Noella's POV
I walked towards the hospital with my body shaking. My mind couldn't rest because I hadn't gotten the money for Uncle Martin's surgery yet. I tried to contact my friends and some office colleagues. However, all failed. None of them wanted to give me a loan."Hello, can you lend me some money? I'll return it soon. I need the money for it." My words were interrupted by the rejection from the other side of the phone."No-no, I can't lend you money. I know how much you make being an ordinary employee. Don't call me to borrow money. Go find someone else." This was the last call I made to borrow money. Again, my loan was denied because my job was that of an ordinary office worker with a modest salary.I was getting more and more confused about how to save Uncle Martin. This was all because my job position was always considered the lowest by my friends and colleagues.I was still strolling, and even though my body felt weak, I still had to see how Uncle Martin was doing in the hospital. Until I arrived at the crosswalk, I just walked without looking at the still-red sign. That made a car almost hit me.The car's light was so dazzling, and the sound of the horn was so loud that it woke me up from my chaotic thoughts. My heart beat twice as fast, and I went into shock."Hey! Why aren't you paying attention to the road?!" The driver yelled at me and blamed me."I'm sorry, sir." I bowed briefly and admitted my mistake. I was so shocked that my heartbeat beat twice as fast, and it made my whole body feel weak.Suddenly, my vision blurred, and my head throbbed and ached. Before my consciousness completely disappeared, I saw that someone had just come out of the car's back door and was approaching me. I could see his long legs between my blurry vision. Before I could see his face, my consciousness disappeared.I don't know how long I had been unconscious. When I opened my eyes again, my vision circulated in this unfamiliar room. I don't know where this is, but I have an IV tube in my hand. It's just that I don't feel like I'm in a hospital. This place is like a private room.I was lying on a large bed with small tables on each side. The room had a curtained window, so I couldn't see the atmosphere behind the curtain. This place was very different from the hospital, too luxurious if I was in the VVIP room. Another thing that surprised me was the heavy voice that sounded familiar. "You're awake."As if I recognized that voice, my body suddenly froze. I swallowed several times, hoping that he wasn't the one currently in my mind. However, suddenly, my eyes opened wide, especially when our eyes met. I knew him. He was my boss-Mr Enrick. A figure known for his cold and rigid demeanor. There were rumors that he was cold-blooded, a murderer, and even a gay. It's all not without reason, especially since Mr. Enrick has never been seen in a relationship with a woman."Mr. Enrick." My voice was so quiet when I said his name. I was terrified to greet him, let alone meet him face-to-face like this.I'm quite sorry for Mr. Enrick because he doesn't enjoy his life very well. It's obvious from his attitude and behavior at work. Mr. Enrick is a workaholic. If even the slightest mistake is made, others will be affected. For all I know, during his time there, Mr. Enrick was the last one to leave the office when everyone else was already at their homes. Even so, no one ever knew the truth about his life's journey."Tell me. Are you doing all this on purpose? Are you trying to get my attention?" I was dumbfounded by the questions Mr. Enrick asked. This time, his attitude showed that the rumors seemed true.I could see him looking at me with question marks as if probing and finding out what I was doing. "Of course, I didn't do it, sir. I apologize if this incident has troubled you with my condition." I quickly answered his question so as not to arouse more suspicion.I had heard several times that Mr. Enrick had a deviant attitude. Many say that it is one of the reasons why he is still single.Unfortunately, I saw Mr. Enrick's distrust towards me. "I've taken responsibility anyway. You can leave once your condition improves. "Mr. Enrick still looks indifferent to me, like he doesn't care about my condition and only sees that I'm fine. It makes me not surprised at his stiff and cold demeanor.I was quite surprised by his words. The man stood up immediately, but after that, I remembered my uncle. I remembered the moment before I lost consciousness. I was walking towards the hospital to see how my uncle was doing. Instead, I ended up in a place I didn't know where."Thank you, Mr. Enrick. If I may know, where is this?" I asked to confirm my whereabouts. I also wanted to know why he brought me here.I saw his body turn around. He looked back at me sharply and then said, "At my house. I didn't want to make a scene by taking you to the hospital. It was troublesome enough knowing that you were unconscious in front of my car."No wonder this place looked