roman that hovered in the back of my mind. It was frustrating because of his piercing gaze, the gravity of his words, and his oppressive hold on me. But, I dismissed it and returned to the painting before me. The woman breaking free from her chains stared back at me with fierce determination, a reflection of everything I wanted to be. I was startled and distracted by a knock at the door. I scowled. I wasn't expecting anyone. I put down the brush and carefully made my way to the door. Through the peephole, I caught a glimpse of a tall man wearing a smart navy suit, his hands tucked into his pockets. His angular features and assured demeanor shouted dominance and strength. My heart skipped a beat. Roman? No, this man was different; he had smoother features and a less oppressive, yet commanding, presence. I cracked open the door. "May I help you?" "Naomi," he said in a polished, silky voice. "Elija
Last Updated : 2024-12-26The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 21
Roman’s Fury Roman's POV I hardly noticed the coldness in the room. The note was clenched in my fist, the crumpled paper slicing into my hand. Naomi's words were a taunt, a challenge encased in well-chosen words that were more painful than a slap. “I need to find myself, Roman. Away from you. Away from this.”As I read it again, my jaw tightened. Find herself?It wasn’t just the words—it was the silence that followed them. She didn’t scream. She didn’t fight. She just... disappeared. The stifling silence was broken by the sharp crack of action as I threw the note onto the desk. "Find herself," I muttered resentfully. “Did she forget who helped her when she was lost?” I was startled out of my reverie by a knock on the door. "Enter," I barked. My right-hand man, Daniel, entered through the creaking door. His normally composed expression faltered, his eyes darting to the note on the desk and then back to me. "She's gone," he declared bluntly. "No kidding," I yelled, su
Last Updated : 2024-12-26The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 22
A Gentle Touch Naomi's POV The soft hum of the city outside was a stark contrast to the quiet calm of the apartment. I watched the world below pass by without me as I stood by the window. Elijah had secured a quiet, anonymous place, but the silence only made the pandemonium inside of me worse. I was free, wasn’t I? Free to breathe, to paint, to rebuild. Yet freedom felt heavier than I had imagined. I was startled out of my reverie by a knock on the door. “Come in,” I called, my voice barely above a whisper. Elijah stepped in, a folder tucked under his arm. “How are you settling in?” “It’s… nice,” I said, forcing a smile. Despite nodding, he didn't seem persuaded. “Nice doesn’t exactly scream ‘home.’” “It’s not supposed to,” I muttered, turning back to the window. “It’s just supposed to be safe.” A silence fell between us, but Elijah wasn’t the type to push. I appreciated that. “You know,” he said after a moment, “safety and comfort don’t have to be mutually exclu
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The Mask Slips Roman's POV I leaned back in my chair and swirled my glass of The silence of my office wrapped around me, broken only by the faint ticking of the clock on the wall. I was staring at nothing specific, just my thoughts. My thoughts were active, and rushing, and unable to calm down. Naomi thought she could get away from me. Just thinking about that made me chuckle bitterly. She didn’t understand, couldn’t understand. People didn’t leave me. They didn’t run from me. Yet, there she was. Gone. With a single, forceful motion, I tossed back the whiskey, the burn hardly alleviating the roiling annoyance in my chest. The sound echoed across the room as I slapped the glass down harder than I had planned. “Dammit!” I cursed under my breath, standing abruptly and pacing the length of my office. I don't need her . Every time I found myself thinking about her, I reminded myself of that. But the truth pushed to the surface no matter how many times I said it. Yes, I need he
Last Updated : 2024-12-29The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 24
Camille’s New PlanCamille's POV The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air while I was relaxing in my leather armchair and watching the city skyline sparkle like jewels through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the penthouse. The world below me buzzed with life, but my thoughts were consumed with only two people: Naomi and Roman. My perfectly manicured nails tapped against the glass table in a beat of frustration and resolve.He's slipping, you know." Elijah's smooth voice interrupted my thoughts as he walked in. Even though his outfit was perfectly made, but his expression carried the edge of someone who knew exactly how to wield his power. I didn’t bother to glance up.“Roman always slips when it comes to Naomi. That’s his weakness.” In order to let the ruby liquid catch the dimlight, I swirled the wine in my glass. “But a weakness is only useful if we know how to exploit it.”Elijah narrowed his eyes and sat down opposite me. "I've already placed her in a secure place.She
