When Elice entered Rita's residential area, the clock on her wrist already showed eleven. A long time had passed if she had not decided to pick up her car at the Metro first. But at least Elice could be sure to get home on time. The situation seemed calmer and more under control.
Elice got out of the car. In the urgency of missing Wilda and worrying about her, she hurried to open the gate door. Only to find the bright light blinding her eyes.
Elice blinked her eyes. At the same time, her hand spontaneously lifted from the gate key. Trying to ward off the glare that disturbed her vision.
The sound of a car door opening was heard. Followed by the sound of the car door closing with the impression of being half slammed. As if the person was in a hurry.
However, it seemed that this person was indeed in a hurry, for his steps were large and swift. Taking advantage of the glare that left Elice motionless in her standing position, he approached her, reaching out
"Miss Elice has left the apartment, sir."In the car parked not far from the apartment where Elice had stayed last night, Garrett was accompanied by Amber and the driver named Dariel Martin. It was unclear how long they had been there; it seemed like countless hours. During that time, Amber waited patiently for a report from her informants, while Garrett tried to remain calm and take the opportunity to work briefly on his laptop, which was open on his lap.Garrett sighed deeply. Without taking his eyes off several colorful graphs on the laptop screen, he said, "Follow her.”Amber looked back, seemingly incredulous at what her boss had just said."Quickly," Garrett said again. "Before she gets too far."Amber had no choice. She motioned to Dariel, and not long after, the car was speeding through the streets. Now it was getting harder and harder for Garrett to concentrate on his work."Is she going straight home?" Garrett could not conta
"No, Mom. This time I won't do what you say. And I beg you, just this once. Let me do what I want. I will defend Elice."As Ariel said this on the phone, Farrah's hysterical screams could be heard on the other end. She was shocked to find that her son had gone straight to Ashford City because of the articles and photos circulating. Without a second thought, he immediately went to see Elice. And now her son had another surprise for her—an earnest request that she would undoubtedly refuse."Ariel! I warn you not to even think about approaching Elice again. Let her be with Garrett! Let this lowly woman be with your cousin!"When Ariel heard how Farrah humiliated Elice, his hand moved involuntarily and slammed down on the steering wheel with such force."Ma, I beg you! Stop calling Elice that. She's not as low as you say.""Ariel, dare you defy Mom? Hahaha. See how Elice's bad influence has affected you? You should be thankful, Ariel. Because now
Garrett decided to call Elice. No matter if she would be angry with him. What was most important to him right now was to know Elice's condition. He had to make sure that Elice was all right.Waiting with an uneasy feeling, Garrett closed his eyes and breathed a sigh of relief when Elice answered his call."Hello, Garrett."Elice's voice calmed Garrett's emotions. It made the restlessness that had been plaguing his mind calm down."Elice," Garrett called. "How are you this morning? I..."Garrett couldn't finish his words. The growing guilt made him feel ashamed. How many times would he have to apologize to this woman?"I'm fine."At least Elice's words calmed Garrett's feelings."Have you been to the office today? Are you working?""Of course. I took an impromptu leave for two days, Garrett. If it's more than that, I think I'll get a warning."Garrett understood. But he couldn't imagine how much pressure Elice was
"Take responsibility for Garrett. Marry him."Elice must be dreaming or hallucinating. Because it seemed completely nonsensical that Daphne would say something so absurd. Marriage? Between her and Garrett?"W-what?"Daphne sighed deeply and reached for the teacup in front of her. Instead of answering the question, she savored her first sip of the now chilled, reddish-golden liquid. No longer too hot, as it had been when first served.There was a slight exhale as Daphne enjoyed the drink, letting each drop moisten her throat, which felt dry from the conversation they had just had."I'm sure I made myself very clear. But if you need a replay, that's fine. I'll say it again," Daphne said casually. "I want you to marry Garrett."Elice certainly didn't need a second shock to make her heart stop beating inside. She had heard it clearly. But she really did not understand."M-marry Garrett?"Daphne nodded. "Aren't you Garrett's girlfri
Elice was clearly not well. Physically, perhaps. But mentally? Probably not so much. Because when she decided to return to work and found Daphne's visit again, the pressure was undeniable.She accepted some strange whispers and looks. When she turned around, they immediately put on a smile and acted as if nothing had happened. But just like those who put on a facade, Elice did the same. She acted as if nothing had happened, even though it was undoubtedly a difficult thing to do.At that moment, when Elice realized for the umpteenth time that her situation was getting worse because of the pressure caused by a man, cynical thoughts appeared. flew through her mind.It turns out that no matter how far I go, problems and scornful looks will always find me in the end. Who is to blame?Elice kept asking herself. Whenever she tried to start a new chapter in her life, it seemed that problems always found a way to find her. No matter how many miles she dis
