"Isn't it good?" Thomas asked while enjoying his portion. In front of him was Olive, who had been marveling at the plate of grilled chicken complete with the poured sambal on top. The steaming rice, not to mention the aroma of soy sauce combined with grilling. Who wouldn't feel hungry?
Olive just glanced briefly at Thomas. She had wanted to refute all of Thomas's statements about this place. No, she wasn't pretending to be too good to eat in this open-air setting anymore. She liked it, actually. If anything, she preferred eating at this crowded canteen over the mall. Besides being budget-friendly, her eyes didn't constantly have to look at faces with heavy makeup and fashionable accessories.
The problem was that several times, the office staff where Olive worked had been looking in their direction. Their eyes couldn't hide their surprise. Maybe it was because Thomas was sitting in front of Olive? And...oh my God! Just the two of them? Was there anything more ridiculous
"Can you say something nice, can't you?" Thomas smirked. "Give thanks to God, like that. Can't you understand?"Olive grinned widely. "Yeah, yeah. Praise the Lord. Thank you, God. Today, Olive is so full. Treated by the annoying boss but turns out he's nice."Thomas rolled his eyes in annoyance, but for whatever reason today, there was a very thin smile on his face. Especially when he saw how wide Olive's smile was in front of him."About yesterday... why didn't you finish your food?""Huh?" Olive seemed to think for a moment. "Oh, the beef soup, right? It was delicious, sir. I liked the broth, but because you were so annoying, I lost my appetite.""That's not a reason.""It is!" Olive nodded quickly. "Proof is, my appetite disappeared yesterday when you were around.""Even though I explained why I did that?" Thomas quickly interjected."Well... that was already towards the end of the meal. It didn't feel appetizing anymore," O
Olive wanted to avert her gaze elsewhere, but she couldn't. Marta was in front of her, staring intensely like a razor blade. Since returning from lunch, where they had dealt with a fairly large number of customers, and after completing the afternoon reports, during which Olive had double-checked everything to ensure nothing was amiss, Marta called her over to her desk.What's going on?Did Olive do something wrong? But as far as she could remember today, she hadn't done anything wrong. All her reports were in order, the money they received today was balanced, and there were no unresolved issues with customers. So why had Marta been looking at her like an enemy since then?"Are you sure the reports are in order?" Marta asked with a slightly stern tone. Since the girl had arrived in her office, there were many things she wanted to ask, but it felt like overstepping her bounds. After all, what she wanted to inquire about was related to Thomas. Could she really be h
Even though his desire to go home was strong, an email from the head office forced Thomas to delay his departure. For Thomas, his job had to be done well. If he couldn't finish it today, he could still work on it tomorrow, but when it came to matters requested by the head office, he couldn't postpone them.The upcoming audit files, scheduled for a week later, had him feeling quite overwhelmed. Besides the end of the month approaching, he also had to tidy up some paperwork, especially in the administrative department. He wasn't afraid of audits, but as Thomas had known for years, every time a major event was approaching, the audit team would look for any gaps to reduce the branch's ratings.That's why Thomas often insisted on administrative matters conforming to what the head office wanted. Even the smallest issues, such as unclear copies of IDs, could backfire. He reached for the intercom nearby, contacting Marta and asking her to double-check the audit files before th
A week had passed, and the entire CBD was buzzing with the sudden audit that had arrived. There was no time for relaxation as usual, even though they knew the CBD branch was never empty of customers. At least they were working away from the prying eyes of the auditors. It was a bit nerve-wracking when they started asking questions, not the type of questions, but they had to explain everything thoroughly. Even though everything was done according to procedure, there were times when they had to be flexible in the field to provide the best service.Olive didn't really dwell on the audit visit. Her workload had just increased to check the order slips stored in the cabinet. Also, some files related to the counter, whether it was the cashier or teller. Sometimes Olive had to count money with the audit team during their examination.Today marked the last day of the audit visit, and it turns out a habit had developed at CBD. Every time they finished work, Thomas would invite a
Waking up past seven in the morning, Olive wasn't rushed to get to work. She was free from traffic for these two days, and that's what she had yearned for during the weekend. While cooking, she did laundry and in the evening, as there were no plans for a date with anyone, she wrestled with ironing her uniforms to make them neat and tidy. Olive had forgotten how long it had been since she had a boyfriend.Having a boyfriend could be troublesome at times. That's why Olive was reluctant to get involved with the opposite sex. She hoped someone would come and propose to her. Her prayer was to find a kind-hearted man, not arrogant, humorous, capable of comforting her when she felt restless and anxious, good at saving money, not extravagant with cigarettes or any other varied hobbies of the man. Oh, and most importantly, someone with the same faith and diligent in worship.But all the fantasies of her enjoyable weekend were shattered when her phone kept ringing incessantly. W