Last Updated : 2024-12-29
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The Billionaire's Pawn EPILOGUE
The sun rose gently over the expansive estate, its golden rays beams through the wide windows and highlight the serene scene within. Naomi sat in the garden, her laughter blended with the soft chirping of birds. She held two small babies in her arms, their gentle coos bringing the distinct sound of fresh life into the room. Two years had flown by, a tapestry of hardships, victories, and emotional moments. The happiness and tranquility they had worked so hard to achieve suddenly eclipsed what had seemed like an endless struggle. Roman came out onto the terrace and looked at his wife and kids, his eyes warming. Naomi looked up, her eyes full of love, her smile radiant.With a hint of surprise and fatigue in her voice, she muttered, "They're already asleep." Roman approached and lowered himself next to her. With the same gentleness that one could reserve for the most delicate of treasures, he removed the small boy from her arms. “He’s going to be as strong as his mother,” Roman mu
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 110
A Wedding to Remember Roman's POVThe room was bathed in a warm glow as the morning sun came through the drapes. I awoke to the distant bustle of the city and the faint sound of birdsong, but nothing could compare to the woman who lay next to me. Naomi's chest rose and fell with each gentle breath, her face relaxed in the kind of peace that came only after storms.Today was the day. I didn't feel like I was being pulled down by the past. Instead there was an enormous sense of expectancy, as if I were on the brink of something significant, something that would change my life. I moved a little, brushing a stray strand of hair from Naomi's face. She stirred and opened her eyes meeting mine."Morning," she said in a sleep-smoggy voice. "Morning," I replied, my voice soft but tinged with excitement. I couldn’t help the smile that appeared on my face. "You ready to become official Mrs. Blackhood?" A smile twisted her lips, and she stretched languidly before supporting herself on on
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 109
A Safe HavenRoman's POV As I watched Naomi move gracefully across the room, I sipped my coffee while leaning on the kitchen counter. Her hair was in an untidy bun, and she was humming gently. Her appearance in one of my baggy shirts caused an inexplicable sensation in my chest. “Did I ever tell you how hit you look in that?” I asked, my voice low and teasing.A sneer tugged at Naomi's lips asshe looked over her shoulder. “Flattery this early in the morning, Roman? What do you want?” I put down my mug and laughed. “Nothing. Just stating the truth.” She rolled her eyes and returned to scrambling eggs on the stove, not bothering to cover her smile. The air was thick with the aroma of spices and butter, and it surrounded me like a cozy blanket. Simple, peaceful, and unguarded moments like these served as a reminder of our progress. But, the weight of something unsaid hung over me even as I took it all in. “Naomi,” I started, my tone more serious now. Her brow furrowed sli
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 108
The Wedding PreparationRoman's POV I stood in the doorway of our bedroom, watching Naomi sleep, her chest rising and falling in a regular beat. Her skin was glowing golden as the early morning sunshine crept through the curtains. In sharp contrast to the commotion we had experienced to get here, she appeared calm.I felt contentment for the first time in a long time, something I had not experienced in years. It wasn't the kind that accompanied short-lived triumphs or meaningless accomplishments. This was quieter, deeper, and completely connected to the woman in front of me.Now it was more than just contract or a deal, I want a formal wedding with her. She had brought light into my world of calculated risks and cold decisions. And for her, I wanted to be more than the man I’d been. more than the man I had been for her.But how could I make it special without complicating it? I didn’t want grandeur or anything that felt impersonal. Naomi deserved something that reflected her—simpl
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 107