Elice's guess was undoubtedly correct. For Garrett didn't see any surprise on the beautiful woman's face."I never expected things to turn out like this. That Nana would meet you and ask you to marry me."Elice blinked. Even if she could guess where the conversation would lead that night, she still was not ready to discuss it."I won't pressure you, Elice. Don't worry. I know this is the strangest way for two people to be bound in marriage. And whatever your decision is, I'll deal with it."Frankly, a marriage pushed by Daphne was a good thing for Garrett. The man was clearly interested in Elice. Coupled with the diminishing time he had every day. But Garrett tried to suppress his selfishness.Marriage was always about two people. Even when two people had the same commitment, storms would still come. In the form of family and loved ones who sometimes felt more important. What about this one?"What about your decision then, Garrett?"A
Elice was now twenty-nine years old. She was no longer a teenage girl easily swayed by the sweet words of a man. Life experiences and a difficult journey had shaped her heart. No man's words could be trusted. Not even Garrett.Elice had proven it. She had even accused him without blinking an eye. That he was using her and working with Ariel. Even though in reality it was an empty accusation. Garrett was not who she thought he was. But Elice realized how her thoughts about men had changed. There was no longer an Elice who thought positively. There was only Elice who tried to be careful.Elice knew that she had to protect herself. She could not rely on anyone. Especially not on a man she had not even known for a year."I knew you wouldn't believe me."Garrett spoke calmly. He did not seem surprised by Elice's reaction. There was a frown on his forehead, a hint of a disbelieving smile and a subtle snort."And I'm not going to ask you to trust me," Gar
Daphne snapped. She rose from the sofa, her back straight. As if preparing to face her opponent."You clearly know this is connected to me, Elice. Everything from Garrett to Ariel, whether you like it or not, will connect you to me. It's your destiny. You cann’t do anything for that."It feels as if Elice really wants to eliminate this one word from her life's dictionary. Fate? Elice feels that fate has never given her anything good. Only problems and tears."I don't know if you feel arrogant or what, but believe me. I will not force you to marry Garrett unless circumstances force me to.""Then don't," Elice replied without hesitation. "I'm sure there is no woman out there who would refuse Garrett's proposal. A man who is currently at the top of his game. With a great family background, I'm sure no woman would think twice about accepting him.""At least you can see that clearly."Elice felt her face suddenly stiffen at this sarcastic r
Amidst the drizzle of raindrops, there was a slender fingered hand that welcomed the droplets. Gathering them deliberately to feel the chill that accompanied the wetness against the skin.Chill. It made the body shiver slightly. But in truth, there was no intention of moving from there.To stand still. Allow the rain and the wind that accompanied it to bring even more coldness.For she needed to see with her own eyes. The shape of the promise that the universe would fulfill. That there would always be a time for every moment.There is a beginning. And there is an end. And for the chill that pervades now, it will end. Replaced by the returning warmth.Then she realized that the last raindrop had just fallen into her hand. No more drops to follow.The rain had stopped. So did the wind that accompanied it. So, it was the perfect time to raise her head.To look far into the distance. At the clouds that had appeared dark before and were now gradually fading. The gray color that had covered
Farrah fell silent. Her face hardened and remained unmoved as the sad question was directed at her."Are you satisfied now?" Kurt stared at Farrah, his face and eyes red. Tears dried on his cheeks. "Are you happy now?" Kurt asked again. "Will you be satisfied only when Ariel is dead?"Farrah's breath caught in her chest for a moment. Her chest rumbled. Was Kurt really going to accuse her like that?"Kurt."Kurt's hand gripped Farrah's upper arm. He squeezed it with the fury of a father who had lost his son. Anger and sadness collided in his eyes."I told you, Farrah. I told you repeatedly. And now you see the consequences of your actions?"Kurt's shoulders trembled with painful sobs. Regret quickly filled his heart and mind. If only he could have stopped his wife. If only he had stayed there. If only. If only. If only.But it was all too late. There was nothing more Kurt could do."You killed our son, Farrah. You killed Ariel!"Farrah blinked. A tear that had been there for who knew h
Day after day. In life, there will always be different shades at every turn of the changing times.White.Black.It's only a matter of time before they visit each individual's story. And this time it seems that gray is paying a visit.Not too dark. But certainly not light. It's a state in between. Between despair and hope. Standing on a thin thread. Falling or trying to be able to. Struggling to stay upright when the fear becomes more pressing.Exactly what they felt. Family and loved ones when they heard what happened to Elice. News that shattered common sense and elicited hysterical screams from everyone who heard it.Norah, Wilda and Rita walked fast. Navigating the corridors of the hospital. Cutting through the bustle of the medical staff. Making their way to a main ward, closely guarded by several personal guards.The door to the room opened. Norah, Wilda and Rita were welcomed to enter and find the figure of their concern.Elice lay on the hospital bed. Next to Garrett, who did
