Fate tested the relationship of the married couple, William and Tessa. Despite their difficult life and constant financial struggles, their love for each other remained strong.Time passed quickly. William's charcoal business idea became successful. In their small village, using charcoal for cooking became easier for their neighbors. They no longer needed to split wood for cooking. They sold the charcoal at an affordable price, considering the financial capacity of the people in their village.Soon, they became suppliers of charcoal in the wet market and other small booths. William and Tessa were overjoyed. William focused on making charcoal, while Tessa handled sales talk and finding customers.One day, William approached his wife with a smile. "Tessa, I'm happy with the improvement in our lives. I never thought we could stand on our own feet. If we truly desire something and have dreams, nothing is impossible."Tessa embraced her hardworking husband, filled with love. She hugged him
"You know what, I admire both of you as a couple. We can see your hard work, and in such a short time, your livelihood has greatly improved. You're already well-off," Mrs. Aloha, one of their loyal customers at the charcoal booth in the wet market, said.William smiled humbly. "Thank you, Mrs. Aloha. It's true, we have many dreams for ourselves and our family. That's why we won't give up on life's challenges.""You're very lucky to have each other. You work together, and we can all see how much you love each other. But... Tessa, are you sure you can still work? You should be at home. You can just call your customers," Mrs. Aloha expressed her concern.A bead of sweat dripped down her husband's forehead. "That's exactly what I've been telling Tessa, Mrs. Aloha. But she's stubborn. She doesn't listen to me. I told her not to help too much because we already have staff. But she really insists on helping me," William sighed.Tessa winced. She knew she was guilty. The doctor and William ha
William didn't feel good about the person calling him. He wasn't keen on giving his cellphone number to strangers. Even if this person was one of their charcoal customers, they wouldn't call at this hour. It was already night, and almost everyone would be sleeping.In the end, William decided not to answer the call and just let it ring until it ended. Even though Tessa was curious, she didn't press her husband. She knew William knew what he was doing. If he thought it was a scam or a random number, she wouldn't question her husband.After dinner and cleaning up, Tessa put their son, Mark, to sleep. William followed, lying down in bed beside his wife."Good night, my beautiful wife," he said, giving her a light kiss on the forehead."Good night, William. Get some rest too," Tessa turned off the lampshade. After a while, she heard her husband's soft snoring next to her.But William couldn't sleep. He had a bad feeling about the call. He didn't often have gut feelings, but when he did, t
William was utterly surprised to see his wife, Tessa. Had she been there the entire time? Why hadn't he noticed her approaching?"Tessa? Have you been here all along?" he asked, genuinely startled.Tessa nodded, gently massaging his shoulders as she sat beside him. "I've been here, William, but you didn't notice my presence because your thoughts were too deep," she said softly.He avoided her gaze, feeling awkward. He didn't know how to explain to his wife why he answered his mother's call. He didn't want Tessa to be upset, especially considering she was pregnant. He didn't want to stress his wife."I'm sorry, Tessa. I just have a lot on my mind," he apologized."Like your parents?"Once again, he looked away. "Go to sleep. It's late, early morning now. It's not good for a pregnant woman like you to be awake at this hour," he said, steering the conversation away from what he heard."William, what's wrong? I'm your wife; I'm here with you. You can talk to me about anything bothering yo
The next day, Tessa indeed followed through on what she said. It was only 7 o'clock in the morning, and their bags were already packed. Their breakfast was also prepared."Good morning, my husband. Let's have breakfast. After eating, let's take a shower so we can go to your parents' house," his wife said.He let out a sigh. He still wasn't convinced that it was the right decision to reconnect with his parents. He still couldn't forgive his parents for what they did to his wife and the hardships they caused in his life.But because he knew that Tessa wouldn't stop until he reconciled with his mother and father, he couldn't refuse her plea to talk to his parents."Are you really sure about this, Tessa? There's still a chance for you to back out. No one is forcing us to go back to the city and talk to my parents," he said in a low voice while eating.Tessa rolled her eyes. "What kind of question is that, William? Of course, I'm sure. This is what I've wanted for a long time. For you to r
William felt an overwhelming sense of anxiety. It felt like his heart was about to burst out of his chest due to its rapid beating. This wasn't a reaction of excitement; it was more akin to nervousness.He squeezed his wife's hand and glanced in his mother's direction. Her appearance hadn't changed. She still looked like the socialite wife of a billionaire. Despite her age, she exuded sophistication, and even at home, she was impeccably groomed from head to toe. Her entire being screamed luxury.William forced himself to smile. He didn't want to be rude to his mother, despite her unpleasant behavior towards his family."Mama," he greeted softly, bowing before her.Tessa, standing beside him, smiled and also bowed to his mother. "Good day, Mrs. Reign," she greeted.He expected his mother to respond to Tessa, but she didn't even spare her a glance. She focused only on him, as if his wife were invisible.He clenched his fists, feeling the anger rise within him. His frustration was palpab
