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CHAPTER 42
Huling Na-update:
2025-01-09 16:20:16
Kaugnay na kabanata
The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 43
Margaret’s SecretNaomi's POVThe weight of Margaret's words weighed heavy on the pit of my stomach, and I swallowed hard while keeping my eyes fixed on her. “We need to talk,” she had said. I wasn’t sure if it was the way her voice carried an unyielding authority or the faint sorrow etched into the corners of her eyes, but I found myself nodding. “Okay,” I said quietly. Margaret pointed to a neighboring bench that was shaded by a tall oak tree just beyond the gates. I followed her without saying a word, my legs moving as if they were on their own. The stillness between us grew as we sat down. I wasn't sure how to start or what to say. Margaret, however, did not waste any time. “You love him,” she started, her voice steady but tinged with something I couldn’t Identify—regret, maybe? "Yes," I said without thinking, but my tone revealed the doubt that was beginning to see the inside of me. She looked away as if she could see something far beyond what was in front of us,
Huling Na-update : 2025-01-09The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 44
Caught Between Two FiresNaomi's POV With my heart pounding in my ears, I entered the mansion. The silence of the vast foyer greeted me, broken only by the distant hum of the house’s systems. Roman mansion always seemed too big, as if it might swallow a human being. But, I didn't fear getting ingested today. I was terrified of what I would find. "Naomi." Sharp and straight, his voice echoed from the opposite side of the room. His eyes were dark and impenetrable as I turned to see him standing at the foot of the grand staircase. He was not yet dressed for the day; his shirt was rolled up with the sleeves unbuttoned at the collar as if I had interrupted him in the middle of a thought. I paused for a second. The Roman I had fallen in love with didn't look like the man I had come to confront. Like steel forged in fire, this Roman was sharper and harder. But, I wasn't here to lose myself in the past. I squared my shoulders and crossed the room to meet him. "We need to talk."I
Huling Na-update : 2025-01-11The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 45
Camille’s Revenge Roman's POV My office's air felt oppressive and heavy. With my hands grasping the armrests so firmly that my knuckles became white, I leaned back in my chair. The image on my phone's screen, Naomi's kind face, Elijah's closeness, and the intimacy of it all burned into my memory. With a harsh thud that echoed through the silent room, I slammed my fist upon the desk. This wasn’t just a betrayal—it was a calculated move to dismantle everything I held together. But by whom? I picked up my phone and called my personal assistant, Daniel. He was the only one who could find the truth, and his efficiency and discretion were unmatched. “Daniel,” I barked as soon as he picked up. “Yes,Sir?” “Find out who leaked those photos. I want names, connections—everything. And I want it fast.”"Understood. I'll give you an update soon.”With a pounding chest, I hung up. Elijah and Naomi weren't the only ones involve in this. Someone think they could take control of this situa
Huling Na-update : 2025-01-11The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 46
Public FalloutRoman's POVI spoke carefully, crafting each words to maintain the empireI had built, control the public, and protect Naomi. "Although these images appear scandalous at first, they actually tell a partial story that has been distorted to serve a deceptive and manipulative agenda," I spoke in a measured, forceful tone. "Naomi Blackwood is my wife, and any suggestion of infidelity is not only false but malicious.” The room was punctuated by the harsh clicks of flashing cameras. Eager for more, the reporters leaned forward. Elijah Grant, the man in those pictures, is a family friend,who has been helping Naomi with private affairs. Their relationship is professional, and any implications otherwise are baseless fabrications meant to damage her reputation and consequently mine.”The room echoed with a low murmur of curiosity mixed with mistrust. "I can guarantee you that we are looking into the source of these photos and will hold those accountable for this gross inv
Huling Na-update : 2025-01-12The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 47
The Auction StandoffNaomi's POV“This is it,” I whispered to myself, stepping out of the car. As cameras flashed frantically all around me, the chilly air pricked my flesh. There are clamor of accusations and conjecture, questions flying in all directions. With my head held high, I headed toward the venue, my heels clicking against the pavement. Inside the grand ballroom, the atmosphere was a sharp contrast to the chaos outside. The air was heavy with the aroma of expensive champagne and fresh roses, and there was a gentle buzz of discussion. Under the glittering lights, the guests' diamonds gleamed as they were lavishly adorned. Karen greeted me at the doorway with a look of relief and resolve. "You're a vision," she remarked as she tidied up a stray strand of my hair. “Remember, Naomi, tonight is yours. Don’t let them take it from you.” I gave her a forced smile and nodded. "Let's finish this up." The weight of everyone's eyes fell on me as I moved farther into the room.
Huling Na-update : 2025-01-12The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 48
Camille’s Last WarningNaomi's POVFor a moment, I was too stunned to respond. Camille was standing on my doorstep, her perfect face glowing sharply in the morning light. Her polished appearance felt out of place here, like a predator wandering into unfamiliar territory. "Camille," I murmured cautiously as I held onto the door's edge. “What are you doing here?” Her eyes narrowed, cutting through any appearance of friendliness, yet her grin remained unwavering. “I thought it was time we had a little chat. Woman to woman.” Something about her tone sent a chill down my spine, but I didn’t let it show. Instead, I moved aside and gestured for her to come in. Whatever this is, I won't let my neighbors catch wind of it. Her shoes clicked on the wood floor as she passed me, surveying my house with hardly concealed contempt. Although Camille had always been confident, there was something about her today that made the air feel heavier a deadly energy, a keen edge. I closed the door, t
Huling Na-update : 2025-01-14The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 49
Naomi’s ChoiceNaomi's POVThe envelope seemed to be bearing the weight of all my unresolved questions as it weighed heavily in my palms. The sound of the latch clicking like a period punctuated my growing tension as I shut the door behind me, my heart thumping. I leaned against the door, staring at the familiar handwriting on the envelope. Lila. A mixture of relief and pain came at the sight of her name. My sister had always been my pillar of support, even though she lived far away, safe in her own college bubble. She had a knack for sensing when my world was spinning out of control. Clinging to the envelope as if it were a lifeline, I made my way to the couch. I cautiously tore it open with trembling fingers as I slid them under the seal. Inside was a single sheet of notebook paper, folded neatly. Lila’s handwriting, bold and slightly slanted greeted me. Hey, Naomi Something told me that you might need this, even though I know I don't write as frequently as I should. You
Huling Na-update : 2025-01-14The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 50
Roman’s Breaking PointRoman's POVThe old ache in my chest did not go away as the whiskey burnt its way down my throat. Through the faint hum of conversations and clinking ice, I made a loud sound as I smashed the glass against the bar. The bartender gave me a wary look, but I didn’t care. One more drink.The auction. Her face when she walked out. The way she ignored my texts. Naomi is slipping through my fingers, and it was my fault. My palms dug into the slick wood as I held onto the counter's edge. I remember the fire in her eyes when she called me out, the way her lips curled into a smile when she thought no one was looking, and her laugh. And now? Nothing. No phone calls. No messages. Nothing but silence.You don't know the value of a thing, until you lost it and that's what is happening to me now.The bartender slid another drink toward me, and I stared at it, my reflection rippling in the amber liquid. “Rough night?” he asked cautiously. I gulped the glass down
Huling Na-update : 2025-01-14
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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