"Ariel. Ariel. I beg you, Ariel."Elice shook Ariel's body. But Ariel didn't move at all. Completely still."Ariel, please."Elice let go of Ariel's hand. Just to touch his face. Just to feel that there was no feeling there.Ariel's eyes opened. Unblinking. Unfocused. Those eyes had lost their light. Faded. Gone. Leaving behind a reality that made Elice's tears flow uncontrollably.There was no breath. No more pulse. No more heartbeat. All signs of life were gone. Just as the soul had finally left its body."Ariel!" Elice sobbed. She embraced Ariel's lifeless body. Holding it tight. "Ariel, please."No matter how hard Elice shook the body in her embrace, she received no response. The rigid body remained motionless. Crushing any hope Elice had clung to.Ending in a hug full of devastation that made Elice cry even harder. Allowing Ariel's blood and her tears to mix into one."Ariel."Elice's voice was filled with fear. A pain she had never imagined before. For in that moment, Ariel was
Ariel winced. Ignoring the pain in his stomach, he tried to stand up. But as soon as his body was lifted slightly from the ground, he fell again."Ariel!"Elice screamed when she saw Ariel's condition. He looked at her. He tried to speak."I-I'm okay."Elice shook her head. She knew for sure that Ariel wasn't okay right now. His condition was truly pitiful. But compared to that, there was something even more pitiful. That was her inability to do anything about it."Do you see that, Elice?" Farrah's voice made Elice turn around. The expression of hatred towards her was clearly overflowing. "Because of you," Farrah said in a trembling voice. "Ariel dares to defy me. His own mother."Elice shook her head. She tried to stand, but her legs felt completely powerless. Not to mention walking, even standing still was difficult for her."You are such a troublemaker, Elice. I should have gotten rid of you a long time ago."Farrah moved. She approached Teddy with an outstretched hand. The man qui
For a moment, darkness was all Elice could feel. Until voices touched her senses. Awakening her consciousness. Pushing her to open her eyes.Elice's eyelids fluttered. Blinking repeatedly. Trying to open. And a wrinkle formed on her forehead.The voice was familiar. Causing Elice's eyes to focus even more. To look around. The place where she was right now.Elice wasn't sure where she was right now. The place seemed untidy. Untouched by humans and neglected for a long time.Dirty. Dusty. And Elice's eyes widened when she realized where she was lying. On the cold floor full of footprints."Of course, I can do that, Ariel! I will do anything to achieve my goals. Anything. Even if I have to get rid of Elice!"Elice turned away. Trying to get up, but unable to, she could only look straight ahead. At the three human figures that seemed to be in conflict.It was Ariel, Farrah and... Elice's body froze with cold fear. She would never forget that face.Teddy. The man who claimed to be Randi's
Running his hands through his hair in escalating panic, Ariel prayed that he could get there in time. But the looming shadow of his own potential lateness drove him almost mad with fear.I have to stop Mama. I'll do anything to make sure Mama can't hurt Elice anymore.Ariel blinked. He realized something and immediately contacted two different people.The first was Garrett. Reluctantly, Ariel once again ignored all the arguments between them. None of it mattered when Elice's safety was at stake with every decision he made.However, contacting Garrett didn't immediately ease Ariel's mind. For Ariel knew exactly what Farrah was like. The middle-aged woman who was his biological mother would not hesitate to act again. To do anything to ensure that all her desires were fulfilled.Farrah wouldn't stop. No. Not until she had everything she wanted.Ariel wouldn't take that chance. So, he contacted the second person. And that was Ruben, his husband."Ruben, listen to me."Ariel took a deep br
When the car with Elice was already on the road, two other cars hurriedly followed. Together with the car Carolus was riding in, there were a total of four cars involved in the trip. Two cars with specially trained personal guards walked in front and behind to protect Elice and Carolus inside.The four vehicles moved in line at a regular and almost steady speed. Ready to take Elice and Carolus to their next destination. Namely, the boarding school under the care of the Morales Family Foundation.A bright day. As the sun began to roll toward the west, the weather was not as hot as it had been. It felt cooler."Are you thirsty, Madam?"Teddy's voice caught Elice's attention. Elice wanted to shake her head to answer the question, but instead she heard Teddy talking to her again."Maybe some water will soothe madam's throat."Elice looked at the bottle of mineral water. Somehow, she, who had not felt thirsty at all, suddenly felt the opposite. Suddenly, a feeling of dryness appeared and m
Ariel's eyes widened. The worry came back. Exactly the same as yesterday.Ariel could not ignore it. He suddenly stood up from his seat. An action so sudden that it immediately stopped Wijono's presentation.Everyone looked confused as they saw Ariel leave the meeting room without saying a word, causing whispers and panic among them.And as the secretary, Nikita could not say anything either. She could only reassure the meeting participants that everything was fine.Of course, it was not. Everything was far from okay. When Ariel returned to his room, he quickly turned on his laptop. He quickly put on his headphones and listened to another recording.A recording that Ariel had almost forgotten due to the euphoria of relief he had felt. Something he deeply regretted when he heard Farrah's words."Ariel tapped me?"Ariel dramatically closed his eyes. Farrah knew he was tapping on his mother. And Ariel knew for sure that it was a bad thing.Ariel's worries intensified. With every word Far