Gibran continued, "As for our divorce, I've already agreed to it. We'll proceed with the legal process, and you'll be free to start a new chapter in your life. I hope you find the happiness you deserve."
The conversation between Viska and Gibran marked the beginning of the end of their tumultuous marriage. While their emotions were still raw, they had come to a mutual understanding that it was time to move on and seek happiness elsewhere.
Gibran's frustration and pent-up emotions poured out as he defended his actions. He felt betrayed by Viska, who had consistently pushed him away and made unfavorable comparisons with Nicholas. Their relationship had become a battleground of insecurities, and Gibran had sought solace with Shabila.
Viska's accusations stung, but Gibran was determined to make her understand the context of his actions. He continued, "Viska, I don't want to justify what I did, but it was a result of our broken marriage. We both contributed to its downfall. I needed something to hold onto, someone who would appreciate me for who I am."
Viska's anger subsided as she listened to Gibran's honest words. She had played a part in their unhappy marriage, and Gibran's actions were partly a response to the constant rejection and emotional turmoil they had endured.
Gibran concluded, "I don't expect you to forgive me, and I'm not proud of what I did. But it's time for both of us to move on, separate our lives, and find happiness in our own ways. Our marriage has run its course, and it's time to face reality."
Viska, still hurt by Gibran's actions, nodded slowly. She realized that their relationship had reached its breaking point, and it was time to let go. She had hoped to use Bryan as a bridge to win Nicholas back, but that plan had failed miserably.
With a heavy heart, she responded, "I understand, Gibran. Our marriage is irreparable. Let's proceed with the divorce, as we both agreed. I hope we can find peace and happiness apart from each other."
Gibran nodded, acknowledging the decision. They had a long road ahead, with the divorce proceedings and healing from the wounds of their failed marriage. But it was a necessary step for both of them to move forward and find their own paths to happiness.
Bryan continued to explain the complex situation to Silvi, knowing that her understanding of the family dynamics was crucial for their future together. He said, "As you've gathered, my family's business empire revolves around Aditama Corporation. My father has always been obsessed with maintaining control over it, even manipulating data to ensure it all remains under his influence."
Silvi nodded, recalling the conversations she had overheard during her time at Bryan's home. The power struggles and family politics within the Aditama family had always been evident.
Bryan sighed, showing the weight of the situation. "With Alesya marrying Nicholas, that branch of the family is no longer directly involved in the business. And as for my younger brother, he has no interest in it either. That's why my father's focus shifted to me. But you know, I've always been more interested in the pursuit of wealth and success on my terms."
Silvi listened attentively, realizing the gravity of the situation. Bryan's father was determined to keep the company within his control, and she understood that it meant they couldn't stay in the current family-owned house for long.
Bryan continued, "Now that you and I are married, my father is willing to give us a chance. If we can prove ourselves and successfully manage a new branch of the business, he might consider letting go of his stronghold on the corporation."
Silvi raised an eyebrow, understanding the proposal. "So, you're suggesting that we take over a new business venture together, as a way to prove ourselves to your father?"
Bryan nodded. "Exactly. It won't be easy, and it comes with its own set of challenges. But it's a chance for us to secure our future and possibly gain my father's support. I want us to be a team, Silvi, and build our own success, independent of my family's legacy."
Silvi smiled, touched by Bryan's determination and his desire to create a future together. "I'm with you, Bryan. Let's take on this challenge together and build our own path to success. Whatever comes our way, we'll face it together."
As they embraced this new opportunity, Bryan and Silvi were ready to embark on a journey that would test their resilience, love, and partnership.
"So, since the finances are not enough to pay off all the debts, this land and house become an addition to paying off those debts."
"So after this, are we going to move from here?" Silvi asked, looking for solutions for her and Bryan's future, considering there are no more facilities or inheritance from both of their parents.
Bryan nodded. "It's okay, yes, because I really need to revive the company and cover the hospital bills for my father, which are not small."
