《Giving Birth to The Italian Billionaire’s Baby》


 Part 1

    ¡°Oh God, Al¡­¡± Jovanka moaned as Altezza continued moving in and out with a rhythm he knew Jovanka loved. The woman held onto the dressing table while her lover moved faster. ¡°Al¡­¡± Jovanka started going wild; she was almost reaching climax, and Altezza¡¯s movements became faster, as if he knew what she desired. And not long after¡­


    ¡°Arrggghh¡­¡± Altezza groaned simultaneously with the warm liquiding out from him, contained by the rubbery wrapping that sometimes choked him.


    Altezza removed the used condom and tossed it carelessly into the trash bin, while Jovanka had already put on her nightgown again. Altezza¡¯s body was still sweaty after their passionate lovemaking, but seeing Jovanka¡¯s appearance, he knew that the discussion he wanted to have would only reignite her anger.


    ¡°Mamma and Padre keep pushing me to get married. How long are we going to continue like this?¡± Altezza asked in frustration.


    Jovanka approached Altezza, who was now lying on the bed, moved closer, and caressed Altezza¡¯s bare chest with a circr motion.


    ¡°I¡¯ve told you I¡¯m not ready to get married and certainly not ready to give you children, Darling,¡± she whispered teasingly. ¡°I still have a contract; appreciate my hard work,¡± she said, showing a pleading expression.


    ¡°But until when?¡± Altezza held Jovanka¡¯s wrist and looked at her sharply. ¡°Our rtionship has been going on for five years. How much longer do I have to wait?¡±


    Jovanka used her other hand to touch Altezza¡¯s face, caressing it in a seductive manner.


    ¡°At least another year. I promise,¡± she whispered while gently touching Altezza¡¯s jaw and teasingly kissing the corner of his lips. ¡°One more year, and I¡¯ll allow you to announce our marriage to the whole world. One more year, I, Jovanka Lawrence, will be your wife, the future mother of your children,¡± she promised, wrapping her slender fingers around Altezza¡¯s neck and starting to seduce him, effectively diverting the conversation to passionate kisses, as usual when her lover hesitated to discuss unwanted matters.


    *A Year Later*


    ¡°You made a promise, and I gave you the time you asked for, a whole year. Isn¡¯t that enough?¡± Altezza stood, leaning against the wall near the door of their room, dressed in a short-sleeved shirt and ankle-length denim pants.


    Jovanka paused in her activities, her body half-turned to face Altezza. Once again, her face looked pleading. ¡°I know, forgive me. But I can¡¯t refuse this one. Coboration with a renowned director that I¡¯ve dreamed of since my debut in the modeling world, and you know that.¡± Jovanka pleaded with Altezza to grant her request.


    If previously Altezza would give in andply with her lover¡¯s request, not this time. Instead of agreeing, Altezza looked back at her with a challenging gaze. ¡°So now, how long do I have to wait? Another year? Two years? Our rtionship hassted for six years. We¡¯ve wasted a lot of time.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    And if you forget, I¡¯m not young anymore, Joe. And my parents won¡¯t stop demanding grandchildren. Remember, I¡¯m their only child. They expect their lineage to continue while they¡¯re not getting any younger.¡±


    Jovanka sat in front of her dressing table, facing away from the mirror, looking at Altezza with her beautiful eyes that captivated him. ¡°I know, I understand,¡± she whispered. ¡°But Al, please. Once again. I promise this is thest time.¡± She pleaded with teary eyes.


    Altezza approached, sitting on the edge of the bed, looking intensely at his lover. ¡°I¡¯m tired,¡± he said, exhaling a long breath. ¡°I love you. I¡¯ve tolerated a lot of your dreams. We¡¯ve been in a secret rtionship as you wished, although what I wanted was to announce to the world that you, Jovanka Lawrence, are my girlfriend.


    I¡¯ve always supported you, allowed you to do whatever you want. I¡¯ve never forced you to stop your career and be a housewife like a wife I¡¯ve longed for all this time.


    I¡¯ve let you wander, be a model working across continents, although what I wanted was for you to always be there for me as I am for you. My request all along has been simple; I want you to bear a child for me. My descendant. A child who will wee me with their warm smile when I return tired from work.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve tolerated a lot, Joe. Even when a year ago you asked for an extension because of a contract you couldn¡¯t terminate unterally-although I was willing to pay all the penalties-I still gave in. And now, without discussing it with me, you signed a new contract? Do you really think I¡¯m at your disposal, huh?¡± He said with a harsh and cold tone.


    Jovanka cried. In six years of being Altezza¡¯s girlfriend, this was the first time she cried because of him. And she cried not because she received violence from him but because she heard his cold voice. Yes, Altezza¡¯s cold voice sounded more painful than if he had shouted and scolded her.


    Throughout their rtionship, Altezza had never shown any rough attitude towards her. He never tried to control or be authoritative towards her. And that¡¯s what made Jovanka fall in love with the Italian-blooded man. Behind his tall and sturdy body, there hid a gentle demeanor that contrasted with his muscr frame.


    Because of his kindness, Jovanka couldn¡¯t help but feel jealous. Many women out there tried to get his attention. Jovanka should have felt lucky because Altezza chose her. And the man never hesitated to say that he only loved her, Jovanka Lawrence. He even praised her when she was still nobody, just a lowly employee with big dreams.


    Jovanka rose, walked closer, trying to reach her lover. Trying to persuade him, as she always did. But when her hand reached out to touch Altezza¡¯s jaw, he turned his face away. Altezza stood, bent down to align his eyes with his lover¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°My patience has been tested enough, Joe. If you still desire it, don¡¯t me me if I choose a different path.¡± Without kissing Jovanka¡¯s forehead as he usually did, the man left Jovanka standing there, her hands hanging weakly at her sides.

 Part 2

    Several hourster, at a club.


    Altezza growled. He downed his drink again, unsure which ss it was. He hoped the hot and bitter taste flowing on his tongue and throat could somewhat ease the tightness in his chest due to the disappointment he got from Jovanka. Antony, his cousin from his father¡¯s side, whom he called just before entering the club, looked at him with a furrowed brow.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re getting drunk and asking me to be your driver, Cousin,¡± he grumbled, shaking his drink without intending to sip it.


    ¡°I¡¯m not forcing you to stay,¡± Altezza replied tly. ¡°You¡¯re the one who keeps sticking to me,¡± he continued with a speech that was no longer clear due to the effects of the alcohol he had consumed.


    Antony smirked mockingly, ncing at Altezza while shaking his head. His cousin clearly looked messed up, so how could he let Altezza be alone and leave like that? His cousin could go crazy when he was drunk. And maybe even worse, Altezza could fall into the traps of troublesome women who always pursued him.


    ¡°How¡¯s my niece doing?¡± he asked, trying to change the subject before tilting his drink back and grimacing at the heat spreading in his throat.


    Antony nodded slowly. ¡°She¡¯s fine,¡± he replied casually.


    Altezza lifted the corner of his mouth and embraced Antony¡¯s sturdy shoulders, patting him and squeezing his arms tightly. ¡°You¡¯re lucky to have such a good daughter, Cousin. Beautiful, kind, obedient, and smart. What more could you ask for? If only God allowed me to have a child, I would pray for Him to give me a child like via. Unfortunately, I still can¡¯t have it. So, don¡¯t ever waste my niece, Cousin,¡± he scolded roughly.


    Antony furrowed his brow and looked sharply at his cousin before shaking his head. Altezza wouldn¡¯t discuss Antony¡¯s failed marriage and his wrongdoing in neglecting his beloved daughter without reason.


    ¡°What¡¯s really going on? Why suddenly bring up via¡¯s name?¡± Antony asked curiously. ¡°You know very well that I¡¯m trying to fix everything.¡±


    Altezza chuckled. ¡°Fixing, huh?¡± he asked mockingly. ¡°That¡¯s why I moved to Kansas now,¡± Antony replied curtly.


    Altezzaughed. ¡°I know your reason for moving, Cousin. Don¡¯t sell your daughter¡¯s name like that. I know you moved to get ire¡¯s attention, right?¡± he asked with a mischievous grin on his face. ¡°You¡¯re sacrificing me and dumping all your work on me, even though you know I have other jobs to take care of,¡± he eximed in frustration.


    ¡°I know, but I won¡¯t apologize for it,¡± Antony replied with a mocking grin.


    ¡°Do you think you¡¯ll seed in getting ire, huh?¡± Altezza asked again with a mocking gaze.


    ¡°Why not? Even though I¡¯m fifteen years older than her, I still have the charm to make women fall in love,¡± Antony proudly replied. Altezzaughed, looking at his cousin and shaking his head.


    ¡°It seems like you¡¯ve been influenced by Gian¡¯s narcissism,¡± he said, mentioning their youngest cousin. ¡°My advice, you better give up on ire and let me have her,¡± Altezza said confidently.


    Antony frowned, looking at his cousin disapprovingly. ¡°Why ire?¡± he asked sharply. Antony never thought that Altezza would like ire, considering his cousin had been so faithful to his girlfriend. And he disliked even more the idea ofpeting with his own cousin for a woman¡¯s attention.


    Altezza answered Antony¡¯s question with a shrug. ¡°Because she¡¯s perfect for me. She¡¯s beautiful, attractive, smart, and easy-going. She could be a good wife and mother. My parents would like her, and more than that, via admires her. She even asked me to make ire her aunt first.¡±


    Antony snorted, lifting the corner of his mouth and shaking his head in disbelief. ¡°There¡¯s no way via asked you for something like that,¡± he said incredulously.


    Altezza shrugged again. ¡°If you don¡¯t believe it, ask her. via is crazy about ire. Your parents like her. And if that¡¯s the case, Mamma and Padre will like her too. So why not? She¡¯s the perfect woman for me to make my wife. via says she¡¯s also good at cooking. And you know I need someone like that. You surely remember what kind of woman I dream of. A good wife and homemaker. And ire is the perfect candidate,¡± Altezza said as he took another sip of his drink.


    In his heart, heughed as he observed his cousin¡¯s expression. He was just teasing Antony. Altezza wasn¡¯t the type to undercut his own cousin.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Six months to a year,¡± he offered again. ¡°Give me that time to get closer to her and make her my wife. If I fail, then you can approach her. Besides, it won¡¯t make much difference for you during that time. Losing thirteen years of via¡¯s childhood won¡¯t make a big difference if you add one more year. After all, I¡¯m doing it to make her happy too.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t pick a fight with me, Cousin. I¡¯m determined to get her in my own way. If you really need a wife, find another woman out there.¡±


    ¡°But I knew her first. And from the way she treats me, it¡¯s clear she¡¯s more interested in me than in you.¡±


    Antony chuckled. ¡°Dream on,¡± he said curtly. ¡°She acts like that because she¡¯s trying to hold back. Sooner orter, she¡¯ll fall into my hands,¡± Antony said confidently.


    Altezza sneered and shook his head. ¡°You¡¯re too confident, Cousin,¡± he teased with his sly smile.


    ¡°Just finish your business with your model girlfriend, then you can discuss finding another wife,¡± Antony said, causing Altezza to bow his head again, dejected, while chuckling.


    Of course, Antony knew about the employment contract that Jovanka had signed. How could he forget it? Kralligimiz was thepany currently overseeing Jovanka, and thepany belonged to Antony, even though it was currently managed by their cousin, Gian.


    ¡°Do you know she signed another contract without my knowledge?¡± Altezza asked softly.


    ¡°Not directly. Her affairs are not my concern, but yes, I know,¡± Antony replied honestly.


    ¡°And you didn¡¯t tell me about it?¡± Altezza red at Antony.


    ¡°Because her contract and her affairs with you are not my concern,¡± Antony replied curtly.


    Altezzaughed mockingly. Not mocking Antony, but more mocking himself. ¡°Look at how I seem like such a useless husband,¡± he said with a sad tone. Antony felt sad hearing it, but there was nothing he could do.


    ¡°We better go home. You¡¯re drunk, and you¡¯ll be rambling if I don¡¯t stop you,¡± Antony said, lifting Altezza¡¯s body, wrapping Altezza¡¯s arm around his shoulder, and helping him out of the bar.


    They headed to the elevator that would take them to the parking lot. Antony struggled to match his steps with Altezza¡¯s swaying ones, but they managed to reach the car safely.


    Antony drove while Altezza sat with his eyes closed in the passenger seat. The younger man¡¯s face did not look as lively as usual. It was clear that his decision to break up with his wife truly affected his mental state.


    ¡°I want a child,¡± he murmured with closed eyes. ¡°A good and beautiful child like via,¡± he continued softly.


    ¡°Well then, find a girlfriend and marry her. Then make a lot of children with her,¡± Antony retorted.


    ¡°I already have a girlfriend, in case you forgot,¡± Altezza huffed. ¡°But she doesn¡¯t want to marry me and doesn¡¯t want a child from me. Or not yet?¡± he said hesitantly.


    Antony snorted in response. ¡°I never considered her your girlfriend, in case you forgot,¡± he said coldly. ¡°To me, she¡¯s just a woman who doesn¡¯t even care about her lover¡¯s happiness. Or has she ever considered you her lover?¡± he asked with a disgusted expression. ¡°Your assistant is even more loyal than Jovanka.¡±


    Altezza ignored Antony¡¯s words. He opened his eyes and chose to gaze out the window. There was nothing wrong with what Antony said, but it still felt too painful to hear.


    In reality, Jovanka had never been there for him. Whether it was before she seeded or after she became a public figure. Not when Altezza was happy, let alone when he was sad and needed her attention.


    Altezza had a girlfriend, but he felt like a single man who was always lonely. Another fact was that only Antony-the only person in his family-knew about Altezza¡¯s rtionship with Jovanka because she always said she wasn¡¯t ready to announce their rtionship and felt too ashamed to admit it in front of Altezza¡¯s parents because she didn¡¯t consider herself worthy and couldn¡¯t be proud of herself as a prospective wife.


    And because Altezza loved Jovanka too much, he was willing to keep their rtionship a secret. He was willing to do anything for her, even if it was unreasonable. And over time, who knew how many other reasons she had given to reject Altezza¡¯s request to meet his parents. Until now, in the eyes of Altezza¡¯s parents, Altezza remained a bachelor they constantly pressured to get married.

 Part 3

    Antony had entered the basement of Altezza¡¯s apartment and parked his sports car there. He once again helped Altezza toward the elevator that would take them to Altezza¡¯s penthouse.


    Altezza remained silent, wrestling with his own thoughts.


    ¡°Stop crying over your fate, Al. I¡¯ve told you from the beginning that she never truly loved you,¡± Antony said as the elevator doors closed and began to ascend.


    ¡°She loves me, Antony. That¡¯s why she epted my proposal,¡± Altezza replied coldly.


    ¡°No, she doesn¡¯t love you, Al. And you have to stop fooling yourself. She married you because she knew she would get afortable life and financial support to boost her career. If she truly loved you, she wouldn¡¯t waste you. Her career would be secondary to your happiness. And look at what has been happening. For her, the careeres first, and you, well, who knows what order you¡¯re in. So what else do you expect?¡± Antony asked as the elevator doors opened. They walked slowly out of the elevator toward the door of Altezza¡¯s unit.


    ¡°She signed the contract without asking for my permission,¡± Altezzamented sadly. His head was bowed, and he chose to stare at his shoes rather than look directly at Antony. Given Jovanka¡¯s unteral decision, somehow it made his lungs feel tight, and his eyes began to well up.


    ¡°And that further proves that you¡¯re not important. Not to make your situation worse, Cousin. But the fact is, all this time, you¡¯ve given in too much to her. I¡¯m not even sure if she feels jealous if you¡¯re with another woman. Your weakness in always letting her do whatever she wants makes her feel that whatever she does, whatever decisions she makes, you won¡¯t be angry because you know she¡¯lle back to you, and she knows you¡¯ll always be there waiting for her. To me, you¡¯re like an entertainer who¡¯s always there when she wants you,¡± Antony said, lifting Altezza¡¯s hand and scanning his cousin¡¯s fingers on the door before dragging him inside. They didn¡¯t talk until Antony dropped Altezza¡¯s body onto the wide ash-colored sofa in the living room of the penthouse.


    Altezza groaned and positioned his body to be morefortable, covering his eyes with one arm. Seeing that, Antony suddenly felt guilty.


    ¡°Sorry if I hurt you,¡± he said sincerely.


    ¡°You¡¯re not wrong,¡± Altezza replied without turning to look at Antony. ¡°Everything you said is true. Since a year ago, I¡¯ve felt like an unwanted man. But I denied it all because my expectations of her were too high.


    ¡°Since then, I shouldn¡¯t have given her another chance. But I always make the same mistake. And hearing that news earlier¡­¡± Altezza couldn¡¯t continue his words. Antony said nothing, walking toward the fridge, grabbing two bottles of mineral water, and returning to Altezza, handing him one.


    Altezza sat down and took a sip of the cold water, finishing half of it. He leaned back on the sofa listlessly.


    ¡°She asked me to wait again,¡± he said, ying with the bottle in his hand. ¡°But this time, I¡¯m not sure I can wait. Even the love I have for her no longer makes me confident.¡± He murmured again, taking the remaining water and cing it roughly on the table. ¡°I feel empty,¡± Altezza said softly, lying down on the sofa again. ¡°I¡¯ve been faithful to Jovanka because I love her. Making my mother happy by giving her a good son-inw is a bonus. And having a child and a happy family is my biggest dream besides a sessful career.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know how painful it is for me every time someone asks Mamma and Padre when I will get married and give them grandchildren. What I want is to reveal everything to everyone. To admit that all this time-for the past five years-I have been someone¡¯s husband. But I¡¯m too cowardly to do it. To fulfill my wife¡¯s wish, I actually disappointed the woman who gave birth to me. At least Uncle and Aunty have via and use your past as a reason why you haven¡¯t married again until now. But me? I can¡¯t even admit that I have a girlfriend, and my girlfriend prioritizes her career over her lover and doesn¡¯t even intend to give her lover a child.¡± A teardrop fell from the corner of his eye, and Altezza didn¡¯t bother to wipe it away.


    Throughout their growth, Altezza was the one who always faced every crisis calmly and coolly. He wasn¡¯t as strict as Antony, nor was he tooid-back and carefree like their youngest cousin, Gian. However, Altezza could be very mncholic when he was sick or drunk. He was always sensitive-tending to be unable to control his emotions-when dealing with his parents or someone he loved.


    ¡°Break up with her, then,¡± Antony said tly. Altezza turned to look at his cousin with an unreadable expression. ¡°Find another woman and marry her. If you feel you can¡¯t love another woman like you love Jovanka, then marry just to make your parents happy and have the offspring they want. At least the Quirino name will continue. Although, honestly, I really hope that you can marry for love. Not just marrying a woman who loves you or herself. But a woman who will love you, your child, your family.¡±


    ¡°Is there anyone like that?¡± Altezza asked, uncertain.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°There is. Someone like ire. Can¡¯t you see that? Then I¡¯m sure there are other women like ire out there. Just find a woman who truly loves her parents. Then she will surely love her own flesh and blood. And over time, I hope she will also love you, and you will love her. I always dreamed of marrying once in a lifetime with a woman I love and who loves me. And look at what happened to me. Fate is not always what we expect. And now, I¡¯m trying to follow my fate by trying again. And you will witness my struggle in the future. And I want you to do the same.¡± Now it was Antony¡¯s turn to pat Altezza¡¯s shoulder gently.


    ¡°If in the end, she doesn¡¯t choose you, then you make your own choice. At least as a man, we must have self-respect.¡± He said, then stood up. ¡°I¡¯m going home; think about my words again.¡± Antony then left Altezza, who was lost in his own thoughts until he eventually fell asleep on the sofa.

 Part 4

    Adaline waste for work. It was all because the taxi she had taken had a t tire, and they still had a considerable distance to cover. Adaline had no choice but to find another means of transportation to get her to the office. Unfortunately, she couldn¡¯t find a taxi during this busy hour, and on top of that, she had run out of money. It was just her luck. However, Adaline had no other option but to run to her office.


    With heavy breaths, Adaline greeted the security guard at the lobby and shouted at anyone in the elevator to hold it open for her. Adaline stepped out of the elevator looking less than put together. She was sweating, and her hair was slightly disheveled from the run. When she entered her office, her senior and good friend, Tessa, looked at her with a raised eyebrow.


    ¡°Late start?¡± Tessa asked, casting a teasing look at Adaline.


    Adaline grinned, ced her bag under the desk, and tidied up her appearance. ¡°No, just unlucky on the way here,¡± she replied while running her fingers through her hair. ¡°The taxi I took got a t tire. Now I¡¯mpletely out of money, and payday is still far away.¡± Sheined, met with a chuckle from Tessa.


    ¡°That¡¯s what you get for binge-watching. Your data runs out before it¡¯s time.¡± Tessa retorted, well aware of Adaline¡¯s habit of watching online dramas. Adaline just grinned in response.


    She nced at the clock on her phone, realizing she had five minutes before the workday officially started, and sighed in relief.


    Coskun Company, the constructionpany where Adaline currently works, is a multinational corporation founded by an Italian-descendant family that has settled and married a local named Arthur Quirino. Over the years, thepany, which has been standing for more than four decades, has continued to grow. In thest two decades, with the involvement of the sole son of Coskun¡¯s founder, thepany has expanded its reach beyond construction, venturing into property, furniture, and even into the realms of fashion, entertainment, and digital infrastructure. Their family is truly multibillionaire.


    Adaline is proud to be an employee of this multinationalpany. Although she is not part of the history of thepany¡¯s development, she has made her own mark by sessfully passing various tests, securing her current position. Yes, working at Coskun Company is not easy. There are many stages of tests to be passed. Even though she is a cumude from a prestigious university, she struggled topete with foreign graduates who are more fluent in various foreignnguages, have a better understanding of the outside world, and have broader insights than her.


    But thanks to her efforts, optimism, and the support of her parents, Adaline finally managed to get epted here. Her first test began after she was epted. The first three months of her internship were not easy. She had to be willing to work overtime to meet the deadlines set by the authorities. However, with guidance and patience from her colleague Tessa, who had been working for two years longer than her, she could go through it all without any problems.


    And it turns out that after three consecutive months of overtime, working as hard as a horse, in the following month, she worked as a regr employee who went home when her eight-hour workday ended. Although sometimes she worked overtime if necessary. But everything paid off; the overtime pay she received allowed her to add to her novel collection. Ha ha.


    Now, Adaline has been working for three years, and the sry she receives is truly, really, fantastic. That¡¯s why she has never considered looking at otherpanies. In addition to thefortable working environment and fantastic sry, working at Coskun Company has been her dream since college. It was also herte father¡¯s dream.


    But everything in this world alwayses with a trade-off. Behind all her struggles, she didn¡¯t just get sweet rewards; there were also painful experiences. A year after she started working, her parents had an ident. They were on their way home from a rtive¡¯s wedding when they were hit by a fully loaded truck. Her father died on the spot, and her mother was paralyzed. Although her mother can now walk again due to regr therapy, her physical condition is not as healthy as before the ident.


    It seems that losing her father caused her mother¡¯s optimistic side to disappear. Unbeknownst to her, Adaline often sees her mother staring into space and crying alone. When Adaline is in front of her, her mother always pretends to be strong and resilient.


    Adaline is an only child. Therefore, she is very afraid that her mother¡¯s mental state will deteriorate. Worried that her mother might slowly give in to the circumstances, and eventually, Adaline will end up living alone.


    She has no biological siblings.


    Of course, because her father couldn¡¯t have children. And she herself is not the biological child of her parents. She found out when she was twelve years old. When she was about to enter junior high school, one of her father¡¯s rtives said that she should be grateful for her parents¡¯ kindness, even though she was just an adopted child.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    That¡¯s when her parents revealed the fact that she was adopted from an orphanage.


    Because when her parents found out that her father couldn¡¯t have children and her mother didn¡¯t want to part ways with him, they decided to find a middle ground by adopting a child as a substitute for the child they could never have. And they promised to love and raise Adaline as their own.


    And indeed, that¡¯s how it was. Her mother, Violet, and her father, Gregory, never treated her differently. They never treated her unfairly. They were firm and gentle ording to the situation. They never were harsh, let alone violent towards her.


    If Adaline made a mistake, they would first ask the reason behind it. After that, they would decide on an appropriate punishment. But whatever punishment they gave, it never made Adaline resent them. Instead, her love for her parents grew stronger every day.


    Until her father passed away, she felt like half of herself was lost. Especially with her mother¡¯s condition, who was unconscious for three days and eventually became paralyzed; it was truly tormenting for her.


    Her mother was the one who lifted her spirits when she decided to resign to take care of her.


    She thought that with the condolence money and her father¡¯s ident insurance, they could open a small business so that she could focus on taking care of her mother. However, her mother refused. She knew very well that working at Coskun Company was her dream and her father¡¯s for a long time.


    So Adaline gave up. She followed her mother¡¯s wishes. And her mother chose to have a household assistant who could also be herpanion. A fifty-five-year-old widow who was still healthy and able to work. Emma, who enjoyed spending time with her mother because her husband and daughter died in andslide in their hometown.


    Now, two years have passed since the ident. Adaline still cannot feel at ease because her mother often falls ill. The effects of the ident, besides causing temporary paralysis, also impacted her mother¡¯s right kidney and liver simultaneously. Gradually, internal bleeding urred. They only found out a few days ago when her mother copsed again and was hospitalized.


    Even this morning, Adaline went to work from the hospital after staying overnight with her mother. Although she feels tired and worried about her mother now, she doesn¡¯t want anyone else to know. She just wants to show her cheerful side to others.


    Even if sheins, others may not necessarily help her. Those who care about her will worry, while those who dislike her will just be thankful for her situation and be sarcastic.


    Adaline puts her bag under her desk. She looks at a photo frame where she, her mother, and herte fatherughed at her graduation ceremony three years ago. Adaline wipes it and kisses it before starting her work. Hopefully, her work today goes smoothly, and her mother¡¯s condition at the hospital continues to improve. That¡¯s all Adaline hopes for from day to day.


    She turns on herputer and is ready to start the day with all the reports piled up on her desk, waving as if urging Adaline to finish them quickly.

 Part 5

    After his conversation with Antonyst night, Altezza really tried to consider his cousin¡¯s advice. Waking up with a headache and a dry throat from alcohol, Altezza forced himself to get up and hurriedly took a shower. He intended to go to the house he bought to live with his secret wife, Jovanka.


    Although officially a couple, Altezza didn¡¯t stay there because he was afraid that rumors about his rtionship with Jovanka would spread to the public, potentially damaging her career. Ironically, every time he went there, Altezza always parked his car far from the house and even entered through the back gate. He behaved as if he were visiting a lover rather than his girlfriend. And he did all this to fulfill the desires of the woman he loved.


    He was the owner of the house, but he entered it like a thief. He did it all for Jovanka. Even his household assistant-a middle-aged woman with mncholic eyes, and her husband, whom Altezza appointed as Jovanka¡¯s personal driver and garden caretaker-never seemed surprised by his sudden arrival.


    Entering through the kitchen door, Altezza walked towards the stairs and went up to the master bedroom. He didn¡¯t bother to knock and directly opened the bedroom door. His wife was seen packing her clothes into arge blue Tessalik suitcase they bought during their honeymoon in Japan.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re still choosing to leave?¡± he asked without preamble. Jovanka was startled by the cold tone directed at her.


    Without giving an answer, she continued her activity. Well, Altezza considered this to be the end. The end of their rtionship.


    ¡°Okay, if that¡¯s what you want,¡± Altezza voiced his thoughts. ¡°I can¡¯t force you. Besides, you can¡¯t give in for my sake either,¡± he said in a more rxed tone. Jovanka fell silent, looking at him with a puzzled expression.


    Altezza was also puzzled by his feelings. Initially, he thought he would feel hurt or disappointed, but strangely, he felt nothing. As if he knew deep down in his heart that he had anticipated this situation.


    Jovanka closed her suitcase abruptly, looking at Altezza with her beautiful eyes. ¡°Al, please,¡± Jovanka showed her pleading face again. But even that seemed half-hearted to Altezza.


    Altezza raised his hand, stopping whatever Jovanka was about to do without a word. He chose to stand at the doorframe and stare at Jovanka expressionlessly.


    ¡°I won¡¯t force you. I won¡¯t stop you,¡± he said tly. ¡°I came here just to find answers, and I¡¯ve got them,¡± he continued with a casual demeanor. Altezza leaned back against the wall again, this time observing the wrinkles on the woman¡¯s well-kept face. Surprise was evident in her gaze, and Altezza allowed Jovanka to look at him with concern.


    ¡°And if this is your final decision, then it will be mine too,¡± he replied still in a t tone. Altezza straightened his standing position, turned, and was about to leave her. Aware that she was about to be abandoned, Jovanka quickly approached Altezza, gripping his arms tightly and holding him back.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± she asked with a panicked expression.


    Altezza brushed off her hands as subtly as possible. ¡°I asked you to choose between me and my career. And you chose to leave me for your dream. And as I said before, Joe, I¡¯ll do the same.¡±


    ¡°The same thing?¡± Jovanka asked, still confused.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Acting selfishly and as I please,¡± Altezza replied with a cold smile on his face. ¡°You pursue your dream, so do I. We part ways. I will marry another woman and have a child, as I¡¯ve dreamed of all this time.¡± The beautiful woman¡¯s face instantly turned pale, as if the blood in her body disappeared. Her eyes widened, looking at Altezza in disbelief.


    ¡°No! You can¡¯t do that, Al!¡± she eximed hysterically.


    Altezza grinned. ¡°Oh, yes. Of course, I can,¡± Altezza replied confidently. ¡°Someone made me realize the meaning of myself.


    ¡°I can¡¯t always yield to your dreams while you ignore mine, Joe,¡± he growled harshly. ¡°So, I choose to be like you, to pursue my dreams and happiness.


    ¡°I won¡¯t hold you back. If you want to go, then go. And you don¡¯t need to hold me back either.¡±


    ¡°No, Al. You said you love me.¡± Jovanka pulled Altezza¡¯s arm, but Altezza again brushed off her hand.


    Looking into Jovanka¡¯s eyes, Altezza shouted, calling his wife¡¯s house assistant. ¡°Yes. I do love you, Joe. And my love has kept me going for the past six years.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m the one chasing after you. I¡¯m the one begging you to marry me, but you always find excuses to reject me. And I¡¯m the one who always lets you do whatever you want. Spending your time chasing your dreams without caring about me.


    ¡°And now, I give up. I surrender. I and my love mean nothing to youpared to bing the mega star,¡± he said with all his effort not to shout each word of his anger in his wife¡¯s face.


    Jovanka gripped his hands again, just as their two employees arrived. The woman¡¯s face was reddened with tears pooling, while the middle-aged couple at the door looked stunned, watching the two with a confused expression.


    ¡°Al, please. I beg you. This is myst request. After this, I will be yours. I promise,¡± she pleaded with a desperate tone.


    Altezza shook his head. ¡°That was also your statement a year ago. And in the years before that.


    ¡°That was also what you said every time I asked you to stop chasing your career and marry me.


    ¡°And that was also what you said every time I discussed my desire to have a child. And I¡¯m sure that¡¯s what you¡¯ll say when you sign another contract without my consent.


    ¡°A love story should be fought by ¡®us.¡¯ But here, ¡®I¡¯ am the one always trying to sustain it.


    ¡°I¡¯m the one who always tries to understand you, your desires, and your obsessions. And now, I¡¯m done with you, Jovanka Lawrence.¡± Altezza released Jovanka¡¯s hand again, this time a little roughly.

 Part 6

    Jovanka sat on the thick carpet with her head bowed. Perhaps hoping that Altezza would take pity on her and surrender again. But this time, Altezza had truly hardened his heart.


    He looked at the middle-aged couple still standing in their ce, who instantly lowered their heads when they saw the cold expression on Altezza¡¯s face.


    ¡°You are now my witnesses. Listen to me. I am Altezza Quirino, and from now on, I have no rtionship with her. We started this rtionship amicably, and we will part amicably as well.


    ¡°And this house, as I promised you, will be yours.


    ¡°I hope you are happy, and I hope the film you will work on is sessful. I always wish the best for you,¡± Altezza said and left Jovanka, who was just frozen in her ce, trying to absorb all the words Altezza had spoken.


    ¡°I won¡¯t give up, Al! I wille back!


    ¡°After all this is over, you wille back to me. And I will be yours, Al!¡± she shouted from the staircase. But Altezza didn¡¯t care. For him, everything was finished until here.


    Altezza walked back to the backyard and hurriedly made his way to where his car was parked. Suddenly, he missed his mother. He needed someone who genuinely loved him. He needed his mother¡¯s embrace.


    Altezza drove his car to his mother¡¯s residence and was quite surprised to see the presence of his uncle and aunt, Antony¡¯s parents.


    ¡°Uncle, Aunty,¡± he greeted, hugging both of them in turn. ¡°When did youe?¡± Altezza asked, puzzled.


    ¡°Last night. We stayed at Antony¡¯s ce. We just came here,¡± Mrs. Brianna, Antony¡¯s mother, replied.


    ¡°Just the two of you? Where¡¯s via?¡±


    ¡°As usual, at her friend¡¯s house,¡± Antony¡¯s mother replied. ¡°That girl is getting even more attached to ire.¡± Shemented with a smirk that couldn¡¯t be hidden.


    ¡°Uncle, just pray that aunty gets good news soon. Antony openly told me that he¡¯s going after ire,¡± Altezza replied casually.


    A snort apanied the approaching footsteps behind him. ¡°You pray for your aunt to get good news, then what about me?¡± Mrs. Del Quirino, his biological mother, asked with annoyance.


    Altezza turned around, looking at his mother with a broad smile. His hands opened wide, and instantly, he hugged his mother tightly before nting a kiss on her cheek.


    ¡°So, Mamma is also eager to get a daughter-inw?¡± he teased. ¡°So, is it me first, or Antony first?¡± he yfully asked his mother.


    ¡°Have you found a future wife?¡± his mother asked, furrowing her brows and looking at her only son with curiosity.


    ¡°Having a wife is easy, Mamma.¡± Altezza waved his hand casually. ¡°I just need to make an announcement right now, and this evening there will surely be many women lining up. I¡¯m proud of that,¡± he said with pride.


    ¡°Do you think it¡¯s that easy?!¡± His mother pped his arm quite hard.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to choose a wife carelessly. You have to marry a woman with a clear background. She doesn¡¯t have to be beautiful, she doesn¡¯t have to be a famous actress either because I don¡¯t want to be bothered by paparazzi or infotainment. Just a good woman who can be a good wife and daughter-inw. Someone who can give me many grandchildren.


    ¡°I want this house to be noisy again. Like when you were little,¡± his mother said.


    ¡°Easy, Mamma. If the criteria are just that, is three wives enough? Or four?¡± he teased mischievously.


    ¡°Oh God, Al. Be careful with your words!¡± His father, who came from the back of the house, eximed, looking neat in a dark brown cored shirt and white trousers. ¡°You can¡¯t even satisfy the emotional needs of one wife, how can you want three wives?¡± His father, Mr. Benjamin Quirino, said while shaking his head. Meanwhile, his mother hit his arm again, and his aunt smiled.


    ¡°It was Mamma¡¯s request, Padre. Right, Aunty? Aunty heard it herself.


    ¡°One wife to be a good daughter-inw. The second wife to give Mamma many grandchildren.


    ¡°What about the third one?¡± His aunt asked with a mischievous smile.


    ¡°Of course, a beautiful woman who can satisfy me, aunty. A wife created specifically for me.¡± He joked, receiving another hit on his arm.


    ¡°You¡¯re something else. That¡¯s why, find a wife who has everything Mamma and you want in one package.¡± His mother retorted, patting Altezza¡¯s arm hard.


    ¡°That package is Mamma¡¯s makeup treatment. Or a gift basket.¡± Altezza replied jokingly, making his mother pout. ¡°Yes, yes. Later, I will find a woman with the full package.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t look for just anyone. Don¡¯t casually find a woman on the streets.¡± His mother reprimanded again.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯tpare my future wife to a street-side hot dog, Mamma.¡± His yful remark was met withughter from everyone. Altezza continued to smile, although inside, he winced in pain.


    Altezza really wanted to make his mother happy, but finding a potential wife that meets his mother¡¯s criteria wouldn¡¯t be easy, just like Antony¡¯s described ideal.


    Where could he find a good woman whom he could marry and who would be a suitable daughter-inw for his mother?


    Altezza did have many female friends, whether from school, college, work, or just acquaintances. However, he had never gotten to know them personally. The only woman he loved in his adulthood was Jovanka. And that rtionship had now ended. He had no exes because he had never dated anyone before. And now, the only woman who caught his attention other than Jovanka was ire. But she was already his cousin¡¯s choice. Besides, Altezza didn¡¯t love ire; he admired her for her assertiveness and confidence.


    So now, how could he prove his words to Jovanka? Where could he find a wife who fit his mother¡¯s and cousin¡¯s criteria? Where should he start everything?


    Altezza would think about itter. There was still a year until Jovanka returned. And he believed that within that time, he would find the wife he needed.


    He would marry her, with or without love. He decided within himself.

