"Oh, I see. Now you're keeping secrets from me."
"It's not like that, Adrianna. It was a spontaneous trip, no plans for a vacation."
Adrianna looked at Chloe intently. "That's good, Sa. You deserve to be happy, and you can be happy without Leonel. I'm happy for you if you're happy. Whatever decision you make, I'll support you." Adrianna said with a sincere smile.
The atmosphere suddenly changed, making Chloe touch and even bringing tears to her eyes. "What's with you? You're so unpredictable." The woman blinked her eyes several times after turning her face away from Adrianna.
"No wonder you've been teasing me all this time. Oh, someone's in a blooming romance, happy. Look at you, just back from a honeymoon." This time, Adrianna teased Chloe, no longer sulking like when she first entered the cafe.
Chloe grinned. "Honeymoon? What are you talking about? We just went on a trip together, unlike what you're thinking. Your mind is so dirty it needs to be
After a few minutes of waiting, Chloe returned to the table where Darren sat sweetly, carrying a tray with food and drinks for both of them. They enjoyed their lunch together eagerly while having small conversations about the taste of the dishes prepared by the chef at Chloe's café."Does Tia also cook here?" Darren asked when he found out that Tia, who had been working as a cook at Chloe's house, was helping out at the beautiful single woman's café."Not every day, Darren. She only wanted to do it when it was busy, like now, although I didn't ask her to. But I'm happy to have her here. It makes the work faster, and customers don't have to wait long because someone is assisting the cook." Chloe spoke with her mouth still chewing.Darren nodded. "That explains why I didn't see her when I came here the other day. But now she's here.""Yeah, she asked earlier if the café was busy, so I sent her a picture, which was indeed busy. So she sa
The day changed, and Chloe returned to Beverly Hills with all her activities. That morning felt different as the beautiful woman felt tired and sore all over her body."So exhausted," Chloe whispered.Despite complaining, she continued to do her work. "But... even though I'm tired, it feels like a dream. What happened yesterday feels unreal. A beautiful dream or a sweet dream?" Chloe smiled happily as she recalled her enjoyable moments in Yogyakarta with Darren.Breathing in the cool morning air in Beverly Hills felt so different from the perspective she had lived the previous afternoon. Chloe chuckled to herself. "Darren was so patient yesterday, like taking care of a child. From the moment we arrived, he was eager to go to Parangtritis." The woman blushed. "I'm so lucky if I can become his wife. As long as he never changes, as long as his goodness all this time is genuinely from his heart."Continuing to talk to herself, Chloe was startled by Adrianna's
"I see. Now you're keeping secrets from me.""It's not like that, Adrianna. It was spontaneous yesterday, with no plans for a vacation."Adrianna stared at Chloe intently. "Good for you, Chloe. You deserve to be happy, and you can be happy without Leonel. I'll be glad if you're happy. Whatever decision you make, I'll support you." Adrianna said it with a genuine smile.The atmosphere changed instantly, making Chloe touch and even bringing tears to her eyes. "What's wrong with you? It's not clear." The woman blinked her eyes several times after turning her face away from Adrianna."That's why you've been teasing me all this time. Oh, so there's someone whose heart is blossoming, feeling happy. Look at you, just back from your honeymoon." This time, Adrianna teased Chloe, no longer pouting like she did when she first entered the café.Chloe grinned. "Honeymoon? No way! We just went on a trip together, unlike what you're thinking. Your mind is
"Chloe doesn't want to discuss the past or blame Leonel again. Chloe wants to be honest with Mama and Papa that when it comes to getting married, Chloe needs to think about it over and over again." Chloe wanted to be completely honest with Agatha and Robby, but she couldn't bear to see the two people looking sad because of her honesty. She still thought about the feelings of her former in-laws, whom she considered her parents."Mama and Papa, please don't be like this. Chloe feels guilty." Chloe felt regretful for being so honest.Like a paper that had been burned and turned into ashes, her heart would never return to its previous state, no matter what. The wounds that Leonel had inflicted on her would probably stay with her until her death, even though, if asked, she had forgiven him.Forgiving didn't mean forgetting.Agatha and Robby experienced great sadness, seeing how deeply wounded Chloe was because of their child's past actions. They hoped the beau
Meanwhile, Adrianna, who had returned to New York City, was driven crazy by Samuel Geraldo's behavior. Despite being in Beverly Hills, she could relax her anxious mind. Adrianna felt a sense of relief from the demands always present in her job. She intentionally took some time off not only because she missed her best friend but also because she needed a vacation.And who was to blame for all this?Who else but her incredibly annoying school principal? If only Adrianna could resign from the school where she worked, she would have done it already. She had to consider the cost of living in New York City, which was costly. Not to mention her closeness with the students Adrianna taught, which made her reluctant to resign. And one other crucial consideration; she had yet to find a new job."Do you want to resign?" Samuel asked one day. Adrianna, who had just finished completing the questionnaire for the overall expenses of the gathering event, was taken aback. "Don't
