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CHAPTER 25
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2024-12-29 03:23:51Related chapters
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 26
Fractured TrustNaomi's POVLong after the gala was over, Roman's worrs continued to torment me, a reminder of the past I was unable to leave behind. I was shaken by the encounter, and my resolve was fracturing like spiderwebs. And I couldn't help but question whether independence was worth the cost as I lay in bed that night, gazing up at the ceiling. The deep silence was broken by the piercing vibration of my phone buzzing on the nightstand. Roman's name appeared on the screen as I tentatively reached for it. A hundred ideas rushed through my head as my chest constricted. What could he possibly want now? I answered against my better judgment. "Naomi," he said in a smooth, quiet voice that was tinged with stress. I tightened my hold on the phone. "Roman, what do you want?" He said, "You left too soon." "We weren't done yet." I gave a sour laugh. "Done? We're never done, Roman. That is the issue.” A pause fell, the sort that weighed heavily on unsaid words. “You’ve m
Last Updated : 2024-12-29The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 27
Whispers of a Conspiracy Naomi's POVI stared at the phone in my hand, the screen dark, but my mind was racing with conflicting ideas. For too long, Roman had pushed me into a corner. He thrived on power and control, but I was tired of letting him run my life. I inhaled deeply before dialing Elijah's number. The line buzzed twice before his familiar smooth voice answered. "Naomi," he said with a kind but slightly impatient greeting. "Is everything okay?" "No," I said, my voice quivering a little. It's Roman. "He's unrelenting," Elijah said. I—I can't continue to live this way. “I understand,” he replied, his tone softening. “Tell me what happened.” I paused and tightened my hold on the phone. “He called again after what happened at the gala. His words... they’re like a noose around my neck. He said we’re not done, that he’ll find me no matter what.” “Naomi, listen to me,” Elijah said firmly, the calm authority in his voice grounding me. “You’re safe where you are. Roman
Last Updated : 2024-12-29The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 28
The Locked Room RevealedRoman's POVThe whiskey burned on its way down, but it did little to dull the storm raging in my head. I'd spent a lifetime pretending that past scars didn't exist, but Margaret's words had pierced me deeply. My father's shadow, which I had struggled so hard to avoid, loomed greater than before. But there was truly no way out. No matter how far you ran, the past had a way of getting back at you. I jerked to my feet, causing the glass in my hand to shudder. With a purposeful clink, I put it down and gazed at the big oak door outside my office at the far end of the hallway. The locked room. It had been sealed and unopened for years, a memorial to a life I would never go back to. On one occasion, Naomi had asked about it, her inquisitive eyes resting too long on the brass handle. I later regretted the coldness with which I had shut her down, but I never apologized. Now, something hazardous had been triggered by Margaret's arrival. A need to face the roo
Last Updated : 2024-12-30The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 29
The Locked Room RevealedRoman's POVThe whiskey burned on its way down, but it did little to dull the storm raging in my head. I'd spent a lifetime pretending that past scars didn't exist, but Margaret's words had pierced me deeply. My father's shadow, which I had struggled so hard to avoid, loomed greater than before. But there was truly no way out. No matter how far you ran, the past had a way of getting back at you. I jerked to my feet, causing the glass in my hand to shudder. With a purposeful clink, I put it down and gazed at the big oak door outside my office at the far end of the hallway. The locked room. It had been sealed and unopened for years, a memorial to a life I would never go back to. On one occasion, Naomi had asked about it, her inquisitive eyes resting too long on the brass handle. I later regretted the coldness with which I had shut her down, but I never apologized. Now, something hazardous had been triggered by Margaret's arrival. A need to face the roo
Last Updated : 2024-12-31The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 30
Elijah’s True Face Naomi's POV As I sat at the tiny café table and gazed into the frothy swirl of my unfinished cappuccino, the gentle hum of the espresso machine filled the room. The calm atmosphere seemed like a flimsy façade that could break at any time. With his well-tailored suit and unwavering charisma, Elijah sat opposite me. "Naomi, you have to trust me" he continued in a calm, low voice. "Trust you?" I chuckled dryly and looked up into his eyes. “You mean the way you’ve conveniently left out important details? The way you always manage to say just enough to keep me questioning everything?” Although his demeanor remained unwavering, there was a slight, barely noticeable fracture in his eyes. “I’ve done nothing but try to help you. Roman is dangerous, Naomi. You know that better than anyone.”"And you're not?" The distance between us briefly felt like a battlefield as the words escaped my lips before I could stop them. With his hands clasped on the table, Elijah leane
Last Updated : 2025-01-02The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 31
Ties That BindNaomi's POVThe studio was filled with the hypnotic rhythm of charcoal scratching against canvas, which drowned out the confusion racing through my head. As I worked, my trembling hands smudged the lines I attempted to get just right. I hurled the stick of charcoal onto the table, its clatter resonating in the quiet as frustration boiled to the surface. Leaning back, I gazed at the incomplete piece before me. The intense strokes of black and crimson seemed to taunt me, mirroring the raging storm within my emotions. I was startled out of my reverie by the piercing knock on the door. Every muscle in my body stiffened, as though it were preparing for impact. “Naomi,” came the voice I’d hoped not to hear. “Open the door.”Roman. I felt cold, and my heart was pounding. How did he find me? What brought him here? "I know you're in there," he repeated, his voice steady but tinged with desperation. The intensity of his voice made it obvious that he wouldn't leave wit
