(Six months have passed)
Calysta gazes at her wedding album with a bright smile. She's collected several articles discussing how the wedding was arranged. Also, photos that she thinks she can use to show off who she is now.
"You look stunning in that dress, Calysta," Giselle says with a thin smile. She comes with her three friends. Giselle wears a dress specifically for this occasion—as the bride's companion. While the other two friends are equally stunning.
"Thank you. I really appreciate you guys coming." Calysta hugs Giselle without hesitation. As if showing to the guests there that she is indeed worthy of being friends with them, the upper-class socialites.
Even when Harvey and Ursula convey their congratulations. Calysta doesn't hesitate to share her joy, asking the journalists who come to report more about them. Also, some guests who are important for her new status existence.
Jane Oliver? She came with the three models earlier, but Cal
"I refuse," says Jane, crossing her arms. Although her body leans comfortably on the sofa layered with thin wool, her gaze is sharp as she faces her interlocutor."I knew you'd say that." The man in front of her laughs. "But, Olive," he casually takes out a cigarette from his pocket, lighting it immediately and taking a slow drag, exhaling the smoke. Regardless of the lounge in the hotel now appearing full of smoke. "You can't easily refuse this.""The compensation issue? I think Brina can tell you how much money I've gathered."Fabian laughs even more. "Oh my, our supermodel can boast now."Jane rolls her eyes in annoyance. "Come on, this isn't a small matter, Fabian. I don't want to be associated with Goojoo again.""I understand that very well, Olive." This time, Fabian puts his cigarette in the ashtray. Letting the butt burn itself out. He really needs to talk seriously about this. "Ursula doesn't want to continue the collaboration. Rumors swir
Calysta feels a bit weird about Kate's departure this time. The woman looks happy and even smiled at her during breakfast. But ever since she moved in, Kate has always been antagonistic and avoided conversations with her."Is something bothering you?" Austin asks, now seated at his spot. The dinner table is filled with tonight's offerings."No, nothing," says Calysta with a sweet smile. She quickly fetches a few dishes for her husband, occasionally asking if Austin's portion is enough for tonight. Once satisfied, they eat peacefully. Not much is said, but Calysta's mind is filled with many questions, especially about Kate's change in behavior."You're not listening to me, Honey?" Austin asks, wiping the corner of his lips. He intentionally made his portion small this time. Not because he's not hungry, but because his work isn't a hundred percent done yet. Usually, he doesn't bring work home. But lately, there have been enough complaints to give him a headache.
Jane settles comfortably on the long sofa right by the large glass window. The view she can enjoy is of Yazeran at night. The first time she came to this place, partly sandy and the heat was enough to limit her movements, Jane fell in love. With the ethnic lines on clothing and ornaments found in almost every public building there.And because of that, most of the souvenirs from Yazeran in her hands are woven cloth, each with its own characteristics as a marker that the fabric is a souvenir from the desert region. Under Giselle's creative hands, the fabric becomes a comfortable dress that makes Jane feel close to Yazeran.It's also the dress she wears for dinner with Fabian tonight. It's not unusual for Jane to hear praise from the man. And his annoying, almost nauseating behavior towards her, Jane can't just shake him off. The man always finds a way to put Jane back under his control.Including now. Where Jane occupies the suite at the famous Paradise hotel in
"Thanks for helping out," Kate says with a slight smile. "And your homemade cookies are getting better."Danisa pouts. "I even went out of my way to dive straight into the kitchen. Why does it still feel like something's missing?" But then she laughs. "Guess the kitchen just isn't my forte.""You're right," Kate says, immersed in the laughter created by her friend. "Send my regards to Jane. Who knows when we'll get to enjoy her dishes."Kate gently rubs Danisa's shoulder. "You're not alone in feeling that way, Danisa. I feel the same.""Especially you, Kate," Danisa says with a thin smile. "Are you really okay with everything that's happened? You know, not talking to you somewhat tortures me. That woman is way out of line treating her own mother-in-law like that.""I never considered her as a member of the Don William family," Kate chuckles. "Don't worry, I can still hold my own. As long as my silence is seen as foolishness and helplessness in Caly
Austin asks his assistant to double-check the financial reports and requests that came in until last week. Who knows, the answers he needs might be there. Last night, he couldn't finish the rest of his work. Instead, he sat by the window, scrolling through social media and news about his ex-wife.There isn't a single news item that directly bothers him. Even the dinner party where Austin crossed paths with Jane twice didn't make it to the media. No, Austin doesn't believe what he sees because he knows for sure there's someone pulling the strings behind the scenes.Isn't that good? Their divorce isn't being sensationalized in the news, which would drag him down. Austin doesn't like being involved in the world of celebrities. Most of them just need big names to climb to the top."I don't really care how she rises as long as she doesn't bother me. But Jacob's words from some time ago proved to be true." He compares Jacob's report with separate files. Many compariso
"According to a source Mommy trusts, there has been some debate about the ongoing marketing. Although some big shots at Goojoo know who you are, Jane, but since this is already outside of Goojoo, you're considered someone who works independently and can provide their own benefits."Kate's explanation in front of Jane and Fabian does make sense."But this is too coincidental, right?" Jane asks, sighing softly. "Maybe if it were targeting Giselle or Harvey, I personally wouldn't have too many suspicions."Kate nods, understanding the concerns of the woman in front of her. When the car carrying them stops at one of the tall buildings in downtown Yazeran, the person Kate doesn't really want to meet welcomes them. With a mischievous grin and an overly relaxed demeanor.Although they've known each other for quite some time, but still, when she remembers their conversation, that night when they accidentally met at Jane's house, annoyance reigns in Kate's heart a
"How's it going?" Samantha asks, a little excited. They're enjoying some time in the midst of what's actually a pretty busy schedule. But for Samantha, being here with a cup of coffee she likes and some snacks as company, it's all good. After all, Sams Group has been buzzing since the woman in front of her got involved.That's why Samantha won't easily let go of the woman who's now part of her family."I've tried to persuade Austin," Calysta sighs softly. "But it seems my persuasion skills still aren't enough. He just said he'll think about it.""Have you given him the best reason?" Samantha chuckles softly. "Usually, when you give that reason, even a tough guy like Austin won't be able to resist.""I have." Calysta's shoulders slump even more. "But it's okay. I'll wait patiently for his decision. I'm sure he won't be able to refuse me that easily."Samantha nods confidently. "No problem. While having an assistant helps me, since this position is j
Frustration builds up, fists clenched, and Austin curses under his breath, but still, the outcome remains the same. It hasn't been resolved quickly. Checking various parts takes quite some time. But still, as long as Goojoo is in his hands, and as long as he's under his father's supervision, there hasn't been a problem like this before.Plus, with what's going on, related to the project he recently got. He's already cautioned the staff involved in the project to concentrate more because the number they'll be producing is much higher than last year. There's trust, but there's also hard work to prove they're capable."Still no word from Richard?" Austin asks, sitting roughly in his oversized chair. It's been the second day since the bad news hit him through email. He couldn't just take it easy then. He acts quickly, and one of them is asking Richard to check there in person.I don't know what his trusted man is doing in Yazeran, but one thing is clear, the distanc