Trapped By Devil Billionaire

In a luxurious cemetery, a teenage boy sat silently with teary eyes. His hand reached out, continually wiping the gray tombstone inscribed with the name Andreas John Quartararo.

"Enough, Tristan. Don't be sad. Mama is sure Papa is happy in heaven."

The beautiful woman named Gracia Quartararo looked strong. Although her cheeks were still wet from tears, she tried to appear strong in front of her son. It certainly wasn't easy. Especially since she had lost her beloved husband in a car accident some time ago. The man who smiled brightly that morning, asking for permission to go to work, had to come home lifeless.

"Mama will always take care of you. I promise to stay by your side until we grow old."

Gracia kept trying to strengthen her child's heart so he wouldn't be consumed by sadness. She knew her son was very close to her husband. More so because Andreas was the father Tristan admired so much.

However, a promise remained a promise. Exactly three months after Andreas passed away, it was Gracia's turn to leave Tristan forever. The beautiful woman reportedly suffered a heart attack during an important meeting at her office. One can imagine how shattered Tristan's heart was, not yet twenty years old, having to lose both parents in such a short time. At his young age, he was forced to survive in a harsh world.

"Tristan, don't cry. You're not alone in this world. There's still Uncle Raphael who will take care of you. I promise I will never leave you."

Tristan, who had been looking down, immediately looked up. With a sad expression, the young man shook his head slowly. When Andreas died, he managed to hold back his tears, but this time he couldn't anymore. The clear crystals flowed down his cheeks. He didn't care if people thought he was weak or whatever.

"Don't make any promises to me, Uncle. It's enough that Papa and Mama left me. I don't want everyone I love to leave me one by one."

"No." Raphael shook his head and then extended his right hand, patting Tristan's shoulder repeatedly, trying to strengthen his heart so he wouldn't be consumed by sadness. "I promise I won't die before making you successful. I've decided to help you conquer the world. To make Leighton Corporations, which Andreas worked so hard to build, successful and thriving again. Moreover, you must also get back at those who have wronged your family."

Tristan's hand clenched tightly. Raphael's words had successfully ignited his emotions. His uncle was right. He couldn't dwell in sadness any longer. He had to rise. Because after this, a heavy task awaited him.

In front of his parents' tombstones, Tristan promised himself that he would become a successful and unbeatable person. Once he achieved everything, he would settle the score with those who had destroyed his family like this.

"Sooner or later, I will make them pay for everything, Uncle. I will make the Walters family suffer as much as I do now."

Raphael smirked. The corner of his lips lifted high.

"Of course, Tristan. You deserve to do that. Even after the fatal accident that killed your father, Rudolf Walters hasn't shown his face to even apologize. Maybe his whole family has fled abroad." He then patted Tristan's shoulder gently and continued to encourage him.

"From now on, I promise to always be by your side. I'll turn you into a truly tough man in business and daily life."

Then, Raphael stood up first. Moments later, he extended his hand, asking Tristan to rise from his seat. They both decided to leave the cemetery complex, heading to Tristan's home to prepare for all the plans that had been meticulously arranged.

***

**Several Years Later**

Flashbulbs immediately went off as Tristan and Raphael entered the auditorium in the Leighton Corporation building. All the journalists seemed to be competing to cover the induction process of the new CEO who would lead the largest construction company in the United Kingdom.

Tristan, dressed in a navy suit, sat calmly next to Raphael. Not a hint of nervousness appeared on his handsome face.

After years of studying, interning, and directly participating in various tenders with Raphael, Tristan continually worked to convince all the shareholders and company executives. At the age of just 30, he was striving to prove to everyone that he truly deserved the position his father once held.

After two general shareholder meetings, it was finally agreed that Tristan was indeed fit for the position. Today, he would be officially inaugurated by the commissioners to start performing his duties as expected.

"Tristan Quartararo, congratulations on your inauguration today."

Everyone seemed to offer congratulations. This included Tristan's three friends, who had taken the time to come and meet him in his office.

