"Ashton, I implore you. Marry my sister."At that moment, Ashton shook his head repeatedly. Instead of accepting Miranda's offer to marry her sister again, he adamantly rejected his wife's request.Ashton Wolf, a man working as a contractor and lecturer, had officially married Miranda Stone, a designer, just three months ago. Despite knowing from the beginning, before deciding to marry, that Miranda was suffering from stage four brain gland cancer, he chose to maintain the relationship and make her being his wife.However, Miranda's condition had worsened over time, and she was currently hospitalized. Worried about leaving Ashton alone and with no one to care for him, Miranda asked her husband to marry her sister, especially since Alice was also an orphan, with no one to care for her."No. I don't want to!" Ashton flatly refused. "Besides, why should I marry Alice? I love you, Miranda, not someone else.""Ashton... Alice is my sister. Besides, I can't make you happy. I am seriously il
"What?! Marry Ashton?""Yes. I beg you, please marry and become Ashton's wife after I'm gone."Alice shook her head repeatedly. Just arriving at the hospital, she was already confronted with an unreasonable request.Last night, after returning from class, Miranda contacted Alice. The woman, six years older than Alice, asked her to come to the hospital immediately.In essence, Miranda and Alice were just stepsiblings. Alice was originally the baby brought by Rauf Alfarezi when he married Fatima, Miranda's mother, who had been a widow for a long time.Being cared for together made Miranda cherish Alice as a real sister. Until Fatima passed away, Alice stayed with Miranda, as Rauf himself disappeared, leaving the two of them behind.During last night's phone call, Miranda asked Alice to come quickly, claiming she had something important to discuss. Alice had no idea and never expected that her sister would suddenly ask her to marry her brother-in-law upon arriving at the hospital room."
Ashton was truly overwhelmed by sadness. On the fourth day after Miranda's departure, he still seemed to linger in the atmosphere of mourning. Many family members had tried to console him, but Ashton appeared to continue closing himself off. It was as if Miranda's departure had truly shattered his life.He couldn't even bring himself to start the day for work. Engaging in even the slightest activities, he seemed completely devoid of enthusiasm. It was as if the center of life within Ashton had suddenly stopped rotating forcibly."Ashton, how long are you going to be like this? It's not good to linger in sadness for too long," Zein expressed his deep concern. Never before had he seen his son so deeply distressed."Mama is sure that Miranda wouldn't want you to mourn her like this," Hana added. Alongside her husband, she tried to make Ashton understand and put an end to his grief. After all, there was no benefit in sinking too deep into sorrow."From the beginning, I knew that Miranda
Upon the departure of her sister and to avoid unnecessary back-and-forths during mourning events, Hana asked Alice to stay at Ashton's house for a few days.Feeling that her time was sufficient, and also not wanting to overstay her welcome at her late brother-in-law's house, Alice decided to bid farewell. Moreover, she had many tasks and responsibilities to attend to.Since Ashton's parents happened to be staying there as well, Alice chose to say her goodbyes before leaving. She wanted to express her gratitude for the hospitality she received during her stay."Aunt. Uncle..." Alice greeted as she approached Hana and Zein, who were sitting in the living room. "I want to say goodbye for now."Hana and Zein both looked up, offering warm smiles in response to Alice's words."Why the rush?"Alice smiled politely and shook her head. She didn't want to overstay her welcome, and there were academic and work responsibilities waiting for her."I have to leave because there are matters I need to
Alice looked down shyly. In front of her, Hana Syanaz was busy sorting through and selecting clothes for her to wear later.Like Ashton's previous statement, today the birth mother of the man came to pick up Alice and even helped pack her belongings. Instead of taking Alice straight home to Ashton's residence, Hana made a detour to one of the famous boutiques.Alice thought that the mother-in-law of her late stepbrother stopped by intentionally because she wanted to buy clothes or was looking for something.However, Alice's assumption was completely wrong. As soon as they entered the boutique, she found out that Hana was actually looking for clothes for Alice to wear in the solemnization ceremony.Yes, Alice had to be aware. Once again, quoting Ashton's words from last night, whether they liked it or not, the two of them had to prepare because the day after tomorrow, they would soon be getting married, as promised to the late Miranda."Alice.""Alice Ashborne."The baritone voice of t
Ashton occasionally appeared to be a little bow-headed. Taking deep breaths repeatedly, the man tried to dispel the nervousness that now enveloped him, filling him. Even though this wasn't his first experience getting married. Moreover, despite the tagline of no love involved, he couldn't deceive himself that the nervous feeling still haunted him.Meanwhile, right beside him, sat El Rumi. The sharp-nosed man occasionally engaged Ashton in conversation. Intentionally teasing. The aim was to keep his older brother from being too tense through each step of the wedding process unfolding tonight."Just relax. Don't keep your face all tense and nervous like that. Just treat it like replacing a dry towel. Besides, you're a Pro, meaning you have experience with marriage, right?"Ashton immediately looked up, then turned. Staring sharply, then putting on a slightly annoyed expression. It seemed unfair that his younger brother called him a pro at marriage. Did they think he had been married mul
"Should I go to the room first? Alone?"After being instructed by his siblings and cousins to rest immediately, Ashton immediately invited Alice to go to his room. Instead of continuing to be the subject of ridicule, he'd rather avoid it altogether. Otherwise, the temptations and teasing from his cousins could be even worse than before.However, as he was about to climb the stairs to the second floor, the tall and handsome man stopped in his tracks. Once again, his name was called, this time coming from his father who asked him to bid farewell to distant relatives who were about to leave."Yeah. Why? You scared?" Ashton turned around. His eyes coldly met the gaze of the woman who was now his wife. "You heard Abi calling me just now, right?""No, it's not like that." Alice quickly shook her head. She was just asking. Why was Ashton getting so touchy?"So what's the problem then? Or do you want me to carry you to the room?"Alice blinked. She was momentarily surprised by her husband's b