Last Updated : 2025-01-02The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 32
The Art of HealingElijah's PovAs soon as I entered Naomi's studio, I knew I was entering her world. Her paintings' vivid colors revealed stories that words could not, and the aroma of linseed oil and turpentine permeated the air. She held a brush as if it were an extension of her hand as she stood by the window, a paint line streaked over her cheek. Her gaze was riveted on the scenery outside as if she were deep in thoughts. "Naomi." I called softly so as not to startle her.She turned, a tiny, sincere smile spreading across her face. "Elijah. You're early.” I took a step closer and shrugged. "I was eager to see the projects you have been working on. For days, you have been avoiding me.”She put down the brush and smiled quietly. "I'm just... focused, not avoiding." As I looked around the room, I noticed a big canvas leaning against the wall. Vibrant gold and scarlet brushstrokes blended to create an abstract yet poignant composition. "The world needs to see this," I remark
Last Updated : 2025-01-04The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 33
A Dangerous PartElijah's POVThe atmosphere changed when Camille entered my office. Her presence was an implicit threat, as her deliberate, pointed steps echoes against the polished floors. She slipped into the chair across from my desk without bothering to be polite, her gaze going directly to mine. “We need to talk,” she said, her tone clipped. Leaning back, I studied her. “Something tells me this isn’t a casual visit.” Her lips curved into a humorless smile. “You’re right. The first plan? It’s not going to work. Roman’s too sharp, and Naomi’s too... naive.” I raised an eyebrow. “Naive? Isn’t that exactly why the plan was supposed to work?” Camille's face was stern as she shook her head. “Her naive makes her unpredictable. She could stumble onto something without even realizing it. Besides, Roman is a wild card. If we play this wrong, he’ll find out before we’ve even begun.” Fear of the fury building in her eyes, I drummed my fingers on the desk. "And what is your alter
Last Updated : 2025-01-04
Latest chapter
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 39
A Mother’s WarningNaomi's POVWith Margaret inside, the space seemed smaller, her silent presence filling every nook and cranny. She exuded a composure that hinted at a life spent amidst storms, but there was an unavoidable sadness in her eyes.I pointed to the couch, she sat elegantly with her hands folded tightly in her lap. I took a seat in one of the armchairs across from her and gripped the seat edge as if I were expecting to be hit. "You must have questions.” She said, in a calm but melancholy tone. I nodded, my throat too tight to speak. Margaret took a long breath, seemingly mustering the courage to dive into a past she would prefer to forget. “Roman is… complicated. But I suppose you’ve already figured that out.” Before I could stop myself, I let out a bitter laugh. “That’s an understatement.” Although her lips quirked, her eyes were not amused. “He wasn’t always like this. There was a time when he was just a boy—curious, kind, and full of dreams. But that was bef
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 38
The Locked Room SecretNaomi's POVThe sun was barely peeking over the horizon when I woke up, and the faint light was filtering through the blinds. The decision I had made the previous night felt even heavier in the morning, but it was unwavering. I need to know.The only sound accompanying me on the silent drive to Roman's mansion was the hum of the engine. My mind was filled with memories of the innumerable times I had lived here. But today was different. Today, I was an intruder in what used to feel like home. My heart hammered my ribs as I parked outside. An uncommon sight that made me uneasy was the tall gates standing open. Roman was very careful about security, but I'm not going to question my luck. The mansion's icy exterior was more menacing in some way than I recalled. I slipped through the front door, hastily pushing off the memories that were evoked by the smell of leather and oak. Focus, Naomi. The corridor was silent and deserted as it stretched ahead of me.
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 37
Broken TrustNaomi's POVDawn's drab light crept through the curtains like an unwanted visitor, and morning came too soon. After a restless night full of disjointed thoughts and unresolved questions, my head ached. I forced myself to get ready even though the resolve I had felt the night before was on the verge of breaking. No matter how unpleasant it was, Roman and I had to talk. The city appeared to be more subdued than usual as I made my way to his office, the bustle of life stifled by my thoughts. My chest was tense and my palms were clammy by the time I got there. I passed the receptionist's desk and headed for the elevator, but she gave me a startled glance but didn't stop me. The stress in my features was obvious when my reflection in the mirrored walls gazed back at me. For what seemed like the hundredth time, I practiced my sentences.”You know me, Roman. You know I will never do something like this.” But even in my mind, the words sounded hollow. With my heels click
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 36
Camille’s GameNaomi's POV With my phone firmly grasped in my palm, I paced the length of my living room, the burden of the day hanging over me like a thick shroud. My screen had already displayed Roman's name twice, with his calls going unanswered. I know he won't stop. Roman wasn’t the type to let things slide, especially not when he is angry. My phone buzzed again, and this time, I couldn’t ignore it. With a shaky breath, I swiped to answer. "Roman," I murmured, maintaining a calm tone of voice despite the whirlpool of emotions roiling within me. "Naomi," he answered in a clipped, acerbic tone. "We need to talk." "What's happening?" I asked warily, fully preparing for whatever was about to happen. Tension was obvious in the pause. Then his voice came in low and relentless.. You want to explain to me why sensitive business files, files only a handful of people had access to—suddenly ended up in the hands of my competitors?” I went cold. "What are you talking about?"