 Part 7

    Adaline rushed halfway down the hospital corridor towards her mother¡¯s ward. She was in a panic, scared. Earlier, Emma had contacted her with sobs still audible, despite the woman¡¯s attempts to hold them back. Her mother was critical, and she was asked toe to the hospital immediately. Hastily, she sought permission from her boss, honestly stating that she needed to see her mother¡¯s condition.


    Adaline arrived at her mother¡¯s hospital room. Every time she was there, she felt regret for not being able to provide the best facilities for the woman who raised her. Instead of giving her motherfort by renting a VVIP or VIP room, Adaline allowed her to be treated in a room shared with three other patients.


    Adaline desperately wanted to give her motherfort, but their finances were dwindling day by day. This was all she could afford. It¡¯s not that she wasn¡¯t trying, but she had to adjust everything to their circumstances. All the money from her father¡¯s allowance had been used for her mother¡¯s treatment, as well as Adaline¡¯s savings for thest three years. Her monthly sry was spent on their everyday needs.


    Adaline reached her mother¡¯s bed, situated in the corner and directly facing Emma. ¡°How is she, Aunt?¡± she asked, trying to speak as calmly as possible.


    ¡°The doctor said the bleeding in your mother¡¯s liver and kidneys is severe. They need to perform surgery as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°Surgery?¡± Adaline asked in disbelief, and Emma nodded slowly, shedding tears again. Her mother was now asleep. Her hair, which had somehow turned white in thest three years, looked messy. Adaline had to remove the headscarf her mother usually wore to avoid obstructing the oxygen tube now attached beneath her nose.


    Adaline pulled her chair closer, reaching out to gently stroke her mother¡¯s cold forehead before giving her a soft kiss. Adaline turned her attention back to Emma.


    ¡°What kind of surgery?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t really understand, but the doctor said they need to remove blood clots from your mother¡¯s liver and fix her damaged kidneys,¡± Emma continued sadly.


    Adaline could only stare in shock. Surgery? she thought sadly. Was her mother¡¯s condition really that serious? Why did they only find out about it now? Didn¡¯t her mother regrly go for check-ups for the past two years? Then what were the medications she had been taking all this time?


    ¡°Who is the responsible doctor?¡± Emma mentioned the doctor¡¯s name, and immediately Adaline went to the receptionist to find the whereabouts of that doctor for consultation.


    Following the receptionist¡¯s instructions, Adaline finally found the doctor in the surgical and specialist section. Adaline knocked on the door, which was promptly answered by a voice from inside.


    A doctor around fifty looked at her over square-shaped sses. ¡°I¡¯m Adaline, Mrs. Violet¡¯s daughter,¡± she introduced herself, met with a nod from the doctor.


    ¡°Please, have a seat,¡± he requested. After Adaline sat down, the doctor turned on the X-ray result reader and ced a ck and white image on it. ¡°We¡¯ve conducted X-rays, followed by a CT scan, and we¡¯ve found surprising results. Inside your mother¡¯s heart, there¡¯s a spot that¡¯s actually growingrger. Not a tumor, but a blood clot due to the impact of the ident that happened to your mother two years ago.¡± The doctor pointed to a spot the size of a peanut. ¡°And her kidneys have suffered more severe damage.¡± He indicated another point that wasrger.


    ¡°But my mother has been regrly going for check-ups. How could this happen?¡±


    ¡°There are two possibilities. Either your mother¡¯s doctor misdiagnosed, or the second possibility, your mother already knew her condition but chose to remain silent. Because our rmendation, as doctors, is that surgery must be performed. Perhaps, for the heart, it can still be managed with blood-thinning medication. But considering your mother¡¯s age, it¡¯s very vulnerable. And for her kidneys, we can¡¯t handle it anymore. It needs to bepletely removed because it¡¯s malfunctioning,¡± the doctor continued with sadness.


    ¡°What about my mother¡¯s condition? Is it possible? What about the postoperative side effects?¡±


    ¡°We are still evaluating. Your mother¡¯s age is not young, and her physical condition is not fit. We also need to assess her heart condition; her concentration on anesthesia needs consideration.¡±


    ¡°And the sess rate?¡±


    ¡°We have the best team in the city. We will do our best. The rest, we leave it to the Almighty. Of course, the patient¡¯s desire to recover is also one of the determining factors.¡±


    ¡°And the cost?¡±


    ¡°Please consult with the administrative staff.¡±R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°When does the operation need to be done?¡±


    ¡°After assessing your mother¡¯s condition, if she remains stable in the next two days, then we can perform the operation two dayster.¡± Adaline nodded.


    ¡°Okay, doc. Do your best for my mother. She¡¯s all I have. I beg you,¡± she pleaded. The doctor gently cupped Adaline¡¯s hands.


    ¡°We always strive to do our best. Additionally, pray for your mother¡¯s safety and health. That ys a significant role.¡± The man spoke with authority. Adaline nodded in agreement. Afterward, she rose from the doctor¡¯s room and went to the administrative office.


    After discussing with the administrative staff, Adaline finally learned that the estimated cost she had to bear was equivalent to the price of a brand-new car. The surgery cost, excluding her mother¡¯s medication and care, was indeed staggering. Her mother didn¡¯t have insurance, and government health coverage didn¡¯t cover such operations. Meanwhile, Adaline had nothing else to sell except for the house she currently upied. However, even if she mortgaged the house to the bank, with all the administrative systemplexities, it would take time for the money to be disbursed.


    Borrowing from loan sharks? The thought immediately made her shake her head vigorously. Adaline wasn¡¯t sure if loan sharks would lend hundreds of millions like that. And which loan shark did she even know? She had never known people like that.


    Adaline¡¯s thoughts focused on one person: Haris. Yes, she could try contacting Haris and ask for his help. At least, he might assist her in finding the loan she needed. Even if the repayment period stretched out for a lifetime, Adaline would do it as long as she could secure her mother¡¯s recovery.


    Adaline reached for her phone and called Haris. On the fourth ring, he finally answered.


    ¡°Hello?¡± he greeted in a whispered tone.

 Part 8

    ¡°Haris, I need your help. Can we meet?¡± Adaline asked.


    ¡°Is it really urgent? Can¡¯t it wait?¡± he inquired after a brief silence.


    ¡°No, it can¡¯t. It¡¯s an emergency,¡± she replied.


    ¡°Alright. Meet me on the office rooftop during lunch break,¡± he said again. Adaline agreed before ending the call. She nced at her watch; lunch break was half an hour away. Adaline hoped she wouldn¡¯t get stuck in traffic and that Haris would still wait for her if she was a littlete.


    Adaline hurriedly walked to the elevator, heading to the neenth floor, from where she would take the emergency stairs to the twenty-first floor. Her foot tapped impatiently on the elevator floor. When the elevator doors opened on the neenth floor, Adaline felt relieved that no one she knew greeted her during the journey. She was confused about exining her presence in the office since she had requested leave earlier.


    Adaline pushed open the thick iron door of the rooftop with all her might. The wind, mixed with the heat and pollution of Manhattan, hit her face, tousling her hair. Actually, she didn¡¯t like this ce much. Adaline was afraid of heights, and even though she stood far from the rooftop edge, she still shivered at the sight of the cityscape in front of her, even though it might be considered beautiful by some. Especially at night, when the city lights shone like a sea of stars against the dark sky. For Adaline, it remained frightening.


    Adaline walked to the right, directly to the storage area where non-functional or under-repair equipment was kept. She and Haris usually met there in urgent situations.


    Haris, a man Adaline had admired, was one of the reasons she worked at Coskun Company, aside from her dreams and herte father.


    Adaline approached Haris, who was leisurely enjoying his cigarette. ¡°Haris,¡± she greeted, tapping his shoulder gently.


    Haris turned, looking at Adaline with a slight frown on his forehead.


    ¡°What¡¯s so urgent that you couldn¡¯t wait until the end of the workday?¡± he asked without beating around the bush.


    Yes, Haris was a stiff person. Behind his handsome face, he never showed excessive tenderness. A bit of background on Haris: he was Adaline¡¯s neighbor and also her senior in college. Adaline liked him because he was hardworking. In the past, he used to study together with herte father, so Adaline admired him and tried to get closer to him.


    However, despite her year-long efforts, Adaline never received a positive response from him. He was so cold, seemingly deeply in love with his work to the point of avoiding romantic rtionships with anyone. To avoid any gossip, Haris convinced her to act as if they didn¡¯t know each other while at work, and Adaline didn¡¯t mind-after all, they were in different departments.


    ¡°My mother needs surgery, and I need money for it. I need your help,¡± she said without beating around the bush. The frown on the man¡¯s forehead deepened.


    ¡°What happened?¡± he tossed the remaining half of his cigarette, crushing it until the ember died.


    ¡°There¡¯s a blood clot in my mother¡¯s heart, and her kidneys are damaged, they need to be removed immediately. My mom doesn¡¯t have insurance. I¡¯ve run out of savings too. I need your help. Please help me find a loan.¡±


    ¡°How much do you need? I have some savings, but not much,¡± he replied.


    Adaline mentioned a figure that widened Haris¡¯s eyes. His face turned pale, and he shook his head slowly. Perhaps in his mind, he didn¡¯t expect Adaline to mention such arge amount, or maybe he shook his head because the money in his savings wasn¡¯t that much.


    ¡°I need it by the day after tomorrow. My mother needs surgery urgently, or it will endanger her. I beg you, help me find a loan.¡±


    Haris rubbed his face in frustration. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll help you find a loan. I¡¯ll let you know tonight. Now, go back to your room. Your colleagues might be looking for you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve got permission for the afternoon. I¡¯m going back to the hospital, waiting for my mom there.¡±


    ¡°Fine, just go back to the hospital. I¡¯ll contact youter,¡± he said. After patting Adaline¡¯s head, he left abruptly.


    Adaline looked at Haris. In her heart, she doubted whether Haris would help her. It¡¯s not that Adaline didn¡¯t trust him; it¡¯s just that he sometimes forgets what others consider important and prioritizes his own interests.


    Adaline leaned her back against the warehouse wall, contemting other options if Haris failed to get the loan for her. She couldn¡¯t ask for help from herte father¡¯s family, considering they disliked Adaline. And economically speaking, not to be disrespectful, but they were the ones who often borrowed money from herte father, which, of course, they never returned, citing family ties.


    Weakly, Adaline walked back to the emergency stairs. She would return to the hospital and wait for news from Haris. If she didn¡¯t receive any updates tonight, she would try another option-perhaps truly going to a pawnshop for a loan, or maybe she had to seek out loan sharks to mortgage her house.


    Reaching the neenth floor, she prayed that she wouldn¡¯t meet anyone she knew inside the elevator, just like when she ascended earlier. Fortunately, her prayer was answered. It seemed like everyone had gone for a break.


    Adaline walked, lost in thought. Various thoughts swirled in her mind. She didn¡¯t want to entertain negative possibilities because her parents always taught her to stay optimistic and think positively about anything that happened. However, in the current situation, whether she liked it or not, Adaline felt alone. Father, what should Adaline do now? Even if she sold her organs, it wouldn¡¯t be that easy to get the money.


    Unconsciously, Adaline had already arrived at the hospital. Emma, who was taking care of her mother, looked at her with pity.


    ¡°Your mother was taken to the ICU. Her condition worsened earlier,¡± Emma said sadly. ¡°What about now? Did you get the loan?¡± she asked again. Adaline shook her head. ¡°Have you tried borrowing from thepany?¡± the middle-aged woman asked again.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Adaline shook her head again. It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t consider it. But borrowing such arge sum from thepany, Adaline wasn¡¯t sure if they would approve. She was just a new employee, and her sry wasn¡¯t substantial.


    ¡°Just try it first; who knows it might work.¡±


    Adaline just stared at Emma sadly. ¡°I¡¯m waiting for news from Haris, Aunt,¡± she replied weakly.


    ¡°Are you sure he can help? I¡¯m not too convinced,¡± the woman replied doubtfully.


    Yes, Adaline herself wasn¡¯t sure if Haris could help. But she had no other choice but to wait. Until tonight. Resolutely in her heart, Adaline walked towards the ICU. Through the transparent window, she could see her mother lying weakly with various hospital devices whose functions Adaline didn¡¯t understand. Two monitors stood on either side of her body. Her own nose was fitted with an oxygen tube.


    Her mother had never looked so weak. Her pale face and cracked lips made Adaline want to hug her. Throughout her life, she never heard her motherin. Even when she found out her father had died, her mother only cried briefly and then smiled again, asking Adaline to always pray for her father.


    Adaline sat on a chair in the hallway. Her body was tired, and so was her mind. She leaned her head against the ss wall separating the outside room and the ICU.


    ¡®Oh God, I¡¯m willing to give everything, even if I can rece her there. Let her be healthy for the rest of her life, oh God.¡¯ Her prayer in her heart, unintentionally apanied by tears she had been trying to hold back sincest night.

 Part 9

    Adaline sat quietly in her chair, hands sped together. Her palms were sweaty, and her chest heaved irregrly. This was herst attempt. Haris had told herst night that he couldn¡¯t find anyone willing to lend her the amount she needed. Even if Haris sought out a loan shark, the sum they would offer would be only a sixth of what Adaline required.


    Now, only one option remained: contacting her financial manager and trying to apply for a loan. ¡°Oh Lord, grant me ease,¡± she prayed silently.


    Adaline looked up every time she heard the elevator¡¯s sound, hoping her manager would emerge quickly so she could speak privately before her colleagues arrived. She had evene fifteen minutes early to ensure she¡¯d be the first to meet with her superior.


    Five minutes before eight, her boss finally appeared. Adaline tried to shake off her nervousness, stood up, and followed her boss to the front door of the office. ¡°Miss¡­¡± she called softly. The woman turned instantly. ¡°Yes, Adaline. What is it?¡± she asked as she entered her office.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Adaline stammered, ¡°I need your help.¡±


    Miss Jessica furrowed her brow in response, assessing Adaline with a discerning look. There was clearly an issue with her subordinate, and she guessed it was rted to Adaline¡¯s parents.


    ¡°Come in,¡± said Miss Jessica, cing her designer bag on the table and taking a seat in herrge chair.


    Adaline entered slowly, closed the door, approached, and sat in the chair across from Miss Jessica.


    ¡°What do you need from me?¡± Miss Jessica asked without preamble.


    ¡°My mother needs surgery, and I need a lot of money. I need a quick loan, and I have my house as coteral,¡± Adaline rushed, afraid her courage would waver.


    Miss Jessica raised an eyebrow, her eyes locked onto Adaline, who met her gaze nervously.


    ¡°How much?¡± Adaline mentioned a sum that surprised Jessica.R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    ¡°That much? What happened to your mother?¡± she inquired. ¡°I don¡¯t intend to meddle, but at least I need to know about your mother¡¯s condition before I present your loan to the higher-ups.


    ¡°You¡¯re aware that the loan amount is not small, right?¡± Adaline nodded and honestly shared details about her mother¡¯s illness, the necessary surgery, and the amount needed until her mother fully recovered and could be discharged from the hospital. She also discussed the house she was using as coteral and her ability to repay the loan.


    ¡°The borrowed money and the amount you¡¯re proposing to pay in installments will be settled over ten years of your employment. Are you sure about that?¡± Jessica asked after Adaline finished her story.


    Adaline nodded confidently. Jessica scrutinized her subordinate carefully. Since the beginning of her employment, which meant over the past three years, Adaline could be considered an exemry employee. She never caused any trouble, whether with colleagues or work matters. She was a skillful and diligent worker. Jessica could see that Adaline was honest and responsible. So, she didn¡¯t hesitate to try and help the girl by acting as a liaison with the higher-ups.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure. Please help me. I have no family other than my mother.¡± She requested, tears now streaming down her face. Jessica couldn¡¯t help but be moved. She could sense the sincerity in Adaline¡¯s words.


    ¡°I will do my best to help. But I can¡¯t guarantee whether thepany will approve such arge loan.¡± Just hearing those words brought relief to Adaline.


    ¡°I will convey your needs directly to Mr. Altezza. You know he¡¯s currently filling in for Mr. Antony, right?¡± Adaline nodded. ¡°Just pray that Mr. Altezza will be kind enough to assist you.¡± Jessica said, met with another nod from Adaline. ¡°Now, go back to work, or are you going back to the hospital?¡±


    ¡°No, Miss. I will wait for your response.¡± She said, excused herself, and left the room.


    ***


    Altezza scrutinized the loan application in front of him, his forehead furrowed. He nced back at his Finance Manager with a questioning look. Jessica wasn¡¯t a neer to Coskun Company; in fact, she had been working here longer than Altezza.


    Altezza knew her achievements and track record. He also knew that Jessica wasn¡¯t someone who easily got close to her employees. She was a woman of principles and preferred to maintain a certain distance rather than being easily influenced by subordinates. Seeing her directly submit arge loan application for one of her employees surprised Altezza.


    He raised his head and looked carefully at the older woman before him. ¡°This is not a small amount.¡±


    ¡°I know. But the girl has provided the deed to her house as coteral. And if you calcte the market value of that house, it¡¯s worth twice the amount she¡¯s applying for, without her having to pay in installments over her ten-year employment period,¡± Jessica replied in a t tone.


    Her words made sense. As a construction worker, Altezza could assess the selling price of a house just by calcting the indicated area from the house certificate now in his hands.


    ¡°Can you vouch for this employee?¡± he asked, ensuring, and Jessica nodded.


    Her nod meant a green light. And so far, Jessica had rarely been wrong in assessing people¡¯s characters.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll consider it,¡± Altezza replied, closing the loan application document in front of him.


    ¡°Apologies in advance, Sir. But she¡¯s in urgent need and requires the money quickly. It¡¯s a matter of life and death,¡± Jessica reassured once again.


    Altezza looked at his subordinate carefully and nodded. ¡°I will give my decision at thetest by tomorrow,¡± he promised, met with an enthusiastic nod from the woman before him.


    ¡°Saya harap Anda menyetujuinya, anak itu benar-benar membutuhkan bantuan,¡± she said before rising and bidding farewell, leaving Altezza¡¯s office.


    After Jessica left his office, Altezza called his personal assistant, Duncan, toe in.


    ¡°Find information about an employee named¡­¡± Altezza reopened the file in front of him and read, ¡°Adaline Scott.¡±


    ¡°Adaline Scott? What¡¯s with her, Sir?¡± Duncan asked, curious.


    Altezza furrowed his brow. ¡°Do you know her?¡± Altezza asked suspiciously.


    Duncan grinned mischievously and nodded. ¡°Of course, Sir.¡±


    ¡°Is she a good girl?¡±


    ¡°Very good, Sir,¡± Duncan replied without hesitation.


    ¡°How do you know her?¡± The frown on his forehead deepened. ¡°Or perhaps you have a special rtionship?¡±


    Duncan blinked for a moment and shook his head vigorously. ¡°No, Sir. It¡¯s not like that. I know her because she¡¯s a friend of my ex-girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ a friend of your girlfriend. So, what is she like?¡±


    ¡°As far as I know, she¡¯s an orphan. She has been working here for three years, and my ex-girlfriend used to be her mentor. She¡¯s a good girl, never flirted with men in the office. She¡¯s polite, and her work is excellent. She¡¯s diligent and never causes any trouble,¡± Duncan¡¯s response came out spontaneously. ¡°But why are you asking for information about her?¡±


    ¡°Does she have a boyfriend?¡± Altezza asked in return.


    This time, Duncan stared at his boss suspiciously. ¡°Mmm¡­ I don¡¯t know, Sir. She¡¯s quite private about personal matters,¡± Duncan replied again.


    Altezza just nodded. Somehow, a n formed in his mind. Not an evil n, but rather cunning and might end up disadvantaging the girl named Adaline.


    ¡°Contact her and tell her toe here after work hours,¡± Altezza ordered, ending his conversation with his assistant.

 Part 10

    A few hourster.


    Adaline sat in the waiting area in front of her COO¡¯s office, nervously squeezing her hands. Before lunch, Mrs. Jessica and Duncan had contacted her, stating that their boss wanted to talk to her directly after work. Mrs. Jessica reassured Adaline to stay calm so that their COO could approve her loan, while Duncan questioned her about the reason their COO needed to meet Adaline in person. However, Adaline chose not to give any answers until everything was certain.


    Half an hour had passed since the office closed, but neither Sir Altezza nor Duncan had shown up. Earlier, Duncan had contacted their COO¡¯s secretary, exining that the meeting was dyed due to a few matters they needed to resolve, asking Adaline to be patient.


    Adaline was not usually an impatient person, but this time she was overwhelmed with anxiety. She feared that her loan application might not be approved, and she was confused about where else to seek a loan. Meanwhile, her mother¡¯s surgery was scheduled for tomorrow. If she didn¡¯tplete the paperwork today, her mother¡¯s operation would have to be postponed until there was another avable slot.


    The private director¡¯s lift door opened, and Adaline tensed immediately. The sound of shoes on the marble floor echoed in her ears. Adaline rose from her seat nervously. She could guess who wasing but dared not look up. Not far from her, she could see shiny leather shoesing to a stop.


    ¡°Come in,¡± a gentlemand reached her ears but did little to ease Adaline¡¯s nervousness.


    Adaline tilted her head slightly to see Duncan smiling sweetly at her, holding the door open. He nodded, signaling Adaline to enter their boss¡¯s office without saying a word.


    As Adaline stepped in, she expected Duncan to follow, but instead of entering the room, her friend excused himself and closed the door from the outside, leaving Altezza and her alone in the room.


    Adaline stood frozen, still squeezing her hands nervously, too afraid to look at her dominant boss standing tall in the spacious room.


    ¡°Have a seat,¡± themand nearly made Adaline shriek with surprise. She swallowed hard, took a deep breath to calm herself, and then sat at the edge of the nearest sofa.


    Throughout her life, she had never made a significant mistake. She hadmitted small errors that led to punishments from her parents, but nothing fatal. However, for some reason, being in Altezza¡¯s office now made Adaline feel extremely nervous, as if she were waiting for a severe judgment from a judge formitting an unforgivable and immense mistake. Adaline bowed her head even lower, her heart incessantly reciting prayers, hoping that Altezza would be willing to help her.


    ***


    Altezza was quite surprised when he exited the elevator and saw a petite figure with fair skin and long ck hair tied in a ponytail standing nervously before him. Was she Adaline? She seemed diminutive, more like a high school student than a mature woman in her mid-twenties. Did the girl fake her credentials? He found the thought absurd.


    Standing right in front of the petite girl, Altezza observed her. She was shorter than ire, and certainly far from Jovanka¡¯s proportional figure. The girl¡¯s height barely reached half of her chest. It seemed Altezza needed to review her profile to know her exact height.


    ¡°Come in,¡± he instructed softly, leading the girl towards his office.


    Behind him, he sensed Duncan moving, doing something with the girl. His secretary opened the door and bowed politely as she entered, and Duncan held her back until Adaline followed him inside. His assistant then closed the door, leaving Altezza and the petite girl alone, following his earlier instructions.


    Altezza stood in the middle of his office, looking at the girl who still stood nervously, her small hands sped together. She wore no jewelry, no rings. He made sure there were no bracelets behind the long-sleeved zer.


    He lifted his gaze and noticed the slender neck of the girl. Observing closely, he saw no glint of jewelry behind the open-cor shirt.


    Did she dislike wearing jewelry, or perhaps she couldn¡¯t afford it? In a world where women oftenpeted to look beautiful by wearing expensive jewelry or imitation essories, this girl seemed not to wear any at all.


    ¡°Take a seat,¡± he ordered again when he noticed the girl hesitated to move from her standing position. Altezza could sense her nervousness as she moved her neck and appeared to swallow saliva anxiously.


    In his mind, Altezza wanted tough. He was used to seeing women who flirted with him, women who challenged him, and women who pretended to be shy in his presence. But this was the first time he saw a woman who seemed genuinely afraid of him and reluctant to meet his gaze.


    Come on, his face wasn¡¯t that intimidating, right?


    ¡°So, Miss Adaline Scott?¡± he began, and he saw the girl¡¯s shoulders tense.


    ¡°Y-Yes, Sir,¡± she replied nervously, briefly lifting her head to look at Altezza before lowering it again due to nervousness.


    Altezza smiled again. It seemed dealing with this girl would be more amusing.


    ¡°I¡¯ve received information from your manager about the loan you applied for from thepany. Are you aware that the loan amount you requested is quite substantial?¡±


    The girl¡¯s eyes widened for a moment, her head nodding quickly. ¡°Y-Yes, Sir,¡± she replied in a panic. ¡°B-but I promise I will repay it. I¡¯ve already given my house certificate to Mrs. Jessica as coteral. I¡¯ve even stated the amount I can afford to be deducted every month. I promise not to default on that debt, Sir. I¡¯ll pay it off in full,¡± she said quickly, as if not allowing herself to breathe.


    Altezza tried to hold back hisughter. Honestly, he found her cute. Seeing Adaline reminded him of his niece¡¯s friend, Carina.


    ¡°But we don¡¯t know if you¡¯ll still be working here ten years from now, or not,¡± he replied, trying to press her.


    Altezza had to make Adaline feel pressured and without other options so that her only choice would be his offer.


    ¡°I s-swear, Sir. I won¡¯t default on my debt, unless God takes my life,¡± she said firmly. For a fraction of a second, their gazes shed, and Altezza noticed the girl¡¯s face. Her swollen and puffy eyes were evidence that she had cried a lot. Her face was also pale.


    ¡°And I also know that the coteral I provided can exceed the amount of the loan I applied for,¡± she continued in a soft tone, lowering her head again, making it hard for Altezza to scrutinize her more closely.


    The only conclusion Altezza could draw was that Adaline was beautiful. Very beautiful. And for a moment, he was enchanted by her beauty to the point of being speechless.


    ¡°I¡¯m still not sure about that coteral,¡± Altezza said, clearing his throat to neutralize the dryness that had crept in. ¡°Especially since I can¡¯t assess the value of the house in this ¡®urgent¡¯ time. As a businessman, I need to be sure whether the house you¡¯ve pledged indeed has a high market value or not,¡± he said tly. ¡°And I haven¡¯t confirmed if the house is in a strategically advantageous location and can be easily sold.¡±


    ¡°T-that.¡±


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t have time to apany me to see the house you¡¯ve pledged today. And I can¡¯t simply grant your request. I need time to calcte the market value of the house, and I also need experts to do so.¡±


    ¡°It might take three days to a week for the assessment of your house value to bepleted,¡± Altezza stated. Hearing the length of time he mentioned made Adaline panic. Three days? A week? Would her mother¡¯s condition be okay if they dyed it for that long?


    ¡°S-Sir?¡± Adaline tried to change Altezza¡¯s mind, but she didn¡¯t know what to offer.


    ¡°Is your need extremely urgent?¡± Altezza asked, and Adaline quickly nodded. ¡°But I have to be professional, Miss. Even though your matter is urgent, I have to consider everything from all sides. Even if you promise to repay it all, I still have to be cautious. I also have to anticipate the possibility of other employees seeking loans if I grant your request.¡±


    Adaline knew Altezza was just doing his duty. The decision he made would have implications for thepany¡¯s policies. And Adaline would do the same if she were in Altezza¡¯s position. However, as someone in a desperate situation, she felt frustrated and couldn¡¯t hold back her tears.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Seeing Adaline¡¯s despair, Altezza smiled. His n had just begun.


    ¡°From thepany¡¯s perspective, I need to consider many factors. But on a personal level, I think I can help you,¡± Altezza said, looking sharply at Adaline.


    Adaline raised her head again, looking at Altezza with her tear-filled eyes.

 Part 11

    ¡°I can help you,¡± Altezza repeated his words.


    Adaline froze, unable to believe what she had just heard. Was Altezza offering to help her personally? It was the longest time Adaline lifted her head and looked directly at Altezza. He observed her from his seat.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Adaline¡¯s eyes were golden brown, framed by long and curly eyshes, along with thick ck eyebrows. Her nose was small and perfectly ced on her face. Her lips were not too thin, nor too thick, but sensual. Yes, Adaline was indeed beautiful, very beautiful. And even though the girl now looked at him nervously, it didn¡¯t diminish her beauty.


    ¡°But there are conditions,¡± Altezza said after a considerable pause. The girl seemed to straighten her shoulders.


    ¡°W-What conditions, Sir?¡± she asked, sounding concerned.


    ¡°Are you currently in a rtionship with someone?¡± Altezza¡¯s question surprised Adaline, but without returning the question, she shook her head.


    Adaline did like someone, but she didn¡¯t have a special rtionship, so no, she wasn¡¯t currently involved with anyone.


    ¡°Do you n to get married soon?¡± Adaline shook her head again. ¡°Do you have any hereditary diseases?¡± Once again, Adaline¡¯s answer was a headshake. ¡°Are you okay with getting married and having children with me?¡± Adaline shook her head again before realizing the implication of Altezza¡¯s question.


    ¡°Huh? W-what?¡± Adaline stared at Altezza in disbelief. Did she hear it correctly?


    Instead of answering or exining, the man patted his thighs and stood up.


    ¡°You¡¯ve given me the answers I need, Miss Adaline Scott. And I won¡¯t repeat my question. I will send the amount you need. In return, you will do what has already been your answer. That you will marry me and bear my child,¡± Altezza stated. Adaline tensed even more upon hearing Altezza¡¯s words. Marriage? Child? What did that mean?


    ¡°Rx, it¡¯s not the kind of marriage you¡¯re thinking about, actually. Have you ever heard the term ¡®a life for a life¡¯?¡± Altezza asked, and Adaline nodded. ¡°That¡¯s what we¡¯re doing. I¡¯m helping you by saving your mother¡¯s life, and in return, you give me another life, which is a child for me. Or the term used by people nowadays is, you will be a Surrogate Mother.¡±


    ¡°But, Sir?¡± Adaline stood up, looking at her boss with panic. Why was it turning out like this? Marriage? Giving birth? Surrogate Mother? Adaline didn¡¯t understand any of the words Altezza was using.


    ¡°Yes, or not at all, Miss Adaline Scott?¡± Altezza seemed to be holding his phone and waved it in front of Adaline.


    ¡°But, Sir?¡± Altezza only answered her confusion by raising an eyebrow. He was about to put his phone back into his suit pocket, but Adaline¡¯s hand reflexively reached out and grabbed the man¡¯s arm with an unexpectedly quick and aggressive movement.


    Adaline was surprised by her own aggressive act and quickly let go of his arm. Her fingertips felt like they were shocked by a small electric current when their skin touched, making her nervous.


    ¡°So¡­?¡± Altezza asked, one eyebrow raised.


    ¡°I-I agree, Sir,¡± she said nervously.


    ¡°Agree to¡­?¡± he hung his sentence. There was a teasing tone in his voice, and Adaline was sure he was holding back a smile.


    ¡°Agree to marry and bear your son, Sir,¡± she said with a more determined voice.


    Altezza smiled sweetly, so sweet that it made Adaline¡¯s legs feel weak. He nodded without taking his eyes off Adaline. ¡°Alright, state your bank ount number,¡± hemanded afterward.


    Adaline grabbed her phone from the pocket of her zer and recited her bank ount number. In less than a minute, a notification popped up on her phone stating that she had received a transfer from an ount, and the amount was surprisingly staggering. It was twice the amount Adaline needed.


    ¡°S-Sir,¡± she stammered, still holding her phone in disbelief. ¡°This is too¡­¡±


    ¡°Consider it as an advance payment,¡± Altezza said tly. ¡°And from now on, you are officially my fiancee, Miss Adaline Scott.¡± He said, patting the top of Adaline¡¯s head.


    Adaline, who was half a head shorter than the man, had to look up involuntarily. Altezza, in turn, was leaning down towards her, meeting her gaze with his golden-brown eyes. The corners of his eyes seemed to crinkle, and he smiled kindly at her.


    ¡°Go on, I¡¯m giving you leave until your mother is deredpletely healed,¡± he said, using a more casual tone and a softer voice. His left hand was still on the top of Adaline¡¯s head. His gesture reminded Adaline of herte father, and somehow tears welled up in her eyes again, flowing freely.


    ¡°Th-thank you, Sir,¡± she said softly. The man simply nodded and stepped back.


    ¡°Go, and I hope my future mother-inw¡¯s surgery goes smoothly,¡± he said with his back turned to Adaline. Adaline nodded her head and wiped away her tears, which seemed to fall for the umpteenth time today.


    ¡°Once again, thank you, Sir. I swear I won¡¯t break my promise,¡± she said and then left Altezza¡¯s office.


    There was no one outside Altezza¡¯s room. Adaline rushed to the elevator. Her heart was pounding, and she couldn¡¯t hide her happiness even though tears continued to fall from her eyes. In the elevator, she continued to pray for the sess of her mother¡¯s surgery. She even forgot about the promise she had made with Altezza about marrying him and giving him a child. That matter could be postponed. Now, what mattered to her was her mother¡¯s safety.

 Part 12

    Adaline sat by her mother¡¯s bedside in the ICU. The doctor had informed her that her mother¡¯s surgery went smoothly, but due to the lingering effects of anesthesia, her mother remained unconscious. It had been more than twenty-four hours since her mother came out of the operating room, and it made Adaline worry.


    Adaline and Emma took turns caring for her mother. Although Altezza had granted her leave until her mother recovered, considering her loan from thepany and the embarrassment of continually burdening others with her work, Adaline decided to return to work as soon as possible.


    For the past three days, Adaline had been anxious, not only about her mother¡¯s condition but also recalling Altezza¡¯s words from earlier. Adaline realized that she had entered an unwritten agreement with her boss, and she was waiting for the continuation of his n.


    Surrogate Mother. That phrase kept echoing in her mind. While waiting for her mother¡¯s surgery, she finally quenched her curiosity by searching the inte for the meaning of Surrogate Mother as referred to by Altezza. She was shocked when the search results exined what a Surrogate Mother was. So, Altezza proposed marriage just to rent her womb? Why didn¡¯t he marry and have a child with his wife? Why was he so desperate to have a child?


    And what were they going to do? Go through insemination? In vitro fertilization? Those were the decisions she wanted to know from Altezza today. However, until the lunch hour passed, she didn¡¯t receive any calls from her boss or Duncan, his assistant and the boyfriend of her friend Tessa.


    Adaline recalled their conversation from two days ago.


    shback


    After receiving the transfer from Altezza, Adaline rushed to the hospital andpleted the paperwork for her mother with the hospital staff. Upon returning to the ICU, she found her close friend Joanna sitting with Emma. When Adaline reached them, Joanna showered her with a worried and puzzled look.


    Her friend joined her in tears, apologizing for her absence during Adaline¡¯s confusion and need for support. Joanna had been working out of town for the past few days on a project.


    ¡°Where did you get that much money?¡± Joanna asked, curious.


    ¡°Thepany gave me a loan,¡± Adaline replied, not entirely truthful. To her, the money from Altezza was considered apany fund that she had to repay.


    ¡°How could thepany give you such a huge loan? You¡¯re not lying to me, right? You didn¡¯t do anything strange to get that loan, did you?¡± Joanna¡¯s forehead wrinkled sharply. Her hands gripped Adaline¡¯s arms tightly.


    ¡°I can¡¯t tell you yet because I¡¯m not entirely sure. But what¡¯s certain is that I got the money from Sir Altezza, you know, the COO of Coskun Company?¡± Joanna nodded. ¡°He gave me a loan, and I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s his personal money orpany funds. But he sent me the money directly from his bank ount.¡± Adaline reopened her phone and showed the transaction she received.


    ¡°He couldn¡¯t just give you a loan like that, right?¡± Joanna returned Adaline¡¯s phone. It was clear that a businessman of Altezza¡¯s caliber wouldn¡¯t provide a loan without careful consideration, especially considering the substantial amount involved.


    Adaline looked at Joanna with fear, but confusion was also evident on her face. ¡°He¡­¡± she said after a considerable pause. ¡°He said I have to marry him and bear his child.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Joanna¡¯s eyes widened, staring at her in disbelief. ¡°Did I hear it wrong?¡± Adaline shook her head.


    ¡°I also don¡¯t know exactly what he meant. I¡¯m just thinking about how I can get that money, and I thought what Sir Altezza proposed wasn¡¯t something strange. He said¡­¡±


    ¡°What did he say?¡±


    ¡°He said he needs me to be a Surrogate Mother.¡± Yes, Adaline thought that was the main purpose of Altezza¡¯s assistance.


    ¡± Surrogate Mother? What does that mean? Are you saying she wants you to be a stepmother?¡± Joanna furrowed her brow.


    ¡°N-no,¡± Adaline replied. ¡°Being an ¡®surrogate mother¡¯ is different from being a stepmother.¡± Adaline pulled out her phone again and showed Joanna an inte search about ¡± Surrogate Mother.¡± After reading it, Joanna covered her mouth to stifle a scream.


    ¡°Are you out of your mind? Do you mean she wants you to carry her child?¡± Adaline shook her head. She herself didn¡¯t understand and didn¡¯t know what Altezza meant by ¡± Surrogate Mother.¡± ¡°And what happens after the child is born? Do you separate? Does the father take the child?¡± Adaline shook her head again because she didn¡¯t know what Altezza wanted from her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I really haven¡¯t thought that far. I just agreed to whatever Sir Altezza said earlier,¡± Adaline admitted.


    ¡°Are you crazy?!¡± Joanna sharply eximed. ¡°Even if your mom knew that this is to save her life, do you think she would be happy?!¡± Joanna looked at her with anger and disbelief. Unintentionally, tears welled up in Adaline¡¯s eyes again.


