Olive glanced at her phone unenthusiastically. It wasn't because of the flood of messages but rather the boring chat going on in the Gajah Mada Group (they were all excitedly discussing preparations for the upcoming gathering event, and it made Olive jealous. She felt like crying because she couldn't join in on the fun with them. Her communication with all the Gajah Mada staff was still very close, and even now, she hadn't been removed from their group. She could still have casual chats just like when she was there.)
She placed her head on the table immediately. There was a sudden sadness that overcame her because their chat was so lively. She quickly shut her phone screen. This time, she chose to have lunch with Ayana alone. It was safer, with fewer antics, and Ayana didn't ask too many questions about what was happening. She asked the office girl to buy lunch and ate it in the pantry with Ayana.
Meanwhile, Yossie was left alone at the counter. Lunchtime wasn't too cr
"What should I do?" Olive asked with a distressed expression. "And who shared that photo anyway?" She felt like crying, but she couldn't. Everyone already knew, and it was causing a commotion. How could it not?The perfectly angled shot, the right lighting, and impeccable timing when Thomas handed her a tissue during their breakfast at Sonatopas. It coincided perfectly with the moment when the chicken curry broth had splashed onto the corner of her lips. But it appeared as though Thomas was exceptionally attentive to Olive. His eyes were locked onto her.And this was the worst part of it all.Olive looked bashful in the picture due to Thomas's actions.Lord! It felt like not only Thomas needed to be submerged in the waters of Senayan Bay, but her too. Not because she wanted to be with Thomas forever! Oh my, please get rid of such thoughts! But Olive felt like she had no face left to meet other people, especially during the upcoming gathering.Once
As Olive walks along, she's not sure how she feels anymore. Well, it's not just about her feelings, but her expression says it all! She's beyond embarrassed! Oh my god! If there were a competition for the most absent-minded girl, Olive would win it hands down. Yeah, right! Olive ended up parking in the wrong spot. The one she went to was slot B2, lane C6, while her beautiful, beloved motorcycle was in slot B2, lane E9.So far away!!!Oh my god! This embarrassment is unbearable!She feels like hiding her face, but it's already too late; Thomas noticed."You should be more careful next time," says Thomas, patting Olive's head gently. "I told you, didn't I? You're not very careful. This is one example.""I'm just glad it didn't disappear. No need for scolding, sir," says Olive with a sulky tone. Whatever. She'd rather swallow her pride than argue and risk being laughed at. It's better to act a bit childish and, in return, get... attention?"Sin
Olive didn't fall asleep until one in the morning. It's not because her mother isn't there; she can close her eyes just fine. It's because she was busy gossiping with Riana and Darius. That's how she finally found out where the photo came from. Mika, one of Gajah Mada's salespeople, happened to pass by that area and, surprisingly, stopped there to buy breakfast, although a different menu. She recognized Olive and was surprised to see her with a man. She thought Olive was finally dating someone, even though it wasn't clear who the man was. She took a picture to use for gossip, which turned out to be much more than just gossip. The man was the Branch Manager of SAVEFUND Senayan, and it caused quite a stir at Gajah Mada. Fortunately, no one spread it further.They just wanted to know if Olive was really dating Thomas. If so, they wanted to congratulate her because she had finally moved on from her single life. Getting close to her was difficult, she often avoided conversations,
She stomped her foot in frustration. If only Olive was an anime character, there would probably be a fiery red aura around her. Not to mention her eyes, ready to pierce her opponent with orange beams. Unfortunately, Olive wasn't a character like that. So, all she could do was put on a stern face, not wanting to be disturbed, and walk a bit briskly, leaving Thomas dumbfounded in the parking lot.Thomas just chuckled while carrying his helmet. He still wanted to tease her but was afraid Olive would get angry again. So he held back his desire to provoke her for now. Then, all his memories of this morning played back uncontrollably. It was actually fun, why didn't Olive feel the same way?"Sir, stop being ridiculous!"Ugh! Olive's punch on his back hurt! It hurt so much that Thomas had to open the visor of his helmet just to see Olive's expression. Unfortunately, he forgot that it was he who closed the visor for the girl. Despite Thomas's conviction, there was no sm
"Liv," Thomas called out. The intercoms attached to their helmets made it much easier for Thomas to speak. "I know you're angry. But seriously, I didn't mean it that way."Olive remained silent."I do like being close to you." Through the side mirror on his right, Thomas could see that Olive wasn't looking ahead. He turned his face towards her. "I didn't mean to belittle you or think you're easy. It's just because of my higher position in the office, which makes you hesitate to refuse."Feeling that Olive still didn't want to talk, Thomas continued his words."I'm not that heartless. I genuinely want to be close to you, Liv.""But you don't have to do it like that. I'm uncomfortable.""Sorry," Thomas said sincerely. "I was wrong.""Can you apologize too?""Of course, why not? I was wrong, after all. I dared to act that way earlier because I felt like you were comfortable with me yesterday. You even accepted my offer. Remember,
Olive acted normal. Nothing happened, even though she knew Dela often taunted her in the subtlest way possible. If she engaged, the counter table might end up in chaos. People like Dela were best kept at a distance. Not because Olive was afraid or hesitant. It was more about herself potentially acting weird and making mistakes."By the way, I've handed everything over to Olive. Starting Monday, she's the Acting Head Teller.""Not officially, right?" Dela asked with her innocent face. But Olive knew her tone was dripping with condescension."Even though it's not official, the responsibilities are the same. The assignment letter came directly from Mr. Matthew." Ayana smiled, trying to lighten the mood. But Olive remembered that Dela rarely confronted people like this. Dela and Marta might be close, but Olive never expected her to behave like this towards her.What's wrong with Olive and Thomas dating? If Bu Marta consistently faced rejection, didn't that me
"Our gathering preparations are almost done, sir. I've also arranged the costumes."Thomas nodded without taking his eyes off the report handed to him by the admin department."I've set yours aside, sir. It will be delivered today. Some employees didn't want to rent costumes, but I made sure they have separate ones.""Just make sure everyone fits the theme. Don't let this gathering become a burden, Marta," Thomas said, glancing briefly at Marta in front of him."Yes, sir. I understand."Thomas refocused on his work."The sushi from earlier... did you finish it, Mr. Thomas?"Thomas's pen paused, and he blinked slowly before smiling faintly. Clearly, Marta was flustered. His mere smile was enough to make her swoon. What about now?"Maybe it's gone. I gave it to Wina. It's not a problem, is it, Marta? Because I don't really like sushi."Marta's smile, which had been as bright as a payday morning for the employees, quickly f
On Friday afternoon, when all the SAVEFUND CBD staff were busy preparing for the upcoming gathering, Olive and her colleagues at the counter didn't really know what preparations were needed. Most of the planning was done by the admin and sales teams because for the frontliners, their work couldn't be left unattended. It also involved money and customer service.Even though it was only a small preparation, if not carefully considered, it could be chaotic during the event. Especially since Senayan was always expected to excel in terms of performance and appearance. Olive realized that Senayan was indeed the center of attention for many other branches.That's why the CBD WhatsApp group had been buzzing for the past few days, all revolving around their preparations. Olive didn't get too caught up in it. She simply listened to the instructions, most of which came from Marta. She had also prepared what she needed to bring. No need to rent anything. Olive had plenty of evenin
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