Tera lay there, helpless, on the king-sized bed in the hotel room she occupied.The woman remained completely still, only crying silently as she felt the brutality of Sebastian's actions.Her body ached everywhere as Sebastian's hands didn't just touch her, but pressed, squeezed, and slapped her with overflowing passion. Even Tera couldn't salvage her beautiful red dress, which was now torn and tattered everywhere. The lovely gown had been treated with such barbarity that there was no hope of saving it.This was the first time Tera had experienced Sebastian's true anger, anger mixed with desire. It was a combination that left her defeated.Tera cried in silence, too tired to plead with her husband any longer. Not a single plea had pierced his ears or mind. Not a single rejection had halted his brutality.Mrs. Lim covered her tear-stained face with both hands as Sebastian forcefully tried to enter her. He was so focused on his efforts that he didn't notice his wife's trembling, which wa
They descended from their private plane, perfectly parked on the runway of the international airport in the capital of Indonesia. Sebastian and Tera disembarked separately, with the man briskly walking ahead of his wife.They hadn't spoken since that tragic night. Both were preoccupied with their own activities and thoughts. Neither made an effort to break the ice, talk to each other, or even make eye contact, especially Tera, who intentionally avoided being close to her husband.Proximity to Sebastian always filled her with fear. His forcefulness and roughness in the hotel room had left emotional scars on Tera, making her fragile and filled with trauma.Tera didn't want to relive those nightmares and preferred to steer clear of any closeness or risk of being together with him. Even when they departed for the hospital where Mrs. Herlinda was being treated, they chose to ride in separate sedan cars. Tera sat in the back while Sebastian occupied the front car. They truly seemed like stra
"How was the chemo?" Sebastian kissed and held his mother's hand after she had just finished a grueling chemotherapy session. Her face was pale and weak from the challenging sessions she had endured."Fine, Son. Everything's gonna be okay. Don't worry too much!"Herlinda Sihombing's only son closed his eyes and rested his cheek on the back of his mother's hand. Sebastian couldn't hide the sadness in his eyes, his brow furrowed, and his brows furled."Stay strong for me and everyone. Please..." Sebastian whispered."Of course. Do you think your mother is a weak woman?""I am afraid, Mom. I'm very scared...""No need to be afraid. You have Tera and Nora by your side. They will strengthen you. They are the two people who will make you rise again. Isn't that right, Tera?"Mrs. Herlinda turned to Tera, who was standing at the end of the bed, holding Nora, who had been clinging to her since her arrival in the room. The little girl rested her cheek on Tera's shoulder with drowsy eyes.Tera d
Big.That's the only word Tera could use to describe the condition of the room when she arrived.Tera discovered the presence of members of the Sihombing family like Aunt Lena, Uncle Bob, Cousin Inri, and even some distant relatives who had also come. Tera's closeness to the Sihombing family was undeniable; their family bonds were stronger than those of the Lims, which had been strained for some time.The close relationship within the Sihombing family was mainly due to Mrs. Herlinda's influence in her inner circle, while the Lim family's connection was more about power and wealth from previous generations, and it didn't extend beyond Herlinda. Tera, like herself, experienced the same indifference from the Lim family.That's why Tera smiled warmly at everyone, including meeting Sebastian's distant cousin for the first time today.Hassan and Dura, with sweet faces, examined Tera from head to toe with judgmental looks. Despite their feigned friendliness, Tera could tell how surprised thes
Lim stood on the terrace after successfully getting Nora into the car.The little one had been whining, and Tera had played with her, but Tera was aware not to follow the little girl. If she did, her heart would only grow hotter, more chaotic, and perhaps disturb what was blossoming between them.Certainly, Tera didn't want to disturb Sebastian and Livia or witness any interactions between them. Her heart and mind couldn't handle seeing her husband with another woman.Mr. Lim's car began to move, leaving the house. Tera waved to Nora, who still stared at her with disappointment. The child leaned both hands and her face against the car window. Her lips were pouting, and her eyes were sad.Tera just smiled, pretending to be fine in front of the Princess and everyone else. However, a storm was raging inside her. A storm she couldn't clearly define.Tera's reverie was interrupted when her phone rang again. The name Ramon appeared on her phone's screen. Tera sighed tiredly; Ramon had neve
"No, Ramon. Sebastian didn't hit me that night. We did have a bit of an argument about what happened, but Sebastian managed to control himself and was willing to listen to my explanation." She lied.But that's what's best for now. Tera didn't want anyone else to know what had happened in their marriage bedroom. Even the smallest secrets had to be kept tightly.Sebastian indeed didn't physically harm her that night, as Tera conveyed to Ramon , but they engaged in a different form of physical conflict.Mr. Limmel unleashed his anger with physical aggression he referred to as a severe punishment. A rough and brutal form of coercion.The man kissed Tera so brutally that it left her lips numb, hoping Sebastian would stop as soon as possible. It was painful. Extremely painful when that kiss held nothing but anger, devoid of love and affection. It wasn't just her lips that were targeted; every part of Tera received its share, not just painful grips but also harsh marks. Sebastian bit her all