    ¡°Jo¡­¡± she uttered with a pleading tone. Adaline knew what she did was wrong. She even entered into an agreement without clear terms. She didn¡¯t know if she would be the one disadvantaged or benefited. The only thing on her mind when she epted Altezza¡¯s help was her mother, how she could get the money to save her. Nothing else.


    And now, after hearing her friend¡¯s reaction, she felt that she had made an incredibly fatal mistake, and she didn¡¯t even know where the mistake was.


    ¡°Meet him and fix the situation. If he asks you to do something absurd, tell me. We do need that money to save your mom. But it doesn¡¯t mean you have to be the one at a loss, Adaline. If he asks for the money back, I¡¯ll help you find a loan elsewhere,¡± Joanna said firmly. Adaline could only nod her head.


    shback off


    Until the end of the workday, she still didn¡¯t receive a call from Altezza. Adaline wanted to contact him first, but she didn¡¯t have his phone number. She could go upstairs to his office, but immediately dismissed the idea. She didn¡¯t want toe across as presumptuous or disrupt his work. Maybe today wasn¡¯t destined for her to meet him, she thought.


    As she was organizing her desk, she noticed Tessa. Suddenly, her thoughts turned to Tessa¡¯s boyfriend. ¡°Tessa,¡± she called. Tessa lifted her head from her cubicle. ¡°Is Duncan busy?¡± she asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s not usual for you to ask about Duncan. What¡¯s up?¡± Tessa looked at her with a furrowed brow. Not out of jealousy, more out of curiosity, it seemed.


    ¡°I need something from him. Can I get his phone number?¡± she requested.


    Tessa just nodded and yed with her phone. Shortly after, Duncan¡¯s contact appeared in her messages.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Adaline said, acknowledged by a nod from Tessa. Initially intending to leave, Adaline now chose to sit back down and try contacting Duncan.


    **Adaline:**


    Hey, Duncan. It¡¯s Adaline.


    I wanted to ask, is Sir Altezza busy?


    The message was sent. One checkmark, two checkmarks, then turned blue.


    **Duncan:**


    Hey, Adaline. Sir Altezza is currently not in. He¡¯s got business in Kansas.


    He¡¯ll be back the day after tomorrow. Is there an issue?


    **Adaline:**


    No. Just something I need to discuss.


    Duncan sent the contact. The name ¡®Sir Altezza¡¯ was clearly disyed on the screen.


    **Duncan:**This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Just chat or call directly. Sir Altezza won¡¯t mind if it¡¯s urgent.


    **Adaline:**


    Ok! Thanks!


    **Duncan:**


    Yup!


    Adaline put her phone back in her bag. She then stood up, bid farewell to Tessa, and decided to head home.

 Part 13

    A week had passed, and Adaline¡¯s mother had returned home. Throughout that time, Adaline had been unsessful in reaching Altezza. After his return from Kansas, he had gone to Singapore for his business affairs, as informed by Duncan, his secretary.


    Adaline looked at Joanna with fear. Her friend always gave her sharp and piercing looks. Adaline knew Joanna was concerned about her fate, but she was also grateful that Joanna hadn¡¯t done anything dramatic like telling the truth to her mother or even going to Altezza¡¯s office and confronting him directly.


    ¡°I¡¯ve tried to contact him, Jo. I swear,¡± Adaline said softly. ¡°But he¡¯s unreachable. I even left a message with Duncan, but he hasn¡¯t given me any updates.¡±


    ¡°Tell Tessa to contact her boyfriend. There¡¯s no way he¡¯s not answering,¡± Joanna suggested.


    ¡°Tessa doesn¡¯t know about this, Jo,¡± Adaline replied honestly.


    Joanna looked back at Adaline with raised eyebrows. ¡°I don¡¯t care. If you don¡¯t take action, I¡¯ll go directly and talk to him myself. Who does he think he is, treating you like a baby-making factory?¡±


    She grumbled with an explosive tone, ¡°And you too!¡± she added sharply. ¡°ying along like it¡¯s no big deal.¡± She continued, her voice rising.


    Adaline couldn¡¯t me Joanna¡¯s outburst, but she also couldn¡¯t stop herself from crying. Seeing Adaline in distress, Joanna approached her and hugged her. Joanna was angry not at Adaline, but at herself for not being there when her friend needed her.


    ¡°I¡¯m also at fault for not being there when you needed me,¡± she continued softly. She gently rubbed Adaline¡¯s back and arms, and involuntarily, she found herself crying along with her.


    Despite being the same age, Joanna always treated Adaline like her younger sister. Adaline, who was innocent and often indecisive, was different from Joanna, who was always firm and straightforward.


    ¡°Anyway, as soon as you meet him, talk to him. If he rejects your proposal, tell me, and I¡¯ll go meet him myself. Okay?¡± Joanna emphasized onest time, receiving a nod from Adaline.


    Three days after her conversation with Joanna, Adaline finally saw the man she was looking for walking with his distinctive style towards the executive elevator, apanied by his personal assistant, Duncan. Adaline quickly grabbed her phone and tried to contact Duncan.


    **Adaline:**


    Duncan, is Sir Altezza busy today?


    **Duncan:**


    Not really, why?


    **Adaline:**


    I need to talk to him. Is it okay if I go to his office?


    **Duncan:**


    Wait, I¡¯ll get back to you.


    **Adaline:**This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    OK! Thanks.


    The message stopped just as the elevator chimed. Adaline and a few others standing there quickly entered.


    After about half an hour of dealing with her work, Duncan finally sent her a message that Altezza was avable to meet. After leaving a message with Tessa that she would be out for a while, Adaline finally took the elevator to Altezza¡¯s floor.


    Knock, knock, knock.


    ¡°Come in!¡± Altezza ordered without diverting his attention from the documents he was reading.


    ¡°S-Sir,¡± the timid voice he heard made Altezza look up instantly. Nervousness was evident on the pretty face before him.


    ¡°Oh, the future Mrs. Altezza Quirino has arrived. Please, have a seat,¡± Altezza said with a sly smile. For some reason, teasing this girl seemed like it would be his new hobby, aside from teasing his cousin Antony and his niece via.


    Altezza noticed the girl hesitating for a moment upon hearing his greeting before finally sitting on the sofa. She twirled her fingers nervously while Altezza continued to sh his smile, observing her increasing nervousness. The more he looked, the more amusing she seemed.


    ¡°So, is there anything I can help you with?¡± Altezza asked with a voice intentionally made cold. Not like his usual self, but seeing the girl in front of him jump in surprise made him quite pleased.


    ¡°U-um, Sir,¡± the girl stammered, visibly trying to calm her nerves.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Ab-about the loan.¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I-I will repay it.¡±


    Altezza fell silent, his eyebrows furrowed. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Um, well. I don¡¯t need it,¡± she replied, causing Altezza to be taken aback. However, he tried to conceal his surprise.


    Altezza¡¯s mind raced to think of all the possible reasons why the girl was returning his money so quickly. Did Adaline get a loan from someone else? Or did her mother decide not to undergo the operation?


    His worst fear suggested that maybe the girl¡¯s mother passed away before the operation, and Altezza didn¡¯t have the chance to investigate her situation because he was too busy with work in Singapore for the past ten days.


    ¡°How is your mother?¡± Altezza¡¯s question made the girl look up, confused. ¡°Did the operation go smoothly?¡±


    ¡°Y-yes. Thankfully, everything went smoothly. My mother even returned home a few days ago,¡± Adaline honestly answered.


    So, the operation was performed, and the money was used. It meant Adaline got a loan from someone else, but who?


    Altezza couldn¡¯t possibly ask who else had helped the girl. His main focus was to keep her, as he didn¡¯t want his ns to fall through. And, of course, he didn¡¯t want to find another girl to be his potential mother if he already had apetent candidate right in front of him.


    Yes, Altezza didn¡¯t have time to find out about the girl¡¯s mother, but he had sessfully gathered information about her through his hired detective. And Adaline Scott was indeed the prospective mother he needed to bear his child.


    Alright, time to start the game, he thought to himself.


    Altezza pped both of his thighs with a loud enough sound to startle the girl. Seeing Adaline¡¯s nervousness, Altezza had to suppress augh.


    ¡°Fine,¡± he replied with a voice as cold as possible. ¡°If that¡¯s what you want.¡± He said, staring at Adaline with his sharp gaze. The girl looked up, seeing the seriousness in Altezza¡¯s face. ¡°But you have to repay the money with twice the amount I sent.¡±


    The beautiful eyes of the girl widened in surprise. Altezza wasn¡¯t a loan shark, of course. But this was thest option he could use to bind the girl. If the person who assisted her was wealthy, then she would agree to the requested payment. But if not, all of Altezza¡¯s ns would proceed ording to his n. And he didn¡¯t want that to happen.


    ¡°But?¡± she stammered.


    ¡°Yes, or not at all,¡± he offered with a raised eyebrow. The girl¡¯s face turned red, something Altezza couldn¡¯t understand why.


    ¡°But, Sir?¡±


    ¡°You also have topensate for the psychological damage caused by breaking the promise,¡± he said casually.


    Altezza leaned against his desk, hands folded across his chest. His gaze never wavered from Adaline.


    ¡°I trusted you at your word, and I cannot sue you for the breach because I thought you were a person of your word-that¡¯s my mistake, my negligence,¡± he said with a sad expression. ¡°I¡¯m not usually a selfish person, but this time I have to be selfish.


    ¡°I helped you in your emergency, asking for your help in return. Indirectly, I am your mother¡¯s savior. And when I hoped you would save me, you just left. Out of disappointment, I demand twice thepensation for my loss.¡±


    ¡°But, Sir?¡± Adaline looked at him bewildered.


    ¡°The choice is yours: pay, or we proceed with our previous agreement, Miss Adaline Scott,¡± he straightened up and walked towards his plush chair. ¡°You have until the end of the working hours to decide. The decision is yours,¡± he dismissed her politely.


    Reluctantly, Adaline stood up from her seat and walked clumsily out of her boss¡¯s office. Shortly after the door closed behind her, Altezza reached for his phone and called his paid detective.


    ¡°Find out who is the closest person to Adaline who might have given her arge loan. I want the report before the end of the workday,¡± he ordered coldly.


    Altezza ced his phone on the desk and threw himself back into the chair. He couldn¡¯t afford to fail. Not this time.

 Part 14

    Adaline returned to her desk with her mind filled with various thoughts. If visualized, it seemed like the nerves in her brain had now turned into a tangled mess of threads.


    Sitting in her chair, Adaline had a vacant stare. She didn¡¯t even respond to Tessa¡¯s question until her friend waved her hand in front of her eyes.


    ¡°You okay?¡± her friend asked with concern.


    ¡°Hah?¡± Adaline responded, startled after her friend patted her shoulder quite forcefully. ¡°Oh, yes. I¡¯m okay,¡± she replied with a stiff smile. She returned her gaze to the nk screen in front of her, choosing to focus her mind on something other than the zeros Altezza had requested from her.


    Five minutester, Tessa nced again at her friend, who was groaning while banging her forehead on the desk.


    ¡°Adaline, what¡¯s wrong? What happened?¡± she asked with concern.


    Adaline looked genuinely frustrated, that¡¯s what went through Tessa¡¯s mind as Adaline turned her head to look at her.


    ¡°Tess¡­¡± she murmured softly. ¡°What do I do now?¡± she continued, still with a murmur.


    ¡°Why?¡± asked Tessa, sliding her chair closer to Adaline¡¯s and gently rubbing her friend¡¯s back. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Instead of answering, Adaline tapped her forehead on the desk again.


    ¡°Adaline!¡± Tessa eximed, with a louder voice this time.


    ¡°Aarrrggghhhh¡­.!!!¡± Adaline¡¯s loud scream made others in the room look in her direction. Instead of feeling embarrassed, as was her usual response, she chose to stand up and leave the room.


    ¡°What¡¯s up with your friend?¡± asked Indra, one of their colleagues. Tessa, who was still looking at Adaline¡¯s departure, just shrugged.


    Adaline didn¡¯t know what to do. The thousands of dors she needed for her mother were reced by Altezza with a figure twice as much, and now he was asking for double the repayment, meaning Adaline had to prepare four times the amount of the initial loan.


    Okay, if she could repay the initial loan that Altezza gave her-of course, with Joanna¡¯s help-after all, she had only used a quarter of the money. And Joanna promised to help her repay the money to Altezza.


    But if it¡¯s tens of thousands of dors, does Joanna have that?


    Adaline knew Joanna was wealthy, and her job as a model certainly paid well. But Adaline also knew that most of her friend¡¯s wealth consisted of properties and jewelry.


    And if there is, is the amount sufficient? And it¡¯s not just that upying Adaline¡¯s mind. Tens of thousands of dors are not a sum she can repay, even if she works her entire life. Aarrgghhh¡­ Adaline groans in frustration again. Throughout her life, she has never been this frustrated. Even when she didn¡¯t get the campus schrship she coveted, she could still smile. Now, what should she do?


    There are too many things she can¡¯t fulfill. Her loan to Altezza. Joanna¡¯s anger if her friend finds out that Adaline disclosed the amount requested by Altezza. And Altezza¡¯s own request if she finally gives up and returns to their initial agreement.


    Yes. Their initial agreement. Now Adaline realizes that she doesn¡¯t really know what agreement she actually made with her boss. Marriage and bearing children? How many children does she have to bear? And after giving birth, what about her fate? Because it¡¯s clear that Altezza wants that child, and of course, he will take the child.


    Then what about Adaline¡¯s fate afterward? Will the man divorce her and separate her from the child she gave birth to? Doesn¡¯t that mean she has essentially sold her own flesh and blood? Even though, of course, it¡¯s also Altezza¡¯s flesh and blood.


    Then if Altezza really lets her go, will she be able to see her child again? What if Altezza takes their child far from their country? Italy, for example? While going to Italy to meet her child and buying a ticket is not cheap.


    Question after question seems to flood Adaline¡¯s mind simultaneously. One question emerges before she finds a solution to another. She¡¯s sure, eventually, she might go insane. Now, what should she do?


    Adaline can¡¯t even cry even though she feels sad. Her chest feels tight even though she¡¯s breathing fine. ¡®Oh God, I know I¡¯m not a devout woman, but at least give me enlightenment for this issue, O God¡­¡¯ Her prayer is filled with sadness.


    After being silent for quite some time on the roof, which is her favorite ce, Adaline goes back down to her room. Hopefully, before it¡¯s time to go home, she has found an answer.


    ***


    Altezza nced at his watch. Ten minutes until five o¡¯clock. He tapped the end of his pen on the table while looking at the files sent by his detective via email on his phone.


    The email stated that Adaline had no one to rely on. No one could pay the amount Altezza asked for. And whether he liked it or not, Altezza was pleased with it.


    But why hadn¡¯t the woman shown up yet?


    Altezza reached for the phone on the edge of the table and dialed the external room number. ¡°Find out if Adaline has gone home,¡± he ordered his secretary, then immediately hung up without waiting for an answer.


    A minuteter, the phone rang again.


    ¡°Adaline is still in her office, Sir,¡± his secretary said from the other side. ¡°Should I call her here?¡±


    ¡°No need. You can leave if your work is done.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Sir,¡± his secretary replied and hung up after her boss had disconnected first. She was about to get back to her work when she saw someone standing in front of her desk. ¡°Adaline?¡± she asked in surprise.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Adaline nodded. ¡°I need to meet with Sir Altezza. Is he busy?¡± she asked, trying to remain asposed as possible. Altezza¡¯s secretary looked at Adaline with an assessing gaze, but she picked up her phone and contacted Altezza.


    Altezza stared at his two subordinates through the one-way mirror separating his office from his secretary¡¯s. The rhythm of his pen tapping on the table increased with impatience.


    What were they talking about out there? Why hadn¡¯t the girl entered yet? Only two minutes left before the end of the working hours, and if the girl didn¡¯t enter within those two minutes¡­


    Altezza¡¯s muttering stopped when his desk phone rang. ¡°Yes!¡± he answered abruptly, his eyes fixed on his secretary and Adaline.


    ¡°Adaline is asking if she can meet with you, Sir?¡±


    ¡°Just tell her toe in,¡± he said in a t tone. Despite his calm tone, his heart was pounding. For the first time as a COO, he felt uneasy.


    Altezza didn¡¯t take his eyes off the girl walking with a gloomy face in front of him. Just as the girl knocked on the door, Altezza pretended to be busy with his work. ¡°Come in!¡± he ordered tly when he heard the knock.


    ¡°Sir,¡± the girl said softly.


    ¡°Please have a seat. There are some documents that I need to finish,¡± he said coldly. In reality, Altezza couldn¡¯t focus on the writing in front of him. He was just putting on a show for the girl.


    From the corner of his eye, Altezza could see Adaline sitting on the single sofa where she had sat twice before. One day, Altezza would ask the girl why she liked sitting there so much. That is if the girl gave him the answer he wanted to hear this evening.


    Altezza couldn¡¯t dy any longer. He knew that his secretary had left five minutes ago. And he had let the girl wait for fifteen minutes. Finally, he put down his pen and looked seriously at the girl in front of him. He himself was eager to hear the answer from the lips of that beautiful girl. And he had nothing else to use to stall for time.


    Finally, Altezza rose from his seat. Instead of walking towards the girl on the sofa, he chose to stand and lean his hips on one side of his desk.


    ¡°So, Miss Adaline Scott, do you have your answer?¡± The question made those golden-brown eyes look at him with a mncholic gaze, which for some reason, made Altezza want to pounce on their owner.

 Part 15

    Adaline¡¯s POV


    I nced at the watch on my left wrist. Fifteen minutes until exactly five o¡¯clock. I looked at Tessa, and she had already packed her bag. She was always punctual. I shook my head. In reality, I was also a punctual person. But under the current circumstances¡­ I shook my head again.


    ¡°Wanna go home together?¡± Tessa finally asked. I looked at her and shook my head. ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay?¡±


    I could clearly see a sh of concern in Tessa¡¯s eyes. To reassure her, I tried to smile, even though my chest felt erratic. My hands were already sweating from nervousness.


    ¡°If anything happens, talk to me. Don¡¯t keep it to yourself,¡± she said again. Her attention was now focused on me. I responded with a weak nod.


    Besides Joanna, I haven¡¯t dared to tell anyone about this. Even though I¡¯ve known Tessa for quite some time, there are things I can¡¯t bring myself to talk to her about. It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t trust her; it¡¯s just¡­ Oh well, someday Tessa will find out.


    After Tessa left, I nced at my watch again and decided to go meet that man. I left my bag still hidden under the desk and headed to the floor where he was.


    My legs grew weaker. My knees trembled as the elevator went higher. ¡®Oh God, does it have to end up like this?¡¯ I bit my mother¡¯s fingernail as I usually did when nervous. The elevator bell rang. ¡®Why is this floor so quiet? Am I not shooting a horror film?¡¯ But that question only made me feel more terrified.


    Even the sound of my own footsteps seemed frightening in my ears. For God¡¯s sake, it¡¯s still the afternoon, the sun hasn¡¯t even set yet, so why does it feel so creepy?


    I took a deep breath as the elevator doors opened, revealing the sign that read COO. Altezza Quirino was there. I walked towards the secretary¡¯s desk, and the woman turned to look at me in surprise.


    ¡°Adaline?¡± she asked in confusion. I nodded my head, even though what I wanted to know was why she looked surprised. They had met before, hadn¡¯t they?


    ¡°I need to meet with Sir Altezza. Is he busy?¡± I asked with my heart pounding faster. I couldn¡¯t deny that I was scared, but whether I liked it or not, I had to face this.


    Altezza¡¯s secretary looked at me with an assessing gaze. What are you evaluating? I need to meet with Sir Altezza, even if the answer I need right now is ¡°Yes, he¡¯s busy,¡± or ¡°He¡¯s not here,¡± or maybe ¡°He has a guest.¡± At least I could use that as an excuse and say that he broke the promise, not me.


    But once again, my wish was not granted. Altezza¡¯s secretary told me to go in right after she hung up the phone.


    ¡°With hesitant steps, I walked back towards the ss door and knocked on it. When the man inside told me toe in, I entered. Of course, not before taking a deep breath and trying to calm my pounding heart in a rather rude manner.


    ¡°Sir,¡± I greeted, which for some reason sounded more like a mouse¡¯s squeak.


    ¡°Please have a seat. There are some documents I need toplete,¡± said the man, who didn¡¯t even lift his head from the documents he was reading. Oh God, my existence seemed to be less important than the billions or even trillions worth of paper in front of him.


    Taking a deep breath, I tried to calm my racing heart and chose to sit on the single sofa in the room. Five minutes passed in silence. All I could hear were the sounds of paper, the scratch of a pen, the click of the mouse used by the man, and, of course, asionally the sound of a keyboard being typed. But that couldn¡¯t drown out the beating of my heart, which seemed to be getting louder in my ears. Or was I the only one hearing it, as if my heart wanted to rebel and escape?R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    I almost screamed when Altezza¡¯s secretary knocked on the door and bid farewell. So, now it¡¯s just the two of us in this spacious room? Or maybepletely alone on this floor?


    I heard the man asionally tapping his pen on the table, but I was afraid to lift my head. The expensive carpet beneath me seemed more interesting at the moment. Comparing the price of the carpet to my cheap shoes became a more soothing sideline than diverting attention to the man. Because if I lifted my head, I would be directly facing him. It¡¯s been ten minutes already. Don¡¯t tell me he¡¯s too engrossed in his work to notice me? Or is it because I¡¯m too quiet that he genuinely forgot?


    I hope after leaving this room, I won¡¯t suffer a heart attack because my heart feels painful from beating too fast. And my stomach suddenly feels nauseous.


    Okay. I won¡¯t have a heart attack after this. But clearly, my acid reflux has acted up. Especially since my lunch consisted of just c and half a sandwich.


    Did that man raise the AC temperature? Why does it feel like the room temperature suddenly dropped? Even the fine hairs under my long-sleeved shirt stand on end, and I try to rub them gently. This silent atmosphere makes me uneasy.


    I don¡¯t want to lift my head, but that voice makes me do it unconsciously. When his baritone voice asks, ¡®So, Miss Adaline Scott, do you have your answer?¡¯ Those eyes, as if hypnotizing me. Is it just my feeling, or is it indeed a fact that the man is looking at me with a slightly mncholic gaze?


    Not mncholic in a sad way. No. I¡¯m sure it¡¯s not that. But mncholic in another sense.


    I can¡¯t find the right words to exin it. One thing¡¯s for sure, that gaze gives me an indistinct shiver. No longer because of the cold, but because of another feeling that I don¡¯t even know what to call it.

 Part 16

    ¡°So, Miss Adaline Scott, do you have your answer?¡± Altezza looked at Adaline with a gaze that was hard to exin. Adaline lifted her head, and their golden eyes locked. ¡°Are you ready to repay your loan as per the amount I requested?¡± Altezza asked again.


    ¡°Um, Sir,¡± she hesitated in her response. ¡°May I ask a question?¡±


    ¡°Please,¡± Altezza replied tly. Adaline took a deep breath, trying to convince herself of what she was about to ask.


    ¡°Could you exin in more detail about your request to me, Sir?¡± she finally inquired. Adaline observed the furrowed forehead of the man in front of her, deep in thought.


    ¡°Actually, Miss Adaline, you no longer have the right to ask for those details from me. You should have inquired about it before agreeing to marry me and bear a child for me,¡± Altezza replied after a brief silence he intentionally created, monopolizing time just to make the woman tense.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°No ¡®buts,¡¯ Miss Adaline. Right now, you only have to give me an answer to what we discussed this morning. If you say you¡¯ll cover all the expenses, we¡¯ll cancel my previous request. But if you can¡¯t pay ording to the amount I desire, the agreement continues.¡±


    ¡°But I don¡¯t even know what agreement you¡¯re referring to,¡± she pleaded.


    Altezza wanted tough but also felt pity at the same time. Clearly, he was the viin here for taking advantage of the girl¡¯s innocence. But what could he do? He was also in a desperate situation right now. Pressured by personal desires, to be more precise.


    ¡°Yes or no, Miss Adaline. I¡¯ll count to five,¡± he threatened and began counting. ¡°One¡­¡± he paused long enough until the next number. ¡°Two¡­¡± Altezza began to feel anxious about the girl¡¯s decision in front of him, while she still twiddled her fingers nervously. ¡°Three¡­¡±


    ¡°Ye-ye-yes! I¡¯ll do it!¡± her shout echoed in the room. ¡°I¡¯ll do it,¡± she repeated in a soft whimper.


    Altezza tried hard not to burst into happiness. He then repositioned himself properly. Standing upright, he walked to the corner of the table and sat back down with a more rxed posture than before.


    Altezza gazed at Adaline, who still looked nervous without moving from her single sofa. ¡°Alright, Miss Adaline Scott. Or should I call you the future Mrs. Altezza Quirino?¡± he asked with a mischievous tone, making Adaline¡¯s small face blush and look even more adorable in his eyes.


    The closer he got to Adaline, the more tempted Altezza felt to get to know her better. ¡°Could youe here and start reviewing our contract? Because I really want to settle this contract right now,¡± he continued in his mind. ¡°Before you change your mind.¡±


    With heavy steps, the girl approached Altezza¡¯s desk and sat in the chair across from him. Altezza opened the leather folder he had been hiding in the top drawer of his desk, which he always kept locked, and handed it to Adaline.


    ¡°Read it carefully. If there are points you want to add, write them manually, andter mywyer and I will revise it,¡± he instructed gently.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Adaline read the contract slowly. On the white paper were written her rights and obligations if she married Altezza. The points roughly included:


    i. Adaline is exempted from all loans given by Altezza.


    ii. Altezza will provide for and facilitate Adaline with the appropriate amount.


    iii. Adaline and Altezza will live together, and Adaline will bear his offspring as requested.


    iv. No one is allowed to know about this agreement except Altezza, Adaline, and thewyer.


    v. Marriage cancetion can be done at any time, and custody will fall into Altezza¡¯s hands.


    vi. If Adaline vites, she mustpensate three times the original loan amount given by Altezza.


    Of the six points Adaline grasped, three were in her favor, and three were not. She could add points if she wanted to, but she was confused about what to write.


    ¡°W-what if custody falls into your hands, can I still see my child?¡±


    ¡°Our child, you mean?¡± Altezza corrected. Adaline nodded.


    ¡°Of course, because, in reality, I am a generous person,¡± Altezza replied frankly.


    ¡°And though it¡¯s not stated in this contract, because I believe you are a good woman, I am confident that during our marriage, you will not have a rtionship with another man. And I promise that I will do the same,¡± he continued with a firm tone.


    Adaline nodded. She would trust Altezza¡¯s wordspletely, even though she didn¡¯t know the man too well.


    Adaline fell silent again, contemting whether she had any other questions to ask Altezza before signing the contract. But somehow, her usually sharp mind for work suddenly became quite foolish in this matter.


    Apakah dia benar-benar bodoh, ataukah dia telu terpukau oleh pandangan Altezza yang seh-h mendesaknya untuk segera menandatangani dokumen ini?


    ¡°Ca-can I take it home and read it again? I-I need to think about other terms that won¡¯t disadvantage me at some point,¡± she asked hesitantly but was met with a shake of Altezza¡¯s head.


    ¡°Sign it now, or everything is void, and you have to¡­¡± before Altezza could finish his threat, Adaline quickly reached for the pen in front of her and signed the contract.


    Altezza cheered inwardly andughed with happiness, although his face still showed an unreadable and t expression. For God¡¯s sake, making Adaline nervous seemed to be bing his new hobby. Because the girl easily granted his requests when in a pressured situation.


    ¡°Done.¡± Adaline handed the signed paper to Altezza. He dly epted it and added his own signature. Then he closed the folder, ced it back in the top drawer of his desk, and locked it.


    ¡°So, future Mrs. Altezza Quirino.¡± Altezza looked at Adaline, who blushed again. ¡°Now you are officially my fiancee. And it¡¯s highly inappropriate for a fiancee not to know her future inws. So, let¡¯s prepare ourselves and move on to the next battlefield.¡± Altezza turned off hisputer and organized the documents he hadn¡¯t touched since earlier, then stood up.


    ¡°Wh-what do you mean?¡± Adaline, bewildered, could only gaze at Altezza in panic.


    ¡°I mean, tonight we¡¯ll have dinner at my family¡¯s house. And officially, I will introduce you to my family.¡±


    ¡°But, Sir. This is too soon. I¡¯m not ready,¡± she gently objected.


    Altezza remained silent and stared at the girl. ¡°So, you¡¯re not ready to meet my parents?¡± he asked, answered with Adaline¡¯s nod. Altezza shrugged. ¡°Alright then,¡± he said, making Adaline breathe a sigh of relief. ¡°Since you¡¯re not ready to meet my parents, I¡¯ll be the one to meet your mother. Because clearly, I am more than ready,¡± he said with a light tone that made Adaline widen her eyes.


    ¡°But, Sir?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m tired of your ¡®buts,¡¯ Mrs. Altezza Quirino,¡± he replied, then took Adaline¡¯s hand and asked her to stand up. Adaline, still in a state of panic, reluctantlyplied.


    She was in a panic, that was clear. Scared? Definitely. What should she tell her mother about Altezza? About their rtionship. What reasons could she give to her mother? And how would her mother face Altezza?


    Discussions about her being close to a man had never happened before, so how would her mother react if suddenly she came, presented a man, and introduced him as a prospective husband?


    Her thoughts were interrupted when Altezza asked about her bag. ¡°Th-the bag?¡±


    ¡°Yes, the bag,¡± Altezza replied when Adaline looked at him with confusion. ¡°Don¡¯t women usually bring their bags when they work?¡± he continued, answering Adaline¡¯s confusion.


    ¡°Oh¡­ Ah, yes. My bag is still in the room. I¡¯ll get it, you can go down first,¡± she said. However, Altezza shook his head in response to Adaline¡¯s suggestion to go down first.


    ¡°No, Mrs. Quirino. That¡¯s not a good idea. I don¡¯t want to give you the slightest chance to escape from me,¡± he said with a sly grin on his face.


    Adaline groaned inwardly. Did he think his thoughts were so easily readable?

 Part 17

    ¡°What does your mother like?¡± Altezza asked without ncing at Adaline, who now looked ufortable, asionally biting her fingernails.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Adaline asked, confused.


    ¡°I can¡¯t possibly visit my future mother-inw empty-handed, right, Mrs.? I intend to bring something for her.¡±


    Adaline blushed instantly, not expecting Altezza to be so understanding. But she was confused about what to tell him about her mother¡¯s preferences.


    ¡°Just say it, what kind of food does your mother like?¡± he gently ordered.


    ¡°Many things,¡± Adaline honestly answered. ¡°My mother likes a variety of foods. She¡¯s not a picky eater.¡±


    ¡°Alright then,¡± Altezza said tly, and a few momentster, he diverted his car towards a supermarket. ¡°Come on, get out,¡± he softlymanded when he saw Adaline¡¯s expression once again filled with confusion. ¡°I have to buy something for your mother. And since my refrigerator is also empty, we might as well do some shopping,¡± he said again, disying his mischievous grin.


    They entered through the basement lift. Although Altezza had already investigated Adaline, he acted as if he knew nothing and continued to ask about her directly. About whether she had siblings or not, whether she was a native or a neer from a vige, and other things that Altezza already knew from the results of his hired detective¡¯s investigation.


    ¡°When did you break up with your boyfriend?¡± The question made Adaline¡¯s shoulders tense.


    ¡°Boyfriend?¡± she repeated softly.


    ¡°Yes, boyfriend. You¡¯ve had a boyfriend before, haven¡¯t you?¡± he asked. His demeanor seemed indifferent, but in reality, Altezza was eagerly waiting for Adaline¡¯s answer.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never had a boyfriend, Sir,¡± the girl replied tly.


    Despite himself, Altezza was quite surprised. A girl as beautiful, gentle, and innocent as Adaline had never had a boyfriend? Was she telling the truth, or was she pretending?


    ¡°How old are you?¡±


    ¡°Twenty-five.¡±


    ¡°And during all that time, you¡¯ve never been in a rtionship?¡± the girl shook her head. ¡°Even just a casual monkey-like rtionship. I mean, monkey love?¡± The girl shook her head again. ¡°But you¡¯re normal, right?¡± The girl nodded, reminding Altezza of certain moments and bringing back her mischievous attitude. ¡°I mean, you like guys, right?¡± Adaline nodded again. ¡°You¡¯re really interested in guys, right?¡± The girl nodded casually. ¡°You like me, right?¡± She nodded again, and on the second nod, she realized and looked at Altezza with narrowed eyes.


    Altezza couldn¡¯t hold back herughter. Irritated, she tousled Adaline¡¯s hair.


    ¡°Okay, okay. I won¡¯t tease you anymore. But seriously,e on. You¡¯re a normal woman, and you¡¯re not a child anymore. Shouldn¡¯t a woman your age have, at the very least, had multiple rtionships by now?¡±


    ¡°Maybe I¡¯m just not the woman I should be,¡± Adaline replied casually, shrugging with an indifferent attitude.


    ¡°Then what about the guy you like?¡± The question made Adaline tense, and her demeanor indirectly answered Altezza. ¡°Is there a guy you like right now?¡± she asked again, probing deeper.


    ¡°Do you need sugar?¡± The question seemed to signal that Adaline wanted to close the conversation.


    ¡°Yes-yes. I need sugar,¡± she replied, and Adaline promptly ced a sugar pack in the cart.


    After sorting out their purchases and paying, they returned to the car in silence. Adaline pointed the way back to her house. However, Altezza blocked the car towards a fast-food restaurant and opted for the drive-thru.


    ¡°Do you want something? I¡¯m too hungry. How about we eat while driving?¡± She asked Adaline, who nodded in agreement because she was hungry too. Not forgetting, Altezza also ordered some types of food for Adaline¡¯s mother.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to ask anything about me?¡± Altezza broke the silence as the car returned to the food pickup area. Adaline nced at Altezza for a moment before redirecting her attention to the road ahead.


    It¡¯s not that she didn¡¯t want to ask about Altezza. In fact, there were many things she wanted to know, especially about why he chose to make an agreement with her instead of pursuing a normal marriage. But she was too embarrassed to ask and felt it was inappropriate to inquire about personal matters.


    She didn¡¯t know Altezza well. Their encounters, if umted in hours, hadn¡¯t even reached twenty-four hours. This meant that if counted, they hadn¡¯t known each other for a whole day. Isn¡¯t it too early for them?


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask when I have questions,¡± Adaline replied softly.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Altezza responded with a nod of understanding, opening her burger packaging. ¡°If you¡¯re hesitant to ask me directly, you can ask me through letters, or perhaps more conveniently, you can inquire through chat.¡± She said casually and began to enjoy her meal.


    ¡°But speaking of chat, I should have followed your social media ounts by now, and I should have your phone number, shouldn¡¯t I? It¡¯s funny if people about to get married don¡¯t know each other¡¯s social media ounts or phone numbers.¡± Although spoken with a t tone, Altezza¡¯s words unintentionally caused Adaline to choke on her food.


    Initially surprised by Adaline¡¯s cough, Altezza eventually helped her by offering a drink and gently patting her back.


    ***


    The sound of the car engine stopping in front of the house caught the attention of two middle-aged women already dressed in nightgowns, who peeked through the window. Seeing Adaline step out of the unfamiliar car, they walked towards the front door and opened it. Adaline had already exited the car while Altezza was still adjusting its position while parking. As Adaline approached the entrance, her mother immediately bombarded her with a head tilt.


    ¡°Who¡¯s she?¡± Violet inquired.


    Before Adaline could respond, Altezza got out of the car and approached. ¡°Good evening,dies,¡± he greeted warmly. ¡°I apologize for visiting without permission.¡± He spoke with his charming smile, leaving Violet and Emma bewildered. Despite their advanced age, they were still normal women who appreciated a handsome face. Moreover, the man standing in front of them not only had a handsome face but also an athletic body and a smile that could make a woman¡¯s heart beat twice as fast.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s alright,¡± her mother replied. She then turned to Adaline, seeking an answer.


    ¡°Mom, Aunt, let me introduce you. This is my boss at the office. His name is Sir Altezza,¡± Adaline cautiously introduced them. ¡°Sir, this is my mother Violet, and this is her sister Emma.¡± Adaline always introduced Emma to anyone as her mother¡¯s sister, not as a house assistant. This surprised Altezza because he clearly knew who Emma was from the investigation provided by his hired detective.


    ¡°Yes, yes. Come in.¡± The two middle-aged women then nked Altezza on the left and right, leading him inside. Meanwhile, they left Adaline standing alone on the porch.


    Adaline followed behind, a little annoyed because the two women in front seemed to forget about her. However, while she was putting away the shoes she had worn into the rack, she heard Altezza asking for permission to use the bathroom.


    ¡°Why did your bosse with you here?¡± The question came with a very soft voice, coinciding with Altezza disappearing into the bathroom.