"Thank you. I'm glad you are here to support me. I thought you were serious when you said you wouldn't come to congratulate me the other day."

Tristan then accepted hugs from each of his three friends before inviting them to sit on the sofa.

"That was Edward's idea," pointed out Kenzi. "That damn playboy wanted to surprise you."

Edward immediately clicked his tongue and handed over the cake box he had been holding. "Oh, come on, Nick. Why are you so talkative? Wasn't this our idea together? Why are you making me the main culprit now?"

"But you were the one who suggested it, weren't you?" Nicholas retorted. "You came up with the idea. In fact, you insisted earlier that Kenzi and I pick you up and accompany you to buy the cake for Tristan."

"Really?" Tristan asked, wanting confirmation. He looked at each of his friends in disbelief. Often joking around, he never expected his friends to act so sweetly.

"Well... alright. I admit it. Nicholas is telling the truth."

While scratching his non-itchy neck, Edward finally admitted what Nicholas had said. Among the three friends, he was the closest to Tristan since the beginning of their friendship. They did everything together. Edward even considered Tristan like a brother. Kenzi and Nicholas often called them twins.

"I did drag them both to meet you. Besides, we should congratulate you on your achievement today. Honestly, I am personally very proud of you."

"Thank you once again for everything you have given me."

"So, how was your inauguration today? I saw in the news that your company's stock price rose significantly after you were officially appointed as the new CEO," Kenzi said, with a hint of admiration in his voice. As a fellow young CEO, he was naturally proud of what his friend had achieved.

Tristan nodded. While cutting the cake Edward had brought, he responded to Kenzi's question casually.

"I was also very surprised. This is an incredible achievement for me as a beginner. I didn't know the inauguration would even affect the company's stock price. The commissioners also discussed it."

"That means the public has been eagerly awaiting your presence," Nicholas added seriously. "It seems they are interested in all the breakthroughs and strides you've made recently. I must admit, all the brilliant ideas you've shown have brought fresh air to this business."

The three then chose to enjoy the cake Tristan had just cut and offered. While eating, they continued to discuss various topics casually.

"By the way, is there no small party?" Edward asked while taking a bite of his cake.

It had always been a tradition for them to celebrate something with a party, whether it was large or a private gathering with close friends.

"Oh my, you're right. I've been so busy these past few days that I didn't think about it. But how about we have the party tonight?"

Kenzi put his cake plate on the table, grabbed a cup of tea, and sipped the drink. After finishing, he nodded in agreement with the idea Tristan had just proposed.

"I agree. Let's celebrate at the American Bar."

"Yes, Kenzi is right. The American Bar is a suitable place for us to celebrate all this," Nicholas chimed in.

"But, can we bring partners tonight?" Edward asked cautiously. "I mean, will tonight's party be just us as usual, or can we bring female friends too?"

"Of course. I'm also curious to see which woman you'll bring this time," Tristan replied, seemingly familiar with Edward's habit of frequently changing partners.

As agreed, the four friends decided to gather at the American Bar at eight o'clock that night. This time, Tristan brought Kimberly, Raphael's daughter, to accompany him.

After making reservations and ordering appetizers, Tristan saw Kenzi arrive first at the event with his girlfriend, Tita. Shortly after, Nicholas followed, bringing his fiancée, Claire.

"We're not late, are we?" Kenzi asked as he pulled out a chair and invited his girlfriend to sit.

"Don't worry. Kimberly and I just arrived 10 minutes ago," Tristan replied. Then he sat down and began the conversation.

"Tristan, congratulations on your achievement today. I know this gift is modest, but at least Nicholas and I are sincere in giving it to you," Claire said as she handed him a black gift box.

"Oh my, there's no need to go to the trouble. I'm already very grateful that you came," Tristan said.

Amid their conversation, Edward, who had been awaited, finally arrived. With a smile, he immediately approached with the woman he had brought.