Alice feels like she just wants to escape from campus. She remembers well that today there's a schedule where Ashton will be teaching at her campus. Previously, when she was still his sister-in-law, Alice was just relaxed. Despite rarely, and even hardly ever, exchanging greetings outside of academic matters, she didn't care much about Ashton's presence or his cold demeanor towards the students. But now, especially after yesterday's incident, Alice feels traumatized. She's even afraid of meeting or facing her husband. Imagine. After shouting at her and making her cry, Ashton didn't apologize at all. He even acted casually, as if nothing had happened between them. The man even went as far as giving a warning which made Alice feel uncomfortable again."Never dare to touch something that doesn't belong to you. If I catch you damaging property again in the future, not only will you change rooms, I might even consider moving you out of this house."Alice thought, after marriage, her husba
"Ashton, why are you crying?" Her voice was unmistakably weak and slightly hoarse. Like someone just waking from a deep sleep, Alice clearly struggled to gather her strength to address Ashton, who had just released her from his embrace and was now busy kissing the tops of her wrists.Alice blinked repeatedly. Overwhelmed with a dizzying sensation, she tried to compose herself. After closing her eyes briefly, she finally mustered the courage to throw another question at her husband, who had been silent since she first opened her eyes."Ashton... why are you just silent? A-Are you seriously ill? Or did the doctor say I don't have much time left?"Ashton actually wanted to laugh. But he refrained from doing so. The overwhelming emotion enveloping his heart right now was more dominant than anything else."I'm fine," Ashton finally replied. He looked at Alice with a gaze that was hard to interpret. "How are you feeling? Are you feeling better?"Alice sighed audibly. She was annoyed that in
Alice was still wearing her pajamas while cooking and preparing breakfast for Ashton. Since he requested fried rice with sausage last night, Alice was now busy in front of the stove, making the dish her husband loves.Without needing assistance from the helper, Alice skillfully added all the ingredients. For her, preparing breakfast was a crucial activity she had to do herself. She hoped that what she cooked and served would delight Ashton's taste buds and motivate him for all his work today.Concentrating on cooking, Alice didn't notice her surroundings. She didn't even realize when Ashton approached until his strong arms clearly pulled her body and hugged her from behind."You're so serious. I've been calling you, but you didn't respond."Alice laughed without turning towards Ashton."I was focused on cooking, Honey. Sorry if I didn't hear you.""You're forgiven. Good thing I love you."Alice clicked her tongue and laughed."Alright, wait at the table. It's almost done and ready to
Alice appeared silent. Her eyes were busy gazing at the row of bottles filled with various kinds of medicines and vitamins that she had bought some time ago when she went to the obstetrician.It was all because of Aunt Hilda. The old woman, who was always so critical and nosy, had managed to provoke Alice and ultimately made her decide to go with Ashton to the obstetrician."From the series of examinations that you've undergone, there doesn't seem to be any issues or problems with your pregnancy. Everything is normal. No diseases or abnormalities were detected."Dr. Agatha was the specialist Alice chose to check on her pregnancy condition. After conducting a series of tests and examinations, it was confirmed that Alice and Ashton were in good health."So, Mr. Ashton himself also doesn't have any issues.""But... why am I not pregnant yet, doctor?"Although she had been assured that everything was fine, Alice was still worried. She was curious if there was something they had missed or
Maybe it's luck or maybe it's misfortune. Just a few minutes ago, Rumi flat-out rejected his mother's suggestion to find him a wife or arrange a marriage with a woman she had chosen.Rumi's pride was seriously wounded. Imagine, he is already thirty years old. Not a child who needs everything chosen for him. Is it really necessary to follow his mother's wishes all the time?Just think, from school, lessons, extracurricular activities, choosing a favorite college, to picking a major, Rumi followed everything. Even though he never dreamed of becoming an architect like his brother.From a young age, Rumi had a talent for music and leaned more towards the arts. He even dreamed of becoming a model or an artist. It would be a waste not to make full use of his handsome face.However, his dreams had to be shattered. Instead of being supported, both of his parents wanted him to follow in his brother's footsteps. Also, why was Ashton so annoying since they were kids? Always being the role model
If you pay close attention, since becoming Ashton Wolf's wife, Alice has attended countless events hosted by her husband's extended family. From post-wedding receptions, birthdays, anniversaries, welcoming distant relatives, festive gatherings, achievement celebrations, social gatherings, and tonight, Alice even has to accompany Ashton to a family dinner.Actually, Alice enjoys attending such family gatherings. Besides strengthening relationships and gaining new relatives, she can become closer to and familiar with the many members of Ahmad's extended family. However, there are some things that sometimes make Alice reluctant and a bit unwilling to attend, especially when Aunt Hilda is there, always butting into every conversation."Why aren't you getting ready?" Ashton asked as he exited the bathroom. He walked towards the closet, then chose the clothes he would wear to the event soon."Can't I just stay home?" Alice sat on the side of the bed, her face clearly showing her reluctance.