    ¡°There¡¯s something he wants to discuss with Mom,¡± Adaline replied without daring to look at her mother. She knew her mother was now looking at her suspiciously. ¡°Let him be the one to talk to Mom. I¡¯m feeling a bit stifled, Mom. Is it okay if I tidy up and change clothes?¡±This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes, but don¡¯t take too long,¡± her mothermanded, a directive to which Adaline responded with a nod. Adaline handed over the gift that Altezza had bought through the drive-thru to her mother. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± her mother asked, clearly pleased with the fast-food in her hands.


    Adaline went upstairs, right where her room was located. Quickly, she entered the bathroom and cleaned herself up. It seemed like the fastest shower she had taken in a while.


    She came down wearing her favorite sky blue oversized shirt paired with her beloved ck seven-eighth jogger pants. Her casual home attire felt much morefortable than her office shirt and skirt.


    As she descended, Adaline, thinking that Altezza would be sitting in the living room, was quite surprised to see him sitting in the family room, right next to her mother. Meanwhile, Emma had prepared hot drinks for the four of them, along with her homemade cookies that she always proudly presented.


    ¡°Well, there¡¯s Adalineing down,¡± her mother eximed upon seeing Adaline at the bottom of the stairs.


    Altezza¡¯s gaze shifted to the petite girl wearing a sky blue short-sleeved shirt that revealed her upper arms and ck knee-length jogger pants, seemingly made of ck cotton that entuated her white and smooth calves. It was amon sight, but for Altezza, seeing Adaline outside of her office attire seemed extraordinary. Her long ck hair, usually tied into a simple bun or ponytail during work, now flowed beautifully on both sides of her delicate shoulders. And her face looked flushed without any makeup.


    Adaline walked towards the sofa and chose to sit in another chair across from her mother. Emma, who had returned with her tray, chose to sit next to Adaline.


    ¡°Altezza has already told everything to Mom. My question is, why have you been hiding everything all this time, dear?¡± Violet asked, making Adaline¡¯s forehead furrow in confusion.


    ¡°What story, Mom?¡±


    ¡°The story about you two, of course,¡± her mother replied with a beaming smile. ¡°What did you say earlier?¡± Violet looked at Altezza again with a radiant face.


    ¡°I asked for your and Aunt Emma¡¯s permission to marry Adaline,¡± Altezza said with a wide smile on his face, which for some reason made Adaline¡¯s heart race uncontrobly. Not the fearful pounding like when her mother was in surgery, not the nervous heartbeat when she tried to ask him for a loan, but a different kind of heartbeat that Adaline herself couldn¡¯t decipher.

 Part 18

    The melodic sound of Emma¡¯s singing had be a routine for Adaline every morning. Adaline descended, dressed in her work attire ¨C a dark blue long-sleeved shirt paired with neatly pressed ck trousers. As usual, her long hair was tied in a simple bun that wouldn¡¯t disturb her while working.


    Her mother was busy at the stove, and Emma was organizing items in the kitchen cab. The groceries that Altezza brought the previous evening, which she had separated into two parcels, turned out not to be for him but a gift for her mother.


    shback


    Altezza declined Adaline¡¯s mother¡¯s dinner invitation, exining that he had just eaten beforeing. ncing at his watch, he decided to leave when the short hand struck eight. Despite their reluctance, both Violet and Emma allowed him to depart after hearing Altezza¡¯s reasons.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s not good if people find out a man visited a woman¡¯s house thiste, ma¡¯am. It¡¯s not that I¡¯m notfortable or don¡¯t enjoy being here, but I don¡¯t want Adaline¡¯s reputation to suffer in the eyes of the neighbors.¡± He spoke candidly when urged by Adaline¡¯s mother and Emma to stay longer.


    Altezza¡¯s response was not something the two parents had considered beforehand. Given that young people these days often don¡¯t leave until they are kicked out or even ask to stay overnight, Altezza¡¯s choice to leave was a positive surprise. Besides his handsome appearance, charm, friendliness, and politeness, this added to his appeal.


    Surprisingly, as he was about to leave, Altezza opened the trunk and handed her tworge shopping bags, which she initially thought were groceries for him but turned out to be a gift for her. Adaline was stunned, but her mother and aunt seemed genuinely touched.


    ¡°I-I thought these were yours, Sir,¡± she stammered. Altezza just smiled.


    ¡°Oh God, why go through this trouble?¡± Violet asked emotionally.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, ma¡¯am, I actually like it. It gives me a chance to spend more time with Adaline outside.¡± He replied with his mischievous smile, making Adaline¡¯s heart race again.


    ¡°Ohhh¡­ I see¡­¡± Emma teased. Despite knowing Altezza was just joking, Adaline couldn¡¯t help but feel embarrassed. She recalled how she had pranked him a few times.


    ¡°I¡¯m going home,dies.¡± He said again, smiling sweetly. ¡°Take care of Adaline, ma¡¯am. Once she¡¯s ready, I¡¯ll take her home.¡± His yful remark elicitedughter from her mother and aunt.


    ¡°Altezza, this kid, I tell you. Adaline,e on, learn to greet your future husband.¡± Her mother gentlymanded. Emma, who couldn¡¯t stop smiling, now chuckled teasingly.


    Altezza extended his right hand to Adaline. ¡°Come on, Mrs. Altezza, obey your mother¡¯smand. It¡¯s not good if you don¡¯t follow. Right, ma¡¯am, aunt?¡± Both women nodded in agreement.


    Adaline wanted to hit him for his arrogant attitude, but she couldn¡¯t refuse the request or rather themand of these three people. Honestly, it was the first time their skins touched directly. Her chest pounded again, and her cheeks felt warm.


    She grasped hisrge hand, which somehow felt warm. She kissed the back of his hand briefly, and at the same time, he gently stroked her hair. ¡°My future wife is indeed good, ma¡¯am.¡± He said again with a smile on his face.


    Adaline saw Emma and her mother nodding with enthusiasm. After that, Altezza left Adaline with a pounding heart and a flushed face.


    shback off


    The mother ced a piece of toast in front of her with a ss of warm pure milk.


    ¡°Darling, I couldn¡¯t sleepst night,¡± her mother said, now sitting at the dining table next to her and calling Emma to join them for breakfast.


    ¡°Mama, what¡¯s wrong? Are you sick again?¡± Adaline asked, panicking.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m not sick,¡± her mother replied reassuringly. ¡°In fact, I¡¯m feeling very happy.¡±


    ¡°How did you manage to find a man like Altezza?¡± Emma asked, who had apparently finished organizing the closet and sat down with them. ¡°If I were thirty years younger, I¡¯d dly be his wife. He¡¯s so handsome, so athletic. And his manners, he¡¯s a man of authority and courtesy,¡± Emma praised enthusiastically.


    ¡°Yes, your aunt is right. I didn¡¯t expect you to suddenly bring such a perfect future husband. Why didn¡¯t you tell us about him before, dear?¡± her mother asked, sounding disappointed.


    Adaline lowered her head, feeling embarrassed and confused at the same time. The continuous questions and praises made her ufortable.


    ¡°For how long have you known each other?¡± her mother continued, as if her curiosity about Altezza from the previous night wasn¡¯t fully satisfied.


    ¡°I¡¯ve known him for three years, Mom,¡± she answered honestly. Of course, she had been working at Coskun Company for three years. How could she not know her superiors ¨C CEO, COO, CMO, and the others?


    ¡°And when did you start dating? Why didn¡¯t he visit me when I was in the hospital?¡± Her mother¡¯s questions hit Adaline¡¯s heart.


    ¡°Not too long ago,¡± she answered the first question. ¡°And when you were having surgery, he had business in Singapore and only returned yesterday morning.¡± She answered truthfully. After all, Altezza just started working at the office yesterday, right?


    ¡°Did Altezza also finance my operation?¡± Her mother¡¯s question sounded sad again. Adaline looked at her mother and gently took her hand.


    ¡°Yes, Mom. Sir Altezza financed all your surgeries. But please don¡¯t misunderstand, I married not for money. Sir Altezza feels that we are close enough, and he believes he¡¯s old enough to get married. So, he asked me to marry him soon.¡±


    ¡°Do you really marry him because you like each other, right?¡±


    ¡®Oh God, forgive me for lying to my mother.¡¯ Adaline thought sadly. ¡°No, Mom. Besides, just think about it, Mom, which woman can resist the charm of someone like Altezza Quirino. Aunt just said she wants to be thirty years younger so she can be with Sir Altezza.¡± She tried to lighten the mood.


    ¡°Then why do you keep calling your future husband Sir-Sir since earlier?¡± This time Emma asked. A blush of embarrassment again made Adaline¡¯s face warm.


    ¡°T-that¡¯s just a habit, Aunt. Mom,¡± she exined. ¡°The thing is, people at the office don¡¯t know about our rtionship yet. Because I¡¯m afraid of letting it slip if I use another term, so I choose to keep calling him Sir.¡± It was a reasonable answer that she coulde up with.


    The two middle-aged women burst intoughter simultaneously.


    ¡°I have to go now, afraid of beingte,¡± she said shortly after. She had to avoid before the two women started asking questions again.


    It would be good if she could give honest answers or at least something reasonable. If she slipped up and revealed their secret, what would happen?


    Thousands of dors are not a small amount. Remember that, Adaline. Her brainmanded firmly.

 Part 19

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to know, but when we went to Antony¡¯s proposal, you already brought a candidate!¡± Her mother¡¯s shout weed Altezza at the breakfast table.


    ¡°Candidate for what, Mom? A wife candidate for Antony?¡± Altezza teased, met with her mother¡¯s scorn.


    ¡°A wife candidate for you, Altezza. Not for Antony. It¡¯s clear he has ire to propose to.¡± Her mother replied grumblingly.


    Last night, after returning from Adaline¡¯s residence, Altezza chose to go back to her parents¡¯ house with the intention of announcing that she had proposed to someone. But her n was postponed as it turned out both of her parents were already asleep.


    And now, her mother was nagging her again about a prospective wife. It wasn¡¯t her fault if her mother didn¡¯t receive good news. It was her parents¡¯ fault for sumbing to the allure of pillows and mattresses, causing them to sleep early. And now, Altezza chose to postpone the good news. Let her endure a few more days until she found the right time to shock her mother.


    ¡°So, when is Antony proposing, Mom?¡± She asked casually while spreading chocte spread on her toast.


    ¡°When, dear?¡± Her mother asked back to her father. Altezza rolled her eyes. Her mother was indeed forgetful.


    ¡°This weekend, dear.¡± Her father replied patiently. He was the only man who could withstand her mother¡¯s virtues and vices.


    ¡°There, Dad said this weekend. I don¡¯t wantter when Antony¡¯s engagement is questioned, they also ask if you have a candidate. When are you getting married? h h h, which makes my ears burn.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, Mom. Rx. I¡¯ll pick up a girl on the street to bring there.¡± Altezza¡¯s casual answer received a fairly hard punch on her arm. ¡°Mom! You can¡¯t hit Altezza! Don¡¯t you know this arm is precious? This hand is what earns money, and to make these muscles, Altezza has to work hard at the gym, Mom.¡±This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°How much? How much? Let Mom ask your Dad to pay for it.¡±


    ¡°Why me? You¡¯re the one who hit her.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m annoyed with her. How can her answer be so simple? Whenever I bring up the topic of finding a wife, she always says she¡¯ll make it a contest, announce it, look on the streets. Do you think a prospective wife is like a hotdog? Crepes?¡± Unwillingly, Altezza and her father burst intoughter. ¡°See, now you¡¯re bothughing at me.¡±


    ¡°Well, dear, you brought up food. Aren¡¯t you supposed to be discussing potential inws?¡± Her husband interjected, shaking his head.


    ¡°Yes, because Mom kept thinking about the warm b-b from Mr. Darto. Why didn¡¯t he sell it yesterday evening?¡± She mumbled to herself. ¡°Anyway, Mom doesn¡¯t want to know. You have to bring a candidate, or else Mom will put you back in her stomach.¡± Her mother threatened again with a stern face. She thought Altezza was a child who could be threatened with childish threats like that.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t Dad give Mom a daughter back then? If it were a daughter, she would be more obedient. Maybe by now, we would have many grandchildren.¡± Her mother grumbled again. Her husband and daughter could only shake their heads. They were puzzled by Mrs. Quirino¡¯s thought process.


    ¡°Okay, Mom, just calm down. I said finding a prospective inw is easy. Well then, I¡¯m off. Going to find a future son-inw for Mom.¡±


    ¡°As if you can find a son-inw at this hour. At this hour, it¡¯s time for you to work and earn money. I want to buy a new dress for Antony¡¯s engagement and wedding.¡± Her mother replied, once again causing Altezza to roll her eyes. As if she didn¡¯t know that during Antony¡¯s wedding, they would wear matching outfits, clearly funded by her cousin¡¯s family.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. I¡¯ll go make money so my beautiful wife here can buy a new dress.¡± She replied resignedly, kissing her mother¡¯s cheeks and her father¡¯s hand before leaving.


    ¡°That child, her behavior is just like yours.¡± Altezza¡¯s mother grumbled after her only son had left.


    ¡°Why me?¡±


    ¡°Yes, look at her indifferent attitude. Just like you when you were young.¡± Altezza¡¯s father could only shake his head. Wasn¡¯t his wife aware that Altezza became annoying like that because she enjoyed teasing her mother?


    Sir Altezza: Can youe during lunchtime?


    Adaline: Sorry, Sir. I already have lunch ns with Tessa.


    Sir Altezza: Okay. After lunch, meet me in the office.


    Adaline: Yes, Sir.


    Adaline wasn¡¯t lying when she told Altezza that she had lunch ns with Tessa. They intended to have lunch together at a cafe not far from the Coskun Company building. However, Adaline was surprised when she opened the door and saw two men sitting casually, with one of them even waving towards them.


    ¡°Tess?¡± Adaline nced at her friend in confusion.


    ¡°Come on, Ada. I rarely get to see Duncan. Is it okay if we have lunch together?¡± Tessa requested, pulling Adaline¡¯s arm towards the table where Duncan-Tessa¡¯s boyfriend and Altezza¡¯s personal assistant-along with Altezza, were sitting.


    Adaline didn¡¯t mind having lunch with Duncan. What made her ufortable was Altezza¡¯s presence.


    ¡°Hello, Sir,¡± Tessa greeted warmly as they stood in front of the table. Altezza responded with a nod and a friendly smile before turning his gaze to Adaline. Adaline could only swallow her saliva and greeted Altezza politely, behaving as if they didn¡¯t know each other.


    ¡°You don¡¯t mind if I join you for lunch, do you?¡± he asked, still with his friendly smile.


    ¡°Of course not, Sir,¡± Tessa replied politely, taking a seat next to Duncan. ¡°This is my friend, Adaline.¡± Tessa introduced. Altezza extended his hand to Adaline, acting as if he didn¡¯t know her personally, just like Adaline did earlier. Duncan, who was next to Altezza, seemed to hide hisughter with a cough.


    ¡°We¡¯re lucky because Sir Altezza isn¡¯t the type of boss who prohibits rtionships between employees. Otherwise, we might have to secretly date now,¡± Duncan nced at Adaline meaningfully. Tessa nodded in agreement while Adaline felt awkward.


    ¡°Come on, work is work, and personal matters are a source of joy. As long as you can maintain professionalism, it¡¯s not a big deal for me.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been your age, and romance in the workce truly has its own excitement. Isn¡¯t that right, Miss Adaline?¡± Altezza nced at Adaline, who could only respond with wide eyes in surprise.


    ¡°You¡¯re asking the wrong person, Sir. My friend here is not a fan of office romance,¡± Tessa mediated.


    ¡°Oh, really? Don¡¯t women usually love things that are romantic?¡±


    ¡°Yes, of course. But my friend here is a bit different,¡± Tessa once again provided the answer.


    Altezza knew that Adaline, being a shy girl, wouldn¡¯tment much. Instead, he enjoyed Tessa¡¯s responses, which made the pretty face blush even more.


    ¡°So, during your time working here, Miss Adaline has never been involved with any fellow employees?¡±


    Again, Tessa answered. She shook her head casually. ¡°In the three years I¡¯ve sat next to her, she has never shown any interest in looking at any male colleagues. Even though many tried to catch her eye, your employee here always paid no attention. I even tried to set her up with a few guys, but instead of seeding, they ended up chasing Adaline until they gave up out of exhaustion because they never got a response.¡±


    Tessa¡¯s response this time truly caught Altezza¡¯s attention. The man was now sitting upright, gazing at Tessa with full attention. Meanwhile, Adaline, feeling embarrassed, tried to pinch Tessa¡¯s thigh under the table, but her friend ignored her.


    ¡°So, Miss Adaline has quite a few fans, huh?¡± Altezza said with a casual tone but with a meaningful look. ¡°I¡¯m a fan of gossip, you know. Why hasn¡¯t this news reached my ears?¡± Altezza nced at his secretary with meaning. Duncan grinned, feeling awkward. ¡°I¡¯m intrigued. Is my employee really that famous?¡±


    ¡°Let alone you, Sir. Every time I mention that A, B, C likes Adaline, she never believes it herself. My friend is naturally shy and sometimescks confidence.¡± Altezza nodded, encouraging Tessa, who was naturally talkative, to continue her story.


    ¡°There¡¯s even one of your employees who always brings back souvenirs for Adaline every time he travels out of town. But even though that guy persistently pursues Adaline, she¡¯s adamant about rejecting him. Even though he¡¯s still single, stable, and quite handsome.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Altezza nced towards Adaline, who continued sipping her drink while blushing and looking down. ¡°We should be cautious then, in case Miss Adaline here gets a husband.¡± Altezza¡¯s remark made Adaline choke on her drink. Tessa quickly patted her back gently, while Duncan handed her a tissue. Altezza felt more tempted to tease her.

 Part 20

    Adaline¡¯s POV


    It seems like my sigh of relief onlysted for a moment. When Tessa and I entered the cafe, it felt as if the weight on my shoulders came crashing down, akin to a copsed roof.


    ¡°Why is he here?¡±


    It¡¯s not strange to see Sir Altezza with Duncan, considering Duncan is his assistant. What puzzles me is why they-Tessa and I-ended up having lunch with them. Why would someone of Sir Altezza¡¯s status have lunch with employees like us? Did Sir Altezza n this intentionally?


    It wouldn¡¯t be odd for Duncan to have lunch with Tessa since she is also his girlfriend, but why did Sir Altezza have to join? I wanted to ask them for an exnation, but I chose to remain silent for fear that Tessa might be suspicious. Until now, Tessa is unaware of the secret agreement between Sir Altezza and me.


    And is it just my imagination, or is he smirking at me? Does he know that I sent the message on purpose to avoid his order to meet?


    Now I can¡¯t move a muscle. I just need to act as if there¡¯s nothing between us because I¡¯m confident that Sir Altezza won¡¯t reveal our secret to Duncan, right?


    But Duncan seems to beughing at me as well. Does he already know?


    And why did they-whether it¡¯s Duncan or Altezza-choose a round table as their seating? Why didn¡¯t they pick an empty square table? Instead of sitting next to each other, they could have sat facing each other. Clearly, it¡¯s because I need to maintain a distance from that man. The one who always makes me nervous and my heart race.


    ¡®Oh God, I don¡¯t want to die young from a heart attack, especially one caused by embarrassment and nervousness because of that man.¡¯


    Altezza sat to the left of Duncan, and Tessa automatically took the seat to the right of Duncan, meaning I had to sit next to the man I was avoiding.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡®What else can I do besides cing my butt there?¡¯


    Although I was extremely reluctant to do so, I couldn¡¯t openly avoid it at the moment.


    ¡®And what other drama am I going to witness today?¡¯


    I chose to just observe the three of them discussing Altezza, who didn¡¯t mind office romances between coworkers. I was aware that in somepanies, especiallyrge ones, rtionships between employees were often discouraged due to concerns about productivity and employee performance. Moreover, if such rtionships ended, the office atmosphere could be tense and awkward due to cold wars.


    I also knew that many rtionships ended with mutual insults and tears from one of the partners. Somepanies-many, actually-even banned employees from marrying each other. If they got married, one of them would have to resign. But it seemed that Coskun Company didn¡¯t have an issue with any of that.


    ¡°But my friend here is a bit different,¡± Tessa¡¯s words made me raise my head and refocus on their conversation. ¡®Is she referring to me? In what way am I different ording to Tessa?¡¯ For some reason, I felt my cheeks heat up instantly.


    ¡°So, during your time working here, Miss Adaline has never been involved with any fellow employees?¡± His question hit me hard. Summoning the courage, I raised my head and looked at his face; he seemed to be grinning in my direction.


    ¡®I didn¡¯t see it wrong, did I? Is he mocking me now?¡¯


    ¡°In the three years I¡¯ve sat next to her, Sir, she has never shown any interest in looking at any male colleagues. Even though many tried to catch her eye, your employee here always paid no attention. I even tried to set her up with a few guys, but instead of seeding, they ended up chasing Adaline until they gave up out of exhaustion because they never got a response.¡±


    ¡®What? What is Tessa doing? What does she mean by saying something like that?¡¯ I could only bow my head and continue eating.


    I tried to tune my ears back to their conversation. For God¡¯s sake, Tessa has indeed been doing what she just mentioned. ying matchmaker and introducing me to several men who were her acquaintances, whether they were Coskun employees or not. And I did what she mentioned as well, but why did she have to bring it up in front of him?


    ¡®Tessa, why are you treating me like this?¡¯ Suddenly, I felt the urge to kick her thigh hard because the pinches I had been giving her weren¡¯t making her stop talking. Or should I stuff her mouth with a tissue? But the tissues were close to Duncan, making it hard for me to reach them.


    ¡°So, Miss Adaline has quite a few fans, huh?¡±


    I didn¡¯t want toment on that question, nor did I want to look at the asker. I was sure the man was now sitting upright and looking at Tessa seriously, as if he was very curious about everything concerning me. Perhaps he would use it as material to mock me.


    ¡°I¡¯m a fan of gossip, you know. Why hasn¡¯t this news reached my ears? I¡¯m intrigued. Is my employee really that famous?¡±


    I could sense a yful tone in his deep baritone voice. But once again, I tried not to care, even though my ears had been heating up and ringing since earlier.


    ¡°Let alone you, Sir. Every time I mention that A, B, C likes Adaline, he always says he doesn¡¯t believe it himself. My friend is naturally shy and sometimescks confidence.¡±


    Oh, I really wanted to bury myself. No, I should bury Tessa instead. Who cares if Duncanter cries and mourns for his chatty girlfriend? At least if I bury her, I¡¯ll be spared from embarrassment.


    ¡°There¡¯s even one of your employees who always brings back souvenirs for Adaline every time he travels out of town. But even though that guy persistently pursues Adaline, she¡¯s adamant about rejecting him. Even though he¡¯s still single, stable, and quite handsome.¡±


    Okay, this time Tessa went way overboard. What is the girl trying to say with all of this?


    ¡°Really?¡± I knew the man was looking at me again. One of his eyebrows raised, and his eyes sparkled with amusement. What could I do but lower my head even more?


    ¡°We should also be cautious if Miss Adaline here gets a husband.¡± Those words made me choke suddenly. Tessa patted my back, and Duncan handed me a tissue. ¡°Yes, I mean, the future husband of Miss Adaline should be very careful in taking care of her. Because if his vignce drops even a little, there might be another man who takes her away,¡± he continued with a t tone.


    Reluctantly, I looked in his direction, wishing I could re at him. But how could I? Right now, in front of Tessa and Duncan, he was my boss. It wouldn¡¯t be appropriate for me to be impolite to him. But really, my hands were itching to smack him.


    ¡®Why does he enjoy teasing me so much?¡¯


    ¡°I¡¯ll go to the bathroom for a moment.¡± I stood up and excused myself from the three of them. My irritation had reached its peak. I didn¡¯t know if I could bear listening to Tessa¡¯s chatter again or not. This was also the reason why I hesitated to talk about my situation with Sir Altezza in the past few days.


    I didn¡¯t do anything in the bathroom. Initially, my intention was to avoid the three people sitting at the round table. So, I just washed my hands and returned from the bathroom.


    The cafe¡¯s restroom happened to be at the far back, separated from the main area of the cafe. As I came out, I was quite surprised to see the man standing in front of me.


    ¡°S-Sir?¡± I was startled, of course. If he intended to go to the bathroom, he wouldn¡¯t just stand there in front of me, right?


    ¡°Yes, Miss Adaline?¡± The man greeted me back with his mischievous smile.


    ¡°Are you going to the bathroom?¡± I asked hesitantly. The man just shrugged. ¡°The men¡¯s restroom is over there.¡± I pointed towards the door not far from where I stood on the left side.


    ¡°I know where it is, Miss,¡± he said again.


    A momentter, he pulled my arm away from the bathroom and walked towards one side of the building, quiet but well-maintained.


    ¡°Do you think I really want to go there?¡± He asked between his pulls. His grip on my hand wasn¡¯t too tight, but it wasn¡¯t loose either, making it not easy for me to let go.


    ¡°There¡¯s something I want to discuss with you, but it can wait a few moments,¡± he said, then released my hand. ¡°So, may ¡®your future husband¡¯ ask about the man who¡¯s so persistent in chasing you?¡± He raised an eyebrow.


    I swallowed my saliva. Oh God, being so close to this man, catching the scent of his expensive perfume, why does it make me feel such a strange sensation? I dare not even look into his eyes and can only stare at the light brown buttons on the man¡¯s chest in front of me because that¡¯s how tall I am in front of him.


    ¡°Miss, are you listening to me?¡± he asked again. Hisrge hand reached for my chin and slowly lifted my head. Unwillingly, I swallowed saliva again because I was too nervous.


    His golden eyes, which I never thought I would be able to see, were now very close. Moreover, the sunlight made this scene even clearer. His long eyshes looked very curly from this close. And his thick eyebrows. ¡®Stop, Adaline, how can you admire his face at a time like this!¡¯


    ¡°W-who do you mean, Sir?¡± I refocused my thoughts on his question.


    ¡°The man Tessa mentioned earlier, I¡¯m sure you haven¡¯t forgotten, Madam. And I hope you¡¯re not pretending to forget,¡± his voice sounded more like a murmur.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± I replied honestly. ¡®Okay, I know. But I can¡¯t tell this man, right? Where can I put my face?¡¯


    ¡°How could you not know?¡± He asked again, probing.


    ¡°I really don¡¯t know, Sir.¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± he muttered again. ¡°Is it because many have often sent you gifts? So, you can¡¯t distinguish them one by one?¡± His words sounded cold in my ears, and that tone always made me shiver in fear. It feels like you¡¯re unwell, your body feels sore, and then cold water touches your skin. That cold feeling is what I felt when I heard his question just now. Luckily, I was wearing a long-sleeved shirt, so he couldn¡¯t see the fine hair on my arms bristling.


    ¡°N-no, it¡¯s not like that,¡± I replied. I wanted to cut my tongue off at the same time. Why does he always make me stutter? Even though I don¡¯t have a speech disorder. Damn!


    ¡°I mean, many office employees-your subordinates-are genuinely kind and often give ¡®us¡¯ souvenirs.¡± I tried to emphasize the word ¡®us¡¯ to him. Because in fact, it¡¯s not just me who often receives gifts. Tessa, Mrs. Jessica, Agnes, and even male staff often receive presents. ¡®Damn you, Tessa, because of her everything bes confused like this!¡¯


    ¡°Alright, just say it, I believe you.¡± He said, straightening his standing position again. ¡°But if there¡¯s ever a man who insists on approaching you after we get married, you have to tell me. How about that, Madam?¡± It wasn¡¯t a request but an order.


    But what else could I do? I could only nod my head.


    ¡°And now, I want to know. Do you have any ns this weekend?¡± I furrowed my brows, trying to remember. Then I shook my head. ¡°Alright then. This weekend, I will introduce you to my family.


    ¡°So, on Friday evening, I¡¯ll take you home and ask for permission from your mother. Prepare your clothes for the weekend. And just in case, also prepare your work clothes for Monday,¡± hemanded again.


    ¡°Where are we going, anyway?¡±


    ¡°Kansas. There¡¯s an event we have to attend. And I will introduce you to my family there.¡±


    I swallowed my saliva again. The words ¡®introduce you¡¯ uttered by that man really scared me. The man was about to turn around, but I pulled the edge of his jacket first.


    ¡°S-Sir?¡± Oh God, why do I always stutter like this? I cursed myself.


    The man refocused his attention on me. I looked up and stared directly at him. I had to be brave! How could I always feel nervous, scared, and cautious in front of him if I were to be his wife?


    ¡°Yes?¡± the man asked as I remained silent.


    ¡°W-will your family like me?¡± Finally, the question came out.


    The man grinned at me. He walked closer while I tried to step back. ¡®Don¡¯t! Don¡¯t get close to me!¡¯


    The scream echoed only in my head. The man tilted his head, looking at me carefully, while the grin never left his face. Then he nodded his head.


    ¡°It¡¯s not hard to like you,¡± he answered casually. Then he walked away.


    I leaned my back against the nearest wall. My knees felt weak. Even the casual answer from that man somehow felt frightening to me.

 Part 21

    Friday, as Altezza had nned earlier, the man picked up Adaline from her mother¡¯s house. He openly stated that he would take Adaline to a family event in Kansas City and introduce her to all his family members. The reason was simple: so that Adaline wouldn¡¯t have to visit his family one by one. However, Adaline herself didn¡¯t know what the ¡®Family Event¡¯ the man mentioned actually was.


    The journey from Manhattan to Kansas didn¡¯t take long under normal circumstances. However, as it was approaching the weekend and coincidentally at the end of the month-when some banking employees in Indonesia received their sries and seemed to choose to go home to their hometowns-there was a considerable traffic jam.


    Adaline was already tired and extremely sleepy as she hadn¡¯t slept well due to panic throughout the night. How could she not be worried? She was still apprehensive about the reception from the family of her ¡®prospective husband.¡¯


    Stories from Korean dramas and soap operas often seen by her mother and aunt haunted her mind. Stories about the wealthy prospective inws treating their less fortunate future sons- or daughters-inw poorly.


    ¡®What if they don¡¯t like me? What if they act arrogantly towards me? Insulting my parents?¡¯ All these negative thoughts took turns upying her mind.


    Just imagine, from his name alone, everyone knew that Altezza was from one of the sessful immigrant families in Indonesia. The Quirino name itself was renowned in the construction world. Their businesses were everywhere. And Altezza, despite his current position only as the Vice CEO, was still the sole heir to his father¡¯s fortune in the hospitality industry.


    Yes, Antony Quirino, Altezza¡¯s cousin, who served as the CEO, was the heir to the Coskun Company, a constructionpany. Meanwhile, Altezza¡¯s father, who was Antony¡¯s uncle, owned Quirino Ev, a prestigious five-star hotel chain with numerous branches.


    As for Altezza himself, although only a few people knew, he was an architect with extraordinary skills and poprity in the construction world. Even purchasing one of his designs could cost hundreds of thousands to millions of dors. Yes, not in Indonesian rupiah but in dors.


    Can you imagine how wealthy that man was?


    And now Adaline is going to be introduced to his family? Someone like her, meeting the top executives of thepany. Oh, Adaline knows what Sir Arthur and Sir Antony look like. Both have extraordinarily handsome and captivating faces. But you should know that they are people who rarely smile. Always showing a cold expression, so at first nce, people might think they are arrogant, cruel, and stern.


    And what if they don¡¯t like her? What about the Quirino family women? What if they look down on her because she¡¯s nobody? Uneducated and not from an upper-ss background like them? Can Adaline endure and continue her agreement with Altezza?


    Adaline steals a nce at Altezza who is focused on the road. Yes, so far Altezza is the only Quirino who doesn¡¯t disy a cold face. Adaline wonders if Altezza¡¯s parents will be as approachable as him.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    The man has a friendly expression, even seeming mischievous. Because this boss is known for being warm-hearted. Rarely angry and never harsh.


    But don¡¯t be mistaken; as the saying goes, still waters run deep, but when hit by a storm, it will surely drown. The same goes for people who always appear friendly. When they get angry, they are usually more terrifying than those who are stern every day.


    Adaline bites her thumbnail while looking out the window. The glittering lights adorn the streets they pass. The closer the distance they cover, the more her feelings press on her.


    Altezza nces at his watch. It¡¯s almost eleven fifteen. Quite a bit of time spent in the midst of traffic throughout the journey. Even on the toll road, there was still congestion. He nces at Adaline, who is already sound asleep.


    ¡®Poor thing, she must be feeling stressed about being introduced to my family,¡¯ thinks Altezza in his heart.


    Altezza admits that he observed Adaline throughout the journey. How she seemed to be talking to herself and wrestling with her thoughts, which he couldn¡¯t fathom. All Altezza knows is that he often hears her exhale a held breath. Shaking her head slowly, as if dispelling evil thoughts. And not to forget, her habit of biting her thumbnail every time she feels pressured and panicked.


    Even when Altezza stopped at the rest area to buy drinks and adjust her sleeping position, she remainedpletely unaware. ¡®Forgive me, Adaline,¡¯ Altezza apologizes silently in his heart.


    Altezza parks his car in the dedicated apartment user parking lot. Yes, he has a private apartment that he intentionally bought for his own needs. It¡¯s not that he dislikes staying at his aunt¡¯s house every time he has business in Kansas, but as an adult, he values his privacy. Just as he doesn¡¯t want his privacy disturbed, he also respects the privacy of others. Even though Antony¡¯s parents are his closest family, he still desires some personal space.


    Altezza puts his phone in his pocket and steps out of the car. He opens the passenger door, unfastens the seatbelt securing Adaline¡¯s body, and gently lifts her petite form out of the car. It feels like lifting via, his niece. Perhaps petite girls just have a lightweight body. Jovanka is also like that.


    ¡®Jovanka?¡¯ Why does that name suddenly appear in his mind? Altezza lowers his head and looks at the small face in hisp. ¡®Adaline and Jovanka.¡¯ Not only their personalities but also their body shapes are vastly different. What surprises Altezza is his feelings towards his ex-wife.


    Since when did he truly forget about his ex-wife? Was it when he decided to find a surrogate mother for his child? Or when he finally found Adaline to be the surrogate mother for his offspring? Altezza doesn¡¯t want to dwell on it any longer. They have arrived on the floor where his apartment is located. Adaline¡¯s body in his arms doesn¡¯tplicate matters as he unlocks his apartment automatically. His foot nudges the door until it closes with a soft thud. The only illumination in the room is the twinkling lights outside.


    He walked into the only bedroom in the apartment andid Adaline on therge bed. Altezza turned on the bedsidemp, not for any particr reason, just to ensure that Adaline wouldn¡¯t panic when she woke up. Without turning on the AC, he left her and returned to the parking area to retrieve their belongings from the car.

 Part 22

    Adaline groped around, trying to find where her phone was. Usually, she ced her phone not far from her bed, but why couldn¡¯t she reach it?


    She got up, rubbing her eyes. ¡®Where am I?¡¯ That was the first question that crossed her mind. Her eyes widened as her memory returned. Wasn¡¯t she supposed to be on the way to Kansas? Thest thing she remembered was being in Altezza¡¯s car.


    ¡®Did I fall asleep during the journey?¡¯ Oh no, she embarrassed herself again. Quickly scanning the room and sharpening her hearing, she searched for her phone. She didn¡¯t want her phone¡¯s rm to wake up the entire household.


    ¡®There it is!¡¯ She silently eximed as she saw her handbag lying on a square chair not far from her bed. Even her clothes bag was beside it. Adaline grabbed her bag, took out her phone, and turned off the rm. After that, she threw herself onto the soft square chair.


    The only light she had was from the standingmp beside the nightstand. Adaline turned on her phone¡¯s shlight and searched for themp switch. The switch was not far from the nightstand itself. Adaline turned it on, and the room instantly brightened.


    She gaped. The room was so spacious. On the left side of her bed, there was a long white sofa that matched the square chair she had just upied. Right across the sofa, there was a t-screen TV almost as big as a whiteboard.


    Okay, maybe Adaline was being excessive. But indeed, the TV was enormous. ¡®Isn¡¯t the owner afraid their eyes will get damaged?¡¯ Meanwhile, on the right side of her bed, there was an expensive-looking working desk that sparkled from a distance. On the desk, there was a set ofputers with drawing tools Adaline didn¡¯t understand the names and functions of.


    On the other side of the desk, there was a partition that seemed to lead to a dressing room or perhaps a bathroom? Adaline walked towards the white door and opened it. As expected, it was a bathroom.


    Wow, the owner of this ce was really wow. Even the luxurious bathrooms of celebrities Adaline often saw on TV were not as extravagant as this.


    Enough, Adaline couldn¡¯t say a word. She stood motionless beneath the shower. Call her rustic, but she had never used a bathroom where the shower had so many buttons like this.


    Alright, because she couldn¡¯t adjust the water temperature and didn¡¯t want to press the wrong button, she finally turned the blue-colored tap. Cold water immediately touched her palms.


    Adaline stepped out of the bathroom and grabbed her belongings. After that, she intended to fulfill her needs, clean herself, and get ready to face Altezza¡¯s family.


    Adaline nced at her watch again. It was already half-past six in the morning. She had finished everything half an hour ago. However, she felt afraid to leave the room. asionally, she swiped her phone screen until the ck screen disyed her favorite wallpaper. She wanted to contact Altezza, but she was afraid of what she might have to say.


