"Nick, I'm very sure that Briana is really cheating."
Nicholas looked up, a look of surprise clearly evident on his handsome face. But he still tried to remain calm in response to his friend's statement.
"What nonsense is this, Ken? Did you see it yourself?"
Kenzi shook his head slowly. It wasn't him who witnessed the incident directly.
"But I can prove what I just said."
Seconds later, Kenzi handed over his phone, intending to show something to Nicholas. Something that made him truly breathless.
Clear in Nicholas's eyes, a photo of a man and a woman passionately kissing. Unfortunately, he recognized the woman as Briana, and the man as her lover's manager.
"Briana clearly betrayed you, Nick. Are you sure you still want to marry her?" Kenzi asked to confirm.
Nicholas grumbled in frustration, trying to deny all the information his friend had provided. So, in order to prove everything Kenzi was saying, Nicholas, who was on a business trip to Amsterdam, decided to return to London immediately.
****
Nicholas Alistair was indeed in a serious relationship with Briana Roland, who worked as a famous model. They were even engaged and were about to get married in a few weeks.
Upon arriving at London Heathrow International Airport, Nicholas immediately accelerated his car at an above-average speed, cutting through the streets of London towards an upscale apartment in the city center.
When he arrived, Nicholas, in a hurry, made his way to the apartment unit Briana had been occupying. Placing his finger on the key sensor, the apartment door finally opened.
Nicholas was a bit confused when he found the entire room in darkness, with only the light in Briana's room still shining.
"Oh, God... I love the way you satisfy me, Honey. You've never once disappointed me."
"I can even give you more than this."
From Briana's room, Nicholas faintly heard the sounds of a woman and a man moaning and whispering to each other. Filled with curiosity, Nicholas opened the bedroom door, which, to his surprise, was not locked from the inside. He was shocked beyond belief when he found his fiancée intimately entangled with another man, completely unclothed.
Realizing Nicholas's presence, Briana, still panting heavily, tried to speak. "Oh my God, Nick, wh-what are you doing here?" Briana widened her eyes in astonishment, pulling the sheets to cover her bare body.
"What am I doing? I should be the one asking, what are you doing with that man?" Nicholas shot a piercing look at the man beside Briana.
"M-me?" Briana pointed at herself. "Of course, I'm just having some fun," she replied casually.
Nicholas chose to remain silent in his position, trying to contain the emotions that were about to explode. Even the glint in his eyes and his clenched jaw indicated that he was ready to pounce on anyone, regardless of who it was.
"I can't believe you've done this behind my back. You've truly betrayed me," Nicholas shook his head in disbelief. "I think we don't need to continue this engagement anymore. It's all clear to me now," he continued.
Rather than being anxious, Briana seemed calm, as if she had been prepared for this moment to come. "Actually, I wanted to call off our engagement a long time ago. Besides, I don't really love you, Nick. You're too busy with your work. Even during our relationship, you never once wanted to touch me," Briana retorted.
Nicholas grumbled in frustration at what he had just heard. He couldn't believe he had been in love with the wrong woman all this time.
"You think I didn't want to touch you? I just wanted to protect you, make sure my ego didn't take away your dignity. And you see that as a mistake?" Nicholas genuinely couldn't understand Briana's way of thinking.
Meanwhile, Briana herself burst into laughter upon hearing Nicholas's words.
"You're too naive, Nicholas Alistair. I'm a modern woman who also needs warmth from a partner. And you? You've acted like an old-fashioned man all along. Not to mention, you're so busy with your job that you never gave me any extra attention. I'm tired of all your antics."
Nicholas nodded in understanding and then smirked sharply at Briana.
"Alright, I'll go along with your wishes. From now on, let's end this engagement. Never show up in front of me again."
"Do you think I'll regret it? Of course not, Nick. I've been waiting for this moment for a long time." Briana approached her cheating partner, leaned in, and deliberately planted a kiss on him as if she didn't care about Nicholas's disgusted gaze.
"What are you still doing here?" Briana asked after breaking the kiss. "Just so you know, you're interrupting my lovemaking time, Nick. We have no relationship anymore, so you better leave right now," Briana openly dismissed him.
Nicholas turned around immediately. Without uttering a word, he left the apartment, leaving Briana behind with a million pieces of heartache gnawing at his soul.