"Of course, it's okay. As you know, I've been more comfortable staying in the flower shop than at home because I always feel like I'm being controlled as my father wishes. If you think living within our means is better than being burdened with a lot of debt, then I support everything you do."
"Thank you," Bryan said, raising Silvi's chin with his index finger. "So, how about it? Are you truly willing to accept me as your husband?"
Silvi smiled and replied, "Of course, if I weren't willing, I wouldn't be here, Mas." Silvi used the first name for Bryan, which made Bryan a bit embarrassed.
"So?"
Bryan raised his eyebrows.
Without a word, Silvi pulled Bryan's collar and kissed his lips.
***
Bryan and Silvi's life went well. Although they both didn't have feelings for each other initially, the marriage they embarked on was running just like any other.
Silvi also performed her duties as a homemaker in their new home, a fairly large rented house that Bryan had rented a few weeks ago. They moved there after Bryan successfully sold his luxurious house to save the company without interfering with Alesya's house and land in the village. Bryan understood that his responsibility as a director should not involve his sister's family life.
Since Nicholas and Alesya were now living in the village and had opened the third branch of Nicholas's restaurant, all the restaurants in the city were handed over to Nicholas's trusted people.
And Nicholas was now fully focused on Alesya's comfort and her pregnancy. Everything they planned was going well, so there were no more disturbances or disruptions to their married life.
The same went for Bryan, who was now living in the city with Silvi. Although it was just a simple rental house, their life was more than just happy. Even Silvi had opened a small flower shop in their front yard to increase their income.
Bryan also began to reorganize his company so it could shine as it used to. Meanwhile, Handoko and Mariana lived with Bryan and Silvi. Although Handoko could only lie in bed, Mariana remained faithful in taking care of him.
While helping Silvi in the flower shop. And occasionally, Mariana took Handoko to the village to visit Nicholas and Alesya, as a way to soothe her longing for her youngest son. And all of Handoko's medical expenses were covered by Nicholas entirely because Bryan's finances were still unstable. Moreover, now that Silvi was pregnant, Bryan had to prepare everything for the birth of their child.
Bryan and Nicholas both found happiness in their own ways. They found love unexpectedly. Nicholas found the love of his life through his sister's marriage since he married his own sister-in-law. Meanwhile, Bryan found his wife through Silvi's heartbreak after her failed marriage with Devin.
So, they ended up at the altar because of Silvi's accident, which led them to accept the destiny that had been written for them. Now, they could sail through their married life without any interference from anyone else, as Shabila was busy with her own pregnancy.
The woman was sure that the baby in her womb was not Bryan's child. Shabila believed that the baby she was carrying was Gibran's, leading to an agreement between them.
Gibran would marry her when Shabila gave birth to the baby, and a DNA test would be conducted. If the result was positive, they would marry; if it was negative, Gibran would not need to marry her. This agreement was also approved by Viska to maintain the integrity of her marriage. Because, to be honest, she couldn't live alone and be a young widow, which would undoubtedly invite negative judgment from all sides. To avoid this, while waiting for Shabila to give birth, Viska tried to improve herself and convince Gibran that she wanted to learn to love. That's why Gibran got back together with the woman who had always been in his heart.
Eight months later...
But the babies were born simultaneously. Nicholas welcomed the birth of his child, named Nara Arthayasa. The baby girl was born healthy. Alesya gave birth to a baby boy named Saka Arthayasa through a cesarean section in the same hospital as Silvi. The difference was that Silvi gave birth to a baby boy named Liam. There was no last name for the baby boy yet because she was waiting for the DNA test results to determine the father of the child.
As for Liam's birth, Shabila had not informed Gibran about it yet. Her plan was to tell him once she had received the DNA test results. True to her plan, eight days after Liam's birth, Shabila received the DNA test results. It confirmed her suspicion all along that Liam was indeed Gibran's child.
However, seeing the happiness in Gibran and Viska's marriage, and knowing that they were expecting a child together, Shabila decided not to disrupt their peaceful and harmonious life. So, without Viska's knowledge, she took Liam to Gibran's office.