"With this, the court has decided that Ms. Anggia is sentenced to five years in prison, with six months deducted for psychiatric rehabilitation, on charges of attempted murder and assault."After more than a month of various investigations, Anggia's sentence was finally decided.In the courtroom, the woman, who looked beautiful in a white shirt and black pants, initially appeared calm. Throughout the trial, Anggia even smiled several times.However, upon hearing the sentencing verdict, Anggia suddenly screamed hysterically. She lost control and started to lash out, refusing to accept the decision."This isn't fair!" Anggia shouted. Two officers approached, trying to calm her down and keep her from falling to the floor."Calm down, ma'am."Anggia turned and glared sharply before shouting again."Ma'am... ma'am... I'm not your mother! Do I look so old that you'd call me 'ma'am'?""Okay, please calm down, Ms. Anggia."Anggia looked displeased. She tried to break free, writhing to escape
It didn't take long for Ashton to return to work. After ten days of recovery, today he truly started all his activities as usual.Knowing her husband was so enthusiastic about getting back to work, Alice gave him incredible support. Since early morning, she had been busy in the kitchen preparing several breakfast dishes for her and Ashton."Are we having a party?" Ashton asked as he entered the dining room. He didn't know Alice had cooked this much. "There's a lot of breakfast food."Alice, who had just finished cooking, walked to the table carrying several plates of food. Turning to her husband, she smiled."No, honey. It's not a party. I just cooked a lot to celebrate you starting work again. So you can be full and energetic at the office."Ashton took a step forward. Spreading his arms, he hugged Alice tightly."You're so sweet, my wife.""Of course! I've always been, right? You're just realizing it now."Ashton laughed. It wasn't new for Alice to tease him. Typical of a woman, why
"Sweetheart... why are you crying?"Ashton's consciousness had fully returned. After being examined for a while and confirmed to be in good condition, the medical team and other family members gave him some time to be alone with his wife.Inside the treatment room, Ashton turned slowly. He found Alice sitting there, holding his right hand tightly.Upon closer inspection, he noticed his wife's eyes were swollen and puffy. Ashton was sure it was from crying too much and not getting enough sleep."I'm awake now. You should be happy, not crying. Besides, why stay sad when happiness is free.""I know," Alice replied softly. "I'm like this because I missed you so much," she murmured, her voice trembling. Soon, tears fell down her cheeks again.Anyone would be moved. Just imagine, after two days of uncertain feelings—fear, worry—about something bad happening to her husband. And now, after a long wait, Alice's prayers, along with those of their family, were answered by God.Ashton, who had be
"Zayn, Hana, from the bottom of our hearts, we both apologize for what Anggia has done."Frans and Celine are Anggia's parents. They came to the hospital specifically to visit Ashton and apologize for their daughter's bad behavior and the chaos she has caused in the past few days.Frans was clearly embarrassed. His relationship with Zayn's extended family had always been very good, and now, everything was at risk of being ruined because of Anggia's reckless actions, which no one had predicted.Everyone knew Anggia as a good person. She was smart, independent, and accomplished. Frans was very proud of his only daughter.Frans knew that Anggia had liked Ashton for a long time. Because of her love for Ashton, Anggia had once asked for permission to change her religion so their relationship could go more smoothly.As a father, Frans initially disagreed. But seeing Anggia's strong determination, he couldn't bear to refuse and gave her permission to choose her own faith.However, if God say