"Henry Cavill, damn it!" cursed Kimberly. "If only I didn't watch N*****x series until dawn, maybe I wouldn't be late like this." For the umpteenth time this morning, Kimberly had to arrive late at the office for such trivial reasons. With great haste, she hurried down the corridor of the Alpha Beta Corporation building to reach her workspace. However, before she could make it, Kimberly accidentally bumped into a man walking in the opposite direction, causing both of them to end up sitting on the floor. "Good grief! Is my body too small that you didn't see me?" grumbled the man in front of her. Wincing, Kimberly tried to get up. "I'm sorry, I was in a hurry, so I didn't see you. I apologize again," Kimberly replied without even looking at her interlocutor. She was too busy adjusting her blazer. Then she walked away, completely ignoring the man she had collided with, who cursed in pain. "Damn! Why are there rude employees like that at Alpha Beta?" A sense of relief finally washed
"Kimmy, this is the agreement document requested by Mr. Nicholas. Please finish it promptly because he will be checking it today," Stevan said as he handed several documents to Kimberly, who was walking towards her office. "All right, sir." "Kimmy, this is Mr. Nicholas's schedule that you'll need to handle for the next few days. Please check and pay attention to it," this time Nancy from the planning division handed her a meeting agenda book. "Okay, ma'am." "Kimmy, and this is the list of investors you need to contact immediately." "Understood!" Kimberly entered her office with a somewhat irritated feeling. She roughly placed the stack of documents she was carrying on her desk, causing some papers to fall onto the floor. The clock had just struck eight in the morning, but the man she knew as the CEO intentionally seemed to annoy her. Just becoming a secretary, why did she have to endure this kind of ordeal? "Does he think that just because he's a boss, he can order me around li
Nicholas looked serious as he read through several neatly stacked documents on his work desk. His eyes were busy scanning, occasionally nodding, and then directing the pen he held to sign a few papers he was reading. "Am I interrupting you?" a man entered the room. Without waiting to be invited, the tall and burly man immediately took a seat directly in front of Nicholas. "In your opinion?" Nicholas asked with a flat expression. "For God's sake, Nick, I've missed you," the man said. "Edward Martin, do you want to die?!" Nicholas retorted. Edward chuckled at his friend's response. Then, a moment later, he smiled wryly and sighed. "I came all the way from London, and you didn't even welcome me? Seriously, Nick!" Nicholas grumbled in annoyance and said, "Nonsense, Ed!" Edward grinned. "If it weren't for Kenzi forcing me, I wouldn't have bothered coming to Indonesia. Do you think the distance between England and Indonesia is short? What project do we need to handle that I had to be
The time showed 6:00 PM, but Nicholas still appeared busy with the remaining documents on his desk. Kimberly hesitated as she entered after knocking on her new boss's office door."Mr. Nicholas, I've completed all the documents and tasks for today. Is there anything else I should do? If not, I'd like to go home."Nicholas shifted his gaze."Please make me a cup of coffee first, then you can leave."Kimberly nodded and walked to the pantry to brew coffee, serving it promptly on Nicholas's desk."If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave, Mr. Please, you should head home soon as well. Isn't there a dinner invitation at Marigold Hotel later at 8:00 PM?" Kimberly reminded.Nicholas gently tapped his forehead. He almost forgot about the dinner invitation from one of the company's associates."In that case, you should go home and change. My driver will pick you up. We'll go to the dinner together.""Go with me?" Kimberly asked for confirmation."Not with Taylor Swift!" Nicholas teased."Hu
Kimberly tidied up her auburn brown hair from behind the office restroom mirror before heading up to the fifteenth floor where her office was located. After feeling satisfied with her appearance, she stepped into the elevator. However, before the elevator doors could close, Nicholas and Edward were seen entering as well. As usual, Nicholas, who rarely exchanged greetings, remained silent, in contrast to Edward, who greeted Kimberly warmly. "Your blazer looks good, definitely a well-known brand," Edward casually remarked. Little did Kimberly know that the Scottish-blooded man now held the position of director in the planning division. Despite being labeled a playboy by many, he proved to be adept at handling his work. Moreover, for an expatriate in such a position, Edward was quite friendly, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues, even though he was relatively new at Alpha Beta. Kimberly turned and flashed a smile at Edward. "It's just a regular brand blazer, mister. M