Anyway, Olive was beyond frustrated. She chose to walk slowly rather than catch up with Thomas, who was already far ahead of her. Thankfully, she remembered to bring her earbuds; otherwise, she'd be grumbling all the way. It's understandable since being forced to wake up early isn't pleasant, especially when she had such beautiful Saturday hopes and dreams. They were all shattered by Thomas's arrival, which felt like encountering a ghost.Arriving without being picked up, leaving without being dropped off. God! Why was Olive's luck so terrible?"Olive," Thomas called out, exhaling loudly. The man thought the girl was right beside him. But she was lagging far behind? So, for a few minutes, he explained the importance of morning exercise, all in vain?This girl is something else!"What's taking you so long to run?" Olive snapped once she got closer to Thomas. "This is a walk! Can't you see?"Thomas scoffed. "You're always so grumpy. You'll age quickl
"Olive, what's wrong?" Darius asked shortly after placing a tray of French fries, burgers, and various sodas. There were some other snacks, but the main attraction was the crispy fried chicken, Riana's favorite."How should I know?" Riana grabbed her portion and also set aside a few orders for Darius and Olive. "This kid's been acting like a hungry monster.""You're weird!" Olive finally lifted her head from the table, where she had placed it since earlier to clear her mind. How could she forget the incident from this morning so easily? She was annoyed with Thomas Adam to some extent, though not too much.But... there was a "but."Why did it have to be Mr. Matthew who suddenly greeted them?! Oh, God! If it turned into gossip all of a sudden? What would Olive do then? She had already promised never to get close to Thomas again, and yet she herself had broken that promise. Why did Marta's image suddenly appear at Olive's doorstep a few hours ago? So, she co
So, all the morning turmoil that Olive felt began because of Thomas. If Olive could, she would drag Thomas and drown him in the vast ocean somewhere on the beach, she would have done it since yesterday. Wait, not in Jakarta. Olive needs to rent a bigger speedboat to get to the deeper part of the sea, maybe around Jakarta Harbor. Just to get even!!!Olive reminisces about what happened yesterday on her Saturday with the incredibly annoying Thomas.First, Thomas's nonsense remarks were met with thunderous laughter. It's like what he said was meant to be a source of amusement. What does that mean? Is Olive an object of ridicule here? In front of Mr. Matthew? Seriously?Second, Thomas just hugged her as if his actions carried no weight at all. Besides Thomas's heavy hand hanging on Olive's shoulder, the girl was also flustered because of their closeness. Does her boss even realize that their almost nonexistent distance could potentially land Olive in the hospital? H
Seira adjusts her glasses again. She wraps Olive to move away from the grave while whispering to pay attention to her steps. She doesn't want Olive to slip, even though the cemetery area is dry. There's nothing to worry about, but still, Seira doesn't want to take any risks.Before she truly leaves the grave of the woman who was once part of her life, Seira says, "I forgive you. Forgive me for not being the prideful daughter-in-law like Marissa, okay? I could only work at home and spend Tedy's money. Yes. That's just how Seira is. May you rest in peace."Olive can't stop staring at the large bowl of beef soup with broth. It contains carrot slices and sprinkles of fried onions and fresh slices of scallions. Olive inhales the aroma emanating from her ordered bowl several times."It's still hot, Bee," Thomas warns."Yeah, Sweetie." Olive grins satisfactorily. "The aroma is so delicious.""This beef soup place is Papa's favorite, Olive," Robert says wi
The gentle breeze brushing against Seira, she doesn't care at all. Her red hair has changed, much darker than the color she used before. But when she could enjoy the result in the mirror's reflection, it turns out to be truly suitable for her face. Koni said she looks much fresher.I don't know. She doesn't take the praise seriously or not. Not that she doesn't want to appreciate it, Koni always praises her every time she wears something new. So, according to her thinking, whatever Seira wears always fits her perfectly. Blessed with a face with a fairly sharp jawline, a pointed nose, and perfectly round eyes, sharply staring at her interlocutors, plus her beautifully split lips, making Seira even at her current age, as if time has stopped near her."I didn't expect you to come too."Since earlier, the man who met Seira right in front of this public cemetery gate didn't talk much. Not that he didn't want to, just greeting seems to be lost somewhere. All he could
"You always want more from me.""Come on." She nudges her husband's back gently. "I'm gonna make some smoothies. You want some, right?""Whatever you make, I'll eat it."Before Robert truly leaves the kitchen area, Seira grabs his arm. This makes Robert furrow his brow. "What's up? Earlier you wanted me to leave for work right away?"Seira's smile widens. She steps closer and when she's right in front of Robert, she gives him a quick peck as a form of encouragement. Unfortunately, Robert isn't content with just getting his lips wet."God, just be enough for his heart. Don't let anyone else break us apart. Make this man the only one who loves me with all his heart. It's only You I ask."***Olive grins widely. Like a lottery winner who just hit the jackpot today. Her eyes refuse to go anywhere else but to the printout of the ultrasound she just had. Even though she's still sitting on the edge of the examination bed. Listening, albeit n