Adrianna grumbled with a pouty face. Frustrated, she reached for her phone in her bag. Playing on social media was better than keeping an eye on her surroundings, especially Samuel, who was now busy checking her report. She didn't want him to get a big head as if she constantly watched Samuel.Adrianna shuddered at her thoughts.Her movement of looking at her phone stopped for a moment. On one account, it made her smile brightly. There was a photo of her best friend, Chloe, and Darren, looking happy and affectionate. Adrianna always hoped and prayed that Chloe could see the sincerity of Darren's love. She shouldn't always think about Leonel, even though Adrianna knew Leonel's name was no longer in Chloe's heart.Chloe shared many things during her stay there, especially her excitement with Darren. However, there was still a lingering sadness surrounding Chloe. It was undoubtedly because of what Leonel had done to her. The trauma still existed. It wasn't that Chl
That evening, Leonel slumped his tired body into the office chair that had become his throne at Mountain. He worked hard to revive the company and bring it back to stability, just as his father had managed it. Although it wasn't easy and often left him exhausted, he never gave up. Being busy with work was better than being idle and regretting his past mistakes, which would only bring endless remorse.After a few minutes of resting his body following his meeting with a business client, he glanced out the window and noticed it was already dark. He looked at the beautiful watch on his wrist, a symbol of strength. "It's already evening, it seems."He wiped his forehead, resting his head with a slight tilt. His eyes briefly closed, and he truly felt tired and needed rest.Letting out a soft sigh, he recalled his repetitive routine, like a broken record: go home, take a shower, soak in warm water, and then sleep until morning. Just imagining it made him smile faintly.
"They met Chloe, Chris." Leonel sat up and let out a long sigh, observing Chris, who maintained a neutral expression."What's wrong with that? Isn't it normal? Mrs. Agatha often talks to me about Chloe. Sometimes I even want to visit her.""You're such a jerk; you know that?" Leonel looked at Chris in disbelief."What's wrong with that?" Making Leonel even more despondent seemed quite fascinating.Leonel didn't want to respond too much, but so far, Chris was the one who often listened to him. He immediately tossed his phone onto the table. The screen was lit, showing his mother's post, indicating her presence in Beverly Hills with Chloe and Darren.Now Chris understood what was making his friend so distraught. "Are you jealous? Seeing your ex-wife with another man? I think Darren is a good guy. Haven't you forgotten the rescue he performed?"Chris returned the phone. His eyes were also filled with sympathy as he looked at Leonel. Chris didn'
"So... this is Chloe?" the woman, observing the newcomer, asked. In one glance, Rania could tell that her son's companion had quite a high taste. Everything about her attire looked well put together."Yes, Mom. It is Chloe," Darren spoke first. "Mom was questioning her like a police officer. Chloe got scared, you know."Rania frowned at her son's comment. She was already worried enough about the promises her son made. What more did Rania want? She just wanted to see Darren happy with his partner. How long would they continue their relationship? Darren was at an age where he should be starting a family. Why postpone it?"Don't talk like that by the door." This time, Bagas spoke. Since Darren's car entered the garage, Bagas had been preparing himself to welcome his future daughter-in-law. He was also quite curious about the woman Darren brought this time.Even though he had rejected the idea of an arranged marriage from both him and his mother."Oh,
It has been a month since Leonel woke up.There are a few activities Leonel can do now. All his activities revolve around the hospital bed. He is still under intensive monitoring by a capable medical team. Two days after waking up, Robby moved Leonel to Singapore.The treatments Leonel underwent brought significant changes. The surgeries on his legs and abdomen went smoothly. His health recovered quickly, although he still couldn't move as usual. There are still many therapies that Leonel needs to undergo to regain normal mobility.The atmosphere in his room has mostly stayed the same since he first occupied it."Sir," one of his employees called out. Regarding office matters, Leonel wanted to take a bit of time. His mind was still functioning, and he insisted on handling Mountain again. At first, Robby disagreed, but Leonel pleaded earnestly.He said, "If I'm not busy working, Pa, I'll go crazy. Every passing second, Chloe is the only thing on my
Agatha continued sobbing in Chloe's embrace. The news of her son's accident a while ago had shattered her world. The son she had raised with love and let go for the sake of his passion ended up like this. The last message she received on her phone informed her that Leonel was on his way back to New York City."Ma, please sit down. Let me get you something to drink," Chloe said, gently guiding the beloved woman to the chair she had been sitting in. Chris stood up and chose to talk with Robby about the latest news regarding Leonel."No need, Chloe," Agatha speak.Chloe looked at the woman with concern. Agatha Theodore had a condition that could quickly worsen upon hearing sudden news. Chloe hadn't forgotten how she had cared for Agatha when Mountain was in a critical condition some time ago.They held each other's hands."Have you been here all this time?" Agatha asked Chloe, who seemed lost in thought."Yes, Ma.""How is Leonel doing?"