Despite the unpleasant treatment William's parents, the Reign couple, showed Tessa, she couldn't help but feel sympathy for William's father. She grew up not knowing her own parents, and all her life, she dreamt of having a family. So despite William's parents' cruel behavior, she felt her tears welling up, mirroring the situation.The once handsome and strong old man seemed frail and vulnerable. His skin had become dry, and some parts of his hair had fallen out. From what Tessa remembered, William's father used to have fair skin, but now, his skin appeared burned by the sun, excessively dry, and pale lips. While Mr. Reign used to look like Adonis even in his early fifties, now he seemed to have aged 20 years.She wanted to think of it as karma for the old man because he tolerated his wife's bad behavior and judged her personality back then. But she wasn't that heartless. She felt that even now, William's parents still didn't like her, and his mother treated her as if she were invisib
Tessa didn't know what to do in those moments. She felt hurt and felt like the heavens and earth had collapsed on her. But on the other hand, she was happy because unlike other sons, William was different. He could stand his ground. He fought for her and their child, even against his own parents. Despite her heartbreak, because even after several years and having a child with William, his family's view of her hadn't changed, Tessa was proud of her husband."William! You shouldn't turn your back on your father just for that woman!" William's mother shouted in anger.William turned to his mother, still holding Tessa's hand firmly. "Tessa isn't just any woman, mom! She's my wife. My soulmate. My life and the mother of my children! I love you and dad, but I also love my wife! So don't insult her in front of me!"William's parents gasped. "You've really lost your mind, William! Where's your sense now? Did it drop to your feet? Use your brain! I'm fed up with you!" his mother screamed.Will
So the two of them stepped out of the bar, he couldn't contain his excitement. He was determined to make Sarah his, consequences be damned. He led her to his newest sports car, a sleek and shiny machine that screamed luxury."Wow, is this your car, Lucas?" Sarah asked, her eyes wide with awe.Lucas smirked, loving the way she looked at him. "Of course. I have a collection of sports cars in my villa," he boasted, opening the car door for her.Sarah climbed into the passenger seat, impressed by Lucas's display of wealth and power. As they drove towards her place, Lucas couldn't help but try to impress her even more."So, Sarah, tell me about your family. What do they do in life?" Lucas asked, trying to steer the conversation away from his own deception.Sarah hesitated for a moment, unsure of how much to reveal. "My parents are in marketing, and many more," she replied finally. "They are constantly moving from town to another town because of business.”Lucas raised an eyebrow, intrigued
"I couldn't help but notice you from across the room. You look absolutely stunning in that emerald dress. I’m not gonna lie, when I tell you that,”Sarah smiled politely, but there was a hint of skepticism in her eyes. "Thank you," she replied. "And let me just say, you have the most captivating smile I've ever seen." He said, extending his hands.Sarah chuckled softly. "You certainly know how to lay on the charm, don't you?"Lucas grinned, feeling emboldened by her response. "I like to think I have a way with words. So, what brings a beautiful woman like you to a place like this?"He couldn't resist the urge to show off. He casually mentioned his successful businesses, subtly hinting at his wealth and success. "I own a few businesses myself," he said casually. "Nothing too fancy, just a few million-dollar ventures here and there."Sarah raised an eyebrow, impressed despite herself. "That's quite impressive. It must keep you busy?”He shrugged nonchalantly. "It does, but I always mak
The luxury high-end bar was highly recommendable in the town, with its glittering chandeliers, plush velvet couches, and marble-topped tables. Soft jazz music played in the background, creating a sophisticated ambiance. The place was bustling with well-dressed patrons, sipping on expensive cocktails and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.And inside of the place, Lucas Davis sat at the bar, a glass of whiskey in hand, a smirk on his face. Despite being engaged, he was determined to enjoy his night out and relish in the attention of others. He was known as the "life of the party,". He took a sip of his drink, Lucas's eyes scanned the room, taking in the scene around him. He saw his "friends," the sons of wealthy businessmen, approaching him with smiles on their faces."Lucas! You're here too! What the hell, man!" one of them exclaimed, clapping him on the back."Of course, I'm here. I'm everywhere," He replied with a cocky grin, reveling in the attention."But I heard you were very busy
