Mag-log inShare
Chapter Seventy-Nine — Breaking the Cycle
Huling Na-update:
2025-03-27 19:14:29
Kaugnay na kabanata
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter Eighty—Returning Home
The sun had just begun to rise over the city skyline when Leila stepped out of the elevator, her heart racing wildly in her chest.She tightened her grip on her bag strap as she gazed at the penthouse door, taking shallow breaths. She had imagined this moment countless times—what she would say, how Adrian would respond, and whether she’d even lose her nerve before making it this far. But now, standing there, her mind went blank.The key still worked.Of course, it did.The gentle click of the lock echoed through the silence as she pushed the door open. A wave of nostalgia washed over her—the scent of cedarwood and coffee, the soft buzz of the city through the floor-to-ceiling windows, the posh minimalism of a space that had once felt so enormous.Everything appeared unchanged.And yet, it felt different.Leila lingered in the doorway, her feet refusing to move further inside. The penthouse remained perfectly ordered, yet there was an emptiness to it now, a stillness that hadn’t been
Huling Na-update : 2025-03-27Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter Eighty-One—Yours, Always
When they finally shifted from the couch, the sun had already risen, casting golden rays across the floor. Yet, it didn’t matter to either of them. The outside world could fade away—at that moment, the only thing that truly mattered was the serene space they had created together. A space that felt untouched by time, pain, or the remnants of their past. Leila let out a slow breath, shifting just enough to rest her cheek against Adrian’s chest. The rhythmic flow of his breathing provided a sense of stability she hadn’t known she was craving. She briefly closed her eyes, inhaling his scent—familiar and hers, something she thought she had lost forever. “I forgot what this felt like,” she whispered. “Being here. With you.” Adrian fingers traced gentle, featherlight patterns along her spine, his touch light, as if fearing that anything stronger might disrupt their fragile balance. “You have no idea how long I’ve waited for this,” he replied, his voice equally soft. Looking up at hi
Huling Na-update : 2025-03-28Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter Eighty-Two—Almost Normal
As Leila drifted toward consciousness, the first sensation she noticed was a comforting warmth from the body beside her. Adrian had his arm loosely draped over her waist, his grip loose but possessive even in sleep as if he couldn’t bear to part with her. His deep, steady breaths provided a soothing rhythm, the gentle rise and fall of his chest against her back adding to the soothness.For a moment, she remained still with her eyes closed, letting herself absorb the stillness. There were no sounds of gunfire, no hushed threats, and no war looming just outside the door.Just peace.It felt strangely unfamiliar.Leila repositioned herself, stretching her legs to shake off the confusion of waking up in a moment of calm rather than chaos. Her movement made Adrian to stir and instead of releasing her, he tightened his hold, pulling her even closer.“Don’t move,” he murmured against her skin in a thick sleepy, husky voice.She smiled, absentmindedly tracing her fingers along his forearm.
