The Private InvestigatorRoman's POVDaniel stepped into my office within minutes, his usual composed demeanor in place. “You needed me, sir?” I steepled my fingers, leaned back in my chair, and nodded. "Close the door." His expression fixed in silent resolve, he followed instructions. I trusted Daniel more than anybody else in my circle since he had been with me for years. If anyone could help me navigate this mess with Elijah, it was him. “Elijah,” I began, letting his name hang in the air for a moment. “I want every detail about his past. Connections, hidden dealings anything that could give me leverage.” Daniel didn't ask me any questions, although his brows did wrinkle a little. “Understood. Are we targeting any specific angle?” I tapped the desk while deciding what to do. "I'm curious about Camille's level of involvement with him. I need evidence that they are working together.” Daniel nodded slightly, his gaze alert. "I'll get in touch with some people. The process
Naomi’s Inner Strength Roman's POVWith my throat dry and my mind fumbling for the perfect words, I gazed at Naomi. Her question, which dared me to lie, hung in the air, thick and persistent. But I couldn’t. Not to her. Not now. "It was Elijah," I said in a steady but quiet voice. “And Camille. They worked together to create that document, to frame you.” Naomi's eyes widened, and she was momentarily mute due to the shock. Her jaw tensed as she took in what I had just disclosed, and her lips formed a thin line. “So, all this time…” she began, her voice shaking. “ You really thought betray you? Her words struck me hard. With regret pounding in my chest, I stepped toward her. “I didn’t know what to think, Naomi. I was blinded by my own fears, my own insecurities. But I was wrong. I was so wrong.”She folded her arms and looked directly into my eyes. “You didn’t even give me a chance to explain,” she said, her tone sharp but not rude. “You jumped to conclusions and pushed me
The Boardroom CoupElijah's POVI clenched my jaw and poured myself another drink, the amber liquid swirling in the glass. Roman had taken what was mine. Naomi should’ve been here, by my side, not at his mansion. This wasn’t over, not by a long shot. "Camille," I whispered, breaking the stillness with my voice. She had visited after hearing the news of Naomi going back to Roman's mansion.With deliberate and precise motions, she took a step forward, her heels clicking against the marble floor. "Yes?" “I need the reports you promised me. The ones with the insider details about Roman’s company.” With a sly smile, Camille took a small folder out of her purse. You’ll find everything you need in here. Financial gaps, questionable partnerships, even some skeletons in Roman’s closet. If you play this right, you could destabilize his entire empire.”I picked up the folder and leafed through the pages, looking at the well-structured evidence. A gradual, contented smile appeared on my f
Double-CrossRoman’s POVThe anxiety in the air was obvious, and the press conference was scheduled for midday. Throughout the night, my team put forth endless effort to gather all of the evidence we could against Elijah and Camille. Knowing that I would reveal everything in a few hours, I stood in my office in the morning and watched the city come to life. Daniel came in with a tablet. “The live stream is ready to go. We’ve secured every major media outlet.” "Good," I said, adjusting my necktie. "Ensure that the story is understandable. This is about revealing a danger to the business and everyone associated with it, not just about corporate disloyalty.” Daniel paused and nodded. “Are you sure about this, sir? Camille and Elijah won’t go down without a fight.” “That’s exactly why we need to strike first,” I said, my voice steely. “If we let them control the narrative, they’ll tear everything apart.” The conference hall was crowded with reporters, cameras, and board members b
A Hidden Ally Roman’s POVGazing at the chaos Camille had caused, I sat at my desk. Press clippings and reports were all over the place, serving as a constant reminder of her well-planned assault on Naomi. Even now, with the media still ablaze with rumors of the alleged "scandal," I felt like the entire world was bearing down on me. But if Camille thought she could break me, she was wrong. "Daniel!" My voice cut through the strained silence of the room as I yelled. With a tablet in hand and a calm smile, he went in right away. "Yes, sir?" “What’s the update on Camille and Elijah?” I demanded, my tone sharp. Daniel leaned forward and set the tablet down on the desk. "We have been keeping an eye on their movement. Since the press conference, Camille has not spoken in public, but Elijah His hesitancy was evident as his voice trailed off.”"And Elijah?" I pushed. “He has been meeting with a new group of people, including media professionals, lawyers, and some tech specialists
The Emotional ReconnectionRoman's POVThe gentle glow from the fireplace created shadows that danced across the walls in the dimly lit room. Naomi was standing in the middle, her sillohutte glowing like a vision from my worst fantasies. The delicate fabric shimmered with every slight movement, and her gown, a whisper of silk, clung to her curves as if it had been painted on her. A feeling of awe and yearning surged through me, and my chest constricted.She was simultaneously my haven and my downfall.I walked slowly and deliberately across the room toward her, my heart racing with each inch that brought us closer. The world outside this room ceased to exist. There were no threats, no schemes, no enemies—only her.. The unspoken bond between us was hotter than the flames behind her, and her eyes met mine.I didn't say anything when I got to her. Words didn't feel enough right now. I instead grabbed her face in my palms, stroking her smooth skin with my thumbs. I can't hold myself anymo