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 35
Betrayed by AppearancesNaomi's POVEven though the gallery opening went well, I didn't enjoy it. The soft click of the doors locking echoed in the quiet night as I locked it serving as a reminder of how far I had come and how far I still had to go. Elijah's words echoed softly in my ears while my mind raced with uncertainty. He had advised me to fully let go of the past if I wanted to prosper, but I can't get rid of the memories of the past. I was jolted out of my reverie by the deep rumbling of a familiar voice. “Enjoying your fresh start?” I stopped in my tracks. Roman's hands were stuffed into his coat pockets as he stood beneath the dim light of a nearby streetlamp. I could tell this wasn't a casual encounter by the fire in his eyes and the set of his jaw. "Roman," I said, maintaining a steady tone. "What brings you here?" He moved in closer, his presence encroaching like a thunderstorm. "What brings me here? That’s rich, coming from you. After everything, you have the
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 34
The Silent ObserverElijah's POVEvery nook and cranny of the gallery was alive with whispered chatter and the occasional outburst of laughter. Naomi's dream had come true; her gallery is now open, a physical representation of her ingenuity and tenacity. Her journey and the layers of emotion she poured into each painting were illuminated by the gentle glow from the lights above. But, I'm not here to admire the artwork or to rejoice in her success. No, my purpose was to make sure Roman didn't share in it. The tension in the room increased as soon as I saw him. Roman, like the predator he was, stood close to the distant wall, disappearing into the darkness. His sharp eyes searched for her among the crowd. Predictable. With deliberate ease, I approached him while swirling the champagne in my glass. If Naomi saw him here, it could undo everything. I couldn’t allow that. "Roman," I said, maintaining a firm yet low voice. "I didn't expect to see you here." His face was enigmatic
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 33
A Dangerous PartElijah's POVThe atmosphere changed when Camille entered my office. Her presence was an implicit threat, as her deliberate, pointed steps echoes against the polished floors. She slipped into the chair across from my desk without bothering to be polite, her gaze going directly to mine. “We need to talk,” she said, her tone clipped. Leaning back, I studied her. “Something tells me this isn’t a casual visit.” Her lips curved into a humorless smile. “You’re right. The first plan? It’s not going to work. Roman’s too sharp, and Naomi’s too... naive.” I raised an eyebrow. “Naive? Isn’t that exactly why the plan was supposed to work?” Camille's face was stern as she shook her head. “Her naive makes her unpredictable. She could stumble onto something without even realizing it. Besides, Roman is a wild card. If we play this wrong, he’ll find out before we’ve even begun.” Fear of the fury building in her eyes, I drummed my fingers on the desk. "And what is your alter
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 32
The Art of HealingElijah's PovAs soon as I entered Naomi's studio, I knew I was entering her world. Her paintings' vivid colors revealed stories that words could not, and the aroma of linseed oil and turpentine permeated the air. She held a brush as if it were an extension of her hand as she stood by the window, a paint line streaked over her cheek. Her gaze was riveted on the scenery outside as if she were deep in thoughts. "Naomi." I called softly so as not to startle her.She turned, a tiny, sincere smile spreading across her face. "Elijah. You're early.” I took a step closer and shrugged. "I was eager to see the projects you have been working on. For days, you have been avoiding me.”She put down the brush and smiled quietly. "I'm just... focused, not avoiding." As I looked around the room, I noticed a big canvas leaning against the wall. Vibrant gold and scarlet brushstrokes blended to create an abstract yet poignant composition. "The world needs to see this," I remark
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 31
Ties That BindNaomi's POVThe studio was filled with the hypnotic rhythm of charcoal scratching against canvas, which drowned out the confusion racing through my head. As I worked, my trembling hands smudged the lines I attempted to get just right. I hurled the stick of charcoal onto the table, its clatter resonating in the quiet as frustration boiled to the surface. Leaning back, I gazed at the incomplete piece before me. The intense strokes of black and crimson seemed to taunt me, mirroring the raging storm within my emotions. I was startled out of my reverie by the piercing knock on the door. Every muscle in my body stiffened, as though it were preparing for impact. “Naomi,” came the voice I’d hoped not to hear. “Open the door.”Roman. I felt cold, and my heart was pounding. How did he find me? What brought him here? "I know you're in there," he repeated, his voice steady but tinged with desperation. The intensity of his voice made it obvious that he wouldn't leave wit