"This is the result of our child's DNA test. It's positive; he's your child," Shabila said, handing a piece of paper to Gibran. He stared at the result on the paper, his heart pounding, fearing that Shabila would demand him to fulfill their agreement from a few months ago.
"Don't be afraid of me. I didn't come here to hold you accountable, but..." Shabila handed Liam to Gibran.
"What do you mean?" he asked, puzzled as Shabila handed him the baby.
"His name is Liam. I haven't added your last name to it because I realize he was born out of wedlock. That's why I came here. I want to ask you to acknowledge him and register his name as part of your family so that he has a legal identity in the eyes of the law. As for your responsibility, you don't need to marry me. Just raise my son. A son who shares your blood. I promise you I won't disturb your marriage or your life with Viska. But I beg you to bestow your love upon Liam. That's the name I've given him. And I won't ever appear in your lives again; I'll leave this country with my parents.
However, if someday I come back here, allow me to meet Liam, and I swear I'll never reveal my true identity to him," Shabila said as she quickly got up from her seat, before hearing Gibran's response.
"Shabila! Wait! What do you mean? Please explain..."
"My meaning is clear, Gibran. Please raise him as you would raise your own child someday. And I pray that your marriage with Viska goes the way you desire."
Shabila quickly bid farewell.
Gibran wanted to chase after Shabila and stop her, but it was impossible, especially since he was carrying the baby. This was the first time he had done so, and he feared that in his pursuit of Shabila, something might happen to Liam.
Gibran didn't know what to say. On one hand, he was happy that he had a child without having to marry Shabila and betray Viska. On the other hand, he felt guilty for causing Shabila more confusion.
"What should your father do?" Gibran tightened his lips. "Liam Andeska!"
Liam's last name was officially given as Andeska, according to Shabila's wishes. Gibran hoped that Shabila would find a better life and happiness out there.
Chelsea let out a soft sigh. Her lips pursed, and she stirred the cold mochaccino in the tall glass. She seemed to be discussing her parents with her friend, Indri.Taking advantage of their lunch break, Chelsea used the time to seek advice. It was something she always did when her mother was caught having another affair, again!"Cheating again?" Indri interjected, leaning back in her chair. She seemed weary of Chelsea's recurring issues. She was tired of dealing with the problems Chelsea faced, and tired of trying to prevent her friend's mother from seeking another lover.Even though Chelsea's father was still alive, albeit in poor health, their family had been struggling since then. Financial difficulties, her father's declining health, and her mother's infidelity had started to affect their household. It began with dwindling finances, Chelsea's father's worsening health, and her mother's affair, driven by her desire to find a wealthy man to satisfy her socialite aspirations.Accust
But if she didn't show up, she wouldn't be able to reel Carlos in for a meeting. Chelsea was weighing her options on how to save her parents' marriage and fund her father's medical treatment."Yeah, Dad, what is it?" Chelsea greeted at the other end of the call as her phone rang. Her father was calling her.“C-chelsea …”"Hello, Dad. What's up?""Can you come home, dear?""I'll be home soon, Dad!" Chelsea hurriedly ended the call. No need for many questions; her father's heavy and intermittent voice could explain the situation at home.Chelsea rushed to the parking lot, riding her old scooter to leave the café area and catch up with her father. Unbeknownst to her, her actions had negative consequences on her job. Despite only having worked at the café for a month, she had somehow managed to leave without seeking permission from the café's management.This resulted in a stream of complaints from her co-workers as Chelsea left suddenly, especially since her break time had already ended.