so luxurious and different from an apartment or a hospital. No wonder he brought me here. That was the reason. It's just that, for some reason, my mind is so muddled right now. I couldn't help but feel anxious about Uncle Martin's hospital fees."I thought this was a hospital. This place is your home, sir. I remembered that I was trying to get to the hospital earlier. Instead, I ended up here." I was so confused, thinking about how my uncle was doing."I called a doctor for you. The doctor said that you are fine. So, you don't need to go to the hospital again after this." Mr. Enrick seemed to misunderstand my words. The look in his eyes was so suspicious of me that it made me feel scared."No, sir. It's not like that. I have to go to the hospital to see my uncle. He's sick and being treated there." As I said these words, I looked up at Mr. Enrick's face. It occurred to me to ask for his help.Mr. Enrick is a powerful person in my workplace. Looking at his luxurious house. I'm sure he's wealthy because he owns several buildings and is a well-known businessman. I felt that Mr. Enrick could help me and give me a loan so Uncle Martin could have his surgery soon. However, I was still afraid to say my sentence. I swallowed several times to calm down."Of course, your uncle's business is none of mine. I don't want to know about it. But you were unconscious in front of my car." Mr. Enrick didn't seem to care what I said. I understood why he acted like that. The man was icy and tended to ignore the people around him.I nodded and tried to stay calm, but my heart was still pushing my lips to say and beg for his help. Several times, I tried to look at him, but I was always scared. Mr. Enrick was still looking at me intently, his expression making me uncomfortable."I thought you could leave already. Your condition is not as bad as you thought." His heavy voice made me swallow. I raised my head and ventured to look at him.This time, I had to make my point, "Mr. Enrick, can I borrow some money from you? My uncle needs money for his surgery, and I've gone this far, but no one has helped me." I paused my words and thought about what I could do so that Mr. Enrick wouldn't reject my request.His eyes were still looking at me intently. I knew he was waiting for my next sentence. "I will do whatever you want, Master. I'm ready to become your slave."I couldn't think clearly. What was in my head right now, I had already said. I was forced to say it all for Uncle Martin's surgery. My head bowed again. I was waiting for Mr. Enrick's answer.A few seconds passed, and Mr. Enrick was still silent in his place. There was no movement to indicate that he would answer my request. Until I saw him move his feet towards the door. Suddenly, I called out to him, "Mr. Enrick!"As if ignored, Mr. Enrick still walked towards the door. Until he stopped his steps and turned his body to look at me. I swallowed again, trying to catch my breath to accept an answer that might not match what I thought."So, what is Mr. Enrick's answer to my request?"Mr. Enrick looked at me. His lips seemed moving, like he wanted to say something to me. Sure enough, just as I was waiting for an answer. Mr. Enrick asked, "Do you want to be my slave?"I didn't think long. I nodded my head slowly in response. However, Mr. Enrick was not predictable. A second later, he said again, "There are already many servants here. I don't need you as an extra."Mr. Enrick seemed to approach me with a scary look on his face. I could feel his anger at my words. I felt the atmosphere become tense, and suddenly, he said again. "Realize your place."My body trembled at his words. A second later, I tried to raise my voice. "I can do anything for you, sir. I can also be a spy and find the person spreading rumors about you. Or, I could also clear your name by pretending to be your lover."I could feel the pressure from the look in his eyes. A long time ago, I had seen Mr. Enrick come into contact with a woman. Then he cleaned the part of his body that had just come into
Noella's POVMy body feels tired. Two days have passed. Although my heart still hurts from Darren's treatment, it's all covered by what happened to Uncle Martin. I'm still accompanying Uncle Martin, who hasn't regained consciousness, hoping that he will open his eyes soon so that my anxiety will end, but until now, there has been no sign of opening his eyes.My anxiety has lessened since the doctor successfully performed surgery on Uncle Martin. Still, I couldn't be satisfied if Uncle hadn't awakened. The doctor had said that uncle would wake up within one to two days. When the second day was almost over, I was impatient."Uncle, can't you open your eyes now? I'm so worried about you. Please wake up." I could only pray and keep watching the progress of my uncle's condition from the screen that kept beeping, indicating that his heartbeat was still there.As I was about to speak again, I felt my uncle's hand move at my touch. Slowly, I saw his eyes move, and I could see them open. Uncle
