Share

The Billionaire's Pawn
The Billionaire's Pawn
Penulis: Angela Ray

CHAPTER 1

Penulis: Angela Ray
last update Terakhir Diperbarui: 2024-12-05 20:28:46

A Contract with the Devil

Naomi's POV

"You are what?" The words tasted strange in my mouth, and my voice broke.

I'm arranging your marriage to Roman Blackwood,” My father quietly repeated, as if he were announcing the weather or an impending business meeting.

The steady murmur of the antique clock on the mantel grew louder as I stared at him, my breath catching. "Dad, you can't be serious."

"I'm very serious." Unperturbed, he sipped from his whiskey glass while leaning back in his chair. The room smelled like leather and oak, a sharp contrast to the bitter, metallic taste rising in my throat.

"Marry him?" I hardly raised my voice above a whisper. “You want me to marry a stranger? For what? Money?”

My father put his glass down with a resounding thump, his face hardening and his jaw clenching.

“Naomi, it's not just about the money. It's about survival.”

"Survival?" I chuckled sourly, though it come out more like a sob. “You think it's survival to sell me to a billionaire?"

"Watch your tone." His cold eyes narrowed as he snarled.

The weight of his gaze silenced me for a time. Victor carter, my father, had always exuded a stifling sense of control. However, this—this was different. It was more than just control. This was desperation.

You don't know what I've done to keep this family afloat." His voice was low and bitter. "The deal I've made. The people I've begged from. You think your cushy little life has been free? It hasn’t.”

Don't you dare blame me for this." I responded in a shaky voice. My legs felt like they might collapse at any moment, my fists were clenched at my sides.

"Blame you?" He shook his head and chuckled grimly. "This isn't about blame, Naomi. This is about fixing the mess we’re in. Roman Blackwood has offered to erase everything. All the debt. The lawsuits. The foreclosure notices. Everything. And all he asks in return is you.”

I felt the harsh reality of his words hit me like a slap.

"All he asks is me." With a hollow voice, I reiterated, "Do you even hear yourself?"

"Stop being so dramatic." He yelled, "This is a chance. Roman is not a mere billionaire. He is among the city's most influential figures. If you marry him, you will have a life that most women would kill for.”

"I don't care about that!" I yelled, losing all my self-control. My eyes filled with tears, and I blinked frantically to keep them from falling. "I'm not some property you can trade away to fix for your mistakes!"

"You're my daughter,” He replied fiercely, as he stood there, his massive form looming over me. "And I'm acting in your best interests as your father."

"No," I said in a whisper, shaking my head.

You’re doing what’s best for you.”

The unspoken truth hung heavy between us, and silence was deafening.

I staggered out of the room. With my chest heaving from trying to catch my breath, Tears clouded my vision, and I barely reached the stairs before tumbling down the bottom step.

The weight of my father's words was choking me, and my hands were shaking as I held onto the banister. You are to marry Roman Blackwood.

My spine tingled at the name alone. Roman Blackwood was more than just a billionaire; he was a legend and a dark side to the city. Unforgiving in negotiations and ruthless in business. And now, apparently, my future husband.

“Naomi?” My mother’s soft voice jolted me out of my reverie. She was standing at the top of the stairs, her frail body encased in a soft pink robe, when I looked up.

She had lines of stress on her face that weren't there a year earlier, and she looked exhausted. The weight of my father’s gambling addiction had taken its toll on her, too.

“Are you okay?” she asked, descending the steps cautiously.

I wanted to shout that no, I wasn’t okay. I was being sold like some commodity to a man I’d never met. But when I opened my mouth, the words wouldn’t come.

Instead, I shook my head, tears flowing down my face.

“Oh, sweetheart,” she said, sitting next to me and drawing me into her arms. Her embrace was warm and familiar but wasn’t enough to chase away the chilly anxiety creeping into my chest.

“He can’t do this to me, Mom,” I muttered, my voice shaking. “He can’t just... marry me off like this.”

She groaned, her grasp tightening around me. “I don’t agree with this either, Naomi. But, your father is under so much pressure.”