    The sound of knocking startled her, causing her to drop her phone instantly. Fortunately, she was standing on the carpet, which was also very thick-luckily-and her phone didn¡¯t fall directly onto the floor. If not, Adaline didn¡¯t know how many pieces her phone would have shattered into.


    ¡°Miss, are you awake?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± Adaline yelled as she picked up her phone from the floor. The door opened instantly, and Altezza, looking fresh, appeared from there.


    ¡°I thought you were still sleeping, but it seems you¡¯re already neat.¡± He continued, choosing to enter the room. ¡°Looks like you¡¯ve been up since earlier?¡± He examined the room, which was now tidy as if no one had slept there before.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Uh-sorry,st night must have been inconvenient,¡± Adaline apologized with regret.


    ¡°Yes. Very inconvenient indeed,¡± Altezza replied, casually sitting on the bed. ¡°I even had to sacrifice my bones to lean on the sofa out there and let someone else touch my favorite bed.¡± He continued, rubbing the bed he was sitting on.


    Adaline looked at him in disbelief. She knew that Altezza was a bit peculiar, but she didn¡¯t know he would be this entric.


    ¡°Should I apologize to your bed for touching it without permission?¡± Adaline spoke up. Altezza¡¯s explosiveughter served as the answer to her question.


    ¡°I thought you would apologize to me because I willingly slept on the sofa, but you choose to apologize to the bed?¡± Altezza shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s not fair. You should pay more attention to me than to the sofa,¡± he said with a sad tone, leaving Adaline speechless. Shortly after, he stood up. ¡°What do you prefer, having breakfast here with me, or with my family?¡±


    Adaline frowned. ¡®Breakfast here¡¯ and ¡®with my family¡¯? Those were two different sentences, right? Adaline tried to understand their meaning, and a conclusion entered her mind. So, currently, she wasn¡¯t with his family? Then, where was she now? And where was his family?


    ¡°We¡¯re in my apartment, Miss. While my parents are at my brother¡¯s house. Or perhaps you¡¯d understand better if I say they¡¯re at Antony¡¯s house?¡± He answered, seemingly addressing the questions lingering in Adaline¡¯s mind. Adaline responded with a nk stare.


    So, since she woke up some time ago, what had Adaline been worried about? She had been creating various scenarios for the initial meeting with his family to make a good first impression. However, those ns were in vain because, in reality, his family wasn¡¯t even here?


    Oh God, she had been worrying about something she shouldn¡¯t be afraid of if Altezza had told her from the beginning that she wouldn¡¯t immediately meet his family.


    But it wasn¡¯t Altezza¡¯s fault either, actually. It was her own fault for falling asleep in the car and not even realizing when someone moved her. She looked up at Altezza, intending to give him an answer. However, her response never came because he had already made a decision.


    ¡®If he has already made a decision, why should he ask?¡¯ Adaline grumbled inwardly but still followed her future husband.

 Part 23

    ¡°Are you sure everything will be okay?¡±


    ¡°In your opinion, do you think they can ept me?¡±


    ¡°What if they don¡¯t like me and ask us not to get married? I don¡¯t have the money to cover the cancetion fees!¡±


    ¡°Is my appearance respectful ording to your parents?¡±


    Those questions, and other questions with a simr essence, continued to be uttered throughout their journey like a cassette tape being yed over and over again. Altezza gave no answers except nods and shakes. She preferred to save her voice to respond to the questions her family would throw rather than answering Adaline¡¯s trivial chatter.


    It doesn¡¯t mean she doesn¡¯t want to reassure. It¡¯s just that, ording to her, the words she utters won¡¯t mean anything if the girl is still nervous like this.


    They arrived at the housingplex where the Antony family resides. Theplex¡¯s security guard, who already knew Altezza, greeted her warmly as she opened the car window. The same went for Antony¡¯s house security guard.


    ¡°Good morning. Have people had breakfast?¡± she asked as the forty-year-old security guard opened the door.


    ¡°Not yet, Sir. But it¡¯s prepared in the backyard,¡± he replied.


    Altezza nodded and continued to drive her car to the back of the house where the family¡¯s parking area was located.


    She could feel the tension around her increasing. It seemed like, so tense, Adaline didn¡¯t even realize or was not awestruck at all by the luxury of the Antony house. Usually, women widen their eyes as big as golf balls when they see the Antony mansion. Okay, maybe the analogy is a bit exaggerated. But usually, it¡¯s like that. And that didn¡¯t happen to the girl next to her.


    Altezza chose to get out of the car and walk around to the passenger seat. She opened the door of her white Range Rover and saw Adaline still sitting frozen while holding onto her seatbelt tightly.


    ¡°Come on, Mrs. My family won¡¯t devour you,¡± she coaxed, but Adaline¡¯s grip only tightened until her fingertips turned white.


    ¡°A-are you sure?¡± she asked hesitantly. The girl¡¯s golden brown eyes looked at her confused.


    ¡°Very sure,¡± Altezza tried to release Adaline¡¯s grip on her seatbelt, and instead, she held both of the girl¡¯s small hands. ¡°Mrs., look at me,¡± she instructed softly.


    Whether she liked it or not, Adaline raised her head and looked at Altezza. Although the car seat was quite high, it still didn¡¯t reach Altezza¡¯s height. The man¡¯s gaze was so intense.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t said this before because I thought it would be useless. You repeat the same sentence over and over, and I¡¯mzy to answer it repeatedly. And now, for the first andst time, I¡¯ll tell you.¡± He tightened his grip on the girl¡¯s hand while asionally rubbing the back of her hand with his thumb in a slow, circr motion. ¡°Everything will be okay. My family will like you. They will ept you dly, even happily.


    ¡°They will really like you and support our marriage as long as they don¡¯t know about the contract we made,¡± he said with emphasis on each sentence. ¡°And for me, your appearance is very respectable and beautiful.¡± His praise was sincere.


    Somehow, Altezza¡¯sst words made Adaline feel awkward. The man¡¯s genuine smile and his firm grip on Adaline¡¯s small hand sent a static electric shock through her body. There was some kind of impulse in her that forced her to believe in all of Altezza¡¯s words, even if they sounded illogical.


    If only she couldn¡¯t hold back, she would love to throw herself into Altezza¡¯s embrace, which she believed would feel warm andforting. However, she pushed those thoughts away and instead, her face heated up again.


    ¡°Alright, ¡®Mrs.¡¯ Now, let¡¯s go inside. Let¡¯s introduce you.¡± Somehow, Altezza had already unbuckled his seatbelt without Adaline realizing. ¡°And remember, be yourself. Don¡¯t force yourself to be the person you think they want.


    ¡°It will only make things harder for you.¡± He helped Adaline get out in an extremely gentle manner. Afterward, he held Adaline¡¯s hand and intertwined her tiny fingers with his big ones, making Adaline¡¯s hand sink into warmth.


    After walking a considerable distance from the parking area, Adaline could hear the bustling sounds in the distance. Laughter and conversations that sounded loud, almost like shouts, but Adaline couldn¡¯tprehend them. When she saw a tall and slender man with brown hair approaching them, Adaline chose to hide behind Altezza.


    Her free right hand held onto Altezza¡¯s right arm, while her left hand was still intertwined with Altezza¡¯s fingers, and Adaline squeezed it even tighter.


    ¡°How are you, Big Brother? Long time no see.¡±


    Adaline froze. The man¡¯s voice sounded like a greeting but had the tone of a shout. Adaline could also hear the joyous tone in every word he uttered. Adaline, not understanding what the man in front of Altezza was saying because he spoke their father¡¯snguage, could only tighten her grip.


    ¡°Good, Gian. And I don¡¯t need to ask about yours.¡±


    It was the first time Adaline heard Altezza speak in their father¡¯snguage, and she was quite stunned by it. Even though Italian dramas often aired on one of the private TV channels, they always showed dramas that had undergone the dubbing process.


    ¡°You¡¯re always like this, as cold as usual. Don¡¯t you miss your handsome cousin?¡±


    Adaline heard Altezza sneer. ¡°Not at all. I even hope you don¡¯t bother showing your face in front of me.¡±


    Gian¡¯sughter apanied Altezza¡¯sst words.


    ¡°Come on, big brother. Don¡¯t be like that. I might note back anytime soon. Well, considering your marriage with an uncertain date.¡±


    Once again, Altezza sneered. ¡°I don¡¯t even intend to invite you to my wedding day.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re always so cruel to me,¡± Gian¡¯s words sounded pitiful. But a momentter, Altezza¡¯s hand grip tightened. A head suddenly appeared beside Altezza¡¯s arm. His golden eyes widened in surprise.


    ¡°Where did you get such a beautiful doll?¡± His tone sounded surprised, and Adaline knew that the man was talking about her, although she still didn¡¯t understand the meaning.


    It was evident from the movement of his hands pointing in her direction and his gaze that never left Adaline. She drew herself even closer to Altezza, and Altezza tried to reassure her by holding Adaline¡¯s hand tightly.


    ¡°It¡¯s a secret!¡± Altezza replied coldly. Adaline even shivered at his tone.


    The man tried to approach and spoke to Adaline in their mother¡¯snguage. ¡°My sweetness, my beauty, would you like to be my girlfriend? I¡¯m sure I can treat you better than he does.¡± The man in front of her said with a pleading expression and a coaxing tone. He walked forward and tried to reach for Adaline¡¯s arm, but Altezza held him back.


    ¡°Even if you woo her until your mouth foams, she won¡¯t turn to me. My charm is far greater than yours.¡± Once again, Adaline heard the cold tone in Altezza¡¯s voice, while the man¡¯s hand extended forward, creating a distance between Gian and them.


    ¡°Do you want to bet with me?¡±


    The man finally folded his hands on his chest. Both of his eyebrows raised. His body fully faced Altezza, and his eyes were now more focused on him, allowing Adaline to breathe a sigh of relief.


    ¡°No need. You¡¯ll lose before the match. She won¡¯t turn to you anyway.¡±


    Altezza gently pulled Adaline away from the brown-haired man. However, Gian followed them and tried to walk parallel to Altezza.


    ¡°So arrogant, old bachelor.¡±


    Adaline heard the man¡¯s grumble, but when he looked in her direction, he winked teasingly. Adaline couldn¡¯t help but shudder at it.


    ¡°Now, what¡¯s going on, Al? You and Gian always make a fuss.¡± A t voice came from a figure Adaline knew. Who else but the CEO, Antony Arthur Quirino.


    Adaline hid again behind Altezza¡¯s back. She wasn¡¯t ready to meet her big boss. Honestly, just looking at his face always made Adaline feel intimidated. The man always exuded a cold and stern aura, although, in reality, his face was equally handsome.


    The man sat casually with a tablet in his hand. He only nced up briefly when Altezza was near but then refocused on his tablet, seemingly unaware of Adaline¡¯s presence behind Altezza.


    ¡°That crazy kid is acting up again,¡± Altezza replied tly. ¡°Where are the others?¡± Adaline noticed Gian looking around.


    ¡°Just went inside; they¡¯ll be out shortly,¡± Antony replied, still not turning to Altezza.


    ¡°Altezza, my handsome man!¡± Adaline and Altezza turned simultaneously to the loud voice.


    A tall, beautiful woman with fair skin, an ideal figure, and long brown hair waved her hand towards them. Her fair skin gleamed under the morning sun. She handed the baby stroller she had been holding to the man standing beside her. With agility, the woman ran towards Altezza and hugged him briefly before kissing his left and right cheeks alternately.


    ¡°You made my cheeks wet,¡± Altezza grumbled, to which the woman responded with giggles.


    ¡°I missed you so much,¡± she said in broken English. The man who had been holding the stroller stood in front of Altezza and hugged him briefly in greeting. ¡°Darling, isn¡¯t Altezza getting more handsome every day?¡± she asked, embracing the man¡¯s waist and not taking her eyes off Altezza.


    ¡°Of course, am I the one getting uglier each day?¡± he teased quietly, invitingughter from the woman.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be like that; after all, he¡¯s your cousin.¡± The woman gently patted Altezza¡¯s arm.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that if someone asks about our rtionship. I don¡¯t want to admit it,¡± Altezza replied curtly.


    ¡°You two are already old, but still, you¡¯re always at odds.¡± The sentence came from one of the middle-aged women who arrived, carrying containers of food in each hand.


    ¡°me him; he always provokes me, Aunt,¡± Altezza said with a pleading tone.


    A sound of a punch followed by a groan was heard. ¡°Mom, I didn¡¯t provoke a fight,¡± Adaline heard Gian defending himself.


    He can speak English? Then why did they use their father¡¯snguage earlier and confuse Adaline? Adaline became annoyed after a while.


    ¡°me him for hiding a beautiful figure behind him,¡± the woman continued, instantly making the atmosphere quiet.


    ¡°A beautiful figure?¡± Again, Adaline heard a woman¡¯s voice, but she couldn¡¯t tell whose it was.


    ¡°Behind him,¡± Gian said again, his voice louder than it should be.


    ¡°Altezza, who¡¯s behind you?¡± The question sounded cold even in Adaline¡¯s ears.


    Adaline swallowed nervously and tightened her grip; she was really scared now. The sweet words Altezza said before getting out of the car seemed to have vanished from her mind. This was the moment of judgment, Adaline murmured in her heart. She couldn¡¯t say anything more when Altezza chose to shift hisrge body and reveal Adaline to everyone.

 Part 24

    ¡°Oh, my God¡­¡± The praise came along with a hug around her shoulders. Adaline could only stand still as she was pulled by a middle-aged woman who looked beautiful in front of her. ¡°Darling, look who Altezza brought.¡± She said emotionally. Her chubby hands framed Adaline¡¯s face, and then both of her cheeks were kissed so quickly.


    ¡°You disobedient child. So, you intentionally let me scold you back then, even though you already nned to bring her here?¡± The woman directed a series of punches at Altezza. Instead of dodging by running away, he held both sides of Adaline¡¯s body and took cover behind her, using Adaline as a living shield.


    ¡°I told you that I would find anyone on the way and bring them to you, and this is the person.¡± He said while advancing Adaline towards his mother.


    ¡°You disrespectful brat! So rude!¡± The woman in front of him yelled again while trying to hit Altezza. ¡°How could you pick up such a beautiful woman on the street! Darling! Look at your child¡¯s behavior.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s your fault for not asking and just giving a verdict right away, Darling.¡± A man¡¯s voice responded, and Adaline couldn¡¯t tell who it was. Because in front of her were three middle-aged men now staring at her, Altezza, and his mother.


    ¡°This is your son¡¯s fault. He always says that finding a woman is easy, just pick here and there.¡± His mother hit him again, although Altezza tried to dodge. The woman¡¯s breath began to pant, and finally, she gave up hitting her son. ¡°Alright, let the child of his father behave however he wants,¡± she said again. She hooked her arm around Adaline¡¯s elbow and pulled her closer to the table where everyone was. ¡°What¡¯s your name, dear?¡±


    ¡°A-Adaline, ma¡¯am,¡± she stammered.


    ¡°You, calling me ma¡¯am. Call me Momma!¡± she gentlymanded.


    ¡°Y-Yes, Momma. My name is Adaline.¡±


    ¡°A beautiful name,¡± she praised sincerely. ¡°And my name is Del,¡± she added. ¡°Where did you meet his son?¡±


    ¡°S-Sir Altezza?¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°You call him that?¡± The woman asked in surprise. Adaline nodded. The woman shook her head. ¡°What kind of call is that?¡± she mumbled softly but still audible to Adaline. ¡°This is Altezza¡¯s father. Benjamin. You can call him Padre or father. This is his aunt, like me, she¡¯s American, her name is Aunt Brianna, and her husband is Arthur. Altezza calls them Uncle and Aunty.


    ¡°And these are also Altezza¡¯s uncle and aunt. Aunt Gita and Uncle Gabrielle. And their children. Letizia and her husband Farhat. And Letizia¡¯s younger brother who teased you earlier, Gian. And this is the king today, Antony.¡±


    Antony raised his head and greeted Adaline with a nod.


    ¡°Sir,¡± Adaline said with a shy smile. And for the first time, he smiled back at her. She was quite surprised to see his handsomeness up close.


    ¡°Don¡¯t try to steal her attention, Cousin. You¡¯ll be proposing to another woman this evening,¡± Altezza, who had been silent until now, spoke up.


    Antony just shrugged and returned his focus to his tablet. Altezza¡¯s mother invited Adaline to sit next to her, with Altezza sitting on Adaline¡¯s left. It was clear that Altezza intentionally sat very close to prevent his cousin, Gian, from taking any sneaky opportunities to get closer.


    Casual conversation flowed during breakfast. As predicted, questions from the family revolved around the rtionship between Altezza and Adaline.


    ¡°Where did you two meet?¡±


    ¡°How did your first encounter happen?¡±


    ¡°How long have you been together?¡± and other typical questions asked to a new couple.


    Adaline let Altezza answer all those questions. She chose silence over misspeaking and potentially causing problemster.


    ¡°Why are you willing to be in a rtionship with him? He¡¯s even much older than you. How old are you now?¡± A barrage of questions came from Gian¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Twenty-five,¡± Adaline whispered.


    ¡°See, the age difference between you two is already ten years. Instead of continuing your rtionship with him, it¡¯s better to be with me. I¡¯m only twenty-eight. Our ages aren¡¯t that far apart.¡± The man¡¯s words were met with a cold stare from Del Quirino and a growl from Altezza. Not to mention punches from the man¡¯s brother and mother.


    ¡°You! Why do you always like to bother Altezza? Just find another woman out there! Don¡¯t tease my Adaline.¡± Del scolded loudly.


    ¡°Aunt, you know very well that my face is not as handsome as Antony and Altezza, so it¡¯s hard for me to get a beautiful woman. It¡¯s better if Altezza looks for another one out there. He¡¯s more handsome than me and surely will find a recement for Adaline more easily.¡± Gian replied, not wanting to be defeated. ¡°Ye-ye-yes. Do you want to be with me?¡± he said with a pleading expression. Mrs. Del threw fruits at him from the table in front of her.


    ¡°You¡¯re so bold asking him to find another woman out there. Do you think making Altezza bring a woman home is easy? I had to wait for thirty-five years until he finally did that.¡±


    ¡°Well then, Aunt, wait for another thirty-five years.¡±


    ¡°You foolish nephew! That¡¯s the same as telling him to stay single for a lifetime!¡± Mrs. Del threw lightweight objects at Gian again.


    ¡°Dear, that¡¯s enough. Aren¡¯t you ashamed in front of Adaline?¡± A gentle voice came from Altezza¡¯s father.


    ¡°Why am I being med? It¡¯s your nephew¡¯s fault.¡± Del grumbled irritably. Altezza, on her side, held back augh.


    ¡°Just think of it as watching kids fight over toys.¡± Altezza whispered in her left ear. Adaline turned and saw him wink mischievously. ¡°Where¡¯s my nephew? I haven¡¯t seen him since earlier.¡± Altezza shifted his attention to Antony.


    ¡°He went jogging with his potential cousin-inw.¡± Brianna Quirino answered gracefully. ¡°Seeing the recent changes in via, I¡¯m really happy. ire and Abigail have truly made a positive impact.¡±


    ¡°ire?¡± Adaline whispered and looked at Altezza in confusion. Altezza nodded. ¡°ire who works at the Kansas branch?¡± she whispered again.


    ¡°Do you know ire?¡± Altezza also whispered back. This time, Adaline nodded.


    ¡°We went to school together. She used to live in Manhattan. If I¡¯m not mistaken, she has a twin brother named dwin.¡± Altezza nodded again. ¡°So, what about ire..?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s our boss¡¯s future wife.¡± Altezza nodded his head towards Antony.


    ¡°How can that be?!¡± The exmation made everyone look at Altezza and Adaline alternately.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Del asked, looking at Adaline and Altezza in turns.


    ¡°Adaline asked how ire could be Antony¡¯s future wife.¡± Altezza said tly. Adaline pinched the man¡¯s waist, which seemed to have no effect at all and instead was met with a grin from him.


    ***


    The days passed quickly. After a quite chaotic breakfast, Altezza¡¯s mother and the women never let go of Adaline, always having questions they wanted to ask her. Adaline couldn¡¯t avoid answering, except for the matter of her contract with Altezza, of course.


    After lunch, they all prepared to go to ire¡¯s house. Sir Antony, who previously seemed charismatic, now appeared even more positively charged. A smile that Adaline rarely saw on his face was continuously present. Was this the expression of a man about to propose to his beloved?


    Adaline couldn¡¯t help but nce at Altezza. He was no less handsome than his boss. His muscr body was now d in a shirt matching Adaline¡¯s dress. Adaline herself didn¡¯t know when he bought clothes for her or how he knew her size.


    She was now wearing a brocade dress with sleeves that reached half of her arms. The upper part of her dress formed a half-circle that entuated her corbones and elegant neck,plete with an A-line skirt that covered her calves.


    As for makeup and hair styling, the Quirino family deliberately called a makeup artist to their house. The result was a minimalistic makeup for Adaline and her hair beautifully arranged with a lovely pearl hairpin at the back.


    She was quite amazed when she saw her reflection in the mirror. The girl staring back at her looked stunning and elegant. Her cheeks were rosy, her eyebrows neatly shaped, and her eyes adorned beautifully. Then, her petite lips were coated with peach-colored lip cream, making her look even fresher.


    Gian¡¯s whistle when Adaline and Letizia exited the room made her blush. Not to mention Altezza¡¯s gaze, which seemed reluctant to blink when looking at her, made her chest feel increasingly uncontroble.


    ¡°Aunt! I really want Adaline! Aunt, ask your son to find another woman!¡± Gian¡¯s echoing shout made the plump woman run out of her room in a hurry.


    ¡°You foolish nephew!¡± she shouted loudly, holding a shoe ready to throw at Gian. Gianughed and chose to hide behind the groom.


    ¡°Honey, calm down.¡± Altezza¡¯s fatherforted her while embracing his wife¡¯s shoulders. ¡°We¡¯re leaving in five minutes. Hurry up and finish your makeup.¡± The middle-aged man urged again.


    Meanwhile, Altezza, who walked towards her, made Adaline even more nervous. ¡°Mrs. Altezza Quirino, you look absolutely stunning this afternoon,¡± the man praised sincerely. Adaline bit her lower lip inwardly due to embarrassment.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see you in a wedding dress. You¡¯ll surely be even more beautiful than this,¡± he continued. His index finger gently traced Adaline¡¯s face. Each touch from the man sent strange shivers through Adaline¡¯s body. If itsted any longer, Adaline wasn¡¯t sure if she could still stand or not.

 Part 25

    Altezza Pov


    I deliberately waited in Antony¡¯s office while the women were getting ready. Antony entered shortly after, locking the room from the inside.


    ¡°Are you serious about her, Brother?¡± he asked without beating around the bush, just like Antony usually did. I thought that after getting to know ire, he would at least be a bit more chatty. But that wasn¡¯t the case.


    ¡°Serious in what sense, Brother?¡±


    ¡°You know what I mean,¡± he replied. ¡°She¡¯s a good girl,¡± his cousin said sincerely. I just nodded in agreement. ¡°It¡¯s not right to y with a girl as good and innocent as her.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not ying with her, Brother. Our rtionship is mutual. I help her, and she helps me,¡± I replied matter-of-factly.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the endgame here?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯re not fully recovered, Al. Jovanka¡¯s name still lingers in your heart. Don¡¯t let that person ruin your rtionship,¡± Antony coldly warned, making it clear that he didn¡¯t like my ex-wife.


    Jovanka. Why is that name mentioned again after I¡¯ve forgotten about it? Yes, I truly haven¡¯t thought about that woman for a while. I don¡¯t even want to know where she is.


    ¡°I havepletely ended my rtionship with her right before I started my rtionship with Adaline,¡± I continued honestly. ¡°Before she left, I had already divorced her. And all matters regarding my promises to her have been settled with herwyer.


    ¡°Everything is over. She¡¯s no longer my wife, and I¡¯m no longer her husband.¡±


    ¡°Does Adaline know about you two?¡± I shook my head. ¡®Adaline doesn¡¯t need to know, right?¡¯


    ¡°I think it¡¯s better if you tell her about Jovanka before you go any further, Al,¡± Antony¡¯s voice sounded full of warning. ¡°I want the best for you both. Maybe right now, there are no feelings between you two. But we don¡¯t know what will happen in the future.


    ¡°It¡¯s better to avoid the worst from the beginning before we regret it in the end.¡±


    ¡°Nothing bad will happen, Antony,¡± I said confidently. ¡°That woman left of her own ord. I gave her a choice, and she gave me an answer. So if she everes back, she has no right to disturb my life.¡±


    I even hesitated to mention her name. I didn¡¯t really know what I felt about that woman now.


    Hatred or just ordinary anger? One thing¡¯s for sure, I no longer feel love and longing for her. Has my heart really be this numb to her so easily?


    ¡°That¡¯s what you say now. But you won¡¯t know how you¡¯ll feel when that woman is in front of you again.¡±


    ¡°Are you wishing for me to fall in love with her again?¡± I asked sarcastically. Antony just stared back at me tly.


    ¡°You know what I mean. And you clearly know that I was the first one to oppose your decision to marry her.¡±


    ¡°However, when ites to dealing with women and love, no matter how smart our minds are as men, there will inevitably be times when we think irrationally.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± I said hesitantly. ¡°I just want to take things one step at a time. For me, my dealings with that woman are already finished. And now, I just want to start anew with someone new, a new personality.


    ¡°In the future, whether there will be love between us or not, I won¡¯t try to guess. I¡¯ll just let everything flow as it is,¡± I answered softly. Because I myself am not sure about what I want, what I need right now.


    We sat in silence in the room, each lost in our own thoughts. I was busy with my thoughts, and so was Antony.


    ¡°Son, are you both ready?¡± Uncle Arthur¡¯s knock interrupted my reverie. I nced at my wristwatch, and it was indeed time for us to go to ire¡¯s house for the engagement event.


    Antony left the room first, and I followed him from behind. At the same time, I saw Adaline and Letiziaing out of their room looking more beautiful and elegant.


    Adaline seemed to gaze at Antony in admiration. And for some reason, seeing the sparkle of admiration in those golden brown eyes suddenly made my chest tighten.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Gian¡¯s whistle diverted my attention and Adaline¡¯s as well. I turned towards my mischievous cousin and then heard him shout.


    ¡°Aunt! I really want Adaline! Aunt, ask Altezza to find another woman!¡±


    My hand itched to p that thin face, but I restrained myself as much as possible. Instead, I redirected my focus to Adaline as my mother came rushing with a shoe in her hand.


    ¡°Curse you, you cursed nephew!¡± I faintly heard my mother¡¯s shout and Gian¡¯sughter. But my gaze couldn¡¯t shift away from Adaline, and theughter on her face that made her look even more beautiful.


    Unconsciously, my feet took steps toward that petite figure. The beautiful girl was wearing an outfit that I intentionally bought at Mamma¡¯s favorite boutique some time ago. I deliberately chose it so that I could wear matching batik patterns.


    When I asked the store attendant to find matching outfits, the clothes truly caught my attention. I remembered the time I visited her house, and she was wearing a light blue blouse that highlighted her fair skin.


    And now, look at Adaline, truly looking stunning. The chosen outfit perfectlyplemented her figure, highlighting certain parts that I wanted to see. Her slender neck, fair skin, and the curves of her petite body.


    ¡°Mamma, we¡¯re ready.¡± I also paid no attention when Padre tried to persuade Mamma. ¡°We¡¯re leaving in five minutes. Come on, finish up your makeup quickly.¡± In my eyes right now, there was only Adaline.


    ¡°Mrs. Altezza Quirino, you look absolutely amazing this afternoon,¡± I sincerely praised.


    Actually, there were still manypliments in my head that I wanted to express. However, I didn¡¯t know which sentence was the most appropriate to say first.


    I saw the girl biting her full lips. Somehow, there was an impulse in me to try to feel those lips. Would it be sweet? What about the texture? Once again, I tried to restrain my desire with all my might.


    It¡¯s not just this time that those lips looked tempting. Even in the past few days, those lips have captivated my attention.


    Alright, a little touch wouldn¡¯t hurt, right?


    I reached out my left hand. I let the back of my index finger gently stroke her face. I could see the girl shivering with ticklishness. I felt like it wasn¡¯t just me who was tormented by this touch.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see you in a wedding dress. Definitely more beautiful than this,¡± I uttered uncontrobly.


    Yes. I did imagine the girl wearing a white wedding dress with a beautiful tiara on her head. Meanwhile, I myself wore a wedding suit with flowers in my chest pocket.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± that statement made me retract my hand slowly. I really wanted to groan and scold anyone who dared to stop me from touching my woman.


    ¡®My woman¡¯? Did I just im Adaline as my woman? Antony warned me just now, but I¡¯ve already started what my cousin is worried about.


    Forget it. Forget about problems that may not happen. Now it¡¯s time to go pick up my cousin¡¯s beloved.

 Part 26

    Adaline¡¯s POV


    The journey from Antony¡¯s house to ire¡¯s took only five minutes. The procession of three carsnded in the parking lot of a rather luxurious house, though not asrge as Antony¡¯s.


    Yes, ire is indeed from an affluent family. Her father owns a well-known cement factory.


    Antony¡¯s proposal event went smoothly; I was even moved witnessing the process when Antony asked ire to be his future wife, right in front of her mother. As a mere spectator, I couldn¡¯t help but be touched, especially seeing ire.


    As the evening approached, after family discussions and a meal, we finally headed home. Letizia insisted that I ride with her since the parents were taking another car with a separate driver. Antony would stay at ire¡¯s house and return hometer in the night. I had no idea where Altezza went, as Letizia¡¯s car had left ire¡¯s house earlier.


    I waited for Altezza, and even after the sun had set, he still hadn¡¯t appeared. It then urred to me that I had left my phone on the dashboard of his car.


    Feeling the need to change out of my clothes, I realized that my attire was still inside his car. The outfit I wore before the engagement event was also missing from where Ist left it.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± Letizia asked as she noticed my restlessness.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    I scratched my head. ¡°My clothes. Have you seen them?¡±


    Letizia shook her head. ¡°Looks like they¡¯ve been taken to theundry. Don¡¯t you have other clothes?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I left my bag in the car. But I don¡¯t know where Sir Altezza is right now.¡±


    I heard Letizia chuckle. Both my eyebrows raised as I looked at her.


    ¡°You two are funny,¡± Letizia replied, observing my expression. ¡°Altezza calls you ¡®Madam,¡¯ and you call him ¡®Sir.¡¯ It¡¯s a peculiar form of endearment.¡± She honestly admitted, shaking her head. ¡°Oh, I forgot. Altezza might take a while because he went to drop off Aunt Del.¡±


    I responded with an amused ¡®O.¡¯ That meant I had to wait for Altezza to return if I wanted to change clothes. Borrowing Letizia¡¯s clothes was not an option, considering her tall and robust build, quite different from my petite stature. Even my height only reached her neck.


    ¡°Want to change into my clothes?¡± she offered in response to my dilemma. Without waiting for my approval, she pulled me into the room we had used earlier in the afternoon, the room she usually used whenever she visited Antony¡¯s residence, as she mentioned earlier today.


    After entering the room, Letizia released her grip on my hand and walked towards arge wardrobe on one of the walls. ¡°It seems like my clothes from before I was pregnant are still here,¡± she murmured while sorting through the garments inside the wardrobe.


    Shortly after, she pulled out a cream-colored outfit with small flower patterns and measured it against my body. Once she deemed it suitable, she handed the clothes to me. ¡°I can¡¯t lend you a two-piece outfit. Since my waist isrger than yours, it seems like this size is the most fitting,¡± she exined while I remained silent, examining the clothes in my hands.


    Alright, I didn¡¯t have any other choice. This brocade made me feel constrained, but it was better than not having anything to wear. Later, when Altezza returns, I can change back into my own clothes.


    ¡°It should fit you well because my body was still rtively slim before giving birth,¡± she chuckled as I stood frozen in ce. I smiled shyly and nodded gently at her.


    Even now, the woman¡¯s body couldn¡¯t be considered fat, so what was it like when she was slim? Was it like the body shape of models on TV, just bones covered with skin?


    I returned to the other room, where I kept my handbag containing my personal items. Quickly, I entered the bathroom and freshened up. About ten minutester, I stood in front of the mirror wearing Letizia¡¯s clothes.


    A knock on the door diverted my attention. I opened it and saw Letizia standing there, looking at me from head to toe with a sparkle in her eyes. Yes, the beautiful Balotelli fabric dress fell just below my knees. The top had a sabrina shape, revealing my shoulder and neck curves. Though the waist was a bit loose, it still showcased my slender waist. At the knee, the fabric gently fell and swayed with every move I made.


    ¡°Beautiful,¡± she praised sincerely. Then, she nudged me into the room and seated me in front of the dressing table. ¡°Let me braid your hair.¡± It wasn¡¯t a request but a politely phrasedmand.


    I wanted to refuse. At home, I usually let my hair down to avoid tiredness from keeping it in a bun all day. But, let it be; perhaps Letizia wanted to experiment.


    She reached for theb on the dressing table and carefullybed through my hair. ¡°I always feel an itch to touch long hair; I always want to touch it. So, don¡¯t be mad, okay?¡± she said with a mischievous grin in the mirror.


    I just smiled and nodded. In silence, I observed that beautiful face in the mirror.


    I wanted to know Letizia¡¯s age, but I was too embarrassed to ask. I guessed Letizia¡¯s age fell somewhere between Altezza and Antony. Whether she was Antony¡¯s age or maybe Altezza¡¯s, it had to be between the two.


    ¡°Actually, I always wanted to have a younger sister,¡± she said, pausing her fingers¡¯ y in my hair. ¡°Our dad didn¡¯t allow mom to get pregnant again because of the bleeding incident she had during Gian¡¯s birth.


    ¡°When via was born, I was already busy with my own world and didn¡¯t even have time to take care of her. So, myst hope was to have a daughter. But once again, God didn¡¯t allow me to have a daughter. The one born was a boy again,¡± she chuckled softly.


    I just let her talk, as I was afraid to ask. Letizia is a good and friendly woman, very open. And I felt I would like her.


    ¡°I never liked via¡¯s mother,¡± she admitted with a huff between his words. ¡°So, I never got close to her. But now, I¡¯ve been given two sisters at once. ire and you.¡±


    My gaze met his brown eyes. She looked at me and smiled sincerely. ¡°I¡¯m d to be siblings with you. And I hope you two are willing to be siblings with me too.¡±


    I was quite surprised by her statement, filled with a hopeful tone. I just nodded my head in response. But then, she pinched my cheek yfully.


    ¡°Ugh¡­ I¡¯m really fond of you. You¡¯re so reserved in your words,¡± she said with amusement. ¡°It turns out that God is indeed Just. It¡¯s true that couples are created toplement each other. Stingy Antony is now going to marry friendly ire. And cheeky Altezza is going to marry you, the innocent one.¡±


    ¡°M-Marry?¡± I asked hesitantly.


    ¡°Yes, marry. You two are getting married, right?¡± Our eyes met again through the mirror. I nodded.


    Yes, Altezza and I were indeed going to get married, as it was our initial agreement. However, I didn¡¯t know if he had already mentioned our marriage to others behind my back.


    I heard a sigh of relief behind me. ¡°Altezza is straightforward, but in reality, he is a person full of secrets,¡± continued Letizia.


    She was still busy ying with my hair, and I didn¡¯t mind whatever she did as long as it didn¡¯t make me look unkempt.


    ¡°If someday he does something strange, you can tell me. You can ask me anything about him. I¡¯ll tell you what I know. Because Altezza, Antony, and I actually grew up together, despite our age differences,¡± she said. I just nodded, but I would remember her advice.


    Next, Letizia shared the silly things they used to do when they were children. Shortly after, she ced theb back on the table.


    ¡°Done,¡± she said happily. ¡°I always enjoy braiding people¡¯s hair. And seeing your long and beautiful hair has been tickling my hands since this morning.¡± I touched my hair, and it seemed that Letizia had turned it into a beautiful braid behind me.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± I said with a smile. Letizia pinched my cheek again.


    ¡°You¡¯re really adorable. No wonder Gian calls you a doll. I can¡¯t wait to see your baby. I wonder what their face and character will be like,¡± she fantasized. She was about to share her thoughts, but a knock on the door interrupted.


    We both turned to see Letizia¡¯s husband standing at the doorway. He mentioned that their son was hungry and needed breastfeeding, also informing us that people had already gathered.


    Letizia and I left the room. Indeed, everyone was already assembled for breakfast, and even more people had joined. I noticed two young girls of simr age sitting, staring at a tablet. I knew they were Altezza¡¯s nieces and ire¡¯s future nieces. Meanwhile, the bride-to-be seemed to be talking to her future husband on the other side of the room.


    ¡°Mama!¡± Gian¡¯s shout again caught everyone¡¯s attention. I looked towards him just as he rushed quickly towards me. ¡°Mama! If you want to see me get married now, I¡¯ll do it, as long as I marry this beautiful doll.¡± He said loudly, almost bursting my eardrums. Instantly, I realized I had be the center of attention.


    ¡°Stay away from her, brother!¡± A loud growl came from my left side.


    I saw Altezzaing with tworge bags in his hands, while his parents followed behind. ¡°You foolish nephew! Why won¡¯t you give up? I¡¯ve told you she¡¯s my future daughter-inw!¡± Del Quirino spoke with a loud voice, followed by throwing a sandal in my direction. Luckily, I dodged it; otherwise, the sandal might have hit me.