Noella's POVI froze for a while. The presence of two people I didn't expect was before my eyes. I didn't expect Darren to be one of Mr. Enrick's family. I could also see that Emma was there to keep him company, and that couple was the reason I was here.With my hand still wrapped around Mr. Enrick's arm, I stepped with him to get closer to his extended family. Mr. Enrick pulled out a chair for me, and I sat amongst them all, feeling very uncomfortable. Darren and Emma's presence made things awkward for me, especially what they had done before.Despite the discomfort, I tried to do it professionally. I didn't want Mr. Enrick to be disappointed with me just because this was all an act.Slowly, everyone there started talking to each other. Even now, they were heard talking and starting a conversation to ask about my status to Mr. Enrick. "Tell me, who is she, and where is she from?"I swallowed slowly at that question, and then Mr. Enrick, without hesitation, answered, "Noella is my fia
Noella's POVWhat kind of tension I felt with this family? It was like shackling myself and not letting Mr. Enrick breathe freely while in this place. This is the first time I've seen a wealthy family impose their lives on another family as if they only value dignity and status as a conglomerate."Gosh, it's like I can hardly breathe here. Are they going to continue arguing about the life Mr. Enrick took again?" I was so anxious in my heart, thinking about what else they would say after this.The atmosphere was so tense a few minutes ago. I, who had been silent since their exchange of words, now began to feel claustrophobic and wanted a breath of fresh air. I also said to Mr. Enrick, "Sorry, I'll excuse myself to go to the toilet."I looked at Mr. Enrick as if he understood my current state. Then, my gaze wandered towards the family, and Darren's mother gave me a sharp look. So were Darren and Emma, who couldn't accept my presence among them in the first place."Alright, come back whe
Noella's POvI confirmed to Darren that he didn't know who I was. It makes me so upset that Darren doesn't even consider me. It was evident after he ignored me in favour of another woman-Emma-who was now beside him. Emma was lucky enough to be introduced to Darren's extended family.Unfortunately, here, Darren can't judge a woman by his heart. He and his family are all about wealth and power for survival. Surely, Darren wouldn't choose me and take advantage of me being so gullible with the word love."You don't know who I am, Darren. What do you think I am all this time together? You have such a short mind about me and your uncle. So what if I have a relationship with him? He's much better than you." My last words did not end our encounter. Darren is still in front of me right now. He gets more and more angry every time she hears me speak in response. Maybe he was surprised that I had always kept quiet and not fought him.Darren's temper flared again. He was about to speak, but seeing
Noella's POVMr. Enrick's appearance between me and Darren was surprising. Maybe I've been here too long. If it weren't for Darren, Mr Enrick certainly wouldn't have followed me here. It's just that there's a sudden feeling of dread rising within me.Mr Enrick looked ordinary at the moment, but his aura was dominating. In fact, Darren had been silent ever since Mr. Enrick had asked his question. While I was afraid that any of my attitudes or movements would be wrong. That would definitely allow Mr. Enrick to make a lot of unexpected decisions, like asking for back the money I had used for Uncle Martin, perhaps.I hope what's in my mind doesn't actually happen. I must be feeling very sorry for ignoring Darren a moment ago. I should have left here long ago and not cared about anything Darren had to say.Until I finally heard Mr. Enrick ask Darren again, "Aren't you going to answer my question?"I could see the distress on Darren's face. The atmosphere dominated by Mr. Enrick did make Dar
Noella's PovAfter the previous series of events, my body began to feel tired. Even though I felt weak and powerless, I had to go to work to keep earning money. I thought so much last night I almost couldn't sleep because of this. What a complicated life full of obstacles.I went to work as usual, heading to the office where Mr. Enrick was my boss. Although I wasn't directly in the secretarial department, my job was in a division directly under the CEO's secretary. I just hoped that my work would be just as fine as it had been in the past when Mr. Enrick and I had not been in direct contact.As soon as I arrived at the office, my eyes darted around. I was on guard not to meet Mr. Enrick first today. Until I was surprised by one of my coworkers who greeted me. Her name was Mina, she had short shoulder-length hair, and she was quite an attractive woman. That's why I made friends with Mina. "Noella, are you sick? You look tired and have bags under your eyes."Mina always pays attention t
