"Chloe," Leonel called. He felt a sense of relief upon seeing the woman he had been eager to meet this afternoon. Her face looked radiant, like when he first met Chloe during their early marriage. The smile on her lips showed no signs of insincerity.
Except after being with him.
Her long hair had a slight wave now, and she chose a blonde color that suited Chloe's face. She wore minimal makeup and a plain yet beautiful dress.
However, her eyes only glanced briefly at Leonel. The smile that was there disappeared as soon as she faced him. Her gaze showed disapproval and discomfort. Leonel swallowed it all; it didn't matter; it didn't matter if Chloe acted this way towards him.
He had to accept it.
"I just want to talk for a moment, Chloe," Leonel said again.
"I don't have much time, Leonel." She briefly looked at the man who once occupied her heart entirely. But then she averted her gaze because she didn't want to engage in prolonged eye
Meanwhile, Chloe was left with two extensive menus, which she used to observe Josh at the other end. Although she couldn't hear anything, their conversation seemed quite intense. Josh's face looked serious, with occasional nods and a faint smile. Then he would busy himself with the reports brought by his assistant. Chloe sighed softly. She needed clarification about why she willingly complied with Josh's request. Despite his apology, there was still much doubt in Chloe's heart. Chloe's concentration was interrupted by the ringing of her phone, which demanded her attention. She quickly glanced at her phone in the pocket of her cardigan. Darren's name appeared on the screen. Unconsciously, Chloe smiled. "Yes?" "Do I disturb you?" "No. I'm just waiting for dinner to be served." On the other end, Darren laughed. "That's bothersome, Chloe." "I don't consider your call a bother. What's up?" "I don't know why, but yest
Leonel cursed repeatedly. This time, New York City's streets got on his nerves. He had tried his best to reach his destination as quickly as possible.The hospital.The news he received was so shocking. How could everything unfold like this? Not to mention his dislike for Chloe choosing to be with Josh. He couldn't prevent it at all. He could only watch as Josh's car left Chloe's house without being able to do anything."Damn it!" The only outlet he could find was hitting the steering wheel hard enough to make the horn blare. He didn't care if people around him cursed at him for his behavior; that surprised them all.Various things quickly consumed Leonel's heart. Especially jealousy? My goodness! How could that feeling of jealousy arise after Chloe was no longer his wife? Where had that feeling been all this time? Hidden?The incident of the assault at Mountain's birthday party marked the beginning of that jealousy. But instead.Leonel coul
Chloe was taken aback beside Chris's wife. Although they had met several times before, where her face would usually wear a smile, and her eyes would have a serene gaze, she now looked sad. Chloe knew that what had just happened had shaken her deeply. Even though the critical period had passed, the child would still receive much attention. Chloe heard that the accident happened because a car suddenly lost control. Tian had already pulled over, but unfortunately, the car swerved to the left, causing him to be thrown off due to the impact. It was only by God's miracle that Tian survived. "I hope there are no lasting effects from Tian's accident." Chloe nodded, praying silently in her heart. She hoped that Tian wouldn't experience what she had been through. "I don't know what to say to Aunt, but I always pray for Tian's quick recovery." Risya smiled, albeit with a touch of sadness. "Thank you, Chloe. Your presence alone makes me happy. Especially
Chloe set her phone down and took a slow breath, lifting the cup of tea that Peni had prepared for her. She also had her favorite low-sugar cookies as a companion. The gentle evening breeze caressed Chloe's face, adding to the serenity of the evening. Peaceful. Calm. There was no disturbance except for the sound of the water flowing in the fish pond at the corner of her house. Budi took good care of the koi fish in the pond. He said, "It's beautiful, ma'am." It had been precisely a week since she last met Josh. Oh... He even accompanied her to the hospital, fulfilling his intention. He waited for Chloe until she finished all her tasks there. Chloe still remembered, albeit briefly, the conversation she had with Leonel. Even then, Chloe refused to talk in a café or cafeteria. She insisted on speaking in a place where she was in the same area as Agatha and a few others. Leonel reluctantly agreed, although his expression showed displeasure. Chloe didn't c
Darren had chosen to remain silent all this time. It's not that he didn't want to talk; in fact, many questions were lingering on his tongue about what had happened. But seeing Chloe's expression that indicated she didn't want to be disturbed, Darren decided to back down. Although he remembered their time with Chloe not too long ago, her joyfulness was contagious. Spending the whole day together, with the silly excuse of shopping for gifts, left a lasting impression that Darren longed to experience again. "Are you ready?" Darren asked, glancing at Chloe, who was fastening her seatbelt. She merely glanced back with a chuckle. "What do you think?" "I'm asking myself. Did I spend the day with Chloe today?" She laughed. "It seems you can joke around too." Darren started the car engine, following the route he had informed earlier. "Speaking of gifts, are you sure what I've chosen will suit your mother's taste?" Chloe still had conce
Darren laughed. "Me? Disappointed? Not at all." He tightened his grip on her hand. "You're right.""So... there's no point in coming here, right?" Chloe asked, her voice trailing off.Once again, Darren burst into laughter. "You're right. There's no point." He looked around. "But it wouldn't hurt to spend some time together, would it?"Chloe fell silent."Do you... mind?" Darren suddenly panicked as he noticed a change in Chloe's demeanor."Why would I mind?" Chloe asked, confused. "I just don't particularly enjoy malls. I'd rather sit back and relax, enjoying the view of a flower garden or even watching a TV series."Darren furrowed his brow."Going around the mall can be exhausting, Darren.""You've been quiet this whole time, Darren. Is something bothering you? Or is it because of my conversation with Ester? I can't control myself when it comes to Ester." Chloe spoke, causing Darren to blink slowly. Since Ester's return a wh
"Damn it!" The glass in her hand, she threw it recklessly, smashing it against the wall, causing further chaos in the living room. Splashes from the liquid that was in the glass stained the once-white wall. But she didn't care at all. The anger that enveloped her was much more significant for her, making her lose control.She was leaving the hospital, where many journalists blocked her, not to mention the spotlight directed at her, even though Rio had found the best way out of the building where she was undergoing treatment after fainting due to excessive alcohol influence. But unfortunately, those news-hungry journalists were adept at finding her whereabouts.And it was true. Ester was bombarded with numerous questions, especially regarding the accusations of harming Chloe. Many hot rumors eventually attacked her. Over the past two days, Sofi has provided much information about the developing news. Sofi told her everything and advised Ester to be prepared for the wors
Everyone in Robby's office stared intently at the sheets of paper in their hands. Occasionally, frustrated grumbles and bewildered expressions could be heard due to their discoveries. They would exchange glances and shake their heads in disbelief at all these findings, especially Leonel. It needed to be more apparent how often Leonel had slammed his cluttered desk with numerous papers. His face was filled with suppressed anger, and his ears turned red from holding back his urge to curse. Although he sometimes let out rough expletives, Leonel still made an effort to control himself. "This can't be left unnoticed," Robby asserted, forcefully throwing a large bundle of reports he had just studied. "Yes, sir," Leonel agreed. "This can't be left unnoticed. We all know that if it continues to be ignored, Mountain will suffer the most losses." Robby nodded quickly. "Handle it immediately, Leonel." "Yes, sir." "When is the big meeting with the
"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