Esther had been gasping for breath since the incident she had just experienced. Never before, in all the time she had known Leonel, had he been such a terrifying and yelling figure towards her. God! What had Esther done to deserve this treatment?
"Miss," Sofi called out with a slightly scared tone. Esther's face had become clouded since the beautiful model got back into the car. There was frustration and disappointment evident in her eyes. Sofi didn't dare ask the reason behind it. Usually, Sofi wouldn't wait for Esther in the basement, but for some reason, she felt she had to wait for her employer.
And rightly so; Esther made a phone call within half an hour.
"Nothing else to be taken from the apartment, right?" Esther asked. Her eyes were tightly shut. Two suitcases and her assistant's belongings were already in the back trunk. The loyal driver, who always accompanied them wherever they went, was also ready. They initially thought this beautiful woman wante
Chloe couldn't stop smiling. The light in this room was very bright, but she had gotten used to it. The smell of medicines she inhaled was no longer as frightening as before. Perhaps it was because of the frequent therapy sessions she had to attend that made her feel like she was no longer sick. It must be said that Chloe still needed post-accident care. "I'm pleased with this progress, Miss Chloe." "Don't be too formal, Doctor." "Who started it?" Chloe chuckled. "Alright. You win, Darren." The man in the white coat smiled widely. Before him, Chloe was just as excellent as she felt, and there was something different about the beautiful woman in front of him, especially her smile. The sense of pressure Darren had noticed on Chloe's face was starting to fade. It wasn't because of what had happened to her, but rather as if a heavy burden had been lifted from her shoulders. And it was enough to touch the heart of a doctor who had perhaps b
His hands clenched tightly, and his gaze fixed on the view outside his window. His flight was scheduled for two hours. For some reason, this business trip left a lingering unease in his heart, especially regarding his wife, who casually left him alone. Her unexpected response took him aback.Chloe had truly changed. The apologies he offered, the plea for a chance to change, and the delay in their divorce proceedings were all in vain. In the end, Leonel couldn't persuade Chloe to reconsider. She was deeply hurt, and forgiveness seemed out of reach, causing a growing pain within him.Leonel let out a long breath, massaging the bridge of his nose in frustration."Sir."The call made Leonel lift his eyes from his lowered position. "Yes?""When are you estimated to return to New York City? Because Mr. Robby asked me to stay on standby at the office."Leonel nodded slowly, his mind preoccupied as he felt he left everything behind in his room. "Don
Once he arrived at the hotel Deborah had quickly prepared before flying to Cattle Village, Leonel hesitated to make a phone call. For some reason, Chloe's voice kept echoing in his mind whenever he went on business trips, longing to hear news from her. He paused momentarily, observing the night sky of the city he had set foot in. Despite his crucial meeting at ten o'clock the next day, his eyes refused to close at this hour. It was his fault for continuously thinking about Chloe without stopping.Regardless of the hurtful words he might receive, Leonel was willing to take the risk once again. It took a while before the phone received a response."Who is this?" Chloe asked with her soft voice. Leonel truly missed the gentleness of her voice, which he hadn't heard in a long time. Even before the accident, Chloe used to ask him every day with a tender tone, half hoping to be pampered by him. But Leonel ignored her, letting her drown in solitude without his presence.
What made Leonel calmer after the conversation with Chloe? The answer is no. Instead, he found himself staring at the ceiling of his room. He had set the air conditioner to a cool temperature, and the dim light of the bedside lamp should have created a soothing atmosphere that would help him fall asleep quickly. Unfortunately, Leonel's mind couldn't stop thinking about every detail of Chloe's words.The woman's question did have some truth to it. Why was Leonel so insistent on not getting a divorce now? Especially when his desire had been in front of him for a long time. To marry Ester, be happy together, and fulfill many of their shared desires that they had discussed after their passionate moments in bed. But now, for some reason, everything has changed.However, he couldn't answer Chloe's question, which still lingered in his mind. "I don't love Chloe. Maybe it's just a pity because I am the cause of Josh suffering like this," he muttered softly, affirming his thoug
Who knows how many glasses of alcoholic drinks have entered and moistened her throat? Her eyes have been wandering, observing other visitors who have merged with the dance floor. Some are chatting with joyful faces or being flirted with, or maybe they do the flirting. Ester doesn't care. What she cares about now is being trapped here. Oh no, she didn't accidentally end up here.This is one of the many ways she avoids the many things that occupy her mind. The suffering, disappointment, anger, and even hatred that has taken over her heart are beyond salvageable."One more," she said, handing over her empty glass."But, miss. This is already your fourth glass.""One more." Ester doesn't care about Sofi's objections, who has been by her side since earlier. Several times, her annoying assistant tried to persuade her to go home. At least rest at the hotel before having to return to New York City tomorrow. Since this beautiful model returned to her room after me
Leonel caressed his face roughly. He still couldn't contain his anger over Ester's behavior tonight. How could she act so recklessly? Not considering the risks that could occur to her? But finding her sound asleep next to him, he couldn't bear it either. Sofi, who was in the front seat, occasionally glanced in his direction. Leonel noticed that. Meanwhile, Rio, whom he recognized as Ester's driver, was driving at a steady speed."Thank you for taking care of Ester," he felt the need to say that to both of them. Who knows what fate would befall her if it weren't for the two accompanying Ester? It wouldn't just end up in one hotel bed; there could be nosy journalists who would write news about her. Leonel couldn't do much to stop it because Ester was at the peak of her career now.Didn't this woman think ahead?"Yes, sir. We're also glad you responded to my message quickly," Sofi grimaced slightly. It was a bit rude to disturb the man, but Sofi did need his help.
"Is everything ready?" Agatha asked the two waitpersons at the boutique where she ordered unique clothing for herself and her family members. It was a special night they had been looking forward to for the past year. Agatha always made special arrangements there to maintain the business relationship between her husband and son because what Agatha did could impact the longevity of their partnership agreement."Yes, ma'am. The one requested specifically for Miss Chloe has been embellished with sequins on the chest and waist," one of the waiters replied.Agatha nodded happily. "Have the details and waist measurements been adjusted according to Chloe's size?""Yes, ma'am," he replied once again. It further emphasized that they provided top-notch service. The amount of money Agatha spent on the clothes her son and daughter-in-law would wear was not insignificant. But she didn't care. This was her final effort, one she would fight for until the bitter end.For
Chloe couldn't hide her dislike. Her hands were folded across her chest. If only she could see the face of Leonel sitting next to her, she would have given him a disapproving look. Maybe even with great annoyance. Chloe had sighed many times, trying to suppress her anger from bursting out."Did I ask the wrong question about Darren?" she asked."No," Chloe quickly replied."But I feel like you're angry with me, Sa." Leonel gently rubbed his face. The exhaustion from his journey back home, from taking a flight from Cattle Village to New York City, hadn't been relieved yet, and now he was met with his wife's sullen expression. Leonel had hoped that this time Chloe's reception would bring them closer again. Ah, thinking about it, his expectations were too lofty. He had often mentioned to Ester about divorcing Chloe. But now? For some reason, he had a strong desire to keep Chloe by his side.Call him crazy, unstable, abnormal, selfish, stubborn, or oblivious,
"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