The finance division office seemed busy when Kimberly visited her friends Keyra and Alex there. Male and female employees were gathered, discussing something. "What are they talking about? Instead of working, they're making a fuss," Kimberly commented as she took a seat in front of Alex's cubicle. "They must be discussing the hot gossip on television," Keyra replied as she ate her lunch. "How's the past two months been, Kimmy?" Alex, who had just arrived from who knows where, suddenly asked.Kimberly raised one of her eyebrows. "How's what?" "Your progress, have you managed to win over Mr. Cool?" Unconsciously, Kimberly let out a tired sigh in front of her friends. "It seems that our boss is extremely difficult to win over." Alex smirked and started singing a line from a popular song that they had been hearing a lot lately. "I told you to wipe away the tears, my love disappeared leaving you. You're different now, half crazy. My life feels empty." "What the hell, Lex. Why are yo
After being unconscious for several hours, Kimberly finally woke up. She looked around with a confused feeling. Something was unusual about what she was seeing right now. "Where am I? This isn't my room, is it?" These were the first questions that came to her mind. When she opened her eyes, her gaze was fixed on a room dominated by a distinctive white color. Not far from where she lay, she saw some medical equipment such as an oxygen panel, an IV stand, and a vacuum portable dining table. Clearly, this was part of a hospital room. Before her curious thoughts could be answered, a man she knew well entered and approached her. "Are you awake? How do you feel?" The question was the first thing she heard. There was a sense of concern in his deep voice. Kimberly nodded weakly. "I feel better now. I'm sorry if I've been a bother. Maybe I should go home now." Kimberly tried to sit up from her lying position. Seeing Kimberly trying to get up, Nicholas immediately moved forward, trying to t
The wind blew gently through the gap in the wooden window. The once bright sunlight had now turned dim, signaling the day was transitioning into night. The fear and anxiety stemming from the previous events still occasionally tormented her. "Wind, can't you carry away all these haunting feelings with you?" As Kimberly stared at the bedroom ceiling, she was reminded of memories from over a decade ago. It was a time when she and her mother had been trapped in a room during a massive house fire. "Mom, it's dark. Kimmy is scared. Are we both going to die?" Kimberly cried in fear. Her mother cupped her daughter's face with both hands. "Look, my dear," she asked, "we will both be safe. Now, Kimmy, let's pray that the firefighters will come to help us soon." Kimberly nodded after hearing her mother's words. Before long, shouts could be heard outside the window, coming from the rescue team. A sense of relief accompanied the two of them. However, before they could be saved, the sturdy wall
The next two months."Nick, I think you should come home soon. Your face looks really pale now," Edward suggested. They had just returned from a meeting outside the office.Nicholas sighed deeply while continuing to massage his temples. For some reason, since yesterday, he had been feeling unwell. Now, it even felt worse than before."I can't, Ed. I need to finish my tasks soon. I have only a week left before I really move from Alpha Beta and take care of Rayder Corp," Nicholas replied, still holding his forehead.Edward shook his head vigorously. He was very certain that his friend's condition was not okay at the moment. He was just afraid that something bad might happen to Nicholas."In that case, I'll get you some hot tea." Edward then got up and walked quickly to the pantry. He grabbed a cup of tea and brought it immediately to Nicholas's room, handing it over."Drink it quickly. After this, I'll help you finish all your tasks so you can go home early."Nicholas nodded and reached
After returning from London, Kimberly and Nicholas were busy with various wedding preparations. From fitting wedding attire to pre-wedding photos, everything had to be done quickly due to their limited time. Cassandra and Arthur didn't hold back; they even chose BVLGARI RESORT BALI as the venue for the celebration.BVLGARI is a luxurious five-star resort perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Its location is not far from Pura Luhur Uluwatu and the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park.Embracing a beachfront wedding theme, all preparations had reached 95%. Nicholas and Kimberly couldn't believe how meticulously and perfectly Cassandra had arranged everything. She even hired a top-tier wedding organizer like 'Belvedere' to handle Nicholas and Kimberly's wedding."Mama is truly amazing," Nicholas said proudly. He was amazed by what his mother had done.Cassandra clasped her hands to her chest, a smile on her lips as she heard her son's praise."I'll do anything for you, my dear.