Noella's POVOn the way, we were silent. There was no sound other than the engine of the moving car. I, who was confused and scared from the start, didn't dare to ask even though the direction of the destination was taking me.In the end, I could only stare out the window, enjoying the view of the tall buildings lined up neatly. Now and then, I noticed the drivers and pedestrians busy with their business.Until Mr. Enrick's car entered the area of a famous luxury restaurant in this city, I never thought I would eat at this place. Even though I used to date Darren, he rarely took me out to eat at an expensive place like this. I felt nervous and uncomfortable. Inside, there must be many classy and wealthy people enjoying a delicious meal."Should I just refuse?" I thought about refusing, but looking at Mr. Enrick's face, which was always cold and flat, made me afraid that something might go wrong. I felt strange this time because our relationship was just an act.Mr. Enrick stepped in,
Noella’s POVAfter a beautiful wedding, Enrick and I embarked on our honeymoon to Paris, France, a city known for its romance. I felt very excited as the plane landed at Charles de Gaulle Airport. This was the beginning of a new adventure for both of us.We arrived at a luxurious hotel located near the Eiffel Tower. From the balcony of our room, the view of the majestic Eiffel Tower was mesmerizing. "Look at that, Enrick. It's beautiful," I said, holding his hand tightly."Do you like it?""Very much. I like it a lot, Enrick," I replied happily.After a short rest, we decided to walk around the city. We visited the Eiffel Tower and climbed to the top. The view of Paris from the top was amazing. We took pictures and enjoyed every moment. "This is amazing, Enrick. I've never felt so happy," I said, smiling at him.After enjoying the view, we decided to try some French cuisine. We had lunch at a small restaurant famous for its traditional cuisine. I ordered escargot, and Enrick tried coq
Noella’s POVThe atmosphere in the bride's dressing room was full of excitement. I sat in front of the mirror, wearing a graceful white wedding dress with intricate lace embellishments. All the wedding accessories were perfectly set; a diamond tiara in my hair, a pearl necklace that hung beautifully around my neck, and ivory-colored high heels that added elegance to my appearance. In my hand, I held a bouquet of wedding flowers consisting of white roses and lilies, symbols of purity and eternal love.My heart was pounding, and I felt agitated. I stared at the mirror, trying to calm myself down by taking a deep breath. Uncle Martin walked into the dressing room with a big smile. "Noella, you look so beautiful," he said lovingly. I smiled nervously, feeling a little relieved by his praise.Uncle Martin came over and held my hand gently. "Don't be nervous, Noella. Everything will go well. You'll make Enrick and your mother very proud."I nodded slowly, trying to absorb the calmness of hi
Chapter 140Noella’s POVAfter enjoying a delicious dinner, we moved to the living room. The atmosphere was warm and cozy, with soft lamplight shining. The aroma of warm tea and the prepared snacks spread out, creating a truly relaxing atmosphere. We sat on the sofa, enjoying each other's company and making small talk.With his friendly smile, Uncle Martin took a photo album from the shelf and brought it to the table. "I have something to show you," he said, turning to the first page. The album was full of pictures of my childhood, from when I was a baby to when I grew up. Each photo brought back sweet memories of our time together."This is Noella when she was just starting to learn to walk," Uncle Martin said as he showed me the photo where I looked cute with chubby cheeks and wobbly little steps. Mama Isabella smiled at the photo, her eyes twinkling."You've been active since you were little, huh," Mama Isabella said jokingly.Uncle Martin continued to tell me stories, describing f
Noella's POV"We can make vegetable soup with this meat," I said while chopping vegetables. "A soup that's warm and full of love."Uncle Martin smiled, his spirits beginning to rise. "That's a good idea, Noella. I'll prepare the pot and start cutting the meat."We worked together in the kitchen, the atmosphere full of togetherness and joy. I felt the warmth of Uncle Martin's home, a warmth that made every meal special. We cooked with gusto, sharing tasks and stories."This dish reminds me of my childhood," Uncle Martin said as he stirred the soup pot. "Back then, your foster mother and I used to cook together, just like today."I smiled and added some spices to the pot. "Cooking together like this always makes me feel happy, Uncle."After a while, our vegetable soup began to boil, and a delicious aroma filled the kitchen. I checked the taste of the soup and added a little salt to my cooking. "It seems to have the right flavor, Uncle." "This will be the perfect dish to welcome your ma