"Where are you going, Tera?"The voice halted Tera's hand as she was placing her phone and charger cable into her bag. She raised her head to find Mrs. Herlinda observing her every move.Mrs. Herlinda didn't inquire much about sensitive matters while Tera accompanied her at the hospital. She often brought up light and comfortable topics for conversation. However, Tera could tell that the middle-aged woman wanted to say a lot to her, yet she restrained herself and chose to remain silent, much like Tera herself.Pretending that there were no problems was the best approach for now. They both knew that the marriage was far from okay.Tera checked her wristwatch, "It's already 7 PM, Mom, and I have dinner plans with Tora, my brother. I'm sorry I can't accompany you for dinner, but I promise to return to the hospital after we're done.""Is Tora in Jakarta?""Yes, Mom. He headed to Jakarta immediately when I informed him."Mrs. Herlinda gently caressed Tera's face, her gaze warm and filled w
"If even you, my older sister, are feeling overwhelmed, then what about me?" Tora sighed."Well, that's marriage for you. Are you sure you want to get married? Trust me, it's bound to be challenging!""Marriage is a natural part of human life, and headaches and problems always come along with it. So, I'm ready for marriage anytime!""Even if marriage is complicated and it makes you unhappy?"Tora absentmindedly toyed with his food, his relaxed expression suddenly turning serious."Is my sister unhappy?""I don't know. Lately, she's been getting upset easily and is sensitive to even the smallest comments. Maybe it's the result of a bad dream, or maybe it's the effect of this forced marriage.""My sister doesn't seem happy." Tora whispered, observing his sister's body language and expression. He couldn't help but feel disheartened seeing her like this."Listen, I am here to listen. Don't forget that you have me, sis."Tera patted Tora's shoulder, a genuine smile spreading across her fac
Three Months After Tera Spent Time with Nora!Sebastian Lim sat restlessly beside Tera—precisely inside the aircraft cabin soaring above the European land. They were en route to Switzerland for a year-end holiday after completing business in London. A brief vacation amid the CEO responsibilities at Trust Group was a privilege Sebastian cherished. When else would he have the time and opportunity to introduce Nora to the outside world, especially to snowy Europe? Nora would undoubtedly love the winter season, as the little girl often watched it in her favorite shows."Sir, is it true that Mrs. Herlinda will join us in Switzerland?" Tera asked, trying to ignore her boss's uneasiness."Yes, but not for a few more days. Mam is busy handling business in Indonesia.""In that case, may I leave earlier from this holiday?""What do you mean?""This is the year-end vacation I've been looking forward to all year. I promised to spend it with my sister in our hometown. So, I intend to ask for permi
On the first day as Nora's caregiver, Tera Vic took on the responsibility, leaving all meetings and tasks to fulfill the duty assigned by Da Lao Ban - taking care of a tantrum-throwing toddler longing for her father.Tera invited Nora and Sofia to play together in Sebastian Lim's private room within the main office. The room was filled with various toys, dolls, a fridge with play food, a hot water dispenser for making milk, a bottle sterilization machine, and other necessities.Originally Sebastian's resting place, the room transformed into a temporary bedroom for his child during office visits. Tera had heard that occasionally Da Lao Ban brought his toddler to the office, spending the entire day in the room due to Sebastian's unending business engagements.Sebastian Lim, known as a single man with a child, appeared worn-out and tired that day. Some new employees, like Tera, initially speculated about Sebastian being a single father due to a pregnancy outside of marriage, but Tera's s
Tera bid farewell to some guests in the Lim family mansion's flower garden. It was Mrs. Herlinda's birthday, and Sebastian organised an exclusive surprise party for his mother. Tired of repetitive pregnancy questions at the main event, Tera sought solace in the quiet right wing of the mansion near an artificial lake and lush trees, enjoying a cup of sweet tea.Unexpectedly, she found Raymond and Ethan there, sipping coffee and laughing. Seeing three cups, she guessed one was Sebastian's."What are you doing here, dear?" Sebastian appeared, embracing Tera."You startled me!" Tera exclaimed as she turned around."Look, we have a Tera here!" Ethan grinned.Sebastian explained their presence, and Tera playfully accused him. The trio enjoyed coffee while Tera and Sebastian shared a moment on a sofa.Raymond remarked on the surprising turn of events, referencing Sebastian's past visit to a club in a state of sexual frustration. Ethan chuckled, pointing out their happiness at Tera and Sebast