“Pressure?” I pulled back, staring at her in disbelief. "He's gambling again, isn't he, Mom? That's why we are in this mess!”

Her silence was enough response.

With panic brewing, I suddenly stood up and started pacing the corridor. "This is unfair. I am not to blame for this! I shouldn't be held accountable for his mistakes!”

"I know," she murmured, her eyes sparkling with tears. "But what choice do we have?"

The question hung in the air, and I hated that I didn’t have an answer.

A few hours later, I sat alone in my room with little solace from the soft hum of the city outside my window. My phone buzzed on the nightstand, and I picked it up with shaking hands.

It was a text from Mason, my best friend since childhood.

Mason: How are you? I am still waiting to hear from you all day.

With my fingers hovering over the keyboard, I gazed at the screen. How could I even begin to explain what was happening?

Me: No. I’m not okay.

The response was almost immediate.

Mason: Would you like me to visit?

I thought for a second about saying yes. But what could he do? What could anyone do?

Me: I can’t talk about it right now.

He didn’t reply, and I laid the phone down, collapsing back onto my bed.

My thoughts raced, each one more horrifying than the previous. What kind of man was Roman Blackwood? Would he be cruel? Controlling? Would he see me as anything more than the price he paid to settle my father’s debts?

A knock at my door pulled me from my thoughts.

“Naomi?” My father’s voice was sharp, impatient.

“What?” I called back, not bothering to hide the venom in my tone.

“Roman will be here for dinner tomorrow night,” he said through the door. “You’ll dress appropriately and be on your best behavior.”

My heart fell. "Are you serious?"

"I'm always serious."

I clenched my hands, feeling a mixture of fear and rage. I whispered, "You're unbelievable," but I wasn't sure if he heard.

I could feel the weight of tomorrow bearing down on me as his footsteps disappeared.

I sat at the kitchen table the following morning and gazed at the unfinished plate of toast. As she nervously wiped down the spotless counters, my mother darted around the kitchen.

"You should eat something." She looked at me over her shoulder and murmured.

"I'm not hungry," I muttered as I pushed the platter away.

Sitting opposite me, she sighed. "Naomi, I know this isn’t what you wanted. But maybe... maybe it won’t be so bad.”

"Not so bad?" I gave a sour laugh. "Mom, you don't even know him. None of us do.”

"Your father does,” She responded feebly, but she didn't seem persuaded.

"Right," I responded as I suddenly stood up. “Because Dad’s judgment has been so reliable.”

"Please, Naomi," she murmured, her voice cracking. "All I want is for us to survive this."

Without replying, I left the kitchen and went to the front door. I wanted distance, air, or anything else to help me think.

As I stepped onto the pavement, the city was teeming with activity, but it all seemed far away as if I were viewing it through a fog.

My mind was racing as I walked around aimlessly. How could my life have gotten so out of control?

When I eventually arrived home, the house was unusually silent. My mother was nowhere to be found, and my father's car was gone.

I climbed the stairs to my room, pausing when I noticed an envelope on my bed. My name was scrawled across the front in my father’s handwriting.

I opened it with shaking hands and took out one sheet of paper.

Naomi

I know you are angry, and I know you think this is unfair. But, I must make it clear to you that I am doing this for the family, for your mom, for you and your sister. We should not underestimate Roman Blackwood; he is providing us with a lifeline. Please don't toss it out.

Tears clouded my vision, and the letter crumbled in my hands.

My phone buzzed, and I glanced at the screen. It was another text from Mason.

Mason: I'm here if you need me.

I didn’t reply. What could I say?

With the weight of my father's choices crashing over me like a tidal wave, I collapsed onto my bed and gripped the letter.

As I sat there, my phone buzzed again. This time, it was an unknown number.

I hesitated, then answered.

“Hello?”

The voice on the other end was smooth, cold, and unfamiliar.

“Miss Carter,” the man said. “This is Roman Blackwood’s assistant. Mr. Blackwood is looking forward to meeting you tomorrow night. I suggest you prepare yourself.”