    ¡°Mamma! Don¡¯t do that! What if Mamma¡¯s sandal hits my favorite?¡± I didn¡¯t realize that Altezza was already by my side, grabbing my shoulder and moving me away from Gian. ¡°You too, Madam. You should be able to smell your enemy if they are within a five-meter radius, so you can avoid it as quickly as possible.¡±


    I stared at him in disbelief. What did he think I was? A mouse or a tracking dog? As if I could smell everything.


    ¡°Hey, old friend.¡± The voice was so gentle, and I saw ire standing in front of me. She smiled and extended her hands.


    Like a child, I threw my body into her embrace. We hugged tightly. In the past, we used to do this often before ire moved back to Kansas.


    ¡°Sorry I didn¡¯t have a chance to greet you earlier,¡± she said regretfully.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I know how busy a bride-to-be can be,¡± I replied, teasing her.


    ¡°Aww¡­ Someone is going to be a bride soon,¡± she teased back, ncing at Altezza. Whether I liked it or not, my face turned red. Damn, I lost big time.

 Part 27

    In the evening, they all gathered in the backyard of Antony¡¯s residence.


    Gian and Farhat-Letizia¡¯s husband-were busy with the meat on the grill, while Letizia herself was putting their son to sleep in the bedroom.


    Antony¡¯s newly acquainted teenage daughter, Adaline, and her friend via, were sitting together with ire¡¯s niece, Abigail. The two teenage girls seemed engrossed in watching a video on theptop ced on a pillow, asionally screaming in excitement or humming. It seemed like they were watching a concert of their favorite boy band.


    Meanwhile, Adaline and ire chose to join the middle-aged women in the kitchen, who were busy preparing desserts and drinks.


    Adaline was actually confused about what to do, as all the tasks were already being handled by the three mothers in front of her. Consequently, she and ire just sat quietly, asionally responding to the parents¡¯ conversations. Fortunately for Adaline, ire was there; otherwise, she would have been truly unsure about whom to be with. Despite the Altezza family epting her, she, being naturally shy and introverted, still felt a bit reserved.


    As for the man who invited her there, he was still nowhere to be seen. ire mentioned earlier that the men were in the office, discussing work matters.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Abigail and via arrived, asking for additional food to be prepared. Despite grumbling, ire moved and did what they asked. ¡°Typical fickle teenagers, just seeing something on the inte makes them crave it instantly.¡±


    ire seemed ustomed to using the kitchen¡¯s sophisticated equipment. Her rtionship with Antony seemed very close. Well, of course. Besides being easygoing, ire was also the future owner of this house, right?


    Abigail took ire¡¯s seat, and via sat next to her. ¡°Aunty, make a lot of food, okay?¡± The little girlmanded. ire just made an ¡®OK¡¯ sign with her fingers without turning her head.


    After all the food made by the mothers was brought back to the backyard, Abigail and via resumed their activities with theptop and the food tes on theirps, recing theptop¡¯s previous position on the waterproof carpet at their feet.


    ire chose to sit next to Adaline with a te of food in her hand. ¡°Want to try my cooking?¡± she offered, acknowledged by Adaline. ¡°I was actually curious but hesitant to ask,¡± Adaline replied, her gaze directed towards her niece and future stepdaughter. ¡°I know Altezza, though not too intimately. And I know you.¡±


    ¡°Your personality and Altezza¡¯s are like night and day. So, how did you end up together? And what about your crush?¡± ire asked, finishing her question by turning to look at Adaline.


    The ¡®crush¡¯ ire referred to was the man Adaline liked, the one who wanted Adaline to keep her distance and pretend not to know each other. The man whose presence had been forgotten since his mother¡¯s surgery.


    ¡°I stopped hoping. He never saw me as a woman. He even didn¡¯t want people to know that we knew each other,¡± Adaline replied with an empty stare.


    ¡°So, that¡¯s why you turned to Altezza?¡± ire asked, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡°N-no, it¡¯s not like that,¡± Adaline stammered.


    ire was well aware that Adaline had liked Haris for quite a while. One of the reasons Adaline joined Coskun Company after graduating from college was because of him. Although her father was another major reason, his presence was also one of the triggers.


    Honestly, ire didn¡¯t expect that one of her closest friends would end up with her future cousin-inw.


    It¡¯s not because Adaline isn¡¯t beautiful. She¡¯s beautiful, very beautiful. Gian was right; Adaline looked like a doll. Her petite figure, lovely face with chubby cheeks, round eyes adorned with golden corneas, framed by thick eyebrows and long eyshes-she truly looked like a teenage doll. Even though she was already in her mid-twenties.


    However, ire also knew that Altezza was interested in the socialite type of women who diligently took care of their beauty-women with curves like a Spanish guitar, with prominent front and back parts. So, she was quite surprised when she saw him bringing Adaline to his engagement event.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s it like? Tell me about the beginning of your rtionship,¡± she softlymanded.


    ¡°You never told me that the man approaching you was Sir Antony,¡± Adaline replied, unwilling to give in so easily.


    ¡°But I told you all the details, even though not with his name.¡± ire smiled meaningfully.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡± That question saved Adaline from having to answer ire¡¯s question. Antony was now sitting on the left side of his fiancee, while Altezza was sitting on Adaline¡¯s right, helping himself to the food on his te without permission.


    ¡°Nothing. I was just asking Adaline about how she first met Altezza,¡± ire replied tly.


    ¡°Are you that curious?¡± This time, Altezza asked. Adaline could feel his breath so close to her ear, with his open cor revealing his neck.


    ¡°Yes,¡± ire replied again. ¡°Does anyone of you want to share? Because I¡¯ve been trying to persuade her since earlier, but she chooses to stay silent.¡± ire looked at Adaline and Altezza alternately with raised and lowered eyebrows.


    ¡°Well, actually, I¡¯m curious too.¡± This time, Gian¡¯s voice chimed in. Adaline nced nervously at ire until the girl chose to lower her gaze.


    ¡°Everyone here knows how ire¡¯s and my story began, so why don¡¯t we hear the beginning of Altezza and Adaline¡¯s tale? Do you all want to hear it?¡± Antony said, and Adaline never expected the CEO, who seemed reserved and expressionless, to be mischievous.


    ¡°Of course, we want to know. Considering this is the first time he¡¯s brought a girl home and introduced her to the family.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that a bit suspicious?¡± Letizia, who had returned after putting their son to bed, now sat in front of her husband, who was embracing her from behind.


    They looked so intimate, the way a loving couple should look. And honestly, it made Adaline jealous.


    ¡°I¡¯m a bit suspicious; perhaps Altezza forced her toe here and asked her to pretend to be his fiancee because Aunt Del kept threatening him,¡± Antony continued, his suspicion making Adaline even more nervous, struggling to swallow her saliva.


    Blushing, Adaline nced shyly at Altezza¡¯s family. The parents chose to sit on beach chairs near the swimming pool, while the sons, daughters, and grandchildren sat on the grass, arranged in a circle with a short barrel filled with firewood as if they were having a bonfire.


    The parents preferred to listen to their children¡¯s conversations rather than actively participate. At least, it made Adaline feel somewhat calm. Somewhat, not entirely calm.


    ¡°So, who wants to tell the story?¡± Gian demanded with an authoritative tone. Adaline didn¡¯t dare to answer; she preferred to remain silent and let Altezza speak because she was afraid of making a mistake.


    ¡°Do you really want to know, huh?¡± Altezza¡¯s voice sounded loud. His question was answered with nods from his family. Suddenly, he edged closer, embracing Adaline from behind, cing his chin on her bare shoulder. ¡°Do you want to tell it, or should I, Madam?¡± he whispered teasingly. His warm breath tickled Adaline¡¯s ear, making her shiver. She didn¡¯t even dare to lift her head because of fear.


    ¡°Don¡¯t show such romantic scenes, Brother. You make me jealous because I¡¯m the only one without a partner tonight,¡± Gian grumbled. ¡°And there are teenagers here who shouldn¡¯t see adult scenes.¡±


    ¡°What are we doing?¡± Altezza wouldn¡¯t back down. Instead, he hugged Adaline tighter, intentionally kissing the curve of her neck, causing Adaline to widen her eyes for a moment. ¡°Letizia and Farhat do scenes like this, and you don¡¯t stop them,¡± he mocked.


    ¡°That¡¯s because they¡¯re husband and wife,¡± Gian retorted.


    Altezza reached for Adaline¡¯s left hand with hisrge left hand, then showed his palm to Gian. ¡°Adaline and I are officially engaged now. And Antony does this to ire.¡± Altezza gently kissed Adaline¡¯s temple, mimicking what Antony did to ire. ¡°You don¡¯t stop them either.¡± A blush reappeared on Adaline¡¯s face, making her bow even lower in embarrassment. She truly felt like a living doll being yed by her master.


    Everyoneughed hearing Gian¡¯s grumble, except for Adaline, who still kept her head down in embarrassment. ¡°That¡¯s why, Uncle, find a partner soon so you won¡¯t disturb other couples¡¯ romance,¡± via, the quiet one, spoke with a mocking tone, causing her father, her future stepmother, and Altezza tough.


    ¡°You dare to mock me, huh?¡± Gian red at his nieces, and via and Abigail responded with nods. ¡°Just because you¡¯re going to have a new mother, you¡¯re getting arrogant.¡± Laughter echoed again. ¡°Be careful; I won¡¯t bring choctes for youter.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay; we¡¯re grown-ups, and chocte isn¡¯t good for our growing bodies,¡± via replied. ¡°Uncle can rece the gifts with cash. Later, we¡¯ll buy what we want ourselves,¡± via added, and Abigail nodded in agreement.


    Gian widened his eyes, looking at his nieces. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be materialistic now.¡± He said, making everyoneugh again.


    ¡°It¡¯s not being materialistic, Brother. It¡¯s just business,¡± Antony defended. Gian snorted.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the story? Don¡¯t try to change the subject,¡± Letizia spoke.

 Part 28

    ¡°Nothing special, we¡¯ve been working in the same office for three years. You can guess for yourselves how we met,¡± Altezza casually answered. He chose to put the food from Adaline¡¯s te into his mouth.


    ¡°Ah, an office romance, it seems. Then, who first said they liked the other?¡± The questioning continued.


    ¡°ording to you?¡± Altezza responded with another question.


    ¡°I know, you were the first one to confess your liking. Your hobby is showering poetic and cheesy lines to all the women,¡± ire replied tly. Letizia and Gian nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Who says?¡± Altezza wouldn¡¯t give in.


    ¡°So, it¡¯s Adaline?¡± Gian looked at Adaline, who returned his gaze with surprise.


    ¡°M-me? What about me?¡± The girl asked in panic.


    ¡°Are you daydreaming, Madam?¡± Altezza whispered in her ear, making Adaline feel ticklish, even throughout her body. Her stomach seemed to be tickled by something she couldn¡¯t identify.


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible. Adaline is shy. Even if she bes a grandma, she might not express her feelings,¡± ire replied again.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­ Is that so?¡± Altezza teased Adaline again with a whisper so soft in her ear. His nose was close to her neck, making the fine hairs on her skin stand on end.


    Inevitably, Adaline swallowed hard out of nervousness.


    ¡°Say that Altezza was the one who expressed his liking to Adaline first because that¡¯s his hobby. Then, among you, whose love is greater?¡± Gian asked again. All eyes squinted towards the couple.


    ¡°What do you think?¡± Once again, Altezza let others guess.


    Altezza had moved his nose from Adaline¡¯s neck and ced his chin on her bare shoulder. His head moved left and right, causing the short hairs on his chin to tickle Adaline once more.


    ¡°For God¡¯s sake, can¡¯t you just answer?¡± Gian started to get annoyed.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a guess?¡± Altezza said casually, pulling Adaline even closer to him.


    Adaline could feel the firm chest of the man on her back, and his strong arms encircled hers. He even intertwined their fingers without intending to let go.


    ¡°In my opinion, it seems like Uncle Altezza is the one chasing Aunt Adaline,¡± Abigail blurted out. All attention now turned to her. The girl just shrugged. ¡°Just look at how he always sticks to Aunt Adaline. It¡¯s like a mouse caught in glue.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t themon phrase ¡®sticking like a stamp¡¯?¡± Gian asked, furrowing his brow.


    ¡°That¡¯s for the old days. Nowadays, it¡¯s different,¡± she answered, not willing to back down. ¡°Anyway, what Uncle needs to do is marry Aunt Adaline as soon as possible before she realizes and leaves you.¡±


    ¡°Why would she leave me?¡± Altezza was now confused. ¡°Are you nning to run away from me, Mrs. Quirino?¡± Altezza lifted Adaline¡¯s chin so that she looked at him. Adaline¡¯s face was now as red as a tomato.


    ¡°N-no,¡± she answered in a panic.


    ¡°Come on, Aunt. Just admit that you intend to leave Uncle Altezza,¡± Abigail said again.


    ¡°Are you wishing bad things for me?¡± Altezza looked at Abigail with annoyance.


    ¡°Not like that, Uncle¡­ I¡¯m just stating the facts. Don¡¯t you see how Aunt Adaline looks ufortable sitting next to you?¡± She honestly spoke.


    Gian apuded. ¡°Finally, now you¡¯re caught. Adaline, just admit it. You¡¯re forced to ept his love, right? Come on, confess.¡±


    ¡°If he forces you, just say it. My arms are open for you. I¡¯ll protect you.¡± Gian stretched out his arms, as if inviting Adaline into his embrace.


    ¡°No way! Go find another woman. Don¡¯t bother my woman. Shameless.¡± Altezza tightened his hug around Adaline without realizing it, while his gaze sharply focused on Gian.


    Altezza¡¯s unintentional actions only made Adaline¡¯s heart beat even faster. Her face became even hotter, and various emotions struggled in her heart, which Adaline herself was confused to ssify.


    The man¡¯s embrace on Adaline¡¯s body never loosened throughout the night. Whether intentional or not, the man¡¯s warm breath often tickled her ear. Even his thumb made circr movements on the back of Adaline¡¯s small hand.


    This was the first time Adaline was close to a man. And everything she did for the first time was with Altezza.


    The man who would be her husband, the father of her child. But Adaline was also aware that everything the man did to her was just acting, so that their families believed they loved each other.


    In reality¡­


    Several hours earlier


    After breakfast, Altezza led her into the room Adaline would use during her stay. He closed and locked the door from the inside.


    ¡°Have you seen my family? They¡¯re not as intimidating as you might think, right?¡± He asked while sitting in the corner of the bed. Adaline just nodded in agreement.


    Yes, she liked his family. They were friendly, kind, and seemed genuine. Especially his mother, Mrs. Del Quirino.


    ¡°I know I¡¯ve been a bit too much. But please, cooperate with me.


    ¡°For the next two days, you might think I¡¯m being impolite. But my entire family knows that I¡¯m a spontaneous person who likes to touch.


    ¡°So ifter I touch you, or even kiss you-not in a vulgar way,¡± he quickly corrected when he saw a blush spreading on Adaline¡¯s face, making her look adorable. ¡°But maybe I¡¯ll kiss you asionally, which I think and they see as something normal for someone in love, then I hope you understand.¡± He paused to let Adalineprehend his meaning.


    On the other hand, Adaline just stayed silent, thinking about the worst-case scenario of what Altezza said. They would touch each other?This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Being close to a man was a new experience for her. What more with physical contact. Would she be able to bear it all?


    And kissing?


    What kind of kiss did he and his family consider normal? So far, the only man who had kissed her was her father. It was just a gentle kiss on her forehead, hair, and both cheeks.


    If it was just that, Adaline could endure. But if it was more than that? Just imagining it made her fine hairs stand on end, and her face turned red.


    ¡°Madam? Are you listening?¡± The man was now crouched in front of her, waving his hand in front of Adaline¡¯s face.


    ¡°W-what?¡± She asked with a confused expression. Altezza smiled, amused by his future wife¡¯s behavior. ¡°Y-yes, I¡¯m listening.¡± She answered, as if waking up from Altezza¡¯s question.


    ¡°So, you don¡¯t mind?¡± Altezza asked again, receiving a nod. ¡°Okay then. Thank you, Madam.¡± The man tousled Adaline¡¯s hair affectionately. ¡°I have some business with Antony;ter we will go together to ire¡¯s ce.¡± Once again, Adaline nodded. Altezza left her in silence.


    shback off


    So, here Adaline was now. Being a puppet willing to ept the touches of the man as agreed upon before. Strangely, every touch Altezza gave her didn¡¯t make her ufortable, but rather made her heart beat with anticipation.

 Part 29

    A week passed just like that. The rtionship between Altezza and Adaline returned to its usual state. No trivial chat messages, as couples in love might exchange. The iing messages only revolved around inquiries, notifications, or greetings from the young man¡¯s parents and also his mother.


    Yes, whether it was him or Altezza, both were merely message intermediaries. Nothing more. Altezza was also upied with a pile of work that he had to finish for Antony¡¯s wedding in two days, which wouldst for three weeks. After the grand celebration, the Quirino extended family nned to go on vacation together.


    Adaline had just returned from her supervisor¡¯s office when Tessa mentioned that her phone kept vibrating in her locked desk drawer. Yes, she always kept her phone on vibrate mode while working. Her mother knew that if Adaline couldn¡¯t be reached on her phone, she would contact her office number, just like Altezza.


    So, if her phone kept vibrating, and there were no calls to her office number, it meant that the important call didn¡¯te from either of them. Adaline sat down and was about to open the drawer when her phone vibrated again. ¡°Hello?¡± she greeted the unknown number.


    ¡°Hello, dear,¡± a woman on the other end responded. ¡°Where have you been? I¡¯ve been trying to reach you several times!¡± The woman grumbled again.


    ¡°Mrs. Quirino?¡± Adaline became nervous after realizing the call was from her prospective mother-inw.


    ¡°Mamma, Adaline. Call me Mamma,¡± the womanmanded firmly. ¡°Yes, Mamma,¡± Adaline stammered. On the other side, Tessa, who saw her nervousness, silently asked ¡®who?¡¯ Adaline shook her head and walked away from her cubicle towards the pantry in the corner of the room.


    ¡°I apologize, Mamma. I just finished a report for my supervisor,¡± she honestly replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s okay. I was just impatient. Initially, I wanted toe to your office, but Altezza prohibited it. I asked him to contact you, but he refused as well. Come here, to Altezza¡¯s office. Mamma is waiting for you here.¡±


    ¡°M-Mamma is here?¡± she asked in panic.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve been here since earlier. I¡¯m bored waiting for Padre and Altezza; they¡¯ve been in a meeting for ages. I wanted to take you out, but Altezza objected, saying it¡¯s unprofessional. How can your future husband behave like that? Come here, dear. Keep mepany before I die of boredom,¡± she cajoled with the sweetest tone she could muster. Adaline bit her fingernail, confused.


    ¡°That¡¯s Mamma¡­ um¡­¡± She wanted toe up with an excuse, but she wasn¡¯t good at lying.


    ¡°Are you also going to be heartless to me? I don¡¯t care; leave your work ande here right now!¡± Hermand was firm, even though spoken in a low tone. ¡°Or else, I¡¯lle downstairs and announce to everyone about¡­¡±


    ¡°Y-yes, Mamma. I¡¯lle upstairs now,¡± she finally replied.


    While Adaline was restless about meeting her prospective mother-inw again, thedy hung up and looked at her only son sitting behind the desk with a challenging gaze. Indeed, Altezza had no meeting whatsoever. He was busy, but not as busy as his mother imed. As for his father, his mother was clearly lying because Mr. Benjamin Quirino was currently nowhere to be seen.


    Altezza had merely declined his mother¡¯s invitation for lunch with Adaline, citing an important lunch with a crucial client. He also refused his mother¡¯s request to summon Adaline to his office, not wanting to raise questions among his subordinates.


    Come on, they had to maintain professionalism, especially since no one in the office knew about their rtionship, and Altezza intended to keep it that way even after they got married.


    But it was his mother¡¯s character to employ various means to get what she wanted. The door to his office was knocked, and they could see through the ss that Adaline was standing outside.


    ¡°Come in!¡± Del Quirino ordered loudly. If they were close, her voice could be ear-piercing.


    Adaline entered, dressed in a bright red chiffon long-sleeved blouse with a knee-length ck pencil skirt. Her long hair was casually tied, as usual. She looked professional and beautiful.


    Adaline was not like most women, or let¡¯s say, not like most employees who usually engage in what women call ¡®touch-up¡¯ to appear more beautiful or refreshed. No, she always presented herself as she was, just like now  a natural face with rosy cheeks due to embarrassment, not because of blush.


    ¡°S-Sir,¡± she stammered, still by the door. Of course, she was surprised because she assumed Altezza was in a meeting with her father. However, he was currently reviewing the report given to him by Duncan.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Darling, I can¡¯t wait to meet you. Come on, let¡¯s go.¡± The grande dame was already standing, grabbing her limited edition bag that matched her outfit. She was ready to take her prospective daughter-inw out.


    ¡°G-go?¡± Adaline looked at Altezza and Duncan in doubt. She herself was unsure if Duncan knew about her rtionship with Altezza. ¡°Go where, Mamma?¡±


    ¡°Anywhere. Lunch, then a little stroll. And yes, there¡¯s something important I need to discuss with you.¡± Adaline¡¯s arm was already nestled in the crook of the grande dame¡¯s elbow.


    ¡°B-but Mamma?¡± She looked at Altezza, seeking help. The man stared at Adaline with a t expression, letting her handle it on her own without any intention to assist.


    ¡°Adaline still has work.¡±


    ¡°So, your work is more important than apanying me, is that it?¡± The grande dame spoke with a petnt and childish attitude. Adaline bit her lower lip, feeling panicked.


    ¡°Mamma, Adaline and I have decided to maintain professionalism at the office. Please respect our decision. What will people say if Adaline is suddenly apanied by the Grande Dame? There will be gossip, Mamma,¡± Altezza finally intervened to help Adaline, feeling sympathetic.


    ¡°And what if they gossip? You do have a real rtionship, don¡¯t you? And you are getting married, right?¡± His mother challenged with a suspicious squint. Her gaze seemed to use, saying, ¡®unless your statement yesterday was just a pretense,¡¯ which made Altezza roll his eyes.


    Adaline grew more panicked, unable to witness the conflict between the mother and son any longer. The Grande Dame with her selfish demeanor and Altezza with his professional stance.


    ¡°Alright, alright. I concede. Mamma can take her out. But you both go separately. Adaline needs to ask for permission from her boss first. Duncan, call Jessica and tell her that Adaline needs to leave early,¡± she ordered Duncan, who responded with a nod. He left the room.


    ¡°B-but Sir. My work?¡±


    ¡°Jessica will handle it. You don¡¯t need to go back to the office. This Grande Dame, when she goes out, might not return until dawn. You just get ready,¡± he said in his usual t tone.


    While the mother grumbled in frustration, she moved to her son¡¯s seat and affectionately kissed both of his cheeks.


    ¡°You are truly my best child,¡± she said, hugging her son with a childish attitude, as if she were a child thankful to her father for buying her a new toy.


    ¡°How many children do you and Padre actually have?¡± Altezza muttered as he released himself from his mother¡¯s embrace.


    Altezza was used to his mother¡¯s spontaneous behavior, so he didn¡¯t feel awkward being kissed or hugged even with others around. That¡¯s why Altezza also grew into a person who ¡®liked to touch,¡¯ as the man had mentioned earlier.


    ¡°Of course, my dear, you are my only beloved child. But if you start misbehaving and not obeying my wishes, I will fire you as my child!¡± she threatened with a menacing gaze.


    Altezza just shrugged nonchntly. Therge-bodied woman turned her attention to Adaline.


    ¡°Okay, dear, I¡¯ll go down first and wait for you in the car. You can grab your bag and say goodbye to go home,¡± she said, reaching for Adaline¡¯s hand and cing it in the crook of her elbow as they left Altezza¡¯s room.


    Before leaving the room, she waved her hand to Duncan, who was about to enter Altezza¡¯s office again.


    They entered the executive¡¯s exclusive lift, allowing Adaline to exit on her floor. Before the lift chimed, the Grande Dame whispered, ¡°Ten minutes,¡± to which Adaline responded with a slow nod.


    Adaline continued walking into her supervisor¡¯s office, ignoring Tessa¡¯s questioning gaze.


    ¡°Come in,¡± her boss said. When she saw who was at the door, a broad smile spread across the face of the woman in her forties, still happily single. ¡°Yes, Miss Scott?¡± she asked with a restrained smile.


    ¡°Um, Ma¡¯am.¡±


    ¡°Yes. Can I help you?¡±


    ¡°Um, it¡¯s¡­ well¡­¡± Laughter echoed in the four by four-meter room.


    ¡°Never mind, I was just kidding. You can go,¡± she said, waving her hand as if shooing Adaline out. ¡°And yes,¡± she added as Adaline was about to open the door. ¡°Don¡¯t forget my wedding invitation!¡± She reminded, and a blush appeared on Adaline¡¯s face. She could only nod quietly and exit the room.


    ¡°Why, Ada? Is there a problem?¡± Tessa asked as she saw Adaline organizing her bag. ¡°You looked panicked when you received that call earlier.¡±


    ¡°Nothing, Tess. I just have to go home early. There¡¯s something I need to attend to,¡± Adaline replied honestly.


    Adaline certainly couldn¡¯t tell Tessa that her prospective mother-inw had already asserted her dominance over the prospective daughter-inw.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, okay? I¡¯m leaving early.¡± She said with a guilty expression. After all, Adaline¡¯s workload would eventually shift to her colleague in the same division.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. But if anything happens, or you need help, just call me, okay?¡± Tessa sincerely requested, and Adaline nodded in response. After that, Adaline left. She couldn¡¯t exceed the ten-minute limit given by her prospective mother-inw.

 Part 30

    They arrived at one of the malls in the city center. A mall with a special design and, of course, filled with outlets of international retail products. Naturally, the prices of items inside were fantastic. For someone like Adaline, the price tags on each item were not within her range. She didn¡¯t even dare to enter the outlets of branded goods that had entered the global market, as it was clear that the price of a single item could reach three to four times Adaline¡¯s sry.


    But, of course, it was different for her future mother-inw. For that woman, amounts in the tens, hundreds, and billions were like small change to Adaline. Not of great value, but very much needed when buying bottled water or paying for public facilities. Adaline¡¯s hands were already filled with paper bags bearing the logos of renowned boutiques. Under the insistence of her future inw, she reluctantly epted new clothes and even sexy sleepwear that was intentionally chosen for her.


    Her future mother-inw even joked about giving dozens more as wedding gifts. Seeing how revealing the sleepwear bought by her future inw was, Adaline couldn¡¯t help but blush as she imagined wearing those clothes on her body.


    Her future inw also bought several sets of work clothes that Adaline herself didn¡¯t dare to touch, considering the price of each piece could have many zeros behind it. Two simple bags with equally fantastic prices were already in her grasp, not to mention the neutral-colored shoes that Adaline could wear to the office and for casual outings. Adaline winced as the ck-colored card continued to rub against the blue-colored machine.


    The red blouse she had on earlier had now been reced with an off-the-shoulder peasant dress in long-sleeves, made of gray Tessalik silk with small butterfly motifs falling just below her knees. Her work shoes had been swapped forfortable ck strap sandals.


    As Adaline emerged from the dressing room, her future mother-inw insisted that she should wear it right away. Adaline couldn¡¯t refuse; she simplyplied as the boutique attendants packed her work clothes into a paper bag.


    Before dinner, Mrs. Quirino  invited her to one of the Japanese restaurants on one of the mall¡¯s floors. What surprised her was the presence of Altezza, sitting next to a woman with fair skin, ck hair, and narrow eyes whom Adaline suspected truly had Japanese blood.


    They were unaware of Adaline and Mrs. Quirino ¡®s presence, engrossed in looking at the MacBook screen in front of them. Somehow, her future mother-inw chose to sit at an empty table right next to Altezza¡¯s.


    Duncan, Altezza¡¯s assistant, seemed quite surprised by Mrs. Quirino ¡®s sudden appearance. However, he quickly hid his astonishment. The polite greeting was met with a wave from Mrs. Quirino .


    ¡°What would you like to order, dear?¡± Mrs. Quirino  asked, examining the menu.


    Adaline surrendered everything to her future mother-inw, who eventually ordered the Wagyu Steak With Mushroom Sauce set with sd and lemon tea as their drinkpanion. She also requested Gto and Banana Split as desserts to be served after they finished their meal.


    Even after they had ordered the food and the waiter left, Altezza still hadn¡¯t noticed the presence of his mother and was busy with the screen in front of him. The Japanese-blooded woman seemed unwilling to create distance between their bodies, as she continued to stick close to Altezza¡¯s arm. Despite Duncan giving subtle hints with a few soft coughs, the man never turned.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Ten minutester, the food was served in front of them. ¡°I¡¯m really hungry,¡± the woman in front of Adaline eximed, looking at the meat menu in front of her with hungry eyes. Fortunately, drool didn¡¯t drip from her mouth, adorned with vibrant red lipstick that hadn¡¯t faded since they met earlier in the day.


    She took a bite and disyed a pleased expression on her face as the taste satisfied her pte. ¡°A date in a ce like this seems fun, right, dear?¡± She spoke again with a loud tone, causing some people around their table to turn, except for Altezza. ¡°Look, isn¡¯t it nice to be fed by your partner like that?¡± She nodded towards a couple feeding each other. ¡°If only I were still young, I would ask Padre to do something romantic like that. Unfortunately, my husband is not the romantic type. I don¡¯t know if his son is a romantic type or not.¡± She emphasized the word ¡®son¡¯ with a tone higher than necessary.


    ¡°M-Mom¡­¡± Adaline interjected, feeling uneasy.


    ¡°Be honest with me. Is ¡®Altezza¡¯ a typical romantic guy, or is he indifferent and cold?¡± Thedy mentioned her son¡¯s name with a higher tone, her eyes ncing toward the table where Altezza was sitting. Apparently, the middle-aged woman¡¯s voice managed to disturb the name¡¯s owner because Altezza lifted his head, turned it in their direction, and then widened his eyes in surprise upon seeing the presence of his mother and fiancee.


    ¡°Finally, he realizes our presence. Even though it¡¯s been half an hour since we sat here,¡± said thedy with a sarcastic tone, but she continued to feed herself.


    ¡°Mamma? Adaline?¡± The man furrowed his brow in confusion.


    ¡°Yes! It¡¯s me, your mother. Unless you have a new mother, then I¡¯m not your mother anymore,¡± continued Mrs. Del, still with a sarcastic tone. However, when she looked at Adaline, her expression softened.


    ¡°So, is that boy romantic?¡± She asked again, more casually and less exaggerated than before. Adaline remained silent. ¡°He¡¯s not romantic at all?¡± Mrs. Del answered her own question, shaking her head with a sad expression. ¡°It¡¯s okay, don¡¯t be sad. If you want a romantic guy, I¡¯ll introduce you to someone else.¡± The woman made Altezza look at Adaline and his mother alternately with furrowed eyebrows. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I don¡¯t mind if you don¡¯t end up with my son. As long as you¡¯re willing to be my adopted daughter, I¡¯m grateful.¡± She continued and fed the steak into her mouth again.


    ¡°What does Mamma mean by this?¡± Altezza¡¯s voice sounded displeased. His attention was now fully on his mother and fiancee. His body even turnedpletely toward his mother, ignoring his client¡¯s questioning face.


    ¡°What does it mean, huh?¡± Mrs. Del asked back with a raised eyebrow, acting as if she didn¡¯t understand. ¡°You¡¯re in the middle of a business deal with a client, it¡¯s rude to leave your client hanging.¡± Thedy smiled very sweetly at Altezza¡¯s client, who was now looking at Altezza and his mother alternately.


    ¡°Sorry, Yuri. She¡¯s my mother, Del. And this beautiful one, she is my fiancee. Adaline. Mamma, Adaline, this is my business associate from Japan, Yuriko Hideo,¡± the man introduced.


    Both Adaline and Mrs. Quirino  could see surprise and disappointment shadowing Yuriko¡¯s beautiful face before she could neutralize her expression and extend her hand. Truly a woman with high professionalism.


    ¡°I am Yuriko. Nice to meet you,¡± she said somewhat hesitantly. ¡°You are very beautiful, Madam. And also you, Miss,¡± she added after a few seconds.


    ¡°You are also beautiful, Miss, or Madam?¡± replied the mother with a raised eyebrow.


    ¡°Miss. I am still single,¡± the woman replied.


    ¡°Oh, Miss Yuriko. In that case, please continue with your meeting. I don¡¯t want my presence and my ¡®daughter-inw¡¯ to disturb you.¡± Mrs. Quirino  smiled warmly.


    Yuriko nodded in response, but Altezza narrowed his eyes, looking at his mother with a sharp gaze before turning back and continuing his presentation.


    ¡°So, back to my earlier question, dear. Is he romantic?¡±

 Part 31

    Honestly, from what I¡¯ve observed, despite all his talk, he doesn¡¯t seem romantic at all. Antony, on the other hand, seems more romantic, even though he can be as cold as an ice block.¡± Her mother¡¯s words made Altezza shoot her a sharp look. ¡°But Antony already has ire. And I really like ire too. So, Antony is out of the question for you.¡± She continued with a sad expression, but changed to cheerful in the next moment. ¡°But Gian, even though he seems carefree, when he¡¯s serious about work, he¡¯s the romantic type. And I know he¡¯s also the type who appreciates younger women.


    ¡°And about age, Gian is right, he suits you better since you¡¯re still young.¡± Mrs. Quirino  continued in a t tone, ignoring Altezza, who had tensed up in his position.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about my son; he can find another woman. He says finding a girl is easy, just hold a contest or randomly pick a woman off the street; it¡¯s easy for him. He says many women want to be with him.


    ¡°So, how about it? Do you want Gian?¡± She asked again, making Adaline ufortable. ¡°After all, Gian is quite handsome too. Even though he¡¯s on a lower level than Antony and Altezza.¡±


    ¡°Mamma! Enough!¡± Altezza grumbled beside her. He truly ignored Yuriko sitting next to him and Duncan, who seemed to be holding backughter. ¡°Don¡¯t try to matchmake Adaline with that troublesome guy again.¡±


    ¡°Why not? Gian is single, and Adaline can also be considered single since you haven¡¯t tied the knot yet. I¡¯d prefer Adaline to live with a man who can worship her like a queen, rather than living with a man who prioritizes work and prefers to stroke his tablet than his wife.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that right, Duncan? Miss Yuriko?¡± His mother looked at her son¡¯s secretary and business associate alternately. ¡°ording to Miss Yuriko, which is better? A workaholic or a man who prioritizes his wife?¡± Mrs. Quirino ¡®s attention was now fully focused on her son¡¯s guest.


    ¡°Of course, to a man who prioritizes his wife,¡± Yuriko replied briefly.


    ¡°See, even Miss Yuriko prefers a man who prioritizes his wife. Especially me. I don¡¯t want my daughter to be treated as second best.¡± Mrs. Quirino  returned to her point. Because she saw Altezza still looking in her direction, thedy turned her gaze back to her son. ¡°Why are you looking at your mother like that? Continue your work. I already said I don¡¯t want to disturb you.¡±


    ¡°But Mamma¡¯s presence is disturbing,¡± Altezza replied irritably.


    ¡°Oh, oh, oh. This is a public ce, dear. Outside the door, it only says ¡®Open,¡¯ and the doormat says ¡®wee.¡¯ There¡¯s no sign that says ¡®Altezza¡¯s mother not allowed to enter¡¯! You¡¯re such a confused child.¡± Mrs. Quirino continued to feed herself.


    Altezza took a deep breath and seemed to calm himself. His annoyed expression was clearly visible.


    ¡°Come on, dear, eat more. If necessary, order more.¡± Mrs. Quirino said when she noticed Adaline was just staring with a fork in her hand.


    Adaline was quite surprised by the interaction between the mother and son. But what could she say; she could only y her role as a spectator.


    ¡°So, how about it? Do you want Gian?¡± Once again, the question came out of Mrs. Quirino ¡®s mouth.


    ¡°Yuriko, I think that¡¯s enough. If there are corrections needed, we can discuss them at the officeter,¡± Adaline heard her fiance speak quietly beside her.


    ¡°But¡­¡± Yuriko seemed to want to reject that suggestion.


    ¡°Sorry, I have urgent matters to attend to,¡± replied Altezza calmly. ¡°Or you can talk to Duncan. He also knows about this project.¡± The man turned off his MacBook and ced it in the expensive leather bag next to him. After that, Altezza shifted positions and sat beside Adaline. The girl involuntarily widened her eyes, while Mrs. Quirino  smirked in her direction.


    shback:


    ¡°Darling, where are you going? You already look so beautiful this morning.¡± Benjamin gazed at his wife, who was applying vibrant red lipstick to her lips.


    ¡°I¡¯m going out for lunch, dear,¡± replied his wife as she put the lipstick into her small handbag. Benjamin nced at his watch.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Having lunch at this hour, dear? It¡¯s only ten o¡¯clock. Breakfast is still in the middle of your stomach, not yet down below,¡± teased Benjamin. His wife sighed and turned towards her husband, who, despite being sixty-two, still looked so athletic and handsome. Unlike herself, who had be plump and irregr, although her face still appeared youthful and beautiful.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to meet our potential daughter-inw,¡± she answered.