The Arrest of Camille Roman's POVAs I sat in my office with the long shadows formed by the desk lamp's muted glow, I could feel the tension in the air. I was just wrapping up the specifics of Camille's downfall when I hung up the phone with Daniel. The beat of my fingers tapping the desk was firm and determined. It was more than just business. Camille had crossed lines that could never be redrawn. She went after Naomi, my wife, my haven, my entire world. I would ensure that she never harm Naomi again.I got out of my chair and fiddled with the cuffs of my shirt, the chilly material feeling like a second set of armor on my skin. The plan is in motion, and Camille would soon have to pay for her deeds. I got up before the sun came up the following morning. Naomi was cuddled up in our bed, breathing steadily and calmly. I remained in the doorway for a moment, observing her as the skin was kissed by the golden light of the dawn. I struggled so hard because of her. “Stay safe,” I m
A Moment of Truth Roman's POVNaomi's words lingered in the atmosphere like a persistent, thick storm cloud. She had her arms crossed, but it was out of resolution rather than defensiveness. For the first time, I don't know how to respond to her questions. Her strong, unyielding eyes blazed into me. I thought Naomi was a timid person. She was a force, her every motion purposeful, her presence imposing as she approached. "Don't you dare shut me out, Roman," she continued, her tone softening but not losing its firmness. I wanted to reply, but my mouth remained closed. Words were explosive. Everything I had worked so hard to save would collapse with one mistake. In a grounding and electric touch, her fingertips brushed my knuckles as her palm sought mine. “Whatever it is, I can handle it. You don’t have to protect me from the truth.” I wanted to believe that. I wanted to take her for her word,, to let her in, to finally lower the iron gates I have built around my past. But th
Camille's Downfall (Roman's POV)My eyes met Naomi's as soon as I entered the room, everything inside me twisted. She was wrapped in a blanket and sitting on the couch, her face pallid and battered, her wrists raw from the binding. I was devastated by the sight. She looked up at me, her eyes red and puffy from crying, but she tried to smile—a fragile, heartbreaking attempt to reassure me. My fists clenched at my sides, my jaw tight. Like wildfire, rage raged through my veins, yet beneath it all was something worse: Helplessness. All of this happened because I'm wasn't smart, fast and ruthless enough."Roman," she said softly, her voice tremulous but resolute. I knelt in front of her after taking three steps across the room. My thumbs brushed her cheeks as I caressed her face gently. My stomach turned over the bruises there. “I’m sorry,” I whispered, my voice hoarse. “I should’ve gotten to you sooner.” Her hand was on mine as she shook her head. “You came. That's what matte
The EscapeNaomi's POVThe room was cold and wet. The rope, which was wrapped too tightly to permit even the slightest movement, dug into my skin, causing my wrists to hurt. My body hurt from where I’d been shoved into the chair hours ago. Time blurred in this hazy darkness. I forced myself to breathe. I couldn't bear to panic right now. The only thing keeping me grounded was the thought of Roman. He’d come for me—I knew it. But when? Through the walls, I could hear the faint buzz of voices. I tried to listen, paying attention to the word's cadence despite my inability to make them out. All of my instincts begged me to pay attention and to follow any lead that might get me out of here. The sound of footsteps approached, heavy and deliberate. My heart raced. I didn't recognize the man who stepped through the creaking door. I forced myself not to scowl at him as his beady eyes passed over me with apathy. The man grunted to the guard by the entrance, "Elijah said no harm for no
Chapter 90: A Dangerous RescueRoman's POVThe image pierced into my mind. Naomi—trapped, defenseless, terrified. My chest constricted as if my heart had been mercilessly squeezed by a vice. I looked at the phone screen once again, my hands shaking from rage and desperation. I feared my teeth could break from the tightness in my jaw. Elijah was showing off that he had her. The bastard believed he could manipulate and mock me. My voice was low and venomous as I muttered, "Not this time." I slammed the door behind me as I ran into my study. Long shadows were casted throughout the room by the desk lamp's feeble light, but I didn't mind the gloom. It mirrored the storm that was building inside of me. I needed a plan I kept thinking about Naomi's face, her terrified wide eyes. I would be haunted by that expression until I got her. No, not just got her back. I’d make damn sure Elijah regretted ever laying a finger on her.I took my phone out and dialed a number. Marcus, my head o
Camille’s Confession Roman’s POVThe cool air outside Camille's opulent apartment and the eerie silence of the night only made me more agitated. My mind was racing with pictures of Naomi's ambush, and my hands were clenched, my knuckles hurting from the hold. When I got to her door, I didn't bother knocking. Rather, I forced it open, my rage driving the action. With a glass of red wine in her fingers, Camille's head jerked up from where she was sitting on the couch. Her typical self-assurance concealed any shame she believed she could conceal as she grinned. She put the glass on the table and drawled, "Well, Roman, to what do I owe the pleasure of this... unexpected visit?" The sound echoed across the room as I slammed the door behind me. "Cut the crap, Camille," I yelled. "You know why I'm here." She crossed her knees and leaned back, her brow arched slightly. "Do enlighten me." I took a step forward, the rage seething beneath the surface. “Naomi was ambushed. Margaret’s in
Elijah’s Fury(Elijah's POV)The atmosphere in my office was oppressive, heavy with resentment and a better taste of treachery. Naomi had crossed a line I never thought she’d have the guts to approach, let alone crossing it. The city stretched out below me as I stood by the window, my hands holding the sill's edge so firmly that my knuckles turned white. My mind was racing, with each idea becoming more sharper than before and escalating the anger that was on the verge of erupting. I was startled out of my reverie by a knock on the door. I turned sharply, my glare fixed on the figure standing hesitantly in the doorway. It was Greg, one of my most loyal enforcers. His usual confidence faltered under my gaze, and he shifted uneasily "What?" I yelled my voice like a whip slicing through the tension. Greg cleared his throat. “Sir, we’ve gathered the details about the exhibition. The media’s still buzzing. Attendance was high—journalists, collectors, even a few government officials.