"Sorry, I'm a bit late. I had to pick up the gift first," Edward said as he handed over the item he was carrying-a box containing a watch that he specially gave to his friend. "Once again, happy birthday, Tristan. I hope this year all your unrealized dreams come true."

Tristan, who was standing at the time, hugged Edward with emotion. When he released the hug, his focus immediately turned to the beautiful woman Edward had brought.

"Ed, aren't you going to introduce the beautiful woman next to you?"

"Oh, right. I almost forgot," Edward replied. He then turned to the woman standing next to him. "Everyone, let me introduce you to the beautiful Olivia Walters."

Tristan gazed intently into the brown eyes before him. Moments later, he extended his hand with a meaningful smile. The name Edward had just mentioned seemed familiar to him.

"Tristan Quartararo. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Tristan sat deep in thought. His gaze was fixed, watching the row of skyscrapers through the window of his office. Faintly, he smiled. It wasn't without reason. It was as if a spark of joy had touched his long-empty heart. This all happened because of his meeting yesterday with the woman Edward had brought to his birthday celebration.

"So, all this time, Olivia has been living in Germany?" Tristan asked as he ate the dinner already laid out on the table. Listening to Edward rambling on about the woman he brought made Tristan curious too.

"Yes..." The woman named Olivia nodded. "I've lived in Germany since I was a child. I just moved a year ago and finally decided to settle in London," she explained, sipping the wine Edward had given her.

"By the way, who do you live with here? Are you alone or with family?"

Again, Tristan asked a question. He was very enthusiastic about anything Olivia told him. Not even for a moment did his attention shift, as if he was already fixed on the beautiful woman sitting next to his friend.

"Right now, I'm living alone. My parents and sister are in Germany. But they will soon follow to move to London."

"It must be tough living alone in a city you just moved to."

"Yes..." Olivia nodded in agreement. "At first, it was difficult. But it's okay. Honestly, I'm happy to live alone in London. Here, I'm free to work and do all my hobbies without anyone bothering me."

Once again, Tristan smiled in silence. It wasn't a happy smile because he met a beautiful woman, but a happy smile as if pleased because the target he had been searching for had appeared on its own.

"Mr. Tristan, I brought what you asked for."

From behind the office door, there was a knock followed by the entrance of a man Tristan knew well. He walked slowly, approaching where Tristan was sitting.

"What information did you get, Mario? Please show me," Tristan replied.

"I've summarized everything in one document. I apologize if there may still be some missing information. But I promise, I'll find the rest for you."

Tristan nodded and then took the black folder handed to him. He began reading it carefully, scrutinizing all the information that might be necessary.

"Olivia Walters. The first child of Rudolf Walters and Anna Maria Walters." Tristan read what was written there. He glanced, staring deeply at his assistant. "That means, this woman is indeed the one I've been looking for."

"That's correct, sir," Mario replied. "From all the social media pages, the bio listed on the agency's website, and the circulating photos, it's confirmed that this woman is indeed the daughter of Rudolf Walters, a property entrepreneur from London who has now expanded into construction and settled in Hamburg, Germany."

Tristan looked again at the papers in his hands. He looked at some photos while rereading carefully, as if not wanting to miss any information.

"Only 24 years old. Single. Works as a model and is also known as a social activist. She has had relationships with several celebrities. And currently, she lives alone in Marylebone Square's Penthouses."

"That's correct, sir," Mario replied again. "I've included some of Miss Olivia's show schedules that were officially released by her agency. I've also attached data on who she is currently close to, and one of them is your friend."

Tristan nodded in his seat.

"Yes, I know. This woman seems to be close to Edward." Tristan raised his eyebrows. The man pulled the corner of his lips meaningfully. "But I won't let them get any closer. Never, Mario." Tristan's voice lowered, but there was a definite tone of threat in it. His gaze was sharp, piercing the photo of Olivia he was holding.

Mario could only remain silent in his position. Besides performing his main duties at the office, as a trusted person, Tristan also asked him to investigate someone. The young man even paid a private detective a high fee to find the whereabouts of Rudolf Walters and his entire family.

