Thomas couldn't help but widen his smile. Despite the heavy traffic, the honking horns, and impatient drivers all around, nothing mattered compared to Olive's smile. It never left her face, even with the playful antics she displayed towards her mother.
Well, this morning, even though Seira was spoiling Olive in front of her mother, he understood. Quite well, actually. Thomas realized that even though Seira pampered Olive, there were certain limits Seira imposed. So, as far as Thomas was concerned, Olive's pampering was still tolerable.
Whether it was due to their relatively new relationship or Seira being the type of mother-in-law who didn't meddle too much in her child's household chores, Thomas had never heard any complaints about him.
"Today, you're going to the central office, right?" Olive asked after making sure her selected music was appropriate. Her morning mood was already at 90 percent. She planned to raise it a bit more to reach 100 percent so she cou
Robert opened the door for Seira as she walked out of the spacious building. He was puzzled by the address she had given him. It was completely different from the address of her house on Gajah Mada Street. Could it be that, besides taking care of her sick child, she had met someone else last night?Pushing away his sudden negative thoughts, Robert chose to greet Seira with a broad smile."Am I late?" Seira asked. She was wearing a white blouse with ruffled layers at the chest, a calf-length skirt with an abstract black floral print. She looked radiant. Today, she had swapped her heels for the same white sneakers that matched her blouse. Her hair was simple, with a large curl at the ends of her long red hair, and a pearl-encrusted headband elegantly holding some of her hair in the middle.And not to forget her natural makeup that perfectly matched her outfit. Truly breathtaking.She actually got a headache thinking about her clothing choices. Most of her d
She had her smile in place, her hand lovingly hooked to the man who walked confidently beside her. Seira was well-practiced in this. She didn't care about the many pairs of eyes trained on her. She only needed to walk alongside Robert until the end.This luncheon was not as simple as it seemed. Many interests were entwined in it, including matchmaking.Robert always managed to make women who came to be introduced at this event retreat in a hurry. It was all thanks to Seira. Even though she was sure there would be a lot of advice from Robert later at home, she ignored it. She didn't want to torture herself with made-up rules. She had already devoted herself to taking over many roles for her late father.As the eldest child in the Nendratama family, her responsibilities were indeed enormous.But couldn't she be happy with her love?"For this time, I don't want to disturb your introductions, Ro," Seira said, still with her subtle smile. She glanced sl
"Sit down," Robert ordered again, ignoring Daniel's scowl, which resembled a bull. He also ignored Marta's disapproving look as she sat in front of him."Our business agreement remains intact, Mr. Budi. Don't worry. Your daughter is still single, and so is my younger brother. Rather than being with me, who can't look away from the woman next to me, causing her suffering, I don't want that to happen."Budi Hardjo fell silent."There's nothing wrong with giving them a chance to get to know each other. I'm sure their rejection is only for now. Once they get closer, if we give them time, their relationship will surely develop quickly," Robert said."No, no!" they both replied in unison."Now, Mr. Budi, can you see? They're so compatible, right?"Budi finally chuckled. "Mr. Robert always manages to surprise me. I feel touched by this." He nodded slowly. "I think I was too pushy with Marta, forcing my will on her.""Oh, not at all," Robert
Olive really wanted to laugh, but she held it in tightly; she didn't want Yossie to sulk and be beyond consoling. Olive herself could be quite stubborn when she got moody. And especially with Yossie, who seemed to be serious when annoyed, irritated, and had the urge to scratch someone.And that person was just grinning for no reason!"Sorry, Yossie. I didn't mean to." Andre smiled widely and extended his hand as a gesture of apology. That face, man, it was already cute, and combined with this adorable way of apologizing. It made Olive want to take him home, you know?What on earth was Olive thinking? God! Give Olive a little sanity so she doesn't go crazy over this weird Andre. Yossie's been cursing nonstop since earlier.No, that wasn't it. Olive felt that Andre was seeking Yossie's attention. After Marta introduced Andre, for some reason, the deputy branch head got permission to leave the office. He looked a bit tense; Olive heard it was something urgen
Robert observed every item that Seira picked up and placed in the shopping cart. He was somewhat puzzled about why Seira was buying so much this afternoon."Aren't you only planning to make beef ribs soup?" Robert asked, voicing his curiosity. "Why are there cooking oil and tissue paper here?"Seira remained silent."Syrup too. What's it for?" Robert was still trying to engage her in conversation. Since their return from lunch, Seira hadn't uttered a word. Even when he got close to trigger her emotions, she remained like a statue. Usually, Seira hated it when he approached and kissed her without any reason.But earlier?To be honest, Robert was a bit afraid. What did he do wrong?It's not that. After they bid farewell to his mother, Seira had been so affectionate with him, accepting hugs from his mother. They weren't usually like that."Seira," Robert called once more. "Are you angry?"Seira focused on choosing the brand of sug
Nathan tapped the end of his pen on the table, creating a rather annoying noise in the quiet room. His eyes remained fixed on nothing but the CCTV footage of the house he sometimes stayed in. Sometimes, he watched it closely, at times staring in disbelief. What's even crazier, Nathan smirked briefly, and then burst into laughter like a madman."This, well, is a drop-dead gorgeous performance," Nathan said, as he rubbed his CCTV screen.Ever since he met Seira, Nathan couldn't help but think about the red-haired woman. She had suddenly entered his life and Naina's. Was this God's way of answering his prayers for a soulmate? It sure seemed like it. After Seira's return, who didn't want a ride from him and acted cold towards him, he asked Parjo for all the information he could get about her.It's unlikely his driver and trusted aide didn't know anything about Seira."Yes, Sir. She first met Miss Naina at Thamrin City.""Why was Naina there?" Nathan as
Thomas had sighed who-knows-how-many times. His in-laws, Olive, and the man he had just met as his father-in-law's friend and boss had successfully left him feeling helpless. Okay, Thomas would tell one by one what happened once he entered the boarding house.As he knew, Olive was overjoyed to find out her mother was still there. She even promised a special homemade dinner. Olive's smile never faded throughout the journey back. Although, yeah... it gave Thomas a stomach ache because of her confusing analogies.That was because of a phone call from his mother in Bogor."Anyway, if I get pregnant, you're responsible! I don't want to deal with a baby!!!"Ugh! Olive's statement was truly a test for Thomas.And that wasn't all, because as soon as he came home and Olive happily stepped out of the car, they were surprised by the pile of groceries in the corner. Meanwhile, his in-laws ruled the kitchen. No, Thomas didn't mind the messy kitchen. In fact, he
Kalina, Seira, and three of Olive's friends. Oh, and one more, of course. The new guy who always teases Yossie until she gets annoyed and frustrated but can't refuse. Andre is truly remarkable! So, on this Saturday morning, Thomas and Olive's apartment is filled with just their voices.Their intention for coming is to help Olive prepare for the reception that will take place in less than three weeks. Although they had a rough discussion with the wedding organizer two days ago, the final details have yet to be determined. Well... even though Olive isn't overly fussy, it turns out that everyone gathered here is the troublemaker."I think Aunt Koni should be the makeup artist. It's good, you know. I like it. I look so pretty," Riana praises with sparkling eyes."You're beautiful because of the makeup, proudy," Darius sneers while flipping through each sample of the invitation template."Ugh! Why don't you mind your own business!"Darius chose to turn
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