All the invited guests never ceased to congratulate Nicholas and Kimberly. Everyone seemed lost in the euphoria of this luxurious engagement party.While all the guests were busy enjoying their meals, Nicholas, who was watching Cassandra relaxing, went straight to her and pulled her to the garden's edge."Mom owes me an explanation," Nicholas whispered.Cassandra chuckled softly, keeping her composure. "Oh, come on, dear. Just enjoy your party for now. I promise to explain everything once everything's over."Nicholas shook his head in disbelief, observing his mother's behavior. Meanwhile, in a different location, Kimberly also looked puzzled. She chose to remain silent but kept her facial expression looking joyful. Yes, even though she was genuinely surprised and, of course, happy. However, amidst all this, she hadn't even exchanged a word with Nicholas. The two of them mostly just stared at each other without speaking.After the guests left one by one, Cassandra kept her promise. She
Since morning, Kimberly has been busy packing her belongings to put them in her suitcase. After hearing Arthur Rayder's explanation about Nicholas last night, she decided to join the man in London as soon as possible.Enjoying the packing process, Kimberly suddenly remembered that she didn't remember Nicholas's address or his parents' addresses. After thinking for a while, she realized who had helped her gather the information.Quickly, Kimberly grabbed her cellphone, searched for someone's number in her contacts list, and dialed it promptly. After three rings, the call was finally answered."Hello," a voice on the other side replied."Hello, Mr. Edward. It's me, Kimberly. Can I ask for your help?" Kimberly inquired."Oh my goodness, Kimberly," Edward exclaimed in surprise. "What's the reason for calling me so early in the morning?""Can I... Can I ask about Nicholas's address in London?" Kimberly hesitantly asked."Of course, you can. But, I'm sorry in advance, why are you asking for
Arthur remembered well that Veronica, his wife, had been very active in charity work. Then, at some point, she accidentally met Cassandra, a young woman who had dedicated half of her life to helping street children and orphans. They both worked together to provide assistance until the time when Cassandra, by chance, met Robert Alistair, who was working in Singapore at that time. He also became the largest donor for the charity event organized by Veronica.Somehow, at some point, Cassandra developed a relationship with Robert Alistair and decided to get married. After becoming husband and wife, Robert brought Cassandra with him to England. Since then, Veronica and Arthur rarely met Cassandra. It was only occasionally when she was traveling to Singapore.Arthur reached for the teacup already placed on his table. He took a sip and continued speaking. "So, what brings you all the way here to meet me?"Cassandra took her own drink, sipped it slowly, and then placed her cup back on the tabl
Mario never seemed tired of smiling at all the guests who attended. His face was radiant after formally getting engaged just a few hours ago.Arthur was also delighted. The old man was even busy socializing with the business colleagues who were present at the party.Among the many happy people, only Kimberly seemed ordinary. She even appeared distant from the crowd, choosing to sit alone in one corner of the event room while continuously gazing at Mario from a distance.She should have felt relieved because she wasn't the one accompanying Mario tonight. Yes, a few days ago, Kimberly almost couldn't breathe when he suddenly brought up the topic of engagement. She thought that her grandfather, Arthur, was really going to arrange a match between them. However, Mario revealed that he would be engaged to another woman."So, is Grandpa really going to arrange a match between us?" Mario didn't immediately answer. He remained silent for quite a while, which only made Kimberly's thoughts wande
For the translated text in American English with correct grammar, please see below:"For the past two days, Arthur had been observing Kimberly, who seemed so gloomy. The woman went to work listlessly and returned home in silence. Usually, Kimberly always had something to share with him, whether it was work-related issues or just casual conversations about her daily life.Curious, that evening, Arthur finally asked Mario when the two of them had just returned from the office. He was convinced that Mario knew what was happening with his granddaughter lately."Is there something you want to talk to me about?" Mario asked while they were in Arthur's office.Arthur, who was engrossed in reading a book, paused. He first took off his glasses and then placed the book he had been holding aside."Have a seat," Arthur instructed. "There's something I want to ask you."Mario complied with Arthur's request, taking a seat right next to the elderly man."What does grandpa want to ask about?""About
"I choose Alpha Beta," Arthur Rayder stared at Nicholas with an expression that was difficult to interpret after hearing what the man had chosen. He remained silent for quite some time before finally smiling and asking, "Are you sure you chose Alpha Beta over my granddaughter?"Nicholas nodded. "I'm sure. Very sure. Congratulations, in this game, you're the winner."Arthur squinted at Nicholas. There were many things he wanted to ask the man."As I suspected. You never really loved my granddaughter. It was quite evident when you chose money over—""You shouldn't jump to conclusions," Nicholas interrupted. Arthur glared at him. He didn't appreciate it when someone deliberately cut him off mid-sentence.Arthur sighed in his position. "Then what's your reason for not choosing Kimberly?"Nicholas took a slow breath. It wasn't easy making a decision like this."I love Kimberly. There's no other woman I love besides your granddaughter. However, I can't be selfish. I thought that if I cancel
Arthur was sitting casually in his office, looking at the neatly arranged photos of Kimberly in an album. Mario was there, accompanying the old man. He had been asked to come early in the morning, even though it was a holiday. Arthur wondered what he wanted to talk to Mario about.Arthur smiled as he commented, "Kimberly is such a cheerful girl. Look, in almost all these neatly arranged photos, she's always laughing or smiling." Arthur showed a specific photo to Mario.Mario looked at each photo that Arthur displayed. Kimberly appeared in various poses in the pictures. Mario nodded in agreement."In all the time I've known her, I've only seen Kimberly cry twice. First, when she found out her mother had passed away. Second, when she decided to leave Nicholas Alistair's apartment."Arthur leaned back in his chair. Hearing Mario's last sentence made his blood boil."That brat had the audacity to make my granddaughter cry. Who is he, daring to do such a thing?""They just had a misunderst