"For someone who's not fighting for anything, you also don't have the right to question me!" Sebastian replied."Are we going to continue like this? Arguing and fighting! Are you tired? I am exhausted. It's sickening to keep arguing with you!""If you're feeling sick, then I'm nauseated! I'm sick of your attitude!" Sebastian growled."Seb, what's wrong with you? Are you the same Sebastian I met yesterday, or are you a disguised ghost?""Cut the crap, Tera! Answer honestly, who's in your womb!" Sebastian didn't accept any nonsense and attacked her with a loud voice.Tera was stunned. She didn't expect Sebastian to respond so harshly."Seb..." Tera whispered."Don't cry! I don't want to see tears today! No more melodrama or nonsense! I just want an honest answer. Whose child is it, Tera? Is the child mine?"A teardrop rolled down the corner of Tera's eye. Her eyes widened perfectly due to the pressure and Sebastian's anger. She didn't expect the calm morning to turn into chaos."I don't
which is cool in the middle of thriving vineyards. A woman steps between the cabernet sauvignon on the left and right. Cabernet sauvignon is one of the most famous types of grapes and is widely used as the main raw material for making quality wine. The fruit grows abundantly, clustered and hanging ready to be picked. Tera enjoyed the view and the very cool morning air with a big smile on her lips. A smile which then received a reply from several plantation employees who were cleaning the grass which was getting taller. As obstetricians often recommend, Tera tries to have a healthier and stronger pregnancy. This morning she decided to take a morning walk as a form of light exercise that could strengthen her womb. Even though she was lazy and still sleepy, Tera fought it well. She must be able to do light exercise for the good of the child in her womb. Tera took in as much oxygen as possible and then exhaled slowly. A fresh morning intake will improve his mood. Last night Te
"this is it?" Sebastian murmured. His voice was weak. He lowered his head, avoiding Tera's gaze. She nodded softly, "Yes, this is it." She replied softly."Goodbye, Tera." Sebastian said without looking at the woman."Seb," Tera replied in kind.He turned away, his shoulders slumped, and his body language defeated.Tera stood there, motionless in front of her cabin. In the hallway, without looking back, she leaned against the wall for support. Her face was wet from the flowing tears. For some reason, the tears never failed to accompany her in moments like these.Even though this separation wasn't their first, the pain still felt just as strong."You're home already?" Thomas exclaimed as he appeared from the opposite hallway.The middle-aged man hurried to Tera, who was standing there crying by the wall. He embraced her and held her for a while, the young woman's body had become frail and fragile during the time they had been apart.Tera let her tears flow, fully venting her emotions.
Tera was restless, thinking about her unborn child, but she couldn't stop Sebastian Lim from being passionate behind her. He tried different positions to find comfort in their lovemaking, settling into the one that worked best for him. Tera moaned with pleasure, kissing as if there was no tomorrow, and Sebastian's hands firmly gripped her ample breasts."Give it to me, darling!" Sebastian exclaimed, raw and vulnerable.He released their kiss and focused on reaching his desired climax. His movements became more aggressive, rough, and Tera lost control.Amid the relentless pounding, Tera convulsed and her entire body tensed and trembled. She let out incoherent sounds of ecstasy as she reached her peak. Sebastian followed seconds later. He shuddered and thrust harder, his mouth letting out rough profanities as his body contracted and convulsed.It was an intense union filled with pent-up desire. They surrendered to each other, consumed by a longing that couldn't be contained. Tera and Se
Was last night's affair so terrible that it made Sebastian turn so cold, indifferent, and arrogant towards me? Question after question swirled in Tera's mind. The Sebastian Lim she met at the party last night was entirely different from the Sebastian Lim who had barged into her room and the one she encountered this morning. The Sebastian Lim at the party had been vulnerable, openly sharing his feelings and even expressing concerns about infertility and the condition of his heart. But when he forced her last night, he reverted to the Sebastian Lim Tera had known. And now, this morning?Yes, indeed. This morning, Sebastian became even colder and more indifferent. Any trace of the gentleness and warmth that Tera had glimpsed had vanished without a trace. Sebastian looked at Tera with disinterest, and his glances seemed filled with aversion.Tera regretted her curiosity and following Sebastian, finding herself trapped in the elevator. Knowing the consequences, she should have stuck with h
What happened felt like a dream that had never come true. If only Tera hadn't woken up without clothes and only covered in a thick blanket, maybe she would have thought it was a dream in the midst of her loneliness.Tera squirmed and stretched her extremely tired muscles. It was a quick, intense lovemaking that had left her feeling completely fulfilled. She longed for all those touches. She missed Sebastian greatly. This morning, he was the only thing on her mind. She couldn't get Sebastian out of her thoughts, and all the images from last night consumed her.Thomas Vic was puzzled by his daughter's behavior. He glanced at Tera several times and became suspicious when he saw her smile grow wider and more mysterious."Uh-huh...," Thomas cleared his throat, breaking Tera's reverie at the breakfast table, "It seems like someone is in a good mood this morning.""A beautiful morning should start with happiness. So, smile, Dad.""What happened last night? Did Arnold confess his feelings to