Naomi’s Gallery ReopensNaomi's POVThe gallery was alive with conversation and excitement, and it was around me like a cozy hug. I was standing close to the door, my fingers shaking a little as I held a flute of sparkling cider. But it wasn't fear. It was a sense of expectation. With work of love, the new gallery rose from the ashes of the one Elijah had destroyed. I had designed every detail with Roman's assistance, making sure it reflected both my art and my journey. The space was warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls that gave it character and high ceilings that made the room feel spacious. Each sculpture was softly lit by track lighting, and the romance was enhanced by the gentle creaking of the natural wood floorboards beneath the feet. This gallery offered a more personal touch than the previous one's sleek and modern vibe. Roman had insisted on a handcrafted sign above the entrance, and I’d chosen the name carefully: “New Hope Studio.”Along with my work, local a
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 106
The Proposal Naomi's POVMy heart hammered in my chest as I was standing in the dark room. There was an oppressive, uneasy silence.a “Roman?” My voice shook a little as I called out again, but I made an effort to speak steadily.No response.I hesitantly stepped closer, letting my toes touch the cool ground. My heartbeat's faint sound, a constant reminder that I wasn't dreaming, filled the silence."Don’t overthink it," I whispered to myself, though my body refused to relax. Something about the sudden darkness felt calculated, deliberate. I inhaled deeply and moved toward the bedroom door, feeling my way through. My fingers touched the wall's edge as I went slowly and carefully. The silence was nearly deafening, and the air felt heavier with every stride.A loud click reverberated throughout the house as I entered the corridor that led to the sitting room, and the lights flickered back on. I froze, blinking to avoid the unexpected brightness.And then I saw it. The sitting room
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 105
A Fresh StartNaomi's POV It was a calm yet intense drive home. Roman's thumb caressed my knuckles absentmindedly, a small yet personal touch that warmed me. The commotion of the previous few days gave way to an odd sense of tranquility as the city skyline blurred past the window. “Naomi,” Roman said, breaking the silence. His voice drew me out of my reverie as I turned to face him. "Yes?" His angular features were softened by the afternoon light as he looked at me. "I've been considering what comes next. For us. My chest tightened in the greatest way as he uttered *us*. It was a declaration rather than a question, and I never imagined hearing such a resounding affirmation from someone like Roman. "And?" I asked, attempting to speak steadily despite my tummy flutter. "I wish to make a fresh start. Stay away from everything. He gestured vaguely toward the city. "Everything is poisoned: the syndicate, the businesses, the deals. I want something… real. Something we can bui
The Billionaire's Pawn CHANGE 104
The ShowdownNaomi's POVAnticipation weighed heavily on the air inside the car. Roman's jaw was tense and his knuckles were white as he grabbed the steering wheel. As we raced in the direction of the syndicate's secret base, the city merged into the background. I sat next to him, silent but full of determination. I held the small gun Roman had given me earlier in my lap. Even though it felt heavy and cold in my hands, I knew it was necessary. “You don’t have to come with me,” Roman said, breaking the silence, his voice low but firm. I turned to him, meeting his intense gaze. “Yes, I do.” For a brief moment, the fear that lay beneath his stony exterior surfaced, softening his gaze. “Just stay close to me, Naomi. Whatever happens, don’t leave my side.” “I won’t,” I promised. The car screeched to a stop outside an abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of the city. With its broken windows and graffitied walls, it was the kind of place that screamed danger. As we got out of th
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 103
The Final Letter Naomi's POV Roman's forehead furrowed as he collected the envelope from me, his fingers briefly touching mine. Even though the contact was slight and insignificant it gave me a sense of comfort. I felt my stomach clench as he cocked his head and studied the unlabeled packet. “Where did you find this?” he asked, his voice calm but tinged with curiosity. "On the path outside," I answered, putting my arms over myself as a shiver went through my body. "Roman, it wasn't there last night. Someone left it for us.” His eyes briefly met mine, and I could see his mind working every scenario and potential risk that this could bring. Sharp and determined, he nodded then took a knife from the kitchen counter and gently cut open the envelope. As he unfolded the contents, I held my breath because the sound of the blade slicing through the thick paper seemed louder than it should have been. One sheet of parchment, yellowed and old was inside. Roman's jaw tensed with every se
