Even though that was the reality, Sofi remained silent, trying to find the right words because she couldn't stay by Ester's side for too long.
"I'm also..." Sofi lifted her gaze, looking at Ester with pity and a hint of fear. But she couldn't back down. Her determination was set to express her wishes today. "I also choose to resign, Mbak."
"You must be joking!" Ester retorted. "I trusted you to manage my finances! How can you resign? Just because you're visiting, Ester doesn't mean you're resigning! Do you understand what I mean?" Ester became fiery, and her words shook her.
"I understand, Miss. But I need another job."
"Whatever!" She stood up. "Do whatever you want! I don't care." Ester chose to return to her cell, leaving Sofi alone. She did it on purpose because she was confident that the next day or the following week, Sofi would return as usual.
Sofi reluctantly left Ester, who was now in prison, to continue her life. Five years is not short,
Sofi didn't want to think about Ester's condition in prison. But still, there was a nagging feeling because she often remembered Ester's face. Despite being annoying, Ester was still Ester. Her kindness to Sofi and Rio left a strong impression on them."How was Miss Ester?" Rio asked, focusing on his driving. He had been glancing at Sofi since she returned from the heavily guarded police building. Rio wanted to avoid going in and meeting Ester. Somehow, he suddenly felt guilty.The insults, curses, and conflicting news about the model made Rio genuinely angry. But he couldn't do anything except keep his mouth shut. The agency didn't provide any protection for Ester. They only visited her in the early days of her imprisonment.The rest?Only Rio and Sofi visited Ester frequently.It was pretty pitiful, so Rio chose to sit in Ester's car. They had agreed to sell the car together. They would take the remaining salary they needed and put the rest into
Visiting the mall and shopping was expected, but Agatha and Robby felt the evening was different. There were many sweet memories to carry with them as they said goodbye to Chloe, whom they considered their child. There was laughter and happiness that Agatha usually felt when she was with Chloe, going around the mall. It was a normal thing they did in New York City. They always bought something, just stopping by to fulfill the bags in their hands.Agatha felt like reliving the fun they had together, even though now this middle-aged woman was being showered with gifts by Chloe. Chloe refused to let Agatha pay for all her shopping bags. She pouted when Agatha didn't accept Chloe's donations. In Agatha's eyes, she used to handle all the expenses. But this time, Chloe gave her many presents. Agatha couldn't refuse them all.As planned, Agatha and Robby were supposed to return to New York City in the morning. It wouldn't be a problem if they stayed in Beverly Hills a little
"Mama and Papa, you must also take care of your health. Watch your diet, get enough sleep, and don't overthink unimportant things. Besides, Mountain has been walking as it should, right?" Chloe joked, trying to lighten the mood. However, she admitted that sadness always enveloped her when she met Agatha."Chloe loves Mama and Papa too. Chloe loves you all; thank you for treating Chloe like your child."Tears finally welled up in Chloe's eyes; she couldn't hide how grateful she was for the fortune she had. Yes, the tears that came out were not a sign of sadness but overwhelming joy and happiness.If it weren't for Leonel, it wouldn't matter to Chloe to meet Agatha and Robby as often as possible. "Take care on the road. Call Chloe when you arrive so that Chloe can be at ease," Chloe said again.Darren remained silent as Chloe hugged Agatha and spoke farewell words that instantly turned the atmosphere emotional. He didn't feel the same; he didn't feel what h
Beverly Hills has indeed become Chloe's refuge from all the pain she endured as Mrs. Leonel Grisham. However, now she feels so comfortable there with all the conditions. The weather in Beverly Hills is cold and very different from the weather in New York City. She always feels relaxed and refreshed, although she often shivers from the cold at night. But she likes it; the beautiful widow has gotten used to everything there.As the evening approached, the cafe was relatively quiet. Chloe sat near the entrance, enjoying her hot tea at her favorite table. Sometimes Tia would come to help, even though Chloe had told her not to. It's not that she didn't want Tia to go to the cafe. Tia had helped her a lot at home. She couldn't bear to let Tia work here as well. She was only accompanied by Peni, who often watched the cash register.She was lucky to have people who were so loyal to her. They supported her even though she had let go of many luxuries that Chloe had once experien
Darren smiled again, but it seemed lighter and not like he was playing around. He seemed to be buying time without speaking immediately because he wanted to surprise his beloved."Darren?" called Chloe, who was no longer patient and immersed in curiosity."My job transfer request has been approved."Those words Darren uttered shortly after Chloe called him. Chloe's eyes widened as if she couldn't believe what she heard.Was what Darren said true? If it was, she was fortunate.After the impromptu visit from Agatha and Robby, she felt a little lost. Adrianna also returned to New York City, leaving only Peni and Tia by her side. Darren's presence in Beverly Hills was helpful, but she realized that his presence was only temporary.If Darren could indeed work in Beverly Hills, he would stay there, accompanying and helping her and helping develop the cafe and heal the wounds in her heart that had not fully recovered.Big news brought immens
A few days passed, and Darren had become accustomed to his new routine in Beverly Hills. He worked according to his profession and became an excellent lover to Chloe. He would come to the cafe in his free time and help his dream woman manage it. Fatigue often overwhelmed him. Working as a doctor required high concentration, and he had to deal with numerous patients.Even with the assistance of several nurses, Darren couldn't simply shrug off his responsibilities.As usual, Darren came to Chloe's cafe that evening, accompanying her and continuing his efforts to win her heart. It was challenging; he had already grown tired from work and had many tasks to handle at the cafe. His struggle had been going on for quite some time. Therefore, he wanted his efforts to be worthwhile. The handsome doctor was determined to wait for Chloe for as long as it took.If he could choose, Darren would love to marry Chloe right away. Discussing marriage, proposing, getting engaged, a
That evening, accompanied by the cold air of Beverly Hills, for the first time, Leonel met his ex-wife, who still haunted his life now.During their marriage, he never considered Chloe a remarkable woman, even though she had beautiful eyes that brought comfort with a glance. After their divorce, Leonel's life felt utterly dull.Leonel's life felt lonely, uncomfortable, often frustrated for no reason, and lost in his thoughts when alone. All of this was due to his foolishness, which led him to enter a relationship with Ester, a woman who now made him regret a thousand times.Leonel and Chloe faced each other, both feeling tense.Chloe was tense because her feelings were mixed. The man who once held a special place in her heart, who had also caused her a lot of pain, and whom she had tried to forget, now stood confidently before her.Leonel also felt tense, seeing Chloe in person after over a year of suppressing strange feelings in his chest, causing
His eyes sparkled; he was happy. All the embarrassment and pride burdened him had vanished, swallowed by his happiness.Unlike Leonel, Chloe didn't feel the same way about her ex-husband. Her gaze showed deep resentment, as if her eyes were filled with blazing fire that revealed how much she despised the man standing before her. "What are you doing here?" the beautiful widow asked coldly. Her gaze appeared sharp.Leonel continued to smile. He didn't care about Chloe's reaction; he was engulfed in his happiness."I want to eat. I'm hungry."Confidently, Leonel responded as if there were no issues between them.Chloe was annoyed by Leonel's attitude. "No manners," she muttered to herself.The beautiful widow took a deep breath. "The cafe is about to close. You can find another cafe or restaurant that's still open."Chloe's blunt response showed her displeasure towards Leonel's impromptu visit, making her uncomfortable.If she cou
"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