The line went dead before I could respond, leaving me gripping the phone with trembling hands.

Prepare myself for what?

Lanjutkan membaca buku ini secara gratis
Pindai kode untuk mengunduh Aplikasi

Bab terkait

  • The Billionaire's Pawn    CHAPTER 2

    The Ruthless Groom Naomi's POV "You're late." A cold clipped voice said as I stepped into the room. I froze, rooted to the spot by the nonchalant, dismissive tone. My gaze swept over the grand and imposing room before settling on the source of the voice. Roman Blackwood He sat at the far end of the dining table with a tumbler of dark liquid in his hand. At first, he seemed more interested in the amber liquid whirling in his glass than in me. Although his other hand rested comfortably on the chair's arm, his presence in the room was nothing casual. I didn’t know what I’d been expecting maybe someone polished, rehearsed, even a bit superficial. Instead, he had sharp edges and cold calculation. His posture was commanding and uncompromising, and his suit fit like armor. My breath caught when his black eyes finally came up to meet mine. As if they could see right into my soul, they were piercing. “Time, Miss Sinclair, is not a luxury you or your family can afford to waste,”

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-05
  • The Billionaire's Pawn    CHAPTER 3

    Contracted and Collared Naomi's POV "You're late." I was startled when Roman's voice broke the thick silence as I entered the room and said, it wasn't loud, his tone of authority demanded attention. My breath caught as I halted, gripping my handbag hard. Roman stood beside the massive floor-to-ceiling window with his big shoulders creating a black shadow against the pale light coming in. He didn’t turn to look at me right away, and for a fleeting moment, I thought of walking back out. "I... I thought I was on time." I stammered, hating how small and unsure I sounded. “Punctuality isn’t a virtue in my world, Naomi,” he said smoothly, finally turning to face me. His sharp blue eyes pinned me in place like I was prey caught in a trap. “It’s an expectation.” I found myself staring at the floor because the weight of his eyes was too much to bear. "I didn't mean to—" “I don’t care what you meant to do,” His voice was chilly as he interrupted. "Sit." I paused for just a

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-05
  • The Billionaire's Pawn    CHAPTER 4

    A Pawn in His Game Naomi's POV “You’re late again.” Like a whip, Roman's words pierced the empty foyer. He descended the grand staircase with deliberate, measured steps, and I froze, gasping for oxygen. Like a physical weight of intensity, his piercing, icy blue eyes stared at me. “I—I didn’t know I was supposed to…” His lips curled into a chilly smile, and I stopped talking. "Suppose to what, Naomi?" he asked, stopping a few feet away from me. His massive body appeared even more menacing in the low light. “Act like a wife? Understand the simplest rules without being told?” I gripped the strap of my bag, my knuckles whitening. “I didn’t know there was a timeline,” I managed, though my voice sounded small and weak, even to my ears. Roman took a stride toward me, his pricey cologne enticing and smothering me at the same time. "There's always a timeline," he said softly, his tone surprisedly calm. "And you are already behind." “I’m sorry,” I whispered, the words t

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-05
  • The Billionaire's Pawn    CHAPTER 5

    A Tyrant's Dinner Naomi's POV"Don't keep me waiting, Naomi." Roman's loud, irritated voice reverberated from downstairs.To stabilize my shaking hands, I held onto the edge of the table in my room. Dinner. It is just dinner. I remind myself, Nothing about Roman Blackwood ever felt so easy.I took a deep breath before entering the hallway and descending the grand staircase. The mansion's silence magnifies my heels clicking on the marble floor. Roman was already seated at the head of the long dining table, his gaze snapping to me as I entered. His tone was harsh as he remarked, "You're late." "I wasn't sure when—" "You weren't sure," he cut in, a sardonic smile curving his lips. “Let me clarify something for you, Naomi. In my house, you’ll always be sure. Understood?” I gave a brief nod, my cheeks flushed from his intense stare. "Yes." "Good." He said, pointing to the seat across from him. "Take a seat." The enormous chandelier in the dining room cast an almost unbearab

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-12
  • The Billionaire's Pawn    CHAPTER 6