    ¡°Adaline?¡±


    ¡°How many children do you think you have?¡± she replied sarcastically. Her husband only responded with a smile.


    ¡°What do you want from Adaline? It seems like you don¡¯t even know Altezza¡¯s character. He doesn¡¯t like household matters brought to the office.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but I¡¯m a bit annoyed with our son. And his rtionship with Adaline seems suspicious. If you allow me to use your subordinates to investigate their rtionship, I don¡¯t need to bother getting involved.¡±


    This meant that Mrs. Del Quirino wanted her husband to hire a private detective to investigate Adaline and her family. However, Mr. Benjamin Quirino did not agree with it. Although secretly he had already fulfilled his wife¡¯s wish and obtained results. But he didn¡¯t want his wife to know and feel more disappointed about the facts that their son was involved in.


    ¡°Darling, Altezza is an adult now. Let him make his choices,¡± replied Benjamin wisely. However, his wife shook her head in response.


    ¡°Darling, I have never forbidden Altezza from anyone. But this time, I feel something is wrong,¡± she said coldly. ¡°No, dear!¡± Mrs. Del¡¯s chubby finger pressed against her husband¡¯s lips, silencing him. ¡°You won¡¯t be able to change my mind. This time, I don¡¯t want our son to be hurt and mistreated by a woman again.¡± Mrs. Del responded fervently. ¡°Even until now, I still can¡¯t forgive that woman. Just imagine, their rtionship has been going on for five years, and she still hasn¡¯t fulfilled our son¡¯s wishes. What does she think Altezza is?


    ¡°Does she seek something outside?


    ¡°Career?


    ¡°Our child is not a petty person who will hinder the dreams of the woman he loves, but that woman is shameless and never fulfills our son¡¯s dreams. While our son always fulfills her wishes.


    ¡°Money?


    ¡°Do we not have enough wealth? I¡¯m sure Altezza would give her all his inheritance if she asked for it.


    ¡°But what is the response? Once again, she leaves our child. I¡¯m heartbroken. I don¡¯t want our child to be hurt again.¡±


    ¡°So, what do you want now?¡± Mr. Benjamin asked softly.


    ¡°I know there¡¯s something between Altezza and Adaline. My heart tells me so. And you know that my intuition is strong, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, and then?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure their rtionship is fake.¡± The middle-aged woman said with narrowed eyes. ¡°I will make that fake rtionship real. I believe Altezza can fall in love again, and I¡¯m also sure that Adaline can be enchanted by Altezza. I just need to intervene.¡±


    ¡°Darling¡­¡± Benjamin interjected once again, but his wife¡¯s strong determination could not be easily shaken. ¡°Alright, do as you wish.¡± Benjamin conceded.


    He actually wanted to tell his wife about their son¡¯s n, but he didn¡¯t want World War IV in their home. So Benjamin decided to stay silent and let his wife carry out whatever strange n was in her head.


    shback Off

 Part 32

    ¡°So what do you want?¡± The man¡¯s attention was now fully on his mother. He reached for Adaline¡¯s hand, holding a spoonful of ice cream, and guided it towards her mouth. It seemed normal, but caused Adaline¡¯s cheeks to blush instantly.


    ¡°Did I say I wanted something from you?¡± Del Quirino asked with a feigned puzzled expression. Altezza rolled his eyes.


    ¡°Earlier Mom said Adaline would be better off choosing Gian over me. What do you mean by saying that?¡± Her son asked, annoyed.


    ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t mean anything. I just want what¡¯s best for Adaline.¡±


    ¡°So you think I¡¯m not good for Adaline?¡± Her son¡¯s question was only answered with a shrug. ¡°Actually, whose child is she? Mine, or Gian¡¯s?¡±


    ¡°Well, if I could choose, I¡¯d want Adaline as my child,¡± the middle-aged woman reached for Adaline¡¯s free hand, sping it with both of hers. Her aging face looked at Adaline with hope. ¡°You don¡¯t mind, darling, being my child, do you?¡± Adaline could only smile.


    Altezza let go of his mother¡¯s hand, gripping it back firmly. ¡°Your child is me, and I¡¯m the one who¡¯ll make Adaline your child too. If Adaline marries Gian, she won¡¯t be your child.¡±


    Del Quirino forcefully pushed Altezza¡¯s hand away. ¡°Fine. I can adopt her and make her my foster child. Simple, right?¡±


    ¡°Mamma!¡± The shout made people around turn their heads. Even Yuriko, who had remained silent, nced at them.


    ¡°It¡¯s not my fault for pushing her with Gian. It¡¯s your fault because until now your rtionship hasn¡¯t progressed. When will you introduce me to Adaline¡¯s parents?¡±


    ¡°When are you two going to get officially engaged? Although honestly, what I want is for you to just get married right away because it seems like your rtionship so far isn¡¯t serious and seems like a joke.¡±


    ¡°Mamma, my rtionship with Adaline isn¡¯t a joke.¡± Altezza grabbed Adaline¡¯s left hand and showed his engagement ring to his mother. ¡°Look, I¡¯ve already proposed to Adaline directly to her mother even though we haven¡¯t officially engaged. Not every man would be as bold as I am.¡±


    Mrs. Del snorted. ¡°Well, that¡¯s just ording to you. But for me, a typical old-fashioned parent, you¡¯ll only be considered serious when you bring your parents to Adaline¡¯s house,¡± she retorted.


    ¡°Yeah, I know that too. I¡¯m just waiting for the right time.¡±


    ¡°The right time for what? Your father and I are the mostid-back unemployed people in the world. Whose right time are you waiting for? Remember, you¡¯re already old. Still want to wait?¡±


    ¡°So, what do you want, Mamma?¡±


    ¡°I want you to get engaged tomorrow and get married officially a weekter,¡± she replied casually.


    ¡°What?!¡±


    ¡°W-What?!¡±


    Two words spoken simultaneously by the two prospective spouses.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to, then forget it,¡± Mrs. Del replied with pursed lips and a shrug of her shoulders.


    ¡°Not like that, Mamma. It¡¯s fine if we get engaged tomorrow. But getting married within a week? What will people say?¡±


    ¡°What will people say? That you¡¯re pregnant? So what? It¡¯s not a big deal nowadays. Besides, why should we care? Eventually, their mouths will stop running on their own.


    ¡°If Adaline gets pregnant first, I¡¯ll be even happier. At least I won¡¯t have to wait for you to impregnate her.¡±


    ¡°Mamma?!¡± This time both prospective spouses eximed in unison.


    Mrs. Del waved her hand dismissively in front of her face. ¡°Yes, yes. I¡¯m just kidding. It¡¯s your own fault for not being able to move fast. I¡¯m getting impatient just looking at it.¡±


    ¡°Mamma, do you forget that Altezza will be getting married in three weeks? If I get married within a week, wouldn¡¯t that mean I¡¯m stepping ahead of him?¡± Altezza reminded.


    ¡°So what? What¡¯s the problem? You¡¯re not stepping ahead of him as an elder brother because Antony has been married before.¡±


    ¡°But Mamma¡­¡± Altezza still tried to persuade. ¡°What about hurting his feelings and Aunt Brianna?¡±Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Brianna won¡¯t mind that. She¡¯ll actually be happy if you get married first. Getting married soon, that¡¯s all I demand. Yes, or not at all, dear.¡± His mother ended firmly. Adaline looked stunned at her future mother-inw.


    Truly, the apple doesn¡¯t fall far from the tree. Now she knew where Altezza¡¯s traits came from.


    ¡°Okay!¡± Altezza raised both his hands in surrender. ¡°Altezza follows your will!¡± He replied irritably, ultimately grabbing Adaline¡¯s ice cream bowl and finishing it off.


    The next day, Adaline¡¯s house was inplete chaos. Her mother and aunt were in a state of panic upon hearing the sudden announcement from Adaline that Altezza and his family woulde to formally propose to her.


    ¡°Why so soon, Ada?¡± her mother asked when Adaline broke the news the night after the conversation between Del and Altezza took ce. ¡°I can¡¯t prepare this quickly. I need to inform the neighbors and ask for their help and¡­¡±


    ¡°Mom, Auntie, just rx.¡± Altezza, who had escorted Adaline home that night, tried to reassure his future mother-inw. ¡°Everything will be taken care of by me. You and Auntie just need to prepare yourselves.¡± He replied with a mischievous smile on his face.


    And the next morning, exactly at seven o¡¯clock, what Altezza meant finally became clear to Adaline¡¯s mother and aunt.


    The people from the event organizingpany hired by Altezza suddenly knocked on the door of the house with all their equipment, and amazingly, it didn¡¯t take them long to set up a luxurious tent in Adaline¡¯s modest yard. Under the previously messy tent with metal support poles, now reced by neatly arranged guest chairs covered in beautiful fabric.


    Not only that, they also transformed the living room and family room of Adaline¡¯s house into something beautiful with bride and groom chairs and some other luxurious decorations. The buffet table was also being arranged meticulously. Adaline felt overwhelmed seeing it all, while her mother and aunt were speechless. Even when the designer-made traditional attire arrived at their doorstep through a delivery from Altezza¡¯s family driver, they could only stare in awe without uttering a word.


    And precisely at eleven o¡¯clock, three women knocked on the door again, saying they were sent by Altezza¡¯s family to do the makeup for Adaline and her family.


    Why go through the trouble of sending and paying for three makeup artists for three people when they could have just hired one to do it all?


    Is Altezza¡¯s family always this extravagant?


    But once again, Adaline could only ept, unable toment.


    After her makeup was done, Adaline chose to sit alone in her room, feeling nervous. She was restless, especially when she looked out the window and saw her neighbors gathering in front of her house-like gossip-hungry reporters-whispering and pointing towards her house, undoubtedly discussing her and her family.


    In her mind, Adaline suspected that her neighbors must think there¡¯s a wedding happening here. And her worst fear was that they would make many negative assumptions about the reasons for this sudden marriage.


    Unfortunately, their thoughts were wrong. Because this wasn¡¯t a wedding. And this was happening quickly not because there were negative reasons supporting it. It was all happening because of her future mother-inw¡¯s impatience.


    Adaline sighed deeply and let it out slowly. She retreated back to her bed, sitting there and recalling the conversation with Altezza when they returned from the mallst night.

 Part 33

    shback on:


    ¡°I sincerely apologize for my mother¡¯s impulsive actions. Actually, I nned to have an engagement ceremony next week after I returned from my business in Japan.


    ¡°You saw Yuriko earlier, right?¡± Adaline nodded. ¡°She¡¯s my business partner. She asked me to design a newyout for renovating an old warehouse she wants to turn into a shelter.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been working together for quite some time, and I feel embarrassed to refuse her request. Considering the Hideo family has been coborating with Coskun Company and Quirino Corp. But my mom just caused chaos,¡± he said, exasperatedly, at the end of his sentence.


    ¡°And my n was also to get married a week after Antony¡¯s wedding, so our families would still be here altogether. So they wouldn¡¯t have to bothering and going. But once again, Mom ruined the n I carefully made,¡± heined again.


    ¡°What about Sir Antony? Will he be angry?¡±


    Altezza shook his head. The man chuckled instead, as if they were discussing something funny. ¡°Antony won¡¯t be angry, neither will Aunt Brianna. They¡¯ll fully support our marriage even if it means surpassing their ns. But honestly, the one-week timeline my mom requested is very short.


    ¡°Although nothing is impossible, what about your friends? They might not be able to attend our wedding if it¡¯s made suddenly like this.¡±


    Adaline widened her eyes. She didn¡¯t expect Altezza to think about everything in such detail. Wasn¡¯t their marriage going to be temporary anyway? Why bother celebrating it and even inviting Adaline¡¯s friends?


    ¡°Why not? I mean, what kind of celebration do you want to have?¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Well, certainly not as simple as the weddings in TV movies, Mrs. I¡¯m the only child in my family, just like you. I don¡¯t want to just get married at the civil registry.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ but¡­¡± Adaline was confused because previously she thought her marriage would be as simple as possible. Considering the possibility that they would part ways someday.


    ¡°Even though there¡¯s a written agreement between us, I want everything to proceed as it should. I want everything to be legally and religiously official.


    ¡°To get married like ordinary couples, even if there¡¯s no love. Or maybe love hasn¡¯t happened yet. But it¡¯s not impossible that tomorrow or the day after I¡¯ll fall head over heels for you, isn¡¯t that right?¡± His teasing made Adaline¡¯s face blush instantly.


    ¡°Basically, I just don¡¯t want people to think this is a sham marriage. Especially Mom.


    ¡°And I assure you, Mrs. Adaline Quirino, that I¡¯m doing all of this sincerely. So, don¡¯t worry about tomorrow. My people will take care of everything. You, Mom, and Auntie just need to sleep soundly and look beautiful tomorrow,¡± he concluded.


    shback off


    And now, here Adaline was, waiting for her prospective husband and his family with a heart pounding so loud from nervousness.


    Adaline walked back to her bedroom window. Peeking from behind the curtains and observing the procession arriving at her house just like the one during ire¡¯s engagement. Except this time, Adaline could see Duncan among the stunning group of people. She could even see the expressions of the neighbors who were amazed when they saw the wealthy family with their handsome facesing out of the car.


    Adaline herself didn¡¯t know who had invited the local officials in her neighborhood. She didn¡¯t even know that some close neighbors were invited for a feast as well. She truly left all those matters to Altezza, as the man had promised.


    And now, the two officials appeared neatly dressed alongside their wives, ready to wee Altezza and his family. Adaline was surprised to hear the loudspeaker¡¯s voice weing Altezza and his family with enthusiasm-arge speaker that she didn¡¯t know where it was ced or when it was set up.


    Once again, Adaline sighed deeply. When Altezza looked in her direction-somehow knowing where she was-and smiled at her, Adaline felt her chest tighten instantly. She chose to descend and hide in her mother¡¯s room before the guests entered.


    The entourage entered her rather small house. The weing remarks from Altezza¡¯s family were represented by his uncle, Arthur Quirino, while Adaline¡¯s family was represented by the official as an honored guest.


    Next, Altezza¡¯s family presented gifts to her family, which were received by her aunt and the official¡¯s wife. During this procession, Adaline sat alone in her mother¡¯s room, nervously biting her nails. Her view was obstructed by a decorative flower partition covering the back of the bridal chair.


    After the exchange of gifts, they immediately dered the purpose of their visit: to propose to Adaline. When the host called her name toe out, the makeup artists who had previously helped her became her escorts, leading her out of the room, nking her on the left and right.


    Adaline sat beside her mother, bowing her head in embarrassment. She was truly ashamed. Her heart wouldn¡¯t stop pounding, and her hands were starting to sweat cold. She knew that everyone¡¯s attention was now focused on her, and because of that, she felt conflicted.


    She nced up momentarily when someone cleared their throat using the microphone. And at that moment, she saw Altezza smiling at her with a gaze that Adaline found difficult to interpret.


    Altezza took a deep breath again. ¡°Miss Adaline Scott. The beloved daughter of your parents. Today, I, Altezza Quirino, apanied by my family as witnesses, havee here with the intention of proposing to you.


    ¡°Would you, Miss Adaline Scott, be willing to be my wife? To be the mother of my children. To be the grandmother of my grandchildren. And so forth, to be with me until death do us part?¡±


    There was not a single word containing doubt. Altezza spoke each word with firmness and sincerity.


    Although they knew how this started and didn¡¯t know how this story would end. But they had both promised themselves that they would do all of this with sincerity. At least that was the oath they pledged in their hearts, even though they didn¡¯t know each other¡¯s feelings.


    Silence hung for a few seconds. A mic was now in front of Adaline, held by a makeup artist. Adaline sighed deeply again, trying to calm her racing heart that was making her chest tighten.


    ¡°Sir Altezza Quirino, I happily answer ¡®Yes¡¯.¡± Adaline replied earnestly, which was ultimately appreciated by the guests present.


    And for Adaline, everything happened so quickly.


    Altezza gave her a new set of diamond jewelry as an engagement gift. And people hugged each other as a sign of gratitude for the union of two souls before them. The man even kissed her forehead briefly after cing a ne around her neck.


    Next, they took turns taking photos. The euphoria made Adaline feel happy yet sad at the same time.


    Happy to see her mother and aunt happy, and to have a new family. But she also felt sad because her father was no longer with her. And of course, she also felt sad about their uncertain future.


    Yes, this marriage didn¡¯t stem from love. And she herself wasn¡¯t sure, like Altezza, if love would develop between them.


    A loud voice from someone snapped Adaline out of her reverie. ¡°Anne, I forgot something.¡± And unavoidably, for the first time that day, Adalineughed.


    ¡°You look beautiful,¡± a whisper made Adaline turn to the handsome man with golden eyes beside her. ¡°Very beautiful,¡± he praised again. ¡°Thank you, and sorry for everything,¡± he said with a sad face. Adaline could only smile in response.


    Unbeknownst to them, someone captured the moment of their gaze with their phone.

 Part 34

    The next day, as the man had previously stated, Altezza flew to Japan for a week, and he promised to return at most a day before the wedding. Of course, with his assistant, Duncan.


    At first, the man¡¯s mother was about to get angry because she thought that at such a time, Altezza should stay at home, taking care of his health before the wedding. However, the man med his mother for disrupting his ns. Finally, the mother relented, but with the condition that Altezza must return as soon as possible. The man agreed with a nod.


    Meanwhile, Adaline continued to work as usual and acted as if nothing had happened over the past weekend. Even when her mother asked her to take time off, Adaline refused. She thought she would be bored if she stayed at home all day. Besides, she wouldn¡¯t see Altezza at work either. So, she believed her mother¡¯s seclusion still continued.


    ¡°It¡¯s nice to be the boss¡¯s assistant,¡± Tessa said as they were having dinner together. They chose to go to a cafe far from the office. The girl seemed to be paying attention to her phone, asionally sliding her finger left and right on the screen.


    Adaline was sure the girl was looking at her boyfriend¡¯s posts, who was now in Japan with Altezza. Or perhaps she was waiting for Duncan to give her news?


    ¡°Nice or not, Ta? Isn¡¯t Duncan oftenining about you too?¡± Adaline replied tly, ncing at her own phone, which had been ck all this time.


    Would Altezza be happy to contact her? Adaline shook her head at the question that crossed her mind. Their rtionship wasn¡¯t that intimate.


    ¡°Yeah, I know, but hisints match the sry he gets. Plus, the bonus of trips abroad. If only my brain were as smart as Duncan¡¯s,¡± sheined again, making Adaline smile.


    It felt funny to watch other people¡¯s love stories.


    Adaline often observes Duncan and Tessa¡¯s interactions. When they¡¯re intoxicated with love, when they argue, and when they make up. It¡¯s like watching a teenage romance drama.


    As for her own love story? Can her rtionship with Altezza even be called a love story? Adaline grimaced.


    As an engaged couple, shouldn¡¯t they be in a passionate mood right now? Flirting with each other. Sending cheesy messages and lots of expressions of longing?


    Or maybe just asking how each other is, if everything¡¯s okay? But for this strange rtionship between Altezza and Adaline, that never happens.


    It¡¯s indeed sad, but that¡¯s the reality of the situation.


    Even knowing that the man had safely arrived in Japan, Adaline had to hear it from Tessa. Because the girl willingly told her without Adaline having to ask.


    And now, seeing her only close friend at thepany, Adaline felt troubled. Unsure whether she should talk about her wedding or not.


    On one hand, she felt hesitant, on the other hand, she didn¡¯t want her friend to feel hurt because Adaline didn¡¯t tell her, or worse, make her angry if she found out from someone else someday.


    ¡°Tess¡­¡± She said hesitantly.


    The girl shifted her gaze from her phone, which she had been holding onto. Deliberately flipping her phone roughly before focusing her attention on Adaline.


    ¡°There¡¯s something I want to tell you, but it¡¯s a secret,¡± Adaline whispered softly. Tessa frowned with curiosity. ¡°Please don¡¯t shout,¡± she quietly pleaded. Tessa nodded in agreement. ¡°Actually¡­¡± Now it was Adaline who lowered her head, unsure.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Ada? Don¡¯t leave me hanging like this,¡± Tessa pouted.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll be mad at me and Duncan,¡± Adaline answered still in a soft voice.


    Tessa began to look at her suspiciously. Slowly her eyes widened, and her mouth opened wide. ¡°You¡­¡± She pointed at Adaline. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re cheating on me with Duncan behind my back,¡± she snapped with restrained anger.


    Adaline¡¯s eyes widened in shock at Tessa¡¯s usation. She shook her head awkwardly, waving both hands in front of Tessa¡¯s face. ¡°Oh my God, Tessa. What kind of thought is that?¡± she panicked. Tessa breathed a sigh of relief, but then her eyes narrowed suspiciously.


    ¡°Then why did you mention Duncan?¡± she asked sarcastically.


    ¡°It¡¯s because whatever I¡¯m about to talk about, only Duncan knows in this office,¡± Adaline whispered.


    ¡°Only Duncan?¡± She asked, probing. Adaline nodded. ¡°What is it? Tell me, if you don¡¯t want to say it, I swear I won¡¯t be your friend anymore.¡±


    Adaline bit her lip, squeezing her hands together. ¡°Um¡­ It¡¯s¡­ um¡­¡± She was truly terrified and nervous facing Tessa¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Adaline! Don¡¯t beat around the bush!¡± she ordered sharply.


    Adaline looked up, looking at Tessa. ¡°I¡¯m getting married!¡± Adaline blurted out in one breath. Tessa was stunned.


    ¡°What?!¡± She eximed loudly, causing people nearby to turn their heads. The girl cupped her hands and silently apologized. ¡°Say it again! I didn¡¯t mishear, did I? You¡¯re getting married?¡± she asked, shaking Adaline¡¯s arms. Adaline answered her friend¡¯s question with a nod.


    ¡°I¡¯m the one with a boyfriend, why are you, the single one, getting married?¡± The girl sighed sadly. Adaline looked back at Tessa with a guilty expression.


    ¡°How could this happen? When? Where? With whom? Do I know this guy?¡± She fired off questions one after another. ¡°When did you start dating? Why wasn¡¯t I informed? Don¡¯t you consider me your friend?¡± She continued with a fiery tone, her face showing more disappointment.


    Adaline nced around, hoping no one knew them and heard their conversation here. The girl lowered her head. Her voice sounded soft as she answered. ¡°I wanted to tell you this for a long time, but I was embarrassed. I¡¯m sorry¡­¡±


    Tessa still stared at her sharply. She leaned back against the chair¡¯s backrest. Folding her arms in front of her chest without taking her eyes off Adaline. ¡°Okay, fine. I forgive you. But answer my questions. When are you getting married?¡±


    ¡°This Sunday,¡± Adaline¡¯s answer made Tessa sit up straight again.


    ¡°What?! So soon? Adaline, you¡¯re really tough on me. How could you do all this to me? Are you nning to get married secretly?


    ¡°But wait-wait..¡± she squinted at Adaline. ¡°You¡¯re not pregnant, are you?¡±


    ¡°For God¡¯s sake, Tessa. No.¡± Adaline said firmly before her face turned red. ¡°I¡¯m still a virgin.¡± She whispered very softly.


    Tessa leaned back again. ¡°Okay then. So why are you telling me now? Wedding preparations usually take months. But why are you telling me now? Less than a week before the wedding?¡±


    ¡°This is all sudden, Tess. I swear. I never expected it to happen this quickly. And everything is arranged by the groom¡¯s family.¡±


    ¡°But what¡¯s the reason everything is so sudden like this? Is he forcing you to marry? Do you have debts? How much? Don¡¯t let yourself be forced into marriage if you don¡¯t love your future husband.


    ¡°Even those who marry for love often falter along the way, let alone if they marry without love,¡± the girl protested.


    Forced into marriage? Having debts? A fiance she doesn¡¯t love? All of Tessa¡¯s usatory questions had a ¡®Yes¡¯ answer. And it made Adaline wonder if her friend had a sixth sense.


    ¡°Hello?! Don¡¯t daydream at a critical moment like this,¡± she snorted.


    ¡°I¡¯m not being forced into marriage,¡± Adaline lied. But maybe the timing was deliberately sped up. Her engagement just happenedst Saturday.¡±


    Once again, Tessa was taken aback. ¡°What? Seriously?¡± She asked again, answered by Adaline¡¯s nod. ¡°Who¡¯s the groom? And what¡¯s his rtionship with Duncan?¡±


    ¡°That¡­ My future husband is¡­ he¡­¡± Adaline twisted her fingers hesitantly. ¡°Duncan¡¯s boss¡­¡± She whispered softly.


    Tessa squinted and sharpened her ears. The girl in front of her was speaking too softly. ¡°Adaline, speak louder. I can¡¯t hear what you¡¯re saying. Who¡¯s your future husband?¡±


    ¡°Duncan¡¯s boss,¡± Adaline answered a level louder than before, but still audible to Tessa.


    ¡°What?!¡± Once again, Tessa eximed, making others turn to look at her. And once again, she apologized. ¡°You¡¯re really something, Ada! Are you kidding? Not funny at all.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not kidding, Tessa. You can ask Duncan about it. He was there when we got engaged,¡± Adaline squeaked in fear.


    ¡°So¡­ when he said he had work-rted matters with his bossst weekend, he was actually escorting his boss to your house?¡± Adaline nodded. ¡°He became your witness for the proposal?¡± Adaline nodded again. ¡°Damn¡­¡± Tessa grumbled angrily. ¡°You two really did me dirty.¡± Tessa fanned her face with her hand. She drank her water in one gulp and then looked back at Adaline. ¡°Since when? Since when have you two been involved?¡±


    ¡°That¡­¡±


    ¡°Was it when we had lunch at the cafe that day that you were already together?¡± She asked, once again answered with a nod. ¡°No wonder Duncan suddenly asked to have lunch together. He never did that before. What¡¯s even weirder, he came with the boss. So you were the reason.¡± She said somewhat cynically, her gaze using Adaline.


    Then suddenly the girl widened her eyes and pped her forehead quite hard, making Adaline wince from the sound.


    ¡°Did you two fight that day?¡± She asked in a softer voice. ¡°I remember what I talked about that day so clearly.¡± Adaline shook her head in response, and Tessa breathed a sigh of relief. She looked at her with her angry eyes. ¡°Then that weekend, you weren¡¯t at home either. Did you go with him?¡± Adaline nodded again.


    ¡°But we didn¡¯t just go as a pair.¡± Adaline said before Tessa could use her again. ¡°I stayed at Sir Antony¡¯s family home.¡±


    ¡°What?! So you¡¯ve already been introduced to his entire extended family?¡± Adaline nodded. ¡°Wow, you¡¯re something else, Ada. Your rtionship really went under the radar, next thing you know, you¡¯re already acquainted with each other¡¯s families and now you¡¯re getting married.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re not pregnant?¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, Tessa. No! Our rtionship isn¡¯t like that!¡± She said irritably.


    ¡°In that case, exin! Because none of this makes sense to me. Okay fine if the issue is passionate love to the point where you can¡¯t wait to get married. But what I see is, you and him don¡¯t seem like your typical love-struck couple,¡± she said honestly.


    Adaline twisted her fingers, torn between telling Tessa everything or staying silent. But she needed someone she trusted to share with. Someone who could help her when Adaline needed itter.


    Finally, Adaline decided. ¡°So¡­ at first¡­¡± And she recounted the entire story of the beginning of Adaline and Altezza¡¯s rtionship. About the money lent by the man. About the amount she had to pay back. And the contract she signed.


    Tessa¡¯s first reaction was disbelief. Then she shook her head. ¡°I swear, I never thought all that existed in the real world.


    ¡°I thought it was only in novels or TV dramas. But now, this is really happening in front of me. My own friend¡­


    ¡°Oh my God. Adaline¡­ Are you sure everything will be okay?¡±


    Adaline could only shake her head doubtfully. ¡°I¡¯m not sure myself. Joanna will definitely be very angry if she finds out I signed a contract and will even get married now.¡±


    ¡°But where is that guy now? Why isn¡¯t he here when you need his help?¡±


    Adaline shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t know either. He¡¯s on a job in Rome. And so far, he hasn¡¯t contacted me. It¡¯s hard to reach him, so I¡¯m having a hard time informing him about my wedding.¡±


    Both Adaline and Tessa sighed deeply, leaning their backs on the chair¡¯s backrest weakly.


    ¡°I can only pray for the best for you. Hopefully, this will be your first andst marriage. I hope your marriage ends happily.¡± She said sincerely. Adaline only agreed silently in her heart.

 Part 35

    On Friday after work, Adaline, her mother, and her aunt were picked up by a luxurious car that immediately took them to Quirino Ev. A beautiful receptionist even deliberately escorted them to the top floor of the hotel, where a Presidential Suite room was located.


    ¡°Oh my God, Ada¡­¡± Emma eximed in amazement as they entered the room. ¡°Is this a hotel or a pce? So luxurious. In all my life, this is the first time I¡¯ve entered such a nice hotel,¡± the middle-aged woman said as she walked into each room in the suite.


    Located on the top floor of the hotel with a beautiful view of the capital city, Adaline knew that this was not a cheap hotel. Even the hotel room had its own swimming pool that offered a beautiful view.


    Although Adaline had saved up money all her life, she would hesitate to spend it just to spend one night in this ce. It would be better for her to use it to buy a house or even start a business.


    But now, considering her status as the prospective daughter-inw of the hotel owner, of course, it wasn¡¯t difficult for her. Just a flick of the wrist like ddin¡¯s genie, she could get anything she wanted. At least that¡¯s what people said.


    Adaline nced at her mother, who sat lost in thought. She didn¡¯t seem as enthusiastic as Emma, who was still bustling around. Her mother sat on the sofa, staring nkly out of the room.


    ¡°Mom¡­¡± Adaline sat on the floor beside her mother¡¯s feet, deliberately resting her head on thep of the middle-aged woman. ¡°What are you thinking?¡± she asked softly. Her mother wiped the tears that fell from her cheek, revealing a thin smile on her wrinkled face.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t yesterday supposed to be a happy day because I¡¯m getting married? Why do you look sad now?¡± it seemed like Emma heard the question. She eventually walked into the room and sat on one of the square sofas at the end of the table.


    ¡°It¡¯s all because of your uncle,¡± Emma said, her once cheerful expression now turned sad. ¡°Your uncle came to the house earlier and got angry. He threw your wedding invitation while yelling in front of everyone.¡±


    Adaline¡¯s back straightened. She raised her head, looking at her mother who looked increasingly sad, her tears flowing continuously.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with uncle, Mom?¡± her mother only shook her head in response. Adaline turned to look at Emma, silently asking her to tell everything.


    shback On


    That evening, Adaline¡¯s house was crowded with guests who came to congratte her and say that they couldn¡¯te to her reception the next Sunday. Some imed they already had ns. Others felt it was inappropriate toe to the luxury hotel where the event was held.


    When Adaline¡¯s mother distributed gifts to the guests as a token of appreciation for their prayers for Adaline and Altezza¡¯s wedding, Adaline¡¯s uncle-her father¡¯s younger brother-came with his wife and their only daughter while being furious. This made the attending guests startled in their ces.


    ¡°What is this?!¡± the middle-aged man shouted moments after entering the living room. His eyes darted around, scanning the entire area. ¡°Do you really no longer consider me as family? Do you want to insult and humiliate me?


    ¡°Just because that adopted child is marrying a wealthy man, you equate me with a stranger?¡± The man threw the wedding invitation right at Adaline¡¯s mother¡¯s face. The thick invitation made a loud sound as it hit Violet¡¯s forehead. The guests present in the room were startled to see it.


    ¡°Where is your daughter?! Tell her toe out!¡± he demanded roughly.


    At the same time, Altezza, who had just returned from his trip to Japan, came to the house with Del Quirino at his mother¡¯s request.


    ¡°Adaline is still at work. She hasn¡¯te home yet,¡± Violet replied politely, seemingly unaware of Altezza¡¯s and his future father-inw¡¯s presence.


    ¡°Lies! No bride-to-be is still working before getting married. Especially if she¡¯s marrying a wealthy man. Can¡¯t her future husband provide for her until she gets married? Or is she forced to work to contribute to her own wedding expenses?¡± he asked mockingly. Altezza, who wanted to enter the house and respond to his future uncle-inw¡¯s rant, had to restrain himself as Del Quirino held him back.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that. Adaline is still working because she wants to. And we didn¡¯t mean to insult or humiliate you,¡± Violet replied softly.


    ¡°Then why did you inform about the wedding through an invitation like this, as if inviting a stranger? If not to humiliate me, then what¡¯s the reason?


    ¡°Look at my wife, she¡¯s being humiliated by our neighbors because they knew about that damn child¡¯s wedding before us, who you ¡®consider¡¯ family.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Where should I put my face now, huh!


    ¡°You intentionally want to humiliate us because you hold a grudge against us for not being able to help you when you needed money for surgery, right?¡±


    Violet Scott shook her head, her eyes filled with panic. ¡°No, it¡¯s not like that. Adaline and I came to your house to inform you about her wedding, which was arranged at short notice. And your daughter said that you weren¡¯t home.¡± Violet looked at her nephew for support, but he turned his face away, making Violet realize that her nephew was the mastermind behind this misunderstanding.


    ¡°When? Don¡¯t try to pit my family against each other. My wife and I didn¡¯t go anywhere over the weekend. Don¡¯t expect me to be herpanion to the altar.¡± He said in a mocking tone. ¡°Ohh¡­ or maybe you haven¡¯t told that wealthy family that Adaline isn¡¯t my brother¡¯s biological child? That she¡¯s just an adopted child with an unclear origin? ording to you, if those wealthy people knew the origin of your daughter, would they still want to ept her as their daughter-inw?¡±


    ¡°Roby!¡± Violet shouted, losing her patience. ¡°Why are you bringing that up again? Adaline is not an adopted child. She¡¯s not a child with an unclear origin. She¡¯s mine and Gregory¡¯s, your brother¡¯s, child.¡±


    ¡°Gregory is sterile. He can¡¯t give you a child. Don¡¯t you ever say that that disrespectful and ignorant child is his. And you, you¡¯re a failure as a woman because you couldn¡¯t raise her properly. If you really consider me family, if she sees me as her uncle, she shouldn¡¯t embarrass me in front of people like this.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it you who¡¯s embarrassing yourself, Sir?¡± The baritone voice made all the eyes that were focused on Adaline¡¯s uncle¡¯s family turn towards the door where the voice came from.


    Altezza, with his above-average height, unshaven stubble, and tired face from just returning from a long trip, looked alternately at Adaline¡¯s uncle¡¯s family. His eyes red sharply with anger. Clearly, he disliked seeing his fiancee and future mother-inw being insulted in such a manner.


    ¡°Who are you?! How dare you interfere in my affairs!¡± he said, still with a raised voice.


    ¡°If you read the invitation you threw earlier, my name is written in gold ink there,¡± Altezza said casually. ¡°And I apologize for not introducing myself formally earlier, as I¡¯ve been too busy with my work to remember that Adaline has a family that I shouldn¡¯t visit.¡± Altezza¡¯s tone was t, but it managed to make Adaline¡¯s uncle¡¯s face turn red with anger, while his daughter and wife looked at Altezza in awe. Even with an unkempt appearance, Altezza still appeared impressive in their eyes.


    ¡°And what did you say earlier? ¡®Disrespectful child¡¯?¡± Altezza shook his head with a sigh. ¡°I¡¯ve never known a girl as polite, kind-hearted, and of course, as beautiful as Adaline. And clearly, all of that is the result of her mother¡¯s upbringing and love, even though Adaline is not her biological daughter.


    ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t know that Adaline is adopted? Of course, I know. And you don¡¯t need to worry that I¡¯ll leave her because of such trivial facts,¡± he retorted sharply.


    ¡°Having good parents¡¯ background doesn¡¯t necessarily produce a perfect child. So, in my opinion, it¡¯s better to marry a child without a background but with a good personality than to marry a child from a good family background but with a bad personality.¡±


    Altezza bowed and picked up the invitation that Adaline¡¯s uncle had thrown, smiling cynically. ¡°And because you willingly returned this invitation to us, I am pleased to say that I don¡¯t expect your presence at our wedding.¡±


    ¡°So with all due respect, I hope you leave this house and nevere back here for any reason,¡± Roby¡¯s face turned red instantly. He looked at Violet with a hateful gaze and pulled his wife and daughter¡¯s hands to leave the house.


    shback Off


    Adaline was stunned. She climbed onto the sofa and hugged her mother¡¯s frail body, resting her forehead on her mother¡¯s right shoulder. Tears flowed freely from her eyes due to the pain her mother had endured.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mom,¡± she said sorrowfully. ¡°It¡¯s all because of me.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s because of you, dear? It¡¯s all clearly because of your crazy uncle,¡± Emma replied vehemently. ¡°Thank goodness Altezza was there at that time. Otherwise, I don¡¯t know what would have happened.¡±


    Unlike Emma, who seemed emotional, Violet Scott insteadforted Adaline by hugging her. She stroked her hair and kissed her head.