Chelsea sat in front of her vanity table, gazing at her swollen face that had just stopped crying. Witnessing and hearing her parents' arguments, which always seemed to fill her days, was taking its toll on her. Life was becoming more complicated by the day.Chelsea closed her eyes, the echoes of her mother's shouts replaying in her mind."I don't care anymore, Tomas. You have to divorce me right now!" Margareth, her mother, demanded a divorce from her father. She couldn't bear to continue living a life of poverty like this.Meanwhile, Chelsea had been working tirelessly to help support her mother's presence. It wasn't that Chelsea was afraid of her mother leaving home, but she didn't want the woman who was so beloved by her father to go, which would only worsen Tomas's condition. Margareth had been Chelsea's father's main source of support and encouragement all this time. Chelsea didn't quite understand why."I can't give you a divorce yet," Tomas whispered, still hoping to salvage h
Chelsea slumped onto the bed, tossing her bag in any direction. She was truly frustrated with herself at the moment, recalling the recent events she had gone through with Carlos.Chelsea also despised and disgusted herself for willingly selling herself to that man. Several times she cursed herself and apologized to her father for her foolishness. If only Carlos hadn't stopped her earlier, she wouldn't be at home right now, but under the covers catering to all of Carlos's desires.However, the man had been kind enough to give her time to reconsider. Whether to become a sugar baby or a daughter-in-law."Indri, what should I do?" Chelsea sighed as Indri answered her call."What now?" Indri asked. "You come back from a date and instead of sharing good news, you're complaining like this. Why? Is Carlos not as handsome as his photo or...""No, it's not that. Carlos actually looks even more handsome and youthful in person.""Well, if he looks better than his photo, that's a good thing. It me
5"There's a burst blood vessel in his head that needs to be addressed immediately, requiring a blood transfusion and surgery as soon as possible," a man dressed in all white explained to Chelsea after examining Tomas."The surgery needs to be done soon, Doctor?" Chelsea inquired, repeating the information."Correct, and to proceed with the surgery, you must register first. You'll also need to sign a consent form for the surgical procedure before it's performed. Additionally, you'll need to pay half of the total cost upfront since Mr. Tomas doesn't have any insurance or similar health coverage."Chelsea nodded slowly. "Approximately, how much is the upfront payment?" she asked weakly, although she couldn't really question this because she was aware that she didn't have the funds to bring her father to the operating table."Around $10,000 in total. $5,000 for the upfront payment, which includes blood and medications up until the completion of the surgery."Chelsea tried to keep her fac
6"Earlier, my motorcycle key fell and accidentally got kicked. It slid under Uncle's desk," Chelsea explained, rubbing her neck, hoping Carlos would believe her."Oh, I thought you were hiding from someone. If it's just about the motorcycle key, alright then. Please come in, let's discuss it inside!" Carlos invited Chelsea to enter first.He closed the door to his office again. He didn't want anyone to overhear their conversation since it was a private matter."So, how is it? Have you thought about your options? Do you want to be my sugar baby or my daughter-in-law?" Carlos repeated his question from yesterday, even though Chelsea had already mentioned that she needed a lot of money right now.Judging from Carlos's offer yesterday, he should know which offer would yield more money."I'll be your daughter-in-law, Uncle, and I'll do my best to seduce Vano. Luckily, Vano is my senior at campus, so it will be easy to get close to him."Carlos nodded. "A surprisingly fortunate coincidence
7Chelsea awfully realized that her mother's indifference wasn't just shown during her father's life, as she considered him a burden.But Chelsea was wrong. Even after her father's passing, her mother still didn't care about him. So, when the funeral took place, Chelsea had to handle everything on her own. Fortunately, she had the check that Carlos had given her, which enabled her to settle and immediately pay off the hospital bills.Even though the surgery didn't happen, Chelsea still needed that money because she didn't have any siblings, and there was no help from her mother. She had to go through everything alone until her father's burial.At the hospital yesterday, Chelsea had wanted to demand answers from her mother since it was her actions that led to Tomas's illnesses.However, Chelsea realized that she had no power, so she decided to seek revenge in a different way. Not just any revenge, but one that her mother would truly feel. The pain had to be double the pain that her fat