From the beginning, Mario was curious. But until now, he had never dared to ask outright why Tristan was looking for Rudolf, who had long migrated from London to Hamburg, Germany.

"Thank you for your report, Mario. If there is any other information about the Walters family, please let me know as soon as possible," Tristan requested.

Mario nodded politely. After giving what Tristan asked for, he then chose to leave the room.

Just a few minutes after Mario's departure, Tristan's door was knocked again. This time, it was Raphael's turn to visit the young man.

"Am I disturbing you?" Raphael asked as he stepped in.

"Of course not, Uncle Raphael. No matter how busy I am, I always have time for you." There was a sincere tone in Tristan's words. As an orphan, he felt deeply indebted to Raphael. It was Raphael who patiently took care of and even raised him, teaching him many things until he succeeded as he did now.

Because of this great debt, Tristan was determined always to follow Raphael's words. He also tried his best never to disobey his uncle's orders.

"You always know how to touch my heart," Raphael said. He then sat calmly in the chair directly opposite Tristan.

"What brings you here, Uncle?" Tristan asked curiously.

"I want to discuss your engagement with Kimberly. When do you think is the right time to hold this sacred ceremony?"

Tristan was silent for a moment, clearly considering the right time to carry out what his uncle had ordered. He had promised and would never break it.

"Actually, I don't mind when the event is held. However..."

Raphael's brow furrowed deeply. Hearing Tristan deliberately pause made him curious now.

"But what?" he asked, seeking clarity.

"Recently, I met Olivia Walters. The daughter of Rudolf Walters, whom I've been looking for, Uncle."

Tristan's statement naturally shocked Raphael. He remembered well that he had once ordered his men to investigate Rudolf and his family. But it was quite difficult to get information.

And now, suddenly, Rudolf Walters' daughter appeared without needing to be searched for. It was as if God had deliberately shown His kindness to Tristan, who had been searching for the woman for a long time.

"So what will you do next?" Raphael inquired.

Raphael was confident that the son of his two friends had prepared a well-thought-out plan for a long time. He knew Tristan well. The young man was born with strong instincts. Never reckless. Always meticulous in every action and decision he made. This was also what enabled Tristan to compete with other competitors in the business world he was involved in now.

"I will approach her slowly, Uncle. So please allow me to win Olivia's heart first. When everything goes smoothly, I promise I will immediately marry Kimberly."

Hearing that, Raphael looked up and their eyes met. His emerald green eyes stared deeply into Tristan's sharp blue ones, trying to read what plan the man was actually concocting.

"Are you sure about this plan?"

Tristan nodded and gave a respectful stance. "I've thought it through very carefully, Uncle. This is the only way to destroy Rudolf slowly."

"That's not what I meant," Raphael countered, his face showing clear concern. "What if you end up falling in love with Rudolf's daughter?"

"That won't happen, Uncle," Tristan confidently rebutted. "How could I fall in love with the daughter of the man who ruined my family?"

Tristan's cold words immediately eased Raphael's worries. Especially seeing the vengeful expression that didn't leave Tristan's face, it was highly unlikely that Tristan would fall for the enemy's daughter.

"Alright. I trust everything to you. But remember, Tristan," Raphael said, looking deeply at the man he considered his own son. "You still have to be careful. I don't want anything bad to happen to you."

Tristan nodded again, grabbing Raphael's wrist and holding it tightly. As if to assure him that nothing bad would happen to him in the future.

"Trust me. Whatever Rudolf has done, he will eventually have to answer for it."

Tristan slowly sipped the caramel macchiato he had just ordered. After finishing all his work, he decided to stop by one of his favorite coffee shops not far from his office.

While watching the lights and traffic, Tristan seemed to enjoy his solitude tonight. Occasionally, memories of his parents flashed by, showing the happy moments they had once shared. Until not long after, a woman's voice interrupted what he had been doing.