"Have Mama and Papa arrived yet?" Chloe asked when she returned to the corridor where they had met Chris. He was still sitting there, occasionally busy with his phone and engaged in a serious conversation."Not yet. They're still on their way."Chloe nodded in understanding. "Has Leonel... regained consciousness?" she asked cautiously. Her eyes glanced towards the open door. She felt there might be a visit from the medical team to reexamine Leonel's condition."He has."Chloe let out a slow breath. "But why are you here, Mr. Chris? Aren't you accompanying Leonel?""The medical team is observing Leonel's leg, Chloe. There's a significant fracture in his shin."The woman exclaimed in surprise. "Is it serious?""We'll wait for the doctor's update.""Will I be allowed to go in?"Chris looked at Chloe with a furrowed brow. "Are you kidding? Leonel would be happy to be visited by you, Chloe."Chloe's smile turned awkwar
"Good afternoon, Chloe. It's nice to see you again," Chris greeted Chloe, extending his hand with a smile. Relief appeared on Chris' face, knowing that Chloe was there. She still cared for him in some way. It was understandable, considering that in the past, Chris had always emphasized how lucky Leonel was to have a wife like Chloe.Even in the last moments before he handled their divorce, Chris had given Leonel a stern warning. Now, it had become a reality: Chloe couldn't be reached again by Leonel, no matter how hard he tried."I'm also glad to see you, Mr. Chris. How have you been?" Chloe replied politely, although she felt awkward meeting Chris before Darren. Nevertheless, she was happy to see Chris there. To see that Chris was in good health and vitality. They last met at the final trial that implicated Josh and Ester. After that, Chloe chose to distance herself from the Grisham family."By God's grace, I'm doing well." Chris smiled warmly. His eyes immedia
Chloe was still in Leonel's hospital room at that time. She felt touched by what her ex-husband said. It was clear that Leonel deeply regretted his past treatment of Chloe. Not only that, it was also evident that Leonel wanted to avoid repeating all the events and mistakes he had made if he returned to Chloe. The woman didn't say much about it. She could only stay silent while holding Leonel's hand.Leonel still refused to let go of Chloe's hand. He thought that he needed his mother to accompany him now. Leonel didn't care how much pain his whole body was in. All he wanted was Chloe's presence. Unbeknownst to him, Chloe had been by his side all along.The effect of medication or the result of the accident made him unfocused. Who knows."I'll call the doctor," Chloe said as she tried to release the grip of their hands, which had not loosened even a bit."Not now, Mom," Leonel mumbled softly. The man closed his eyes again with a grimacing face, trying to en
Upon arriving at the hospital, Chloe hurriedly walked toward Leonel's ward. This time, she didn't want to leave Darren alone like when she first heard the news about Leonel. Although Darren was with her, Chloe realized that she had been neglecting Darren's presence. She didn't want Darren to feel that way again. She was in a state of panic when she found out about Leonel's accident.Darren and Chloe walked side by side toward Leonel's ward. When they arrived at the VVIP room, Chloe stopped in her tracks. Through the window, Chloe could see that Leonel was still unconscious. There were monitors and medical equipment on both sides of him, ensuring his condition was stable.Chloe leaned against the wall in the hospital. She wanted to go in but was concerned about disturbing Leonel."Do you want to go in?" Darren asked Chloe, who chose to remain silent after peaking at Leonel from the outside.Chloe raised an eyebrow. "Can I?"Darren nodded quickly. "I
Chloe would go to the hospital whenever she had free time to check Leonel's condition. She was apprehensive about him after the accident. Leonel still hadn't regained consciousness. Agatha and Robby Grisham, who knew about their son's condition, looked incredibly sad. The worried expression was visible on their faces. Agatha didn't leave the hospital where Leonel was being treated. Agatha planned to transfer him to a much larger hospital with better facilities once he regained consciousness. However, she trusted the current doctors' treatment. She couldn't doubt them because Leonel's safety was in their hands. Of course, Leonel's skillful hands were also involved. Where else would their dexterity come from if not as a gift from God? Chloe felt guilty about Leonel. Many "what ifs" were swirling in her mind, but she couldn't do anything about it. Her decision regarding her feelings was already firm. What would become of her if she wavered and left a small opening for L
The multiple-car accident had befallen Leonel. It made everyone there run instantly to check on Leonel's condition. Many were worried that the victim and the two truck drivers who unintentionally hit Leonel's car had died on the spot. This chain accident caused panic on the left side of the road. Many vehicles stopped and slowed due to the severe damage to Leonel's car.A cloud of smoke surrounded the black sedan that Leonel was driving."Quick, help! Please call the police now!" one of the drivers, who seemed very panicked, ordered."Alright, I'll call the police and an ambulance to come here immediately," replied one of the people at the scene.Meanwhile, holding a glass in her office, Chloe suddenly shattered it. She was drinking as usual, and nothing was unusual. However, she suddenly felt uneasy. She sensed something terrible was happening, although she didn't know why. She even felt her heart pounding rapidly. She didn't know what news would be brou