Chapter 41

AYALA POVThe sound came just as I stepped back from the canvas to evaluate the color balance—three soft knocks on the studio door. Not forceful. Not hesitant. Just… measured.My heart jumped.I wiped my hands on a paint-stained rag, my pulse already quickening. Part of me whispered Vladimir. But it was too soon, wasn’t it?I crossed the room slowly, peeking through the window first.It wasn’t him.A man stood on the stoop. Mid-thirties, maybe older, in a sharply cut gray coat and dark trousers. His hair was cleanly trimmed, his jawline angular. Hands behind his back like he’d been waiting a while.And he wasn’t alone.Behind him, parked across the street, was a black town car. Not flashy. Just… expensive in the way quiet power always was.I opened the door a crack.“Can I help you?”The man nodded politely, his voice low and smooth. “Miss Shomer?”“Yes,” I said cautiously.“I represent the foundation that awarded your grant. I was asked to deliver a personal letter—along with a few c

Last Updated : 2025-06-23

Chapter 42

VLADIMIR POVFLASHBACKVladimir’s Private Library – After MidnightThe city had gone quiet by then. New York’s usual hum had settled into something softer — like the moment between breaths. In his penthouse library, the only sound came from the low crackling of the fireplace and the gentle rustle of pages turning. Ayala sat curled on the corner of the leather chaise, her legs tucked beneath her, barefoot, wearing one of his oversized shirts that swallowed her frame in the best way.Vladimir had watched her for over five minutes without saying a word.He didn’t know why this particular night felt heavier — maybe because the world outside had paused, and for once, so had they. No meetings. No rivals. No Irina. No Alexei. Just her. Her and that damn book she barely seemed to read because her mind kept wandering.“Are you bored?” he asked finally, his voice low.She didn’t look up. “No.”“You’ve been on the same page for ten minutes.”She smiled, the kind of smile that tugged more at his

Last Updated : 2025-06-24

All Chapters of Love in Deceit: Chapter 41 - Chapter 42

Chapter 41

Chapter 42