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CHAPTER 75
Terakhir Diperbarui:
2025-01-23 20:50:18
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The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 76
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
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-27The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 77
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
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-27The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 78
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
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-29The Billionaire's Pawn Chapter 79
A Dangerous GameNaomi’s POVI started at Elijah's message for so long that the words became blur. My stomach turned with unease but I remained resolute. I grabbed my phone and called Roman. On the second ring, he answered. "Did he text you?" Roman asked, sounding as if he had been expecting my call. "Yes," I said. “He wants to meet at noon tomorrow. The Vault Bistro.” Roman whistled. “That's bold. Public but private enough for him to pull something. What are you thinking?” "I'm going." I said firmly. "He is completely mistaken if he believes that I will enter this blind. Roman, I'd like to know what he's truly after. But I need you to back me up.” "You don't even need to ask." He said. "If something goes wrong, I'll be there, close enough to intervene." "Good," I murmured, feeling a wave of comfort. “But we need to play this smart. Elijah’s not stupid. If he senses you’re nearby, he won't say anything and we’ll lose our chance to get anything out of him.” "I agree,"
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-01-29The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 80
The Warehouse ConfrontationNaomi's POVCamille's eyes gleamed with an unnerving blend of amusement and hatred. As she walked further into the darkened warehouse, her heels clicking hard on the concrete floor, my heart raced. "Camille," I said, my voice steady despite the storm raging inside me. "What are you doing here?" Camille's eyes widened, her voice dipping with innocence. "Oh, Naomi, please don't act surprised. Did you really think this brief meeting would take place without me?” Her eyes strayed to Elijah, who was standing apart with his arms folded and with an unreadable expression on his face. Like two predators circling the same prey, there was a noticeable tension between them. “Elijah,” I said, turning to him. “What is this? So you are still working with her?” With a grim laugh, he stepped forward. “Working with her? No, Naomi. Camille and I are simply… aligned. We have a common goal." "And what is that goal?" I demanded, raising my voice.“To bring Roman Blac
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-03The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 81
A Fragile Alliance Naomi's POV“You are mine, Naomi Carter. I won’t stop at nothing to get you.” Elijah's words echoed in my head. I staggered, holding on to Roman to balance myself, while putting my hands on my chest to calm myself down.Before I could realize what was happening. My knees gave out and everything went black.~~~~I woke to the sound of soft murmurs and the faint scent of cedarwood. In sharp contrast to the rough warehouse floor I last remembered, the sheets underneath me were cool and soft.I opened my eyes and the familiar sight of Roman’s bedroom greeted me. His mansion. I tried to sit up, but I felt a sudden dizziness, reminding me of my collapse. “Easy,” a voice came from the corner. I turned to the direction of where the voice came from.Roman appeared with his sleeves pushed up to his elbows and his shirt unbuttoned at the collar. His eyes were intense and keen as they scanned my face, and his hair was disheveled. “You fainted,” he said, his tone a mix
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-03The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 82
Strategic Moves(Roman’s POV)"Hello,” the voice on the other end said, smooth and deliberate, with hint of mistrust.“Michael,” I said, gripping the phone tighter. “It’s been a while.” After a moment, there was a low chuckle. "Awhile? Roman, that’s an understatement for century. Last time we spoke, you told me never to contact you again.” I let out a sigh and paced the room, looking at the bed where Naomi was sleeping. “And yet, here I am, breaking my own rule. I need your help.” "Of course you do," Michael said sardonically. "No one ever calls me just to catch up. What is it this time? Business, revenge, or both?” “Both,” I admitted. “It’s Elijah.” The line went dead, and for a moment, I thought he might have hung up. But then Michael’s voice came through, sharper now. "Elijah," he said again, the name tinged with contempt. "I should’ve known. That bastard’s still alive and causing trouble? What’s he done this time?” I paused my pacing and squeezed the bridge of my nos
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-03The Billionaire's Pawn CHAPTER 83
Elijah’s Plan Revealed(Roman’s POV)With her head still lying on my chest, Naomi's steady breathing filled the room. I had my arm wrapped protectively around her, but my thoughts were far away. Like a loaded rifle ready to fire, the email I received from Micheal stayed in my mind. I carefully slid out from under Naomi, using a pillow to place of my chest. She slightly twitched but remained unconscious. I hate hiding hings from her, and her utter relaxation around me was a clear sign of her trust. But for the time being, I had to deal with this alone. After grabbing my phone, I padded silently into the study and closed the door. The email dared me to open it by staring back at me. I inhaled deeply and tapped it. Subject: “I think I found something.” Message:Roman, I've been looking through Elijah's accounts and connections. There’s a pattern here that leads to a concerning conclusion. He’s after your offshore accounts—especially the ones tied to Steele Enterprises’ global o
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-02-03
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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