Lucas Davis was seething with anger. His face was red, and his hands trembled with frustration as he paced back and forth in his office. Harper watched him with a smirk, enjoying his display of rage."I can't believe that old man, mom! Imagine that? He wasted my time! My time is too precious just to be wasted! How dare he decline us? They're the ones who set up an appointment with us! They're the ones who need us!" He shouted, his voice echoing off the walls.His mother chuckled wickedly. "Yes, the nerve of him! I can't believe William declined us. Well, he hasn't declined yet, he told us he'll think twice.""The nerve of him! Doesn't that old guy know who we are? We're billionaires! Everyone wants to get a partnership with me!" Lucas roared, his fists clenched in fury.Harper stood up, her eyes flashing with malice. "Hey, calm down, Lucas. We need to be strategic about this. You can't let our emotions control you!”Lucas glared at her. "I am calm, Mom! I just can't stand it when some
Finally, after like the end of the world, William and his wife got back home. The heavy feeling of the day seemed to hang heavy on his shoulders. He sank onto the sofa, feeling drained and stressed from the encounter with Lucas Davis and his mother.“Ahh! So tired!” He complained while massaging his neck.His wife watched him closely, her expression unreadable. "So, have you decided, William?" she asked, her voice tense.He rubbed his temples, feeling the beginnings of a headache. "I can't decide yet, Cindy. We just got home, please, not now." he replied, his tone weary.Cindy's face tightened at his response. She, too, was exhausted, but she knew they needed to make a decision soon. "I'm exhausted too! It's Not just you! But you need to decide soon. If you manage to sign the deal with Lucas Davis, then your mother will let you support your long-lost children," she reminded him, pretending to care for his children."I know that, Cindy!" William snapped, his patience wearing thin. "But
He can't help but chuckle bitterly. Now, he finally understood. His mother and Harper Davis have the same evil personality.They would do everything just for their gain. They're just both evil."You hate Harper, but you aren't aware that you're just the same as her, mom.”"How dare you compare me to that woman?!" she seethed, her voice sharp with indignation. "I would never stoop to her level!"His own frustration bubbling to the surface. "You're both willing to manipulate and use anyone, even your own family, to get what you want. How is that any different? You may not see it, but your actions speak otherwise. Using my children as pawns in your games is just as ruthless as anything Harper Davis would do!”His mother's eyes flashed with fury. "I've only ever wanted what's best for you and your children! How can you accuse me of such things? Why can’t you understand me, huh? Are we going to fight forever, William?”"Because it's true, mom! You blackmailed me, you used my children as le
They left the meeting room and went inside the elevator. After the doors closed, the tension among them was palpable. His mother's face was flushed with anger, and his wife's expression was a mix of frustration and disappointment."William, this is madness! How could you let this opportunity slip away? We could have had a deal with the Davis family!" his mother berated him, her voice echoing in the confined space.His wife chimed in, her tone sharp with accusation. "Yeah, I can't believe you! You had the chance to secure a partnership with one of the most influential families in the business world, and you just let it go!"He tried to defend his decision. "I couldn't agree to the deal without knowing all the details. I need to be sure it's the right move for our company."His mother scoffed, clearly unimpressed. "Details? What details? Lucas Davis offered us a golden opportunity, and you threw it away because of your stubbornness!""You never listen to anyone, do you?" Cindy looks ver
Lucas Davis entered the room with a casual swagger, his eyes flickering with a hint of amusement. He was well aware of the tension in the air, but it didn't seem to faze him in the slightest."Ohh, we have guests today! Mr. Reign, my apologies for the delay. Business calls, you know how it is," Lucas said with a dismissive wave of his hand, as if being late was a minor inconvenience.William felt a surge of irritation. "I understand that, Mr. Davis. However, being punctual is a sign of respect. It shows that you value the other person's time," he replied, his tone firm.Lucas chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Respect, Mr. Reign? In the world of business, respect is earned, not given. And I'm sure you'll agree, I've earned my fair share."He gritted his teeth, struggling to maintain his composure. He could feel his wife’s hand on his arm, a silent reminder to stay calm."I'm here to discuss a potential partnership between our companies, Mr. Davis. However, I must insist on professi
He can feel the tension in the room was palpable. Cindy and his mother were fidgeting in their seats, exchanging excited whispers, while he sat back, trying to remain composed."Why are you both so excited?" He asked again, his tone more insistent this time.His wife gave him an exasperated look. "Dear, are you stupid or what? Don't you understand? This meeting could change everything for us. The Davis family is a huge opportunity for our business," she explained, her eyes shining with anticipation."But what if it's not what we expect? What if it's a trap?" He countered, his skepticism evident.His mother chimed in, her voice stern. "William, stop being so negative. I’m sick and tired of you, son! We have to be optimistic about this. Besides, Lucas Davis is a brilliant businessman. We could learn a lot from him!”He sighed, knowing he wouldn't win this argument. He leaned back in his chair, resigned to the fact that he would have to go through with the meeting, whether he liked it or