Huling Na-update : 2025-03-29Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter Eighty-Three— Business as Usual
Leila held the phone to her ear while balancing a cup of coffee in her other hand as she paced the living room. The call came just as she was preparing to leave with Adrian for his board meeting, and from the moment she heard the gallery director’s voice, she realized she wouldn’t be making to his office after all.“I understand, Mr. Whitmore,” she replied, keeping her tone measured. “But canceling the exhibit is not an option. My father would never permit it, and neither will I.”Adrian, already dressed in a sharp tailored charcoal suit, came out of the bedroom and raised an eyebrow at her. “Is something wrong?”Leila held up a finger and mouthed, One second.“The artist isn’t backing out,” Whitmore quickly clarified. “But there’s been a last-minute issue with the venue due to a double booking. We need to find an alternative by tonight, or we’ll have to delay the exhibit.”Leila sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. “I’ll take care of it.”“Thank you, Ms. Carter. I really appreci
Huling Na-update : 2025-03-30Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter Eighty-Four: A Peaceful Evening
As soon as Leila stepped into the penthouse, she released a deep sigh of relief. The familiar warmth of home immediately enveloped her like a soothing hug, erasing the day's lingering stress. She slipped off her heels by the entrance, flexing her sore feet as the soft carpet cushioned her steps. The air was filled with the rich, distinctive scent of Adrian’s cologne—earthy and masculine, with a subtle hint of whiskey. It mingled with the faint smell of wood burning in the fireplace, creating a calming atmosphere that stood in stark contrast to the chaos she had just gone through at the gallery.Her eyes landed on Adrian, who was lounging on the couch, one arm casually draped over the backrest, his sleeves rolled up to reveal his strong forearms. In his other hand, he held a tumbler of whiskey, the amber liquid reflecting the golden hue of the city lights filtering through the floor-to-ceiling windows. He appeared effortlessly relaxed, a world away from the commanding businessman who s
Huling Na-update : 2025-03-31Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter Eighty-Five — The Invitation
The following morning, Leila awoke to the enticing scent of freshly brewed coffee and the soft sounds of the city coming to life below. The warm morning light streamed through the sheer curtains, creating a gentle glow in the penthouse bedroom. For a fleeting moment, she relished the peaceful luxury stillness, soaking in the bed's warmth and the morning's serene ambiance.Turning slightly, she spotted Adrian, already dressed in a sharp navy suit, standing by the floor-to-ceiling windows with his back to her. He had a phone pressed to his ear, radiating an air of authority coupled with calm. Even in the privacy of their home, he projected an effortless confidence—a man accustomed to control and used to being listened to.As if he sensed her gaze, Adrian glanced back, a smirk forming on his face. Lowering his phone momentarily, he said, "Morning, sleepyhead."Leila stretched and rubbed the remnants of sleep from her eyes. "You’re up early.""Investor meetings," he reminded her, fastenin
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-01Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter Eighty-Six: Unwelcome Company
The investor gathering took place at a luxurious rooftop location, a masterpiece of modern architectural marvel that loomed over the glittering cityscape. The floor-to-ceiling windows showcased a stunning panorama of sparkling lights reaching far into the distance, while the mellow hum of soft jazz mixed with the clinking of crystal glasses and the subtle buzz of nearby conversations. The scent of expensive whiskey and finely aged cigars lingered in the air, intertwined with the intoxicating scent of wealth and power.Leila arrived at Adrian's side, her fingers lightly resting in the crook of his arm as they stepped into the lavish event. Her sleek black dress, tailored to perfection, glided over her figure with an effortless grace and elegance, the high slit teasing just enough to command attention while exuding a sense of refined elegance. As they walked in, heads turned, and she noticed the flickers of admiration in the eyes of onlookers. Adrian stood beside her, exuding authority
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-01Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter Eighty-Seven - The Game Begins
Leila stepped back into the softly lit venue, where the mingling aromas of whiskey and expensive perfume filled the air, accompanied by the low murmur of conversations and gentle jazz music. Yet, all of that faded into the background as Camille's venomous words echoed in her mind, lingering long after Camille had departed.Camille was strategic—each action and utterance a calculated part of a game she believed she was playing. However, Leila had encountered fiercer opponents and more cunning manipulations. She refused to be shaken by Adrian’s ex.Her eyes swept across the room, searching for Adrian among the groups of influential men and women cloaked in their carefully crafted personas. A sense of unease twisted in her stomach when she finally spotted him.Camille was already there.Camille stood far too close for comfort, her delicate fingers grazing Adrian's suit lapel as she leaned in to whisper something meant only for him. Adrian did not lean closer; he neither encouraged nor im