8"So, what are you going to do after this?" Indri wiped the tears from Chelsea's cheeks. Though she couldn't chase away Chelsea's sadness, Indri's presence managed to provide some solace."I don't know, In.""It's okay not to know. But please don't do anything foolish. Your life is still long, and don't disappoint your father."Rubbing Chelsea's back, Indri continued, "Oh, by the way, was that Carlos earlier? What was he doing here?""I don't know. He said he came here out of his human nature. But I don't believe it. He can't be a good person.""Why do you feel that way?""Because he offered me a job and asked for money that...""Please find all the documents mentioned on this paper!"Both Chelsea and Indri turned their heads toward the voice that gave the order. They were both equally surprised to see who it was."I can't stay here for long. There are many things that need to be done, and I request your cooperation."Chelsea forced a smile. "Is it because you want to take care of th
Gibran continued, "As for our divorce, I've already agreed to it. We'll proceed with the legal process, and you'll be free to start a new chapter in your life. I hope you find the happiness you deserve."The conversation between Viska and Gibran marked the beginning of the end of their tumultuous marriage. While their emotions were still raw, they had come to a mutual understanding that it was time to move on and seek happiness elsewhere.Gibran's frustration and pent-up emotions poured out as he defended his actions. He felt betrayed by Viska, who had consistently pushed him away and made unfavorable comparisons with Nicholas. Their relationship had become a battleground of insecurities, and Gibran had sought solace with Shabila.Viska's accusations stung, but Gibran was determined to make her understand the context of his actions. He continued, "Viska, I don't want to justify what I did, but it was a result of our broken marriage. We both contributed to its downfall. I needed someth
190"Also," Bryan paused, kissing Silvi's lips briefly."Don't forget that the night we were together, I can assure you, it's my child."Silvi shook her head. "It's not Devin's child. Do you think after that night, I didn't do anything with other men? Did you really think that night was the only time someone touched me? No, there have been many other nights with so many men because I felt like I wasn't pure anymore. So I was free to do it with anyone since my life was already a mess.""S-so... instead of slightly more ruining myself, and the last time it was done to me was by Devin. That's why he's willing to take responsibility. He's also convinced that this is his child."Bryan let out a bitter laugh, releasing Silvi from his embrace. "Is that so?" He loosened his tie, which had felt suffocating after hearing Silvi's explanation. "Let's prove that what you said is true." He took off the suit jacket that clung to his body.“W-what are you doing?” Silvi stepped back. Hugging her own b
189"No way! I won't leave until I meet Gibran. He has to take responsibility for this child," Shabila insisted, refusing to budge. She held onto Viska and stood her ground."Leave, I said! Go!"Viska couldn't bear Shabila's stubbornness and forcefully pulled her arm, nearly causing Shabila to stumble."What's wrong with you!" Shabila pushed away Viska's hand and fixed her disheveled hair. "Are you afraid your husband's actions will be known to your parents? Or is it that you refuse to accept the truth?" Shabila began to rant."I don't understand what you're saying. Now leave!" Viska demanded."Wait, Viska! Mom wants to ask this woman something." Viska's mother restrained her daughter and turned to Shabila. "Why did you let my granddaughter get pregnant? Don't you know he's already married? What do you want from us? Money?"Shabila seethed with anger. Her dignity felt insulted when the middle-aged woman mentioned money."Do you think I'm a lowly woman who just surrenders her body to a
188Shabila spent the whole day in frustration, angry that she couldn't meet Gibran at his cafe. She paced back and forth in her room, thinking of ways to meet him."Do you think you can avoid me forever? You won't be able to, Gibran. I have to make you take responsibility for the child I'm carrying. You won't be able to escape. Just wait and see."Shabila clenched her fists, planning a thousand ways to meet Gibran. "If I can't find you at the cafe, I'll come to your house. Let's see if you can still avoid me," she muttered to herself.Gibran decided to visit the club where he had met Shabila some time ago. He had a bad feeling about Shabila's visit to his cafe and wanted to find out what had really happened between them that night. Honestly, Gibran didn't remember much because he had been heavily intoxicated that night.Upon arriving at the club, Gibran called one of the waitresses and conveyed his request to meet with the club's owner."I'd like to discuss something important with y
