As a result of Darren and Chloe's messy impromptu breakfast, Darren made a foolish decision. Without informing anyone and barely saying a word after dropping off Chloe at the café, Darren followed his parents back to Santa Monica. No, Darren didn't agree to the arranged marriage. He just needed time to think about his relationship with Chloe.
"Why is it so difficult to introduce you to my parents, Chloe?" Darren complained with a long sigh. His face was gloomy as he reluctantly followed his parents, who wondered why Darren had joined them.
"Are you sure your child is okay?" the mother asked her husband, occasionally glancing at Darren.
"Just leave it. Don't ask too many questions or pressure him too much. Papa is afraid it might have serious consequences seeing Darren's return last night."
Eventually, they agreed not to ask about Darren's girlfriend, whom they only knew through stories. As parents, they were also curious about their son's partner.<
Leonel had cunning thoughts due to Darren's absence. He would make the most of this week to win Chloe's heart and capture her attention again. He was confident that his ex-wife still loved him just as much as before, but her past treatment made Chloe pretend to hate him.Leonel also knew that he had support from all sides to return to Tisa, especially from his father. He was sure his father supported him in any way possible to reunite with Chloe. Let's remember how thrilled Agatha Theodore was to hear Leonel's plan. She wholeheartedly endorsed Leonel's decision and his path to win Chloe back. Currently, Leonel himself saw Chloe in a different light. Even when he tried to approach her and show more attention, Chloe rejected him harshly and coldly, although she had eagerly awaited his attention in the past.Considering this, Leonel intentionally didn't return to New York City. He had planned to return this week because many tasks needed his attention, and he needed to re
"If I stay away from Mountain for a little longer, will it be too troublesome? Will you feel burdened?" There was some reluctance in Leonel's mind. Robby Grisham should be enjoying his retirement, not being bothered with Mountain again. But what could be done? Leonel himself couldn't let go of Mountain to someone else yet. The past taught him to remain cautious."I wanted to discuss this with Deborah. But I'm afraid she wouldn't be able to make the decisions. If there are any obstacles, it will make things difficult for me alone. That's why I'm discussing this with you first, Dad," Leonel concluded. Deborah was someone he could trust, especially during his difficult times. She didn't pay attention to all the news about him. Deborah's loyalty to Mountain had been proven. However, for some issues, Leonel knew Deborah couldn't just take any way out. That's why he discussed this with Robby, his father, regarding company matters. It wasn't just about his affairs to get back to Chl
This morning, Chloe prepared to leave for the café. She wanted to arrive earlier than usual. It didn't bother her when she stepped out of the house, and Darren wasn't there to pick her up like yesterday. After all, she was used to being alone with Budi."Are we leaving now, ma'am?" Brad asked with a puzzled look. He had just finished washing Chloe's sedan. It was still partially wet since Chloe usually left thirty minutes later. He needed to be informed about Chloe wanting to go earlier."Yes," Chloe smiled faintly. "Just speed up the car wash." She knew Brad would be pretty surprised by her decision. But what could she do? She had some tasks to take care of at the café. Yesterday, Peni mentioned a discrepancy in inventory and cash. She also wanted to create a new recipe.Coincidentally, she had invited Adrianna to come to Beverly Hills. She didn't want to start making the recipe before Adrianna arrived. Amidst the overwhelming thoughts and distrac
"I'm glad to meet you here," Leonel told Chloe, who stopped eating. Chloe's eyes looked annoyed when they locked gazes, and then she stared blankly in Leonel's direction."Why are you here? Did you follow me?" Chloe snapped at him again, eliciting a small chuckle from Leonel."Am I mistaken if you think I followed you? I have the job that accidentally led me to meet you," Leonel came up with an excuse. In reality, he did follow Chloe to this restaurant intentionally. It was all for one purpose: to regain her attention.Upon hearing that, Chloe nodded quietly. She didn't want to prolong the conversation with Leonel this morning."Oh, by the way, I replaced the ice cream you ordered earlier. It spilled because of me," Leonel said, handing the cold drink to Chloe."Thank you, but you didn't have to go through the trouble of getting it for me," Chloe said to Leonel again, but he didn't care. He still gave it to Chloe so she would drink it. Chloe also c
Adrianna didn't know what expression to put on her face. Purple? Red? Green? Orange? Or maybe gray when she came out of her boarding house; Samuel's car was already parked there, looking beautiful. And there he was, posing for the cover of an automotive magazine.Well, Adrianna admitted that Sam was handsome. Incredibly handsome. Wearing stylish sunglasses on his sharp nose, his thick black hair shining under the sunset, and not to mention his athletic physique. Oh... There was one more thing that added to Sam's appeal.His outfit.He looked like he was attending a fashion week, just like those viral on social media. The difference was Sam took a shower and smelled good."Are you ready?" Samuel asked.Adrianna snorted disapprovingly at Sam's greeting. Ready for what? Since school, Adrianna had rejected his invitation to go together hundreds of times. Besides, since when did a kindergarten teacher have official business? As far as Adrianna knew, bas
Chloe felt that something was off because Leonel was now paying attention to her. It was not like when she was still his wife. Not only that, but Chloe also felt that Leonel's behavior now was warmer than the previously grumpy, cold, and rude Leonel. Leonel's face was what Chloe had been observing for the past five years. Chloe couldn't deceive herself; she could tell what was genuine and what was not.Even though Chloe couldn't see, she could sense that there had been a change in Leonel. It was not just out of pity or Leonel feeling burdened by Chloe's situation. He felt he had a role to play in what had happened. It was like redemption, but Chloe didn't want to perceive it as a form of forgiveness.Just like this morning. Chloe lets Leonel do whatever he wants while giving numerous judgments about his intentions."If you also want to go to the café, come with me! I'll take you there!" Leonel said to Chloe, but she quickly shook her head."No need. Besides, I have my vehicle. And I d
"By what means?!" Chloe couldn't hold back anymore. "By intruding back into my life without permission? Giving me what I used to long for? Smiling at me as if you know my current life? Even your attitude towards me now is completely different from before, Leonel! And that's very confusing," Chloe said to Leonel, who then fell silent. Chloe's eyes were now full of wounds, reflecting her inner turmoil and anger."Stop it, Leonel. Please," Chloe pleaded. "I can't handle it if you keep pressuring me like this.""I know I made mistakes, and my behavior shouldn't be like this. But every human has the awareness and desire to change. I want to fix it!" Leonel firmly stated to Chloe. "You ask how? I don't have an answer. I don't know if my actions and decisions are right. Or if they make the situation worse. I don't know."A tear rolled down Chloe's cheek. It startled Leonel, but he quickly wiped it away with his thumb, with a slow movement that brought them closer and made their gaze fixated
Chloe shuddered at the thought.She took another long breath, looking up at the ceiling above her. The top of the café where she spent most of her time now filled her vision. She closed her eyes slowly, trying to push away her worries about Leonel. It wasn't easy, but at least she prayed sincerely for Leonel to wake up soon.Knock, knock, knock..."Come in!" Chloe called out.Tio, instructed by Chloe to make her a hot drink, finally entered. A cup of warm tea with a slice of lemon inside was now on her desk. It was accompanied by low-sugar cookies that were also sold in the café. Although they had few customers, these cookies were popular among certain groups."Here you go, Ma'am," Tio said warmly."Thank you, Tio," Chloe smiled genuinely. She always instilled a kind attitude in all her employees and wanted to be relaxed with the rules. They were all adults and understood their responsibilities, except when they behaved too far
"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