Huling Na-update : 2025-04-02
Pinakabagong kabanata
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter One Hundred Twenty-Five — When Familiar Comes Home
Gwen's Arrival Gwen arrived on a cloud-covered afternoon, when the world seemed to hold its breath. Leila stood on the sacred-feeling brownstone steps, her pale wool scarf wrapped around her, her coat partially zipped over her gently rounded stomach. The air was infused with the scent of wet stone and lavender, faint traces of the cleaning oil lingering around the house's edges.When the cab arrived, Leila remained still, watching Gwen emerge, carrying a worn canvas bag. Gwen's thin coat appeared more appropriate for warmer weather, and her hair was pulled up in a messy knot, strands flying loose in the breeze.They exchanged silent glances across the distance for a moment.Then Gwen dropped the bag and bounded up the stairs in two swift strides.Leila stepped forward just in time to catch her, and they embraced—tight and sudden, yet utterly right. Gwen's arms wrapped around Leila's back, her breath hitching against Leila's shoulder."You look like spring," Gwen murmured, her voice t
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter One Hundred Twenty-Four — The Spaces We Fill
Few days later, they navigated the renovated brownstone as if they were gliding through the pages of a story they'd once only dared to imagine.The floors, once scattered with splinters and gaps, had been replaced with reclaimed wood that hummed gracefully beneath their feet. The staircase—rebuilt, sanded, and stained—no longer creaked under their weight but instead welcomed them into their newly crafted existence. Each room exuded the lingering aroma of fresh paint, pine wood polish, and lavender oil—an unusual yet soothing blend that lingered in the air like a cherished memory.Leila paused in the entryway, running her fingers along the newly fitted doorframe. Her other hand rested on the slight curve of her belly, subtly hidden under her sweater but undeniable to her. She watched as Adrian moved through the living room, skillfully opening the windows to let in the gentle spring breeze.She smiled slightly. “It feels like it’s alive.”Adrian looked back at her, his gaze softening. “
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter One Hundred Twenty-Three — What we're Building
LeilaThe nausea didn't creep in-- it slammed into her suddenly, like a crashing wave.One moment, she was on the gallery floor, crouched in a patch of warm light, her hands buried in fabric samples she'd been collecting over the past week. She had midnight blue for the reading nook and a muted rose she hoped would work in the nursery—gentle and grounding. This task felt reassuring, providing a rare sense of control amidst the chaos.Then, without warning, everything shifted.The room spun violently, causing her stomach to turn with it. Her hands slipped off the pile of swatches, and she barely managed to get to her feet and rush to the bathroom, gripping the doorframe for support as her heart raced. She felt clammy and disoriented, as if her own body had betrayed her.Nausea struck in relentless waves while she leaned over the sink, gripping the cold porcelain and breathing shallowly through her nose. Her reflection revealed pale skin and heavy, shadowed eyes.By the time Adrian arri
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter One Hundred Twenty-Two: Told in Gentle Light
Pregnancy RevealLeila dialed Gwen from the gallery, her fingers quivering slightly as she made the call.The space was empty that morning, still resonating with the echoes of laughter and footsteps from the other night’s opening. Sunlight filtered through the tall windows, creating long, golden lines on the smooth concrete floor. Her latest collection adorned the walls—images that felt like fragments of her heart captured in ink and shadow. Yet none of these works, not even the proudest or most vulnerable work she'd hung there, compared to what she felt within her now.Gwen picked up on the third ring, her voice thick with sleep and that familiar, dry-edged affection.“Hello?” came the croaky murmur.“I didn’t wake you, did I?” Leila asked, slowly pacing between two canvases. She paused in front of one featuring Adrian at the lake, wind tousling his hair and vulnerability etched in every feature. It was one of the few photos she had been unable to let go of.“You did,” Gwen replied w
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter One Hundred Twenty-One-Laying the Foundation
