Leonel appeared restless in his seat. Occasionally, he would get up and observe the room where his mother lay weak with oxygen in her mouth and nose. The news Leonel had just received was indeed worrying enough. Never before had he seen his mother lying helpless like that. There was a piercing pain in his heart. Even a class meeting to mend their somewhat strained working relationship due to the increasingly strong rumors was left behind because he feared something would happen to his mother.
As far as he knew his mother's medical history, nothing was too severe. Their family's doctor, who regularly checked both parents' health, also said there was nothing to worry about Agatha Theodore's current condition. However, as a child who had never seen his parents in such a weakened state, no matter how mature he was, that fear remained strong.
Not to mention that he mainly caused his mother's condition. If it weren't for his actions, the news he hated so much that had alread
Chloe didn't want to leave Agatha's side. Although her vision was severely limited, she tried to accompany Agatha until her condition improved significantly. The doctor said her situation was not too problematic, but Chloe felt anxious. There was a restlessness in her every time she handheld Agatha's. Usually, Agatha would respond, but not now. She was still weak."Agatha is still unconscious, Miss," Peni explained, who remained loyal in accompanying Chloe at the hospital. Initially, she had stepped aside because Leonel didn't want to be disturbed by her presence, but she still kept a close watch from a distance. She also feared that Leonel might dare to mistreat his gentle and weak employer again. Just because Leonel was Chloe's husband didn't mean he could mistreat his wife, right?"I hope she wakes up soon, Pen. I can't bear to see Mama like this. It's so sad that I can't do much except sit here quietly," Chloe whispered. "I feel useless, Pen.""Don't talk li
"How was the press conference earlier?" Ester asked cheerfully. The man in front of her took off his glasses and applauded. He appreciated that the woman under his control could play her role so well, even improvising about the incident in Cattle Village."Don't let Leonel escape from Chloe. You know, my reputation is at stake," he said."Don't worry, Ester. I've taken care of everything. Thanks to you, Mountain’s stock movement is plummeting, making me very happy.""Why do you hold such a grudge against Mountain? Were you rejected from working there in the past?" Ester joked with a somewhat sarcastic tone."No, I never applied to be part of Mountain." Josh chuckled, once again enjoying his meal. "Eat while you can eat with me. After this, you'll be busy supporting Leonel and paying more attention to Agatha Theodore and Robby. Have you heard the news that Agatha is in the hospital? I think you should visit her.""Is that true?""I have
Chloe mustered the courage to see her mother-in-law lying weak on the hospital bed. Despite her improved condition, Chloe could still sense the unexpressed pain in Agatha's eyes. No, Chloe couldn't see it yet, but the sadness in Agatha's voice clearly indicated what lay deep in her heart. She wanted to curse Leonel because he was the source of the problems in the Grisham family. Other Grisham relatives had bombarded Chloe herself regarding the widely circulating news."Chloe can't say anything, Aunt, Uncle. Forgive me. But once again, something must have got Leonel into this mess."That was all Chloe could say. She didn't want to get too involved in Leonel's affairs because she was terrified of feeling sorry for her soon-to-be ex-husband. She reaffirmed her determination not to delay or leave any room for reconciliation. What Leonel had done was more than enough."Are you daydreaming, dear?" Agatha asked, observing Chloe, who seemed unfocused. She sat beside her
Agatha couldn't do much. Chloe's decision was unquestionable, including her desire to leave the mansion. Agatha paid close attention to each item Chloe took out. It wasn't that Agatha was suspicious of what her daughter-in-law would bring. Not at all. Even if Chloe wanted to empty the house, it didn't matter to Agatha. But Chloe only took and got what belonged to her. Although Agatha tried to prevent it, she still tried to seek understanding from Chloe, but all of Agatha's words were dismissed.Agatha was slightly annoyed, but what could she say when everything Chloe did was based on Leonel? She couldn't even respond to Chloe's words when they touched on Leonel. Everything her daughter-in-law said was true. Agatha couldn't deny that. She couldn't even imagine if she experienced what Chloe had gone through; perhaps she would have left Robby a long time ago.Their conversation last night couldn't make her daughter-in-law a little more patient. Eventually, Agatha gave in.
Chloe's new life began. It had been a week since she started her activities with a different kind of joy. An invisible burden seemed to be lifted from her shoulders, lightening her every step. However, she couldn't help much with the people working in her old house, except for Bi Rossa, whom Chloe forced to stay and accompany Agatha Theodore. The middle-aged woman needed Rossa as a companion there.Meanwhile, Peni was always faithfully by her side, with a few other people already living in her old house. They were curious why Chloe suddenly returned, but no one dared to ask because something seemed to be happening. Moreover, they were not ignorant of the information circulating in the media, especially the gossip about their master, Leonel Grisham, allegedly flirting with Ester Gisela to secure a new contract with the rising model."Good morning, Miss Chloe," Tia greeted as Chloe approached the kitchen. Tia helped with the kitchen affairs in the old house. Chloe only g
Ester admired her newly manicured nude nails. They looked beautiful. A satisfied smile spread across her face as she scanned the room she now occupied. The studio was bustling with activity, as usual. She only needed one person at the moment."Sofi," she called softly. Sofi conversed with one of the stylists trusted to arrange several models for the upcoming photo shoot. This time, multiple models would be featured together in a frame for a handbag brand launching in two weeks.The girl turned and smiled at Ester. The model eagerly awaited Sofi's arrival, and in recent days, the atmosphere around Ester had been pleasant. Many eyes were on her, and there were questions about the press conference's outcome. Not to mention that Sofi mentioned the influx of beauty and fashion endorsement offers. Ester's popularity was skyrocketing, and her market value and activities rapidly increased.Leo was somewhat overwhelmed by requests for Ester's public appearances at variou
Adrianna arrived about half an hour ago, but her eyes still doubted Chloe's concentration in front of her. Whatever Adrianna said, Chloe responded differently, as if she wasn't there. She was busy with her thoughts, which Adrianna herself didn't know. So Adrianna let Chloe enjoy her solitude.This house reminded Adrianna of their college days. Adrianna often stayed at this house, working on assignments with Chloe. Sometimes they would sneak out of the room at night to enjoy the night at one of the clubs, but it never lasted more than five minutes before they returned home. Adrianna said they both needed to be suited to keep up with the activities of their peers on campus."Adrianna," Chloe called out. "Accompany me, okay?""Um... let me inform my landlady first. But I have work in the morning, Chloe."Chloe snorted. "Don't make too many excuses. You can wear my clothes. I'm sure the size hasn't changed much, right?"Adrianna chuckled. "What are you
Chloe has been staying at her old house for the past three months. She feels an increasing sense of peace within herself. Her smile grows wider every day. It's not just Peni who notices the positive changes in Chloe. Almost everyone agrees with Peni that Chloe's condition has greatly influenced her recovery.Indeed, now Chloe truly feels remarkable progress. Upon returning from the hospital, she wears prescription glasses to see more clearly as her blurred vision still bothers her. Peni's face is quite clear to Chloe for the first time. Tia, whom she remembers as skinny, is now much fuller. Some of the other staff members are unrecognizable to her."It's so touching, Pen," Chloe said with teary eyes. Her tears began to flow as soon as she arrived home. She had already cried tears of joy in front of Darren."I didn't expect your recovery to be this quick, Chloe," Darren said with a genuine smile. "Congratulations. I'm so grateful for your healing.""It's n
"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