Noella's POVI grasped Uncle Martin's hand tighter and looked into his eyes earnestly. "Uncle, I will never leave you, no matter what. So, will you stay with me at my mama's house?"Uncle Martin shook his head slowly, his face filled with doubt. "I'm not sure, Noella. I don't think I deserve to live in a rich man's house. My place is here, in this simple house."I looked at him warmly and reassuringly. "Uncle, you're like my own father. You've taken such good care of me all these years. I want you to come with me, to be part of my family."He seemed to hesitate for a moment, then nodded slowly. "All right, Noella. Suppose that's what you want. But I'm worried that this house we live in now will fall into disrepair if it's not lived in. Who will take care of it?"I smiled and grasped his hand tighter. "That's a small matter, Uncle. I'll make sure this house is maintained. You don't have to worry. this tonight, I will visit your house to thank you."Uncle Martin looked at me with eyes
Noella’s POVI visited Uncle Martin in his modest but always warm home. We sat across from each other in the memorable living room. I warmly clasped his hand, feeling his skin's rough texture from years of hard work. Uncle Martin looked at me with affectionate eyes, slightly confused by the seriousness on my face."Uncle, you know that I love you very much," I said in a slightly trembling voice."Of course, I know that, Noella. You always do everything for me. You always remember celebrating important moments in Uncle's life, like birthdays and other special days. You often prepare little surprises or cook Uncle's favourite foods to show your affection for me. I always feel that you are the greatest gift in my life. But why are you asking me that?" asked Uncle Martin, curious and confused.I took a deep breath, trying to gather the courage to continue. "Uncle, I consider you like my parents. Just like my adoptive parents, too."There was a frown of concern on Uncle Martin's forehead.
Noella's POVA few days passed, and today, Enrick took me to the most famous diamond dealer in town. When we entered the luxurious store, the atmosphere of elegance was immediate. The crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and the red carpet that greeted our steps made me feel like I had entered another world of luxury.Several waiters in neat and formal uniforms immediately greeted us with warm smiles. Before long, the shop owner, an elegant and friendly man, came to greet us. "Welcome to our shop. We are honored to serve you," he said with a smile. "You two look very good together."I felt awkward at his compliment, but Enrick smiled and thanked me. "We are looking for wedding rings. So show us the best ring you have," Enrick said firmly.The shopkeeper nodded enthusiastically. "Of course, sir. Please take a seat. We'll show you our best collection shortly." He signaled to the waiters, who immediately rushed to prepare some rings.We sat on a comfortable sofa while the servant
Noella's POV Enrick and Mama Isabella gathered in Mama's dining room when lunchtime came. The dining table in front of us was full of various appetizing, luxurious-looking, and diverse dishes that could only be found in the homes of the rich. There were main courses such as beef tenderloin with truffle sauce, elegantly presented lobster thermidor, and roast chicken seasoned with exotic spices. On the other side of the table are platters of fresh salads with a mix of organic vegetables, premium cheeses, and homemade dressings. Not to forget the crispy and soft artisan bread served with smooth and fragrant butter. For dessert, there are melt-in-your-mouth chocolate soufflés, rich tiramisu, and neatly cut fresh fruits. We ate our lunch quietly, savoring each bite in comfortable silence. However, it was suddenly shattered when Mama asked Enrick abruptly, "Enrick, so when are you going to marry my daughter? Do you love her? Or are your feelings not serious with her?" I was stunned to h
Noella’s POVIsabella took a deep breath before continuing as if gathering strength to convey something very important. Her usually stern face now looked soft, filled with deep affection. "I know that Uncle Martin is a very good man. I also know that your life is hard out there. You were often insulted and belittled by arrogant people like Darren and Emma. They who never liked you," she said in a tone of concern.I nodded slowly, recalling all the bitter experiences I'd had. "So, if someday mom leaves this world, all the assets that mom has will belong to you. You're my only heir," she continued firmly, but her voice was still full of tenderness. "My wealth is par with Stuart's, if not a little richer. Mama even recently purchased the assets of an island in your name to celebrate your return home."I looked at her with teary eyes, finding it hard to accept everything she said. "Mama," I said, holding back my eyes from watering. Isabella grasped my hand tightly, giving me strength thr