This morning in Sydney, it's been pouring pretty heavily. The droplets drenching the smallest continent in the world have been hitting since last night. The weather forecast says it's better for folks to stay indoors. They're saying there might even be a pretty strong storm hitting. Seira's not bothered, though, about being inside this spacious unit.Two bedrooms and a kitchen area with plenty of food stocks keep her from getting too bored. She actually makes good use of it. She spends a lot of her time doing yoga. She doesn't need a private instructor. She declined because for her, she just needs privacy. Plus, there are plenty of tutorials she can watch on YouTube channels.Unless she's back in Senayan. Maybe the private issue with a special instructor is something she can consider. Honestly, Seira isn't too fluent in English. She can't just say yes or no! Oh God! Just remembering it makes her stomach suddenly cramp.That's why she chooses to be alone. She onl
Thomas's smile widens. "Patience, okay?" He then releases his hold on Olive's face. He chooses to tightly hold his wife's hand, intertwining their fingers, one of which has their wedding ring on."First, you're the most beautiful. This isn't a lie. Among all the women I've been close to, you're the winner." What Thomas says is the truth. Even when she's pregnant, although her belly hasn't grown too much yet, it seems like Olive has gained some weight. Proof is her chubby cheeks.But it doesn't matter. For Thomas, she's even sexier now. Plus, Olive's body is fuller and perfect for cuddling all night long. Even though sometimes he wonders, Thomas still goes along with whatever Olive eats within her control.Her mother says, "You're lucky, Thomas, Olive isn't picky about food. Thank God, Mrs. Giana, you know her, right? Lina? When she was pregnant with her second child, she couldn't eat at all. Had to be on IV. Weak all the time until she became skinny. Pitiful to
Olive pouts. There's really no remedy to coax a smile out of her, even a little. It feels like her heart is wrapped in annoyance and being overly emotional. Well... why not? The day she feared has arrived.Wait.A frightening day? Is there such a thing?For Olive, there are days when she feels like she no longer has Thomas's attention. It's like being in a long-distance relationship, not seeing each other for a long time. Especially not being able to see his face while he's at Senayan. Oh God! Sometimes Olive does tend to overdramatize things, but what can she do? She really feels that way.It's been two weeks since her mother's wedding. Almost every day, Seira keeps her updated, and Olive herself often gets absorbed in gossiping through the airwaves. Even though there are often signal problems, Olive doesn't mind. Proof is, she just enjoys spending a lot of time chatting with her mom, especially after work.She shares a lot with her mother, especi
"Hi, Wife," Robert greets when their eyes finally meet. Full of closeness and intimacy. Even their breaths seem to greet each other's faces."Hi, Husband," Seira replies just as warmly."Finally, today has arrived."Seira smiles tightly."Darling, last night's anger wasn't continued."The woman's brow furrows slightly."If it continues, I won't deny my words about smudging your lipstick.""Why so quiet?" Robert asks, slightly loosening their embrace. "Did I not hug you enough last night?""You're always talking nonsense, aren't you, Ro?" Seira says with a chuckle. "Come on, Johan must have been waiting since earlier, right?"Robert laughs. "When else will I get the chance to see Seira blush again?""Ro!"***Their journey to Sydney was accompanied by several family members, including Olive, whose in-laws also joined to see them off for a while."Don't forget to keep in touch, Mom," Olive says
Robert's departure back to Sydney couldn't be postponed. Besides having many projects that needed to be completed urgently, the man also prepared a special trip for himself and Seira."Nothing left behind, right?" Robert double-checked before they headed to the car Johan had prepared."Nah, I don't think so," Seira replied softly, but her eyes glanced again at the two large suitcases already at the apartment door. Her mind smoothly recalled the contents of the suitcases and what needed to be brought. "I'm pretty sure not," she said with a faint smile."Is Olive coming to see us off?""Yeah, she is," Seira laughed. "Wouldn't want to miss the moment waving goodbye to me, Ro."Robert just smiled thinly. His eyes focused on Seira standing by his side, showing a radiant face just for him. She looked even prettier in Robert's eyes, although he knew this dress she was wearing had been worn before. But it seemed different this
"Delicious or super delicious, Sir," Darius quickly responds. "Olive's taste buds don't know the word 'not delicious'. Everything is delicious to her. That's why inviting Olive to eat is the most fun. Not much comment. Before you know it, her plate is empty."Thomas chuckles. What Darius said is true, isn't it? It's rare to hear Olive comment on the taste of food that's already been ordered. Instead, she says it's a shame if it's not finished. A waste. It's a sin to waste food, she says. Better to go into her stomach.The problem is, no matter how much Olive eats, her body doesn't widen sideways. She remains slim and unchanged. When Thomas first met Olive, his wife rarely exercised. Thomas is confused, huh."Shut up!" Olive glares, not pleased. "Instead of worrying about my appetite, you better tell me what you've tried at the food booths over there. What's good?""If you like Zuppa Soup, I think it's good," Riana quickly says, pointing to the place on th