The Public Expose(Naomi’s POV)Margaret was rushed to the hospital in Roman’s private car, her weak breaths could hardly be heard above the hum of the engine. Roman sat next to me and held my hand firmly. With his jaw clenched and his gaze fixed on the future, his silence spoke more than words. “She’ll be okay,” I murmured, more to reassure myself than him. He didn’t respond, but his grip on my hand tightened. The medical personnel was prepared when we got there; Roman had called ahead to make arrangements for a private team. We waited in a sterile room while they took Margaret away on a stretcher. My nostrils were irritated by the antiseptic odor, and the stark white walls were oppressive. Roman paced the room, shouting commands to his squad while holding his phone to his ear. You could feel his rage coming off him in waves. “I want surveillance on Camille,” he said sharply. “Find out where she is. No mistakes.” With my head whirling, I leaned back in the chair. Now it w
Margaret’s Last Act(Naomi’s POV)The sharp sound rang out, slashing through the commotion. I opened my eyes expecting to see the man's fist roaring toward me, and my heart leaped to my throat. Instead, the attacker stumbled backward, his grip faltering as he cursed under his breath. Margaret stood like a resolute shield in his place. She was the one who took the punch meant for me."Margaret!" My voice trembled as I gasped. She remained silent, staring at the assailants with a calculating and icy attitude. “Stay behind me,” she said firmly, her voice sharper than I’d ever heard it. I froze, watching in shock as Margaret, who was always so calm and distant, stood against the guys who were closing in on us. One of them swung a crowbar toward her as he pushed forward. "No, Margaret!" It was too late when I let out a scream. The metal whooshed past her head as she ducked, then pushed the man hard in the chest.He staggered back and ran into another assailant. "Naomi, run!" Sh
Daniel's Redemption (Roman’s POV)A man I hadn't anticipated seeing again, stood in my entryway: Daniel. I could not see his usual confident demeanor, rather all I see is a wary tension. He appeared to be a guy burdened with a thousand regrets. Roman,” he said again, his voice steady, though his eyes revealed the turmoil within. I didn't offer him a drink or ask him to sit down. Rather, I glared at him while crossing my arms. “You didn’t answer my question. What are you doing here?” Daniel lowered his voice and took a step closer after peering over his shoulder to check for prying eyes. “I don’t have much time. Elijah… he’s planning something big. And I’m done being his puppet.”Elijah's name was like gasoline when it was said. I clenched my jaw. "I know, You think I'll trust you? after all of you have done?” There was a glimmer of desperation in Daniel's eyes, but his countenance tightened. "I came here not to ask for forgiveness. This is what I came to give you.”He bought
Naomi’s Growing Strength(Roman’s POV)The morning sun spilled through the bedroom curtain, casting a warm glow on Naomi’s face as she stirred awake. She looked peaceful, her soft curls spread across the pillow, and for a brief moment, I allowed myself to forget the storm outside our walls. I was snapped back to reality, as my phone buzzed on the nightstand. I cautiously reached for it so as not to wake her. Naomi's eyelids fluttered wide as she stirred next to me. “Morning,” she said softly, her voice weigh with heavy sleep. “Morning,” I replied, leaning down to press a kiss to her forehead. “Did you sleep well?” She stretched like a happy cat and sat up after nodding. She stared at my phone for a second, but she didn’t ask. Smart woman. She knew I’d tell her when it is time."Coffee?" I swung my legs out of bed and asked. “Only if you’re making it,” she teased, pulling the sheets tighter around her. I smirked. “Your wish is my command.” As I leaned against the counter i