187"What brand would you like, Miss?" The employee asked while displaying several different brands of pregnancy tests.Shabila looked puzzled, which only fueled the employee's suspicions. "Is this your first time buying a pregnancy test?" she guessed with a condescending glance."Y-yes," Shabila replied hesitantly. Seeing the employee looking down on her, Shabila's heart began to boil. "I am already married, just so you know. Here's my ID," she said abruptly, opening her wallet and showing her ID card, which still stated her marital status as MARRIED. Her divorce from Arya was only religious; it wasn't legally recognized yet.Seeing the ID placed on the counter, the pharmacy employee became flustered. She was torn between embarrassment and guilt. "I'm s-sorry, Miss, I didn't mean to—""It's fine, I understand!" Shabila retorted sharply, then pointed towards the pregnancy tests. "So, which one is the best?" she asked.She deliberately didn't want to prolong the issue since she wanted
186Several days had passed, and today was the ceremonial bath event for Silvi. Everything was well-prepared, and the guests were moved by the event, which was expertly guided by the paid organizers, arranged by Silvi's parents. Silvi's large family wore matching light green kebaya, while Devin's family, who were present, wore light blue kebaya. The event was conducted with great solemnity, and Silvi looked beautiful despite wearing makeup that wasn't too flashy.This ceremony included many symbols and motifs that served as lessons or guidelines for the couple, influencing their married life. These symbols or motifs mainly conveyed advice and useful insights for the newlyweds' life together. That's why Mama Silvi insisted on holding the ceremonial bath event, even though Silvi and Devin had been married before.In addition to the food ordered for the guests and relatives, the organizers had prepared specific dishes usually served during this ceremonial bath event. These included tumpe
185Meanwhile, Silvi and Devin listened to the doctor's explanations during the examination. Silvi's pregnancy was already at three weeks. The doctor prescribed vitamins and anti-nausea medication since Silvi mentioned she often felt dizzy and nauseous. Devin didn't ask any questions because it was his first time in a obstetrician's office. He was confused about how to react. Silvi was the one who asked all the questions.Silvi got her next appointment scheduled, and then they left. Devin and Silvi went to the hospital's pharmacy to pick up the prescribed medicines first. Then, Devin asked Silvi where she wanted to go."I don't know. I just feel like lying down in my room.""Why's that? Don't you want to go out together?" Devin asked softly. They were now in the car. "How about having ice cream and buying some new sleepwear for you?""What's the point of buying sleepwear?""Because you're pregnant, and I want you to sleep comfortably. How about it?""I don't want to," Silvi said, maki
184As a father, whose heart wouldn't break upon learning that his daughter is pregnant with no official partner by her side? He felt like a terrible father, willing to do anything as long as the man who impregnated his daughter, Silvi, would take responsibility.Pregnancy is never an easy journey for a woman, especially without a husband by her side. The man Silvi referred to as the father finally decided to find Devin, the man who should be held accountable for what happened to Silvi. He took a taxi to Devin's whereabouts, hoping that he would indeed be there. Impatiently sitting in the taxi, the weary-looking man, no longer in his youth, stared at his phone screen. The journey from the city to the village was quite long, which was why he opted for a taxi. Besides, he didn't want any unpleasant conversations about Silvi if he had brought his driver along.Fortunately, he found out about Silvi's pregnancy before it was too late, or who knows what might have happened. He sighed wearil
183Nicholas didn't want anything to happen to their unborn child. So, he tried his best to grant her wishes. Besides, Alesya's request was relatively easy to fulfill, and it had been quite some time since they had visited her hometown."Are you happy?" Nicholas asked.Alesya turned and nodded. "I've really missed my hometown. As nice as it is to live in the city, the hometown is the number one place to visit," Alesya replied. "Besides, all my childhood memories are buried there."Hearing Alesya's response, Nicholas could only smile. He, who had lived in the city since childhood, never experienced life in the village. So, he didn't fully understand what Alesya meant. In his mind, Alesya might just miss the peaceful atmosphere of the village because the city was quite noisy."Get some rest; I'll wake you up when we arrive," Nicholas said after a moment of silence."Okay."Alesya adjusted her seating position to make herself more comfortable. She also slightly reclined her seat to make