Mason’s BetrayalRoman's POV "Daniel." He jumped at the sound of my voice, spinning around so fast that his phone almost fell out of his hand. When he spotted me standing there with my arms crossed and resting on the doorframe, his eyes widened. "Roman... His voice wavered as he stumbled, "I didn't hear you come in." I took a step forward, moving slowly and methodically. "No, you didn't. I presume you're too preoccupied with your brief phone call.”With a pallid face, he opened his mouth and closed it. “It’s not what you think.” "Isn't it?" With a harsh tone, I bit out. I moved closer to him, staring into his eyes. "Because it sounded a lot like betrayal from where I'm standing." As I got closer to Daniel, he gulped forcefully and pressed his back on the desk's edge. “You’ve been feeding Elijah information about me,” I said coldly. “And Naomi.” His eyes fell to the ground as his face twisted with shame. "Yes, but—" He flinched at the sound of my palms slamming onto th
Camille’s Gambit Camille’s POVWith her hands resting softly on the table and her back straight, Margaret Steele exuded composure. But she etrayed her eyes—calculating, assessing, like she was deciding whether to tolerate my presence or crush me under her designer heels.I picked up the fragile porcelain cup in front of me and sat back in my chair, crossing one leg over the other. I took my time sipping my coffee, allowing the tension between us to grow like smoke. “You seem surprised,” I said finally, setting the cup down with a soft clink. “Didn’t think I’d have the audacity to seek you out, did you?” A slight smile curled Margaret's lips, but it stopped short of her eyes. “Audacity has always been one of your best traits, Camille. It’s what made you such a… memorable moments in Roman’s life.” My voice was low and deliberate as I chuckled. “Memorable. Is that what they’re calling it these days? Well, let’s not beat around the bush Margaret. Roman and I—we have unfinished bu
The Price of Freedom Roman’s POVFor a while, Camille stood motionless, her lips slightly open in surprise, but this moment was short-lived. The moment of weakness was gone as fast as it appeared, replaced by the infruating grin she always had when she felt in control. Fighting the need to lash out, I clenched my fists. “I think it’s time we settle things between us.” Camille leaned casually against the wall, her amusement barely seen. “Settle what exactly? You seem to think I’m some kind of villain in your little story. I’m not the one who ruined us, Roman. You did.” “Don’t twist this,” I snapped, my voice like glass. “You’ve been feeding off my life like a parasite, lurking in the shadows, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Now, you’re going after Naomi. That ends tonight.” She didn't back down even though her expression hardened. “And what exactly do you propose? That I pack up and disappear into the night? Sorry, Roman. I’m not one of your problems you can throw
The Heirloom Roman's POVLike a razor piercing the silence, Naomi's question hung in the air. “What exactly is this heirloom?” I stood there staring into her unblinking eyes, and for a second I thought about ignoring the question. But then I noticed the genuineness in her eyes—her desire to sympathize with me and share my sorrow. I had to be honest with her. "It's a ring," I muttered. "A simple one. Gold with a small emerald.” She scowled with perplexity. "A ring? Why would Camille want something like that?” “It’s not just any ring,” I replied, moving toward the window. The morning light spilled into the room, casting golden rays that reminded me of another time, another place. “It belonged to my mother. She wore it every day.” I let the memories flood my mind as I closed my eyes. I could vividly see my mother, reaching out to hold my hand with a smile as radiant as the sun. I will always remember the melody of her laughter, which encircled you and gave you a sense of s
The Seduction Trap Roman’s POVAs I returned inside, I saw Naomi's body stretched out on the bed in the faint light from the bedside lamp. The sheets were tangled over her legs, exposing her naked body to the gentle glow, but she was already asleep. With each steady breath, her chest rose and fell, and she slept peacefully, her lips slightly parted. As I stood there, simply observing her, a surge of warmth filled my chest. She trusted me enough to completely let down her barriers and be this vulnerable. Nevertheless, a storm was building within me. The foundation I was trying to lay with Naomi felt like it was about to collapse due to Camille's intrusion into our lives. With a sigh, I combed through my hair. I wanted to wake her up, to continue what we are doing before Camille interrupted. Damn you Camille.But, I couldn't bring myself to wake her from her sleep. Naomi deserved peace, even if my own felt far out of reach tonight. With the intention of joining her on the bed ,
A Fractured Bond Naomi’s POVI didn't wait for Roman to finish speaking. Against the storm that was roaring inside of me, his voice and his excuses were like white noise. My legs moved on their own, carrying me out of the loft and back into the cold night. "Wait, Naomi!" Desperate and begging, his voice echoed behind me, but I didn't stop. Every step I took was a determined beat to get away, and the click of my heels on the pavement mirrored the beating in my chest. Away from him. Away from the betrayal. Just as I got to my car, Roman caught up with me, his hand firmly but softly gripping my arm. His voice cracked as he begged, "Please, Naomi. Allow me to explain." With unshed tears blazing in my eyes, I turned to face him. “Explain what, Roman? That you were just ‘talking’ to her while she practically undressed in front of you? Or that you conveniently forgot to mention this little rendezvous when I asked where you were?” “She means nothing to me!” he insisted, his hand s
Margaret’s ConfessionMargaret’s POVI sat in my study, looking at the elaborate clock on the mantel with blank indifference. Every second felt louder, a constant reminder of my mistakes. As I remember the incidents that up to Roman's confrontation with Naomi, my chest constricted. I shouldn't have done it At the time, it had seemed harmless to tell Camille to demand the heirloom from Roman. I believed it would compel him to accept accountability, step up, and demonstrate that he could manage his family's legacy. But I didn’t expect how far Camille would go—or how much damage it would cause. Roman wasn’t just angry—he was broken. And Naomi… Naomi was the collateral damage I hadn’t accounted for. I clutched my chair's armrest as remorse tore at my gut. This was not what I had in mind. Instead of sinking into this abyss of self-loathing, I wanted Roman to achieve success and regain his pride. Enough was enough.With determination strengthening my resolve, I got up from my chair
Elijah’s ProposalNaomi’s POV"Elijah?" The uncomfortable silence was broken by my words. I felt shock, confusion, and anger swirling inside of me and crashing into each other like a hurricane. "Why are you calling me? After everything? And using an unknown number—seriously?” There was a pause, just long enough for my annoyance to grow. “I didn’t think you’d answer if you knew it was me,” Elijah said finally, his voice steady but tinged with something that might have been remorse. “You’re damn right I wouldn’t,” I snapped. My grip on the phone tightened. “What could you possibly want now? I told you to stay out of my life.” “Naomi, I’m not here to bring up the past,” he said, his tone calm but firm. “This is about an opportunity.” "An opportunity?" I repeated, my words brimming with incredulity. “Can you listen yourself? You’re the last person I’d trust with anything resembling an opportunity.’” “I deserve that,” Elijah admitted, his voice low. “I know I’ve made mistakes—m
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