"Tristan," greeted the beautiful woman whose voice was not so familiar to Tristan. When he looked up, he saw Olivia standing straight in front of the table. "I didn't expect to meet you here. May I join you?"

Tristan smiled faintly. Rising from his seat, he politely invited Olivia to sit down. "With pleasure, please sit. I happen to be alone tonight."

Olivia smiled happily. Without hesitation, she sat down.

"Would you like something to drink? I can order it for you," Tristan offered politely.

"Of course." Olivia immediately nodded. "A cappuccino latte seems perfect to drink with you tonight."

Tristan then waved to call the waitress on duty. After ordering the drink, he resumed his conversation with Olivia.

"Where are you coming from? Just finished work?"

"Yes, that's right. I just finished a photo session at a studio not far from here. And you? Have you been here long?"

Tristan nodded and extended his hand to reach the caramel macchiato he had ordered. Sipping slowly, he then explained. "My office is not far from here. Usually, before going home, I stop by for a while just to sit and enjoy coffee."

"Oh, really? Are you always alone like this? Or sometimes with your partner?" Olivia asked cautiously.

Tristan glanced and then chuckled softly. There was a hint of amusement seeing Olivia's face eagerly waiting for his answer.

"Always alone. I happen to be single at the moment."

"Ah, you're so good at lying," Olivia remarked, clicking her tongue. How could she believe that a handsome man like Tristan didn't have a partner? "Do handsome men always say they're single to the women they just met?"

"I'm not lying," Tristan replied with a smile. "I'm not in a relationship with anyone right now."

"Then who was the beautiful woman with you that night?" Olivia asked inquisitively. She remembered at the celebration event, Tristan seemed close to the woman with him.

"Beautiful woman?" Tristan's brow furrowed deeply. He tried to recall until he finally exclaimed softly.

"Oh, you mean Kimberly? The woman who was with me at the birthday party?"

Olivia nodded repeatedly.

"Yes, she's your girlfriend, right? You two looked very close and matched that night."

"But she's not my girlfriend," Tristan clarified. "Kimberly is like a sister to me. We've been close since childhood and have been friends."

"Ah, I see."

"And you? How about you?" Tristan turned the question.

"What do you mean by that?" Olivia asked, confused.

"Your relationship with Edward. Aren't you two close now?"

Olivia nodded, not denying at all what Tristan said.

"In the past few months, we have indeed been close. But so far, it's just as friends. Nothing more. I haven't thought about getting into a relationship with any man."

"Does that mean I have no chance to approach you?" Tristan teased with a small laugh, causing Olivia to pause for a moment as if digesting what he had just said. "Oh, my goodness, Olivia, I'm just kidding." Tristan quickly corrected his statement.

"You," Olivia protested, "You made me nervous."

They then continued their conversation, discussing light topics until they lost track of time and eventually decided to leave.

"Did you bring your vehicle?" Tristan asked as they walked together out of the cafe.

"No. I rarely drive myself. Maybe I'll call my driver to pick me up in a bit."

"If so, let me drive you home," Tristan offered politely. He had to slowly approach the woman.

"No need. I don't want to trouble you."

"Of course not," Tristan responded quickly. "Besides, it's very dangerous for a beautiful woman like you to wait for a ride alone here."

Being called beautiful, Olivia's face blushed instantly. She also felt flattered by the sweet attitude of the man who had been with her.

Seeing the sincerity on Tristan's face, his sky-blue eyes blinked briefly. She seemed to consider whether to accept his offer. Then, a sweet smile appeared on Olivia's lips. She thought there was no harm in accepting Tristan's offer, who was not an ordinary man.

"Alright, if you insist. Besides, there's no harm in being driven by a handsome man like you," she said honestly. Yes, Tristan was indeed very handsome in Olivia's eyes. She couldn't deny this fact.

Tristan politely guided Olivia to his car parked right in front of the cafe. Without hesitation, he helped open the door and invited her to get in. Then he drove Olivia to her destination.