----LeilaThat morning, their conversation was sparse—not due to avoidance or a lack of topics, but because the weight of what had just shifted between them made words feel.....too small.Silence wrapped around them like a comforting blanket—not chilly or distant, but respectful. It felt as if speaking too soon might shatter the delicate truth lingering between them.Leila retreated to the window seat, captivated by the view even though she barely noticed it. She curled her knees beneath her, a throw blanket resting on her legs, while an untouched cup of tea—over-steeped and cold—sat on the windowsill. Thirst was not her concern; she wasn’t even sure what she felt. Just that something within her was in flux, rearranging.Across the room, Adrian quietly moved around the kitchen, the sounds of a mug clinking, water boiling, and his soft footsteps creating a soothing background. He didn’t press her with questions or attempt to fill the silence, but every so often, she sensed his gaze on
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter One Hundred Twenty – Foundations
The Brownstone Restoration The rhythmic sound of hammering resonated through the old walls, reminiscent of a heartbeat—steady and alive.Leila stood barefoot in what used to be the sitting room, now stripped to its bare frame. The plaster had been removed, exposing wooden beams and weathered brick. The floorboards had been taken up days earlier, leaving an uneven subfloor covered in old nails and bits of insulation. Light streamed through a gap where a windowpane had been taken out, casting long, flickering shafts that danced along the dust-laden walls.The air was filled with the scent of sawdust, earth, and memories.Adrian had kept the crew minimal—just four carefully selected individuals, chosen through contacts Connor trusted—experts in restoration rather than demolition. Skilled craftspeople who recognized when a building was more than just timber and stone; when it carried significance, a legacy, or grief.No one asked questions; they didn’t have to. The house communicated its
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter One Hundred Nineteen – The Letters
AdrianThe envelope in his hands felt incredibly delicate, as if it would crumble if he applied too much pressure. It wasn't just the paper; it was the significance of its contents. The burden of long-hidden truths, something treasured. The past was enclosed in fading ink, infused with the gentle quiver of a woman who hoped her words would eventually reach him.Adrian Michael Blackwell.She had written out his full name in cursive, slightly slanted, demonstrating a carefulness he hadn't seen since he was a child when he used to watch her write grocery lists and school permission slips. Though years had passed since he heard her voice, as he gazed at those letters, he could almost hear it—soft, steady, a bit weary, yet filled with warmth she hadn't dared show too openly.He sat on the edge of the couch, his elbows on his knees, a shoebox of letters resting like an artifact between him and Leila. She hadn't broken the silence since their return home. Instead, she had made tea, draped a
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter One Hundred Eighteen – Echoes
----LeilaThe studio's light always conveyed honesty.Morning light, in particular, arrived gently and contemplatively, filtering through the frosted panes of the warehouse windows and slicing through the dust motes like unresolved memories. Leila stood barefoot on the well-worn oriental rug at the room's center, camera held delicately in her hands, her eyes focused on the framed photo hung on the opposite wall.The lake.And Adrian.He was sitting on the edge of a dilapidated dock, his profile directed toward the horizon, one arm resting on his knee. His expression was difficult to interpret—not because it lacked emotion, but rather due to its complexity. It contained a blend of quiet longing, newfound tranquility, and an underlying hint of regret. She had captured that moment instinctively—without poses or prompts.Simply, it was truth.She couldn’t explain why she kept coming back to that specific photograph. She had many from that trip and countless more that followed. But this o
Trapped with a Ruthless Billionaire Chapter One Hundred Seventeen – The Weight of Quiet Things
The aroma of coffee clung to the penthouse like a lingering memory.Dark roast. Rich. Intense. With just a trace of cinnamon—Leila’s quiet rebellion against his typical straightforward tastes. He’d initially rolled his eyes at her first attempt but now found himself missing it when it was absent.The atmosphere was calm. Not dead still—unlike the oppressive silence that once made him instinctively reach for hidden weapons. This silence—warm and inviting—felt domestic.It came from the freshly brewed coffee and the soft ticking of water in the radiator, accompanied by the sounds of a city gradually waking. The soft sound of bare feet on polished hardwood broke the stillness.Leila.She moved seamlessly—her hair still tousled from sleep, one sleeve of his shirt slipping off her shoulder, a lazy half-smile on her lips as she entered the living room with a mug in hand. She kissed him earlier, instinctively, a gentle press of lips against his jaw, still in a dreamy state. It was spontaneou
