Noella’s POVIt's been a few days since Calend last took the flashdrive containing the data I took from Darren's laptop. Time seemed to pass so slowly that every second was agonizing. I know processing data is not an easy job and requires precision. However, this uncertainty makes me uneasy. I couldn't keep waiting without doing anything.This morning, I decided to keep myself busy by cooking. It's been a long time since I cooked something for Uncle Martin. Maybe this activity could take my mind off the anxiety that kept haunting me. I got up from my lazy bed and headed to the kitchen.When I arrived at the kitchen, I opened the fridge to see the available ingredients. Unfortunately, many of the ingredients were already gone. No more fresh vegetables, meat, or even milk. I checked the shelves and cabinets, hoping to find something that could be processed. But almost all the dry ingredients were gone, too. There was no rice, pasta, or even flour. This situation forced me to make a quic
Noella’s POvThe next day, I was relaxing on the back porch of Uncle Martin's house. The morning was so peaceful, with a gentle breeze that carried the fresh scent of leaves. I sat on a comfortable wooden chair, enjoying warm tea. It felt like the calmness of the morning could drive away all the fatigue and worries plaguing my mind for the past few days.Holding my tea cup, I gazed at the small garden before the terrace. The birds were chirping merrily, and the soft sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating beautiful shadows on the ground. I took a deep breath, soaking in the serenity.However, before long, the tranquility was shattered by the sudden sound of the doorbell ringing. I jerked slightly, placed the teacup on the table, and hurried to the front door. Who's coming this early in the morning? I thought as I walked quickly through the living room.Arriving at the door, I opened it to find a man in an all-black suit standing there. My expression instantly changed to one ful
Noella’s POVI gawked when the taxi stopped in front of a super luxurious house that could more accurately be called a mansion. The sight in front of me was so majestic that it made me pause for a moment. I couldn't help the awe bubbling inside my chest."I didn't get the wrong address, did I?" I muttered, unable to contain my curiosity.I stepped out of the car, my eyes glued to the magnificent building in front of me. This mansion looked like a Palace in a fairy tale. Huge pillars lined up neatly along the front veranda, supporting a balcony adorned with intricate carvings. The walls were covered in white marble that glistened in the sunlight, creating an undeniable aura of luxury.The main door, which seemed to be made of high-quality mahogany, was decorated with gold ornamental details that added to the grand impression. Surrounding the mansion, well-maintained gardens showcased various types of exotic flowers that bloomed beautifully, giving off a refreshing scent. A large founta
Noella’s POV Mrs. Isabella looked at me attentively after talking for some time. She looked like she was considering something, and then she said, "Noella, I know you are an independent and strong person. But if there's anything I might be able to help you with, please don't hesitate to let me know." I smiled, feeling the warmth in his offer. However, my mind immediately focused on the situation I was in. There was no way I could ask for her help to investigate Enrick's accident or investigate Darren's family. Although Mrs. Isabella seems very kind, I have to be careful. I didn't know how deep his connection or influence was and whether he had any involvement with the people I was suspecting. I caught my breath and smiled a little wider, trying to politely decline her offer. "Thank you very much, Mrs. Isabella. Your offer means a lot to me. But, for now, I think I'm fine. I need a little time to organize my thoughts and maybe try to work some things out independently." She nodded,
At will Noella's POV As I was about to head to my room to change my clothes, Darren stopped me by handing me a box from a famous brand. The box looked luxurious and elegant, making me wonder what was inside. "This is for you," he said with a cocky smile. I took the box and opened it carefully. Inside was an exquisite dress with a fairly revealing top, exposing my shoulders and neck. The dress looked so beautiful and expensive, just like the ones I'd seen in fashion magazines. Darren saw my reaction and proudly said, "You'll be so pretty when you wear it. Oh no, you have to be beautiful because that brand is the most expensive and most special. You should thank me because of me. You can have that dress for free." I sighed inwardly, feeling a mixture of awe and annoyance. Amazed because the dress was indeed gorgeous, but annoyed because of Darren's attitude of always putting me down as if I was worthless without his luxurious items. "Thank you, Darren," I said flatly, trying t
Noella’s POV It was getting late, almost ten in the evening, but there was no sign of Darren ending the dinner with his business partners. He still looked fresh and energetic while I was already exhausted. The room's atmosphere, which had been luxurious and elegant, was now dull and oppressive. The cold stares from some of them made me feel even more uncomfortable. Finally, I decided to pretend to go to the back. In fact, I just wanted to cool off in the park around the conference centre. With unsteady steps, I left the table and walked downstairs. It was a relief once I sat down on the cool park bench. The fresh night air made me feel better. I exhaled a long breath and rubbed my forehead lightly, trying to refresh my mind. "I want this charade to end soon. This is so tiring," I muttered under my breath. Suddenly, I heard footsteps approaching. A sharp, scornful female voice broke the silence of the night, "You! You're a nobody. You're even from a low caste. And now you're actin
Noella’s POVAs soon as I stepped inside the nightclub, I immediately felt uncomfortable. The pungent smell of alcohol wafted from every corner of the room, mixing with the thick scent of sweat and cigarette smoke. Brothel men with wild gazes roamed around, looking for prey among the scantily clad and gaudily dressed comfort women. The music thumped loudly, vibrating the floor and making conversation difficult. The flickering neon lights made the atmosphere even more chaotic and dizzying.In the corner of the room, several men seemed to be engrossed in conversation with women who were laughing excessively while their hands were boldly touching without permission. In the center of the dance floor, a group of people danced provocatively, almost without paying attention to their surroundings. Glasses of alcoholic beverages clatter as waiters rush to serve guests who keep asking for more. All the bad things about this place made me want to get out.As we approached a table in the center o
Noella's POV A short while later, I arrived at Calend's modest apartment. I convinced Darren to let me take a taxi home alone after pleading that I had an urgent call from Uncle Martin. Darren was reluctant at first, but I did my best to convince him that there was no need to take me home. After getting out of the taxi, I walked quickly to the door of Calend's apartment, hoping to find the answer to all this mess. I knocked expectantly on the door. Shortly after, the door opened, and Calend greeted me with a serious expression. "Noella, come in," he said as he made room for me to enter. Calend's apartment was cozy despite its simplicity. The walls were decorated with several photos and miniature paintings, and the atmosphere was warm. I sat down on the small sofa in his living room, feeling relieved to be able to escape from the burdensome night. "Thank you for coming, Noella," Calend said. "I know it's sudden, but I have something significant to tell you." "What is it, Cal
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