This was Olive's first time here. The distance from her home in Central Jakarta to this place in Karawaci was quite far. Since getting into the online taxi ordered by her mother, she hadn't said much.
Not a word.
Even though during breakfast, Olive was still chatting casually, including discussing the event for next Sunday. There wasn't really anything to worry about because her mother and future mother-in-law had prepared everything thoroughly. Aunt Koni herself had lent a helping hand. Ah... Olive was truly touched by all the help she was getting.
"Where are we, Mom?"
"What do you see?" Seira asked with a slight grin. Her eyes were fixed on one spot. A place she hadn't visited in a very long time. What for? There was no point.
"A cemetery," Olive quickly replied.
"That's right." Seira walked casually past the neatly arranged rows so as not to disturb the existing burial plots. The midday sun was scorching, and Seira had already opened the
Thomas arrived at the office with many glances directed at him. Most of them were filled with smiles and whispers, especially about his profile picture. "Oh, Mr. Thomas is finally officially engaged, huh?" Or, "Mr. Thomas is so affectionate. I'm jealous." Not to mention, "The moment he shows off his girlfriend, he gives her a ring right away, huh, Mr.?" Well, Thomas didn't really care. Everything they said was true, right? So all he could do was smile in response to all of them. Besides, the photo really did turn out well, didn't it? Thinking about the photo of himself putting the ring on Olive's finger, his smile wouldn't fade. Even though he didn't see Olive this morning because she took a day off, at least they had a brief chat before he went to the office on his own. It felt a bit strange, though, Readers. The car ride was quieter too. Thomas had already arranged for someone to drive Olive and her mother to their de
Marta knocked on Thomas' door and entered after being invited. In her hands were reports from the teller and cashier, which she had checked multiple times. She also emphasized the slips and postings made by Dela and Yossie. She didn't want any issues like the ones Dela had caused. Since Olive was on leave today, Marta was filling in, and Thomas was temporarily handling administrative work. Even though there weren't any significant problems, everything still needed to be double-checked. "Have a seat, Marta," Thomas said, motioning for Marta to sit while his eyes continued to focus on the reports. Especially the new credit application submitted by Kiara. "I... I want to congratulate you on the progress of your relationship," Marta said. No, Marta had come to terms with everything. She didn't want to be a home-wrecker. Hopefully, she could find a kind-hearted man who was right for her. There was no point in forcing it; she couldn't find compatibility. He
Once again, Olive took a deep breath. She had no idea how many times she had been hit by nervousness. Her house had been bustling with several neighbors, especially those who knew her mother, coming by since morning just to make sure that the news of Olive's engagement was true, or those who knew Olive well. Most of them had gathered in the multipurpose hall in her neighborhood, which had been transformed because Olive's house wouldn't be able to accommodate all the guests. Blame it on Kalina who casually mentioned that there would be many guests from Bogor! But her mother didn't help with Olive's stress either when she said, "I have guests too. My friends, you know, from all over Jakarta." God! Couldn't Olive's heart behave properly? And now... it was pointless to get angry or complain! Her mother turned out to be even more annoying today, but Olive couldn't deny that she felt a little proud. She was following the instructions given to her and listening to Koni's ad
"Walk, Liv," Riana whispered softly because Olive hadn't moved at all. She seemed like a statue! But if Riana were Olive, she'd be shocked too! The surprise was too overwhelming; it felt like she couldn't breathe. She never expected Thomas, whom she usually heard as stiff and emotionless, to do something so sweet. Olive was truly lucky. Plus, almost all the guests who had come were looking at them with eager anticipation, waiting for them to become official! The universe truly blessed them. If I can place you by my side. Take me with all my weaknesses, And when you're beside me, Never tire of loving me. Thomas approached, extending his hand for Olive to hold, as usual. He gestured quietly to Riana and Yossie so they could return to their seats that were already prepared. They both obediently stepped aside, allowing the two lovebirds to finish their event. "Why don't you want to hold
"I feel trapped, Bae," she whispers after all the commotion, where Thomas realizes his mother's words along with Seira's challenge. They finally sit down together, and Olive takes the opportunity to talk to Thomas, um... can she already call the man sitting next to her husband? Not yet. Olive can't forget the events that took place just two or three hours ago when her future mother-in-law, correction, already became her mother-in-law. Proposing something Olive had never thought of before. Getting married right now! Fortunately, Olive hasn't let go of Thomas's hand. What if she had let go? Her legs might have turned into jelly, her body would have had no strength left to stand, and her heart suddenly stopped. How did the engagement ceremony that Olive thought was a bit excessive turn into a wedding? God! Even if she wanted to deny it with many reasons, Olive also willingly accepted Thomas's proposal this time. There's clear footage of what she just exp
Yeah, there were many parties involved in helping them, including the administrative matters that would be taken care of on Monday. Although there was a lot to adjust, it still left Olive feeling frustrated. Why is it that since Thomas came into her life, she always finds herself trapped? "What did you say earlier?" Thomas asks, leaning back in his chair. Thomas's words bring Olive out of her reverie, though not completely out of her thoughts right now. "I feel trapped," Olive says softly. Like Thomas, she chooses to lean back in the comfortable chair. "I already asked you that, Bee," says Thomas with a chuckle. He gently strokes Olive's neatly arranged hair. "So, are you regretting marrying me now?" "No, not at all," Olive says with a small sigh. She straightens her back again and turns slightly towards Thomas. Her fingers, now adorned with another ring, which she also wants to inquire about but later, after everything is over today.
"Events like this always make me tired," Seira complained while adjusting her batik skirt. There was no difficulty while she walked because the skirt's slit was high enough to reach her mid-thighs. The heels she wore weren't a problem either; although pointed and looked menacing, know that Seira was used to mastering the party floor in shoes like these. "But you like it, don't you?" Koni asked mischievously. "I thought it was the mother who got proposed to, eh... but the daughter first." Seira just sighed quietly. "I have no request to get married again in my life, Ni." "You can't do that. Besides, once Olive moved in with her husband, talking about this Thomas guy, I wonder where Olive found him. He's quite a handsome guy, not to mention how gentle he is. You can really see how much he adores her. The type of guy who's madly in love with his wife." Seira gently tugged at the corner of her lips. Her happiness wasn't just for show. Today, she was exper
Pandu was taken aback. Although he hadn't seen his former sister-in-law for a long time, he didn't turn a blind eye to social media. Even though it took some effort, he at least knew that Seira and Olive were fine. He appreciated Seira's decision not to return to her family after what her brother did. Pandu didn't blame Seira at all, even though occasionally their extended family, especially their mother, was annoyed because they couldn't meet their only granddaughter. Until now, Pandu hadn't gotten married. Not because he didn't want to, but seeing how their family was formed, he felt traumatized. Especially the actions of his beloved and caring sister, who betrayed the woman he considered unreachable. Leaving a wound that Seira would bear for a lifetime. Even now, Pandu could still clearly see that disappointment was present, and it was enormous. Of course, right! At Seira's home, they were waiting patiently with the adorable little Olive who was now her focus. Som
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