    Camille’s Entrance Roman's POVI was studying and reviewing contracts that were as boring as they always are. I planned to enjoy the rare moment of peace that the house's peaceful hum provided. But, with most things in my life lately, that peace didn’t last long.The sound of heels clicking against the marble floors below reached me first, sharp and deliberate. Then came the voice silky, confident, and unmistakably hers."Roman!" Camille’s voice called, her voice as sweet-sounding as I remembered.Lately, it has been too quiet. In my world, peace was always calm before the impending storm. With a deep exhale, I closed the folder in front of me. “Of course,” I said to myself. “I should have expected this.”Without a knock, the door of my study flung open. She was all decked up in a crimson dress that clung to her like the epitome of ambition. You could have mistaken her smile for friendly if you didn’t know better. “Is this a bad time?” Camille asked, without waiting for a respo

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-12
  • The Billionaire's Pawn    CHAPTER 7

    The Fragile ArtistRoman's POV The hallway stretched in eerie silence, broken only by the faint whisper of Naomi's footsteps as they faded into the night. She hadn’t returned to her room, not that I expected her to. Her retreat was different tonight, more desperate. A dim light glowed through the crack of an open door as my hand touched the doorframe of one of the mansion's less-used wings. I heard a faint, hardly inaudible rustling. My heartbeat accelerated, but I couldn't explain why. What is she doing here?Slowly, I pushed the door open and entered the dark studio. I was struck by the smell of oil paints and turpentine, which blended with the subtle floral perfume that followed her around. She held a paintbrush, her shoulders shaking, and her back bent. Her brushstrokes on the canvas were erratic and frantic, as if the emotions she was experiencing were bursting forth in colors she could not control. Strands of her hair were falling over her face, somewhat untied. I was

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-12
  • The Billionaire's Pawn    CHAPTER 8

    A Tense Alliance Roman's POVThe constant clicking of the clock was testing my patience in my studies. Sitting at the polished wood desk, I saw how thoughtfully every part of the room was set out. The soft glow of the chandelier cast a golden hue across the room, but it could not break the ice in my chest. Victor Carter was running late, and I was feeling less than usual. When the door creaked open, I clenched my jaw. “You are fifteen minutes late.”With a weary look on his face, Victor came in. His clothing was crumpled, the tie was loose around his neck, and his eyes were bloodshot as if he hadn't slept in days. For good reason; he looked like a man in chaos. "I'm sorry, Roman," he whispered in a low voice than I remember. He stopped and stood for a time in the doorway. "Close the door." My voice was sharp, leaving no room for debate. As instructed, he shuffled over to the chair across from me. He sat down heavily as if his choices were suddenly too much to carry. “You k

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-12
  • The Billionaire's Pawn    CHAPTER 9

    A Glimpse of Vulnerability Naomi's POVThe big ballroom was filled with the gentle buzz of talk and the clinking of glasses, yet it all seemed to me to be static. I gripped a glass of sparkling water, my palms shaking as the cold crystal pressed against my palm. The charity event Roman had dragged me to was another cruel reminder of the world I didn’t belong to—a world where everyone wore masks, their smiles polished but heartless. “You’re doing fine,” Roman’s deep voice cut through my thoughts, startling me. He was standing next to me, his black tuxedo perfectly cut, when I turned around. His demeanor was unreadable as his eyes flicked over me. I“I didn’t ask for your reassurance,” I said, but there wasn't much animosity in my voice. A little sneer twisted his lips. "It wasn't reassuring. It was an observation.” A voice cut me off before I could respond. “Roman! You’ve outdone yourself with this event.” A woman wearing an emerald-green dress and nicely coiffed blond ha

    Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-12

Bab terbaru

  • 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

Jelajahi dan baca novel bagus secara gratis
Akses gratis ke berbagai novel bagus di aplikasi GoodNovel. Unduh buku yang kamu suka dan baca di mana saja & kapan saja.
Baca buku gratis di Aplikasi
Pindai kode untuk membaca di Aplikasi
DMCA.com Protection Status