Leonel massaged his temples roughly, his breaths becoming erratic. His heart continued to ache relentlessly. Chloe's words, which he had recently heard, truly wounded him. But upon further reflection, Chloe's comments were not without reason. It all started with Leonel's careless behavior in their marriage without considering how Chloe felt.
Despite her efforts to please him, the image of him leaving Chloe alone kept spinning in his mind. "Forgive me, Chloe," he whispered.
This pain was tormenting Leonel. He never imagined being treated by Chloe the way he had treated her. Now Chloe was candidly expressing her feelings, leaving him feeling so weak.
"If you truly want to fix everything, just set me free. Maybe we've reached our limit."
Chloe's voice filled his senses once again.
"What must I do to earn your forgiveness, Sa?" Leonel said softly, his eyes welling up. "I regret it. I only just realized that you never complained about being by my side.
Assisted by Peni, Chloe put on the clothes that her mother-in-law had prepared. Three large paper bags contained dresses she had tried on, but there were some details that Mama Agatha felt needed fixing and needed fixing. There were also shoes with their accessories. Everything Chloe required to attend the party that would take place in three hours was fulfilled. Deep down, Chloe was reluctant to participate in the party that she could remember from year to year how it would go on until late at night.She had to smile, keep up with Leonel's pace, and talk to many people whom Chloe didn't know much about but tried hard to warm up to. And she struggled to breathe because of Leonel's sudden romantic gestures. She didn't want this festive party night to end just like that.Chloe's dream was simple: for Leonel to acknowledge her presence. Treat her as a worthy wife, not just a status to be brought out when needed. What was she to him anyway? But she didn't dare voice it ear
Chloe walked gracefully, her hand reluctantly on Leonel's arm. She held intimately, perhaps, because Chloe couldn't see clearly. What she could make out now, in her wandering gaze, was only the bright lights. Some conversation and laughter among a group of dark shadows. And some bright colors that Chloe assumed were the dresses the women wore at the party."Don't be afraid, I'm here," Leonel whispered, words she wanted to turn upside down. She didn't need Leonel now. What for? It was pointless. Maybe five years ago, if Leonel had said that to her at the entrance, she would have happily thrown herself to worship Leonel's love again.But now, she had thrown all of that away.She needed help to remove Leonel's presence here. It wouldn't just embarrass her; maybe Chloe was no longer ashamed. Begging for Leonel's love all this time, wasn't that embarrassing enough? Especially being openly cheated on. But she had to maintain the Grisham name. Mama Agatha and Papa Robb
"Wait," Peni intervened as she looked toward a group of familiar faces. A sense of annoyance and dislike crept into her eyes as she saw who had just arrived. Even though she had walked behind Chloe, secretly hoping that her employers' relationship would find a way to mend itself, perhaps through some divine intervention, she knew it was too ambitious of a prayer. The third party in their marriage had already made their presence known. They stood there with a smile that Peni could sense hid some ulterior motive. So she quickly prevented Chloe from heading back to her original position."Maybe later, ma'am," Peni said, struggling to find a reason to keep Chloe here."What's the matter?" Chloe asked.And just as Peni expected, she was caught off guard. "Um... well, there's... maybe later. Shall I fetch some food for you? I'll take it to the table prepared for you.""What's going on, Peni?"Peni couldn't back out now. Feeling a bit uncomfortable under
"Goodness! Please forgive me," said someone who made Chloe take a few steps back. She also flinched in surprise and felt a cold splash of water touch the back of her hand. Her only hope was that her clothes didn't get stained by the spilled drink that had hit her."Ma'am!" Peni, slightly hysterical from the accidental collision earlier, even found herself repeatedly wiping parts of Chloe's body with a tissue. "Are you okay, ma'am?"Chloe smiled, not knowing precisely what had happened but feeling one thing: someone had accidentally bumped into her. Chloe might even have bumped into the person, disregarding Peni's warning about her steps. Perhaps she hadn't been paying much attention because of the loud music playing as background entertainment for the guests before they entered the main event, which was about to start with Robby Grisham's arrival at his table."What's going on here?" Agatha asked before Chloe had a chance to respond to Peni's question."F
"What do you want?" Chloe asked, still not sitting properly but hearing the car door slamming loudly. She was also slightly flustered because Leonel was behaving differently than usual. His anger was palpable, making Chloe's hair stand on end.Since Leonel forcibly dragged her by the hand and occasionally stumbled due to their inability to see her steps, Chloe lowered her voice. Completely. She didn't even speak up to ask what her husband was planning. She chose to swallow it all because she knew they would attract attention. Even though her vision was blurry, with only faint shadows and a few primary colors, she could perceive Chloe believed they were like stars in the spotlight amidst the crowd at this party.She didn't want to escalate the situation, especially if some strange news surfaced later."Let's go home," Leonel said in a frustrated growl. His eyes had been staring at Chloe with intense anger. He didn't like Chloe being near a stranger. Anyone, for t
Leonel desired a resolution with Chloe tonight, whatever it may be. But it turns out it was all just a fantasy in Leonel's mind. He had lost. And even more painful was that Chloe completely closed herself off, not wanting a trace of Leonel's presence in her life. Whatever he said was no longer acknowledged by his wife. Instead, all he received was the slamming of a bedroom door.Leonel initially wanted to spend the evening with a reasonably romantic dinner. He had never taken Chloe to a friendly and well-known place in terms of its food. Moreover, Chloe dressed appropriately for a candlelit dinner amidst the delicious food. But many things made him emotional. They made Leonel half-crazy, trying to restrain his anger, and now he regretted listening to every word Chloe uttered.Everything was a mess.On top of that, the situation at the party became even more complicated. Leonel turned his car around to head back home. Everything he had planned to do with Chloe va
Chloe woke up feeling extremely thirsty. Her throat was dry because, as far as her mind could recall the events of last night, she hadn't sipped water. She hadn't eaten either. All her obligations for her body held no desire for her, as anger and frustration ruled her heart.Initially, she had been wary of Leonel's threatening behavior as he drove his car, but it seemed she had to thank the caller who disturbed Leonel's concentration while causing. Chloe never asked about their destination. She didn't care where Leonel was directing the car. Even if he took her to hell, Chloe wouldn't care.However, when Leonel's car honked twice and the sound of the gate's door creaked loudly, Chloe breathed a sigh of relief. It meant she was back at her uTama's house. And indeed, Bi Rossa greeted her with many questions, especially about Peni and why Chloe was only with Leonel. Where was her assistant who should accompany her wherever she went?Rossa seemed to blame Peni for h
Leonel went through the files given by Chris over and over again. None of the information satisfied him. Everything only heightened his emotions. In less than twenty-four hours, Leonel encountered numerous problems, and Deborah eventually became his shield.Many meetings were unilaterally canceled by Leonel, not because he wanted to avoid meeting with clients but because he also had to explain the numerous cancellations that flooded his email. Even Deborah herself didn't dare to enter Leonel's office anymore, as the boss's face seemed stiff and tense."Everything is organized, Leonel," Chris gave his opinion. Since yesterday, he had only slept for a few hours. His mind was suddenly filled with the events involving the Grisham family. As their family lawyer, Chris had to provide many explanations that various parties requested. This also significantly affected the numerous business contracts canceled by Grisham's clients."I don't understand," Leonel rubbed his t
"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