All Chapters of The Billionaire's Pawn : Chapter 31 - Chapter 40

The Art of HealingElijah's PovAs soon as I entered Naomi's studio, I knew I was entering her world. Her paintings' vivid colors revealed stories that words could not, and the aroma of linseed oil and turpentine permeated the air. She held a brush as if it were an extension of her hand as she stood by the window, a paint line streaked over her cheek. Her gaze was riveted on the scenery outside as if she were deep in thoughts. "Naomi." I called softly so as not to startle her.She turned, a tiny, sincere smile spreading across her face. "Elijah. You're early.” I took a step closer and shrugged. "I was eager to see the projects you have been working on. For days, you have been avoiding me.”She put down the brush and smiled quietly. "I'm just... focused, not avoiding." As I looked around the room, I noticed a big canvas leaning against the wall. Vibrant gold and scarlet brushstrokes blended to create an abstract yet poignant composition. "The world needs to see this," I remark

The Silent ObserverElijah's POVEvery nook and cranny of the gallery was alive with whispered chatter and the occasional outburst of laughter. Naomi's dream had come true; her gallery is now open, a physical representation of her ingenuity and tenacity. Her journey and the layers of emotion she poured into each painting were illuminated by the gentle glow from the lights above. But, I'm not here to admire the artwork or to rejoice in her success. No, my purpose was to make sure Roman didn't share in it. The tension in the room increased as soon as I saw him. Roman, like the predator he was, stood close to the distant wall, disappearing into the darkness. His sharp eyes searched for her among the crowd. Predictable. With deliberate ease, I approached him while swirling the champagne in my glass. If Naomi saw him here, it could undo everything. I couldn’t allow that. "Roman," I said, maintaining a firm yet low voice. "I didn't expect to see you here." His face was enigmatic

Camille’s GameNaomi's POV With my phone firmly grasped in my palm, I paced the length of my living room, the burden of the day hanging over me like a thick shroud. My screen had already displayed Roman's name twice, with his calls going unanswered. I know he won't stop. Roman wasn’t the type to let things slide, especially not when he is angry. My phone buzzed again, and this time, I couldn’t ignore it. With a shaky breath, I swiped to answer. "Roman," I murmured, maintaining a calm tone of voice despite the whirlpool of emotions roiling within me. "Naomi," he answered in a clipped, acerbic tone. "We need to talk." "What's happening?" I asked warily, fully preparing for whatever was about to happen. Tension was obvious in the pause. Then his voice came in low and relentless.. You want to explain to me why sensitive business files, files only a handful of people had access to—suddenly ended up in the hands of my competitors?” I went cold. "What are you talking about?"

The Locked Room SecretNaomi's POVThe sun was barely peeking over the horizon when I woke up, and the faint light was filtering through the blinds. The decision I had made the previous night felt even heavier in the morning, but it was unwavering. I need to know.The only sound accompanying me on the silent drive to Roman's mansion was the hum of the engine. My mind was filled with memories of the innumerable times I had lived here. But today was different. Today, I was an intruder in what used to feel like home. My heart hammered my ribs as I parked outside. An uncommon sight that made me uneasy was the tall gates standing open. Roman was very careful about security, but I'm not going to question my luck. The mansion's icy exterior was more menacing in some way than I recalled. I slipped through the front door, hastily pushing off the memories that were evoked by the smell of leather and oak. Focus, Naomi. The corridor was silent and deserted as it stretched ahead of me.

The dinnerNaomi's POVAt seven, Roman sent a sleek, black car with epitome of subtle luxury. I felt a knot form in my stomach as it smoothly came to a halt in front of my building. I wasn't prepared, either for the truths I might discover or for the answersI might get. The driver, a well-dressed man, nodded firmly and opened the door for me. Grasping my bag as if it were an anchor, I entered. There were brief reflections on the glass as the city lights flickered past the windows. My resolve was being eroded by the suspense as my head was filled with questions. The grand mansion stood out against the night sky when we arrived at Roman's estate, its imposing shape both alluring and ominous. The car slid up the long driveway and stopped right in front of the entrance when the big iron gates opened. A butler greeted me at the door, his expression impassive as he gestured me inside. The interior of the estate was as lavish as ever, but there appeared to be more tension in the air to