    ¡°It¡¯s not your fault, dear. It¡¯s not anyone¡¯s fault. You, Adaline Scott, will always be my daughter and your father¡¯s. I¡¯m just worried, what if your future mother-inw will have an issue with this in the future?¡± She asked with an increasingly evident fear.


    ¡°You heard Sir Altezza¡¯s response. For Mama, whatever Sir Altezza considers good, Mama will agree with it.¡± Adaline tried to reassure her mother. Although in reality, she didn¡¯t care whether her future mother-inw would ept her with the new fact she had learned, or would hate her for it. For Adaline, she only had to repay her debt to Altezza and make her mother happy. That¡¯s all, nothing more.


    Even if she faces bitterness, humiliation, or other painful experiences in the future, she is confident she can handle it. As long as her mother is with her. Healthy. And always within her reach.

 Part 36

    Adaline¡¯s POV


    I woke up with a heavy head.


    All night, Mom and I cried over the behavior of myte father¡¯s brother who came to our house and embarrassed us, especially by bringing up my status as an adopted child. The truth is, I¡¯m not my parents¡¯ biological child. Even though they never brought it up, never made it an issue. But still, myte father¡¯s brother disliked my presence so much. Even though I¡¯ve always tried to be a good child. I never acted like a niece demanding anything from her uncle. I even always gave whatever I had to my cousin if he asked for it. But still, they never liked me.


    Myte father also often boosted my spirits. Saying not to pay attention to my uncle¡¯s words. My uncle just felt jealous because my father¡¯s affection was more towards me, who had no blood rtion to him, rather than to Roby¡¯s child, who was his biological nephew.


    I never made an issue out of it. I didn¡¯t even care when my uncle¡¯s child bullied me relentlessly when we were at school. Luckily, I had ire and dwin Hampton who always helped me fight against bullying. Although it didn¡¯tst long because they returned to Kansas afterpleting their eleration program.


    I also didn¡¯t care if my cousin used me of things I didn¡¯t do. As long as my parents believed in me, I felt like I could stand against the whole world.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    However, if insults have been directed towards my family, especially my mother, the greatest woman I¡¯ve ever known, I can¡¯t stay silent.


    I open my phone and see the remaining amount of money that Altezza once gave me. There¡¯s still a lot left because it turns out the cost of my mother¡¯s care isn¡¯t as expensive as I thought. I know Altezza won¡¯t ept this money back, and I don¡¯t intend to return it either. With the contract we¡¯ve agreed upon. With the profits we¡¯ve shared. I will use this money wisely.


    At least with this money, I can provide a new life for my mother. Even though I¡¯m sure my mother will refuse if I ask her to sell the house left by my father. But I will try to persuade her to move to a new ce, along with Emma. A ce where nobody knows us. A ce where nobody will insult us.


    Yes, for my mother, I will do anything as long as I can.


    I take a deep breath. There¡¯s a knock on the door. It¡¯s time to start a new life. Today I will change my single status to that of a ¡®wife.¡¯ Even though it¡¯s just a formality on paper. Because as I told Tessa before, there¡¯s no love between us. Perhaps, there never will be. Because for someone like me, optimism isn¡¯t a word that ranks high in my life¡¯s dictionary.


    Altezza¡¯s POV


    I take another deep breath, exhaling slowly. Breathe in, breathe out. Mamma touches my hand and squeezes it gently. I nce at her and smile. Even though this isn¡¯t my first marriage, I still feel nervous.


    We¡¯re in the hotel owned by my family where our wedding will take ce. My room is one floor above the hotel¡¯s ballroom where I will exchange vows with the lovely little girl who is surely feeling the same fear as me right now.


    Who else but Miss Adaline Scott, who will soon be Mrs. Adaline Quirino.


    Just thinking about it makes the pounding in my chest feel even stronger, almost suffocating. Not suffocating with sadness or fear, but suffocating with happiness that¡¯s too overwhelming for me to exin.


    ¡°I thought an Altezza Quirino wouldn¡¯t feel nervous,¡± my mother mocks without even turning to look at me. I turn to her and choose to rise from my seat.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tease me, Mamma. Don¡¯t cryter after I¡¯ve officially made Adaline your daughter-inw,¡± I retort teasingly as I walk to the pantry and gulp down a ss of cold water.


    ¡°Oh, why would I cry? I¡¯ll probablyugh the loudest when the witnesses shout ¡®I DO¡¯ for both of you,¡± my mother replies in her mocking tone, as always.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± I ask skeptically. Mamma hits my arm hard. ¡°Mamma! I¡¯m the groom-to-be, don¡¯t let my future wife see bruises on my body on our wedding night!¡± I shout loudly, making my mother even more fond of me.


    Oh, I do enjoy teasing her. Rather than seeing her cry-unless it¡¯s tears of joy-I¡¯d rather tease her until she feels annoyed and forgets to shed tears.


    I sit back down on the long sofa while my mother sits beside me. My father? He chooses to sit on the single sofa and watch TV in silence.


    ¡°How¡¯s Adaline? Have you asked about her?¡± My mother¡¯s gaze turns mncholic as she looks at me.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her?¡±


    ¡°Did you forget about what happened at her house yesterday?¡± She shouts loudly, making my ears ring.


    ¡°Does Mamma forget that she wasn¡¯t at home yesterday?¡± I remind her.


    ¡°Just because she wasn¡¯t at home doesn¡¯t mean she won¡¯t know what happened.¡± My mother hits my arm very hard. She really resorts to physical violence with me. ¡°You really are an insensitive man. Remember that the neighbors¡¯ words can be sharper than jpeno peppers.¡± She murmurs again, making me roll my eyes.


    ¡°You have this bad habit of always bringing up food when you¡¯re angry.¡± I mutter, earning another pinch of her jpeno peppers.


    ¡°Anyway, by now Adaline must know that her uncle insulted her mother. Why don¡¯t you try tofort her?¡±


    ¡°Should I go to her room, calm her down, and hug her?¡± I ask challengingly. ¡°Didn¡¯t you yourself say that I shouldn¡¯t meet her before the wedding?¡±


    ¡°Who told you to go see her?¡± My mother snaps angrily. ¡°It¡¯s the modern age, what¡¯s so difficult about contacting her through messages or a phone call?¡±


    ¡°Mamma! Don¡¯t act like an innocent child who doesn¡¯t know anything.¡± I say again, with a tone that I pretend to be annoyed. ¡°What if I get triggered after hearing my future wife¡¯s voice?¡±

 Part 37

    ¡°Triggered by what?¡± my mother asks back, her forehead creased, almost undoing the effects of the Botox she uses.


    ¡°Triggered by the excitement of hearing her gentle voice,¡± I say, causing my father to stifle augh while my mother appears to widen her eyes. Clearly, the woman who gave birth to me is surprised by my indecent words. But it doesn¡¯t end there because I continue my sentence. ¡°Imagine being me. After days of restraining myself from thinking about and missing my future wife, suddenly I have to contact her tofort her. Everything I¡¯ve been holding back wille rushing back.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t hold myself back. And if my passion peaks because of all the erotic thoughts about my future wife, do you want me to spend my time in the bathroom and¡­¡± The words about toe out of my mouth are stopped by my mother¡¯s chubby hand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare speak like that, Altezza Quirino!¡± She growls without removing her hand from my mouth. I lick the palm of her hand out of frustration, causing her to shudder in disgust and rub it roughly with a tissue. ¡°You¡¯re so filthy!¡± She shouts again.


    ¡°What¡¯s filthy? My tongue or my thoughts?¡± I ask challengingly.


    ¡°Your thoughts!¡± My mother answers angrily.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with my thoughts? I haven¡¯t even finished my sentence but you¡¯ve already shut my mouth.¡±


    ¡°You said something weird.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s weird about it?¡±


    ¡°Earlier, you said you would spend your time in the bathroom and¡­¡±


    ¡°And what?¡± I raised both my eyebrows in a teasing manner.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. You want to continue masturbating, right?¡± my mother asked with a disgusted frown on her face.


    ¡°Mamma, how would a socialite like you know something like that?¡± I teased her. Padre was still holding back hisughter.


    ¡°Are you teasing me?¡±


    ¡°Not teasing, Mamma. But admiring you. I thought my mother didn¡¯t know things like that, but it turns out¡­¡± Again my mother covered my mouth with her hand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t just because you¡¯re seventeen plus, then you¡¯re free to talk about such indecent things in front of me. That¡¯s just rude!¡±


    ¡°Mamma, I¡¯m seventeen plus one. I¡¯m just reminding you in case you forget,¡± I say with a mischievous smile.


    ¡°Enough, you two are just talking nonsense,¡± my father finally intervenes. The man in his early sixties turns off the TV with the remote and looks at me with his serene eyes. When ites to this, Padre¡¯s face resembles Uncle Arthur-his older brother, Antony Quirino¡¯s father. And just so you know, the only person who can silence my mother is my father.


    ¡°Al, speak nicely to Adaline. From what I observe, your future wife seems like someone who doesn¡¯t like to air her problems. Being shy or reserved isn¡¯t a big issue, but being closed off, that¡¯s a different matter because in marriage, it can backfire.


    ¡°In the future, you both have to be open with each other and any problem, no matter how small, should be resolved the same day or wait until things cool down if they¡¯re heated. Because if you bury one problem after another and let them pile up, eventually, it will be a huge explosion that could destroy everything. Don¡¯t regret because you keep choosing ter andter¡¯.¡±


    ¡°My advice as a parent who has seen many marriages, start by being honest with each other. Tell your wife about any problems you¡¯re facing. Just because you think it¡¯s a small matter doesn¡¯t mean your wife will see it the same way.


    ¡°Also, ask the same from your wife. Ask her to tell you all her problems, all her secrets so that in the future there won¡¯t be any conflicts between you. Understand?¡±


    I look at Padre and nod my head in response to his question. Whether it¡¯s just my feeling or my father is indeed teasing me right now. Because every word he says seems to imply that he knows something about me even though I don¡¯t know what it is.


    Could it be rted to my rtionship with Jovanka? Is that possible? Didn¡¯t Antony say that only he and I knew about my rtionship with Jovanka?


    I nod again as a sign that I heard all my father¡¯s advice. And I know my father is right. I have to tell Adaline about the secret of my rtionship with Jovanka, and I have to find the right time to do it.


    I don¡¯t want that woman to reappear one day and ruin everything. I can¡¯t calcte the probability of that womaning back. But I will still tell our story to Adaline as a precaution. Isn¡¯t it said that prevention is better than regret?


    In another part of the country.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?!¡± The loud shout is apanied by the throw of a t, hard object.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Joe?¡± A tall, sturdy man approaches her. Instead of answering, the woman turns to look at him fiercely.


    ¡°Prepare a ticket to Manhattan right now! I have to go home!¡± Shemands with an untouchable tone.


    ¡°You can¡¯t, Joe. You can¡¯t just go home suddenly! You¡¯re still under contract for six months.¡± The assistant replies with a warning tone. ¡°Don¡¯t let your dreams shatter because of some stupid news like this!¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Stupid news, you say! The news you call stupid is my husband¡¯s wedding!¡± She shouts with overflowing anger. Her face turns red, the veins in her neck appear tense. The woman¡¯s chest heaves with heavy breaths.


    ¡°No, Jovanka. He¡¯s not your husband anymore! Besides, it¡¯s not a wedding, it¡¯s just an engagement.¡± The assistant retorts, not wanting to back down.


    ¡°No. I don¡¯t ept his divorce and for me, he¡¯s still my husband. For now and forever. I will never let him be another woman¡¯s husband, especially that poor slut!


    ¡°I don¡¯t care! I have to go back and stop them from getting married!¡± She screams again, raging and throwing everything in front of her. ¡°He belongs to me! Altezza Quirino belongs to me!¡± She roars in anger again. Her assistant approaches and injects something into her body, causing the woman to slowly calm down and then lose consciousness.

 Part 38

    Adaline has been brought downstairs and is now left with one of the makeup artists (MUA) and a wedding organizer (WO) staff member who are watching over her. Adaline sits at the end of the sofa, focusing her attention on the glowing t screen in front of her. They will broadcast her wedding procession live. Adaline herself doesn¡¯t know how many cameramen the Altezza family has hired for this sacred event. What¡¯s certain is that she, who was initially unsure about her wedding, is now shocked by all the decorations she sees. How luxurious and beautiful. Something Adaline never imagined she would experience before.


    ¡°The groom has entered the hall.¡± She hears the voice through the walkie-talkie of the W. O personnel in her room. And from the screen, Adaline can see how handsome her husband is. He looks dashing with his appearance. Del and Benjamin Quirino nk him on his left and right. Behind them walk Sir Arthur and his wife, Brianna. Then the rest of the family until at the end, there are Abigail and via who are also wearing matching clothes with theirrge family but with a style more suitable for teenagers.


    Her bedroom door is knocked, and Tessa¡¯s shriek pierces her ears. ¡°Oh my God¡­ how did my friend be so beautiful overnight?¡± She says with sparkling eyes. ¡°Where were you hiding this beauty yesterday?¡±


    ¡°Is that apliment or a tease?¡± Adaline squints at her friend.


    ¡°Both,¡± Tessa replies tly. ¡°But it¡¯s true what people say, a bride who rarely wears makeup will look different when she bes a bride. Her aura bes more radiant. Like a light, its brightness is already like a high-voltagemp.¡±


    Adaline squints. ¡°Just tease me, no need to hesitate.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m genuinely praising you right now. You look like a Barbie doll. Isn¡¯t that right?¡± Tessa turns to the W. O personnel there. The young woman responds to Tessa¡¯sment with a nod.


    ¡°You are very lucky to have such a handsome husband. Surely your offspring will be as beautiful and handsome as their parents in the future.¡± This time it¡¯s the makeup artist who responds. Adaline just blushes hearing theirpliments.


    On the screen, they listen to Duncan speak.


    A tightness fills her chest again. Her eyes well up, but she tries her best to hold back her tears. Suddenly, Adaline misses her father.


    Adaline is called, and somehow, she is now officially the wife of Altezza Quirino.


    Altezza¡¯s POV


    Relief.


    That¡¯s the word that describes my current feeling.


    Nervous? Of course. It doesn¡¯t mean the problem is solved after the wedding vows are spoken.


    My responsibility as a human being increases now. There¡¯s Adaline, the woman who is now my wife, whom I have to take care of and make happy.


    Wife?


    Hearing that word somehow makes my heart feel warm. Finally, I have a wife whom I can proudly acknowledge to everyone.


    The music ys, as if purposely apanying Adaline¡¯s steps. I turn and see the angel approaching. Her beautifully made-up face looks so radiant. Glowing like a crown adorning her head. It¡¯s as if there¡¯s a spotlight deliberately shining around her.


    Finally, my dream of seeing my bride in a beautiful white gownes true. And there she stands, my bride as beautiful as an angel, petite in stature with a gown adorned with sparkling diamonds chosen by my mother in thest moments.


    I must thank my mother for making everything look perfect even in such a short time.


    I squint when I hear whistles from my family. Who else but my cousin Gian.


    Adaline still bows shyly in front of me. Even when Tessa ces the girl¡¯s left hand in my right hand.


    ¡°Today you look so beautiful. Are you an angel descended from heaven through a specialne?¡± I tease, met with chuckles from the elders and Gian¡¯s whistles.


    Again. It seems my cousin is more fitting as a provocateur.


    Adaline looks at me with her beautiful golden-brown eyes. Her face appears flushed, and I¡¯m sure it¡¯s not the effect of blush, but because my wife is feeling embarrassed. I just smile back at her.


    ¡°Please exchange the wedding rings.¡± The host says. I simply ept when Duncan hands me the ring box. ¡°Bride, please kiss the groom¡¯s hand. Hold it for a moment for documentation.¡± The host continues.


    Adaline does it, causing my body to feel an unusual tingling sensation.


    ¡°Groom, it¡¯s time to kiss the bride¡¯s forehead. Hold it for a moment for documentation.¡±


    I kiss her forehead, feeling her hand gently squeezing my fingers. Oh, I love doing it, even without the host asking, I¡¯m willing to do it for a long time.


    Then the next procession passes like a breeze in my head. I just follow what the host asks.


    Is this what wedding euphoria feels like?


    Wow, I¡¯m amazed myself. It didn¡¯t feel like this back then. Maybe it¡¯s because of the different atmosphere, or maybe it¡¯s my different feelings. But one thing¡¯s for sure, the difference is very real, and I can feel it.


    Even though my legs are sore from standing and greeting everyone-somehow they managed toe even with short notice-I have no intention ofining. I can¡¯t wipe the smile off my face either. Same goes for my wife.


    Yes, this petite girl as beautiful as a doll is now mywful wife. Legally and religiously. And of course, known to people, no longer kept secret.


    I really have to thank my mother¡¯s efforts. Because she truly created this beautiful and grand wedding for me-her only son-and for Adaline. The only woman who will be her beloved daughter-inw. For now and perhaps forever.


    Author¡¯s POV


    Finally, the event is over. Adaline sighs with relief, although now she must feel tired and her feet ache from standing too long.


    Adaline is in the dressing room-which turns out to be only a few meters away and located at the back of the ballroom-with the makeup artists and WO assisting her in removing her wedding gown and essories. And imagine, it¡¯s almost midnight. She truly didn¡¯t expect her event to be that grand and to have so many guests.


    Well, after all this evidence, Adaline won¡¯t doubt the formidable power of the Quirino family anymore.


    After all her essories are removed, Adaline sees the door open and then Altezza walks in. The man has already taken off the navy suit that was their final costume, leaving him in a white long-sleeved shirt with the top two buttons undone.


    ¡°Are you done?¡± He asks casually.


    ¡°Yes, Sir,¡± answers the makeup artist who is tidying up the makeup tools and jewelry Adaline was wearing.


    ¡°In that case, I request permission to take my bride away.¡±


    He walks towards the makeup table, his right hand extended in front of Adaline. And although embarrassed, Adaline epts the gesture without hesitation.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Mrs. Quirino. We¡¯re leaving from here,¡± he says as he lifts Adaline bridal-style. Adaline yelps in surprise, while the people there chuckle at the impatient newlywed.


    Without difficulty, Altezza carries Adaline and enters the special lift that will take them to the top floor.


    ¡°S-Sir. Why does it have to be like this?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I just wanted to test if your body is heavy or not.¡±


    Instantly, Adaline¡¯s face reddens even more. She hides her face in the crook of Altezza¡¯s neck while the manughs.


    ¡°It turns out you¡¯re not heavier than a sack of rice. Have you been eating nutritious food all this time? Don¡¯t tell me you only eat vegetables.¡±


    ¡°S-Sir?¡±


    ¡°Well, well, I won¡¯t tease you anymore,¡± Altezza replies, still smiling.


    Suddenly, the elevator door opens, and Adaline is left gaping at the transformation of the room she left earlier in the day.


    They are greeted with a view of a scattering of red rose petals, seemingly indicating where their room is. Instead of setting Adaline down, Altezza deliberately continues to carry her towards the bed.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t my mother quite amazing? Look at her antics. More fickle than a teenager,¡± the man teases, only setting Adaline down when they are truly inside the room.


    Adaline gapes again when she sees the same scattering of red rose petals on the bed and two teddy bears kissing each other ced in the middle.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Oh my God, Mamma¡­¡± She says in amazement.


    ¡°That¡¯s just your mother-inw¡¯s habit. No need to be surprised,¡± Altezza responds casually. Without any difort, he sits on the bed and ys with the teddy bear. ¡°Are you tired?¡± He asks Adaline, who is still standing stiffly not far from the bed. Adaline shakes her head. ¡°There¡¯s something I need to talk to you about, Mrs. Something important to me, something you should already know,¡± he says seriously. ¡°Do you want to discuss it now or would you prefer to shower first?¡±


    Adaline tries to guess what the man wants to say. She¡¯s curious. But at the same time, she¡¯s also scared. Because she¡¯s sure that whatever the man wants to discuss, it¡¯s definitely not something pleasant.


    Therefore, she chooses to stall for time to prepare herself mentally first. ¡°I think it¡¯s better if I shower first,¡± she says hesitantly.


    Altezza nods without shifting his attention from the pair of teddy bears still in his hands, either deliberately avoiding direct eye contact with Adaline or simply focusing on the teddy bears.


    Adaline doesn¡¯t say much and doesn¡¯t want to waste too much time. She heads towards the spacious bathroom, closing the door behind her and locking it from the inside. Without much thought, she removes her blouse and starts showering.


    Whatever is on Altezza¡¯s mind, Adaline is certain it¡¯s not about the ¡®first night¡¯ as typically done by newlyweds. Adaline is actually relieved about that fact. But she herself is quite anxious about the ¡®important thing¡¯ that the man wants to discuss.

 Part 39

    Altezza lifted her head as she heard the bathroom door open and saw the petite figure emerge wearing an oversized ck hotel bathrobe that draped down to her calves. ¡°Isn¡¯t that supposed to be mine?¡± she asked, seeing Adaline looking around.


    ¡°Huh? Oh, um, that¡­¡± Adaline nced around the room. ¡°Have you seen a ck totebag around here? I brought a change of clothes yesterday, and I kept the totebag in the bathroom cab. It was there this morning, but now it¡¯s gone.¡± The girl spoke with a puzzled tone as she searched here and there, while Altezza furrowed her brow.


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s in another room,¡± Altezza suggested, walking toward the bathroom. ¡°But could you take off the bathrobe for now? If you wear it, what will I wear?¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­¡± Adaline bit her lower lip in confusion. She couldn¡¯t just take it off without getting something in return. ¡°Let me find my totebag first. Once I find it, I¡¯ll return the bathrobe.¡± With that, the girl dashed out of the room in a hurry.


    It took Altezza only five minutes to freshen up. She was really feeling tired and just wanted to resolve the issue with Adaline and then sleep.


    Altezza called out to Adaline to get her bathrobe back, but the girl didn¡¯t respond.


    Altezza wrapped herself in the only remaining towel in the cab. It barely covered a small portion of her body.


    Just like Adaline, she had brought a change of clothes in a small bag and had asked her driver to deliver it to this room. But she couldn¡¯t find it anywhere. Meanwhile, she couldn¡¯t possibly put back on the dirty clothes she had worn since yesterday evening.


    Altezza opened the bathroom door and was surprised to see Adaline sitting on the bed, twisting her fingers. ¡°Madam!¡± Altezza¡¯s reprimand made her jump in surprise.


    ¡°S-Sir,¡± she stammered nervously.


    ¡°Have you found the totebag?¡± Altezza asked, surprised. ¡°Then, are you nning to keep wearing that bathrobe?¡± Adaline nodded again. ¡°Then what should I wear?¡±


    ¡°Well, um¡­¡± She began to panic again. ¡°The other rooms are locked, and there are no spare bathrobes. I can¡¯t take this off.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°Well, um¡­ It¡¯s lingerie. I mean, I only have lingerie, there¡¯s no women¡¯s bathrobe in the bathroom earlier.¡±


    ¡°So what¡¯s the problem if you wear lingerie? Newlyweds usually wear lingerie, right?¡± A mischievous grin appeared on Altezza¡¯s face.


    ¡°Sir¡­¡± Adaline replied, frustrated.


    Altezza raised both hands, feeling sorry for the girl in front of him. ¡°Okay, okay. It seems like my mother did this on purpose. So that we both could be naked all night.¡±


    ¡°Because my bag wasn¡¯t delivered here either,¡± Altezza replied casually, which only made Adaline¡¯s cheeks flush.


    The man went back into the bathroom and reluctantly put on his suit pants again. He couldn¡¯t possibly sleep wearing just underwear in front of the easily-blushing virgin girl, could he?


    Altezza re-entered the room and saw the girl still frozen in her spot. ¡°Sorry, my shirt is dirty. Didn¡¯t mean to tease you by showing off my athletic body,¡± he teased, making Adaline blush even more. ¡°Are you hungry?¡± Adaline shook her head in response. ¡°Okay, can we talk on the sofa?¡± The girl nodded again. Slowly, she walked towards the sofa and chose to sit with her head down.


    ¡°Madam?¡±


    ¡°Y-yes, Sir,¡± Altezza chuckled upon hearing her response.


    ¡°There¡¯s something I need to say. It might hurt you. But I don¡¯t want there to be any secrets between us.


    ¡°It¡¯s about our agreement and my request to you a while ago. Do you still remember?¡± Adaline nodded. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You asked me to bear your child,¡± she replied formally.


    Altezza nodded. ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it.¡±


    ¡°Alright. I know we should have discussed this before the wedding, and I apologize for being too busy to bring it up.


    ¡°Not too busy,¡± he quickly corrected. ¡°Maybe I was just looking for an excuse to procrastinate. And meanwhile, my mother went ahead and did everything against my ns, so¡­¡± The man shrugged casually.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if this will hurt you or not. Because actually, this is a secret between me and Antony. But it seems like it¡¯s not our secret anymore if I didn¡¯t misinterpret my father¡¯s words before the wedding.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°So I have to tell you this.¡± There was a brief pause as the man took a deep breath and looked intensely at Adaline. ¡°I¡¯ve been married before.¡±


    Bang!


    The statement instantly made Adaline look up. She knew that the man who was now her husband was mischievous, so there was a big chance he was teasing her. But even though Adaline scrutinized him closely, there was no hint of amusement on his face.


    The man returned her gaze with a piercing look. Adaline felt like she was being stabbed by something. So Altezza wasn¡¯t a single man but a widower? Or was he actually already married? Was that why he asked her to give him children? Because his wife couldn¡¯t conceive? But why¡­


    Altezza tried to read the girl¡¯s expression. Surprise? Yes, he could see it when her golden eyes widened. But there seemed to be something else troubling her mind.


    ¡°Are you still married to someone else?¡± Adaline asked back, and Altezza was quite surprised by her question.


    ¡°No, Madam,¡± Altezza replied firmly. ¡°I told you I¡¯ve been married before, but not anymore.¡± He answered with a sad smile on his face.


    Adaline guessed that the man was sad because his marriage had ended, while Altezza was sad because he had been fooling himself and his family all this time.


    ¡°I was married, secretly. For five years,¡± he continued, once again causing Adaline to feel a pang. ¡°You don¡¯t need to know who she is because she won¡¯t disrupt our marriage. And actually, I never told all this to my family, except Antony.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Adaline started to speak up. Her head lifted, and she looked directly at Altezza. Her golden eyes were full of questions. ¡°I mean, why did you two get married secretly while with me, you could have a luxurious wedding like this?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t marriage supposed to be because of love?¡±

 Part 40

    Altezza shrugged. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right. If only she was willing to marry me officially, we would have had a celebration like earlier. We might even have more guests, considering her profession.


    ¡°But what she wanted wasn¡¯t the same as what I wanted.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t want anyone else to know about our marriage. Not until she felt ready. She didn¡¯t even tell her parents. She didn¡¯t want our marriage to hinder her dreams and career.¡± Altezza answered honestly again. ¡°And we divorced three months ago. Because of the choices she made, which didn¡¯t align with mine. She chose to leave me.¡±This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°D-do you still love her?¡± Adaline asked again, still looking at Altezza, seeking honesty.


    ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know,¡± he replied with a thin smile. ¡°Do you think love can just disappear like that?¡± He asked back. Adaline bit her lip.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Have you never been in love?¡± Altezza asked, surprised. While Adaline shook her head softly.


    ¡°I¡¯m not that brave, Sir. I¡¯m even afraid he might pull away if I confess my feelings,¡± Adaline replied softly.


    ¡°Alright, forget about that unimportant love,¡± Altezza responded again in his casual manner. ¡°What I want to say here is, I want to have a child with her. But she never wanted to give it to me.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to think that I¡¯m a bad guy who¡¯s just being picky. But I can¡¯t wait any longer to have children, and I¡¯m not sure if she will ever be willing to give me a child like I want.


    ¡°Because all this time she¡¯s always had reasons to postpone it. So instead of hoping for something uncertain, I chose to step back. You understand that, right?¡±


    Once again, Adaline nodded. ¡°And about the child, this is also an important matter to discuss. I know you¡¯re still inexperienced in this regard. I¡¯m not rejecting the idea of intimacy or trying to insult you. I¡¯m just trying to find a middle ground for both of us.


    ¡°I intend to undergo in vitro fertilization,¡± he said to the point. Once again, the statement made the beautiful face look up. ¡°You know about IVF, right?¡± Adaline nodded.


    ¡°On Monday, we will go to my friend¡¯s ce who works as an obstetrician for consultation. You don¡¯t mind, do you?¡± Once again, Adaline nodded.


    ¡°Really, I don¡¯t mean to insult you by avoiding conventional baby-making. It¡¯s just that, from what I know, women usually prefer to make love with men they love. And we know that there¡¯s no love between us.


    ¡°And I¡¯m trying to respect you. Respect your body. Because as you know, I¡¯m someone who enjoys physical contact. So I¡¯m afraid that if I try once, I won¡¯t be able to stop and will want it again and again.


    ¡°Even though it¡¯s normal, especially because we¡¯re husband and wife now. But still, I don¡¯t want to be seen as seeking opportunities. Well, except if you¡¯re willing and don¡¯t mind if I touch, explore, kiss your body¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop stop stop.¡± The girl ordered, raising both hands and her face now beet red. ¡°W-we¡¯ll go to the obstetrician. Monday.¡± She said stuttering.


    ¡°Sure? You won¡¯t be afraid? Or do you prefer I just¡­¡±


    ¡°Sir!¡± She eximed loudly, making Altezzaugh.


    ¡°To be honest, it feels really good, Adaline. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll get addicted¡­¡± Adaline chose to rise from her seat and cover her ears as she walked towards the bed. Altezza justughed at the sight.


    ¡°A virgin wife indeed reacts like this when teased¡­ Cute,¡± the man said again.


    ¡°Your face is as red as a tomato now, do you realize that?¡± He teased, while Adaline blushed even more.


    ¡°Alright, alright. I won¡¯t tease you anymore. And yes, one more thing. After this, we will stay in my apartment, we¡¯ll have separate rooms to maintain privacy. So if my mother insists you stay at home, you must be able to refuse her.


    ¡°It will be difficult if we have to stay at my parents¡¯ ce. Unless you don¡¯t mind continuing to sleep in the same bed as me. And I also can¡¯t promise not to touch you. Come on, no cat rejects fish. Even though at first it may seem shy, eventually the cat devours the fish in silence.


    ¡°So let¡¯s y it safe. Unless, of course, you¡¯re willing¡­¡± Adaline once again covered her ears as shey down on the bed. ¡°Well, besides, it¡¯s not a sin, we¡¯re already married. So technically, I have the right to¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop stop, Sir. It¡¯ste, I want to sleep.¡± The girl covered herself with a nket, ignoring the flower petals she had admired now scattered on the floor.


    Altezza walked slowly towards the bed. He climbed onto the bed and slipped under the covers. He knew Adaline¡¯s back tensed, especially since she was facing away from him, but he didn¡¯t care. Or more urately, he wanted to tease her.


    ¡°S-Sir?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±


    ¡°Why are you sleeping here?¡±


    ¡°Then where should I sleep? You said the other rooms were locked.¡±


    ¡°T-There¡¯s the sofa?¡±


    ¡°Come on, Madam, are you really going to let your husband¡¯s first night be spent on the sofa? My back will hurt, then tomorrow I¡¯ll have trouble walking and people will think I¡¯ve been exercising all night with my wife in my efforts to get you pregnant quickly.


    ¡°You must know how passionate newlyweds are? Their desire can¡¯t be contained.¡±


    ¡°The passionate first night.¡± With each word, Altezza could feel the girl¡¯s body stiffening even more. He tried not tough too loudly because of it. Before long, he saw Adaline getting up from her bed, her face flushed. ¡°Where are you going, Madam?¡±


    ¡°Moving to the sofa.¡±


    ¡°Well well well, why so? Am I really that bad that you don¡¯t want to lie next to me? Are you afraid I¡¯ll make advances?¡± The girl turned and red at him. ¡°Alright, I¡¯m sorry, I won¡¯t tease you anymore. Come here.¡±


    Altezza patted the bed in a sensual manner, like a woman enticing a man to sleep, his eyes mischievously blinking, which made Adaline shiver with amusement. Altezzaughed and sat up straight.


    ¡°Come on, go back to sleep, here. I promise I won¡¯t misbehave. If necessary, you can tie my hands and feet.¡± Altezza extended his hands as if they were shackled, making Adaline pout in annoyance.


    Shey back down and covered herself up to her neck. Altezza alsoy back down and tried to close his eyes. His married life was certainly going to be interesting.

 Part 41

    On Monday, as Altezza had mentioned, they went to visit their friend who works as an obstetrician. A luxurious and feminine-looking maternity clinic stood among rows of residences in the Manhattan area.


    Oh, don¡¯t ask what happened to themst Sunday. Their clothes still haven¡¯t returned. Of course, they couldn¡¯t leave the room. Even when they asked for room service to deliver clothes from the hotel boutique, they refused on the grounds that Sir Benjamin didn¡¯t allow them to deliver anything except food.


    Certainly, it wasn¡¯t really their father¡¯s instruction; it was clearly an order from Altezza¡¯s mother. Who else could have such ridiculous thoughts if not the woman who had given birth to her?


    As a result, they spent the whole day watching TV, eating, and sleeping. Altezza even chose to swim without wearing anything because there were no spare clothes. Luckily, during lunch, the room service brought new towels and bathrobes.


    Back to the bustling clinic area. Adaline and Altezza were already in Dr. Stefanie Alfonzo¡¯s room, and when Altezza mentioned her name, the nurse politely asked them to wait until the current patient came out.


    After about five minutes of waiting, they finally saw a married couplee out of the room. The pregnant woman seemed to smile as she rubbed her belly, while her husband embraced her. The happiness felt by the couple seemed to be contagious. Adaline smiled along with them.


    Adaline and Altezza were ushered into the room by the friendly nurse.


    A beautiful woman who initially smiled warmly suddenly looked at Altezza with narrowed eyes.


    ¡°I wonder who.¡± She said curtly. But upon seeing Adaline, her beautiful face lit up again with a genuine smile. ¡°Mrs. Quirino, I apologize for not attending your wedding event yesterday. There was a patient who hadplications, so I had to stay at the hospital.¡± She said regretfully as she shook Adaline¡¯s hand. ¡°Congrattions on starting a new life. I hope you don¡¯t regret marrying this man.¡± She said with a sincere tone that left Adaline speechless.


    ¡°Are you cursing me?¡± Altezza asked cynically. Without asking for permission, the man sat in the chair across the table and appeared rxed, crossing his right leg over his left.


    ¡°So, what are the newlyweds doing here? Shouldn¡¯t you be on your honeymoon right now?¡± The doctor looked at Adaline and Altezza in turn.


    ¡°That¡¯s what we should be doing. But because your former sweetheart is currently focused in Kansas, the honeymoon had to be postponed. Isn¡¯t it typical of him? He¡¯s having fun on his own and letting others suffer from the mess he¡¯s made.¡± Altezza grumbled again.


    Stefanie, who had returned to her seat, looked back at Altezza with narrowed eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t mention his name. You know what my husband is like.¡± The doctor replied. Adaline guessed that the two of them were discussing Antony.


    ¡°Yeah-yeah-yeah, the Great Heartbreaker.¡± Altezza taunted again.


    ¡°So, Mr. and Mrs. Quirino, do you have anyints?¡± Stefanie asked again in a professional manner.


    ¡°Well, Doctor, we want to consult about a pregnancy program.¡± Altezza replied in her patient mode. Adaline even shook her head at seeing how quickly they could change expressions.


    Is there CCTV in this ce? Are they currently filming a trap? ¡°What do you mean?¡± Adaline saw Dr. Alfonzo looking at Altezza seriously. Her hands were sped on the table.


    ¡°I want to ask about the process of in vitro fertilization,¡± Altezza replied casually, which surprised the beautiful woman in front of her. ¡°I heard there¡¯s an insemination process that doesn¡¯t affect virginity.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Altezza¡¯s POV


    I tried to hold back myughter when I saw the surprised expression on Stefanie¡¯s oriental face. The Chinese-blooded woman stared at me wide-eyed for a moment. But she quickly regained control of her expression.


    ¡°So, how long have you been married?¡± She asked clearly, with a mocking tone.


    ¡°Less than 48 hours,¡± I replied tly, and the woman nodded her head in understanding.


    ¡°Are there any issues, either from the husband or the wife?¡± Her gaze now shifted to Adaline, who remained silent. ¡°Did you marry Mr. Quirino out of necessity?¡± She asked, to which Adaline shook her head. ¡°You don¡¯t need to be afraid to speak the truth. If so, I can help you report this to the National Commission on Women¡¯s Protection.¡±


    ¡°No, Doctor, I married willingly,¡± Adaline replied firmly, and I saw Stefanie nodding again.


    ¡°In that case, maybe Mr. Quirino does have fertility issues,¡± she murmured afterward. I felt humiliated. I stared at her sharply. But she knew me well enough to ignore me.


    ¡°Don¡¯t speak without basis!¡± I eximed.


    ¡°In that case, what¡¯s the point of this? Your marriage isn¡¯t even two days old, and you¡¯re already talking nonsense. If ¡®Mr. and Mrs.¡¯ had been married for so many years and still hadn¡¯t been blessed with children, then I would be happy to help you solve your problems.¡± She mocked, emphasizing the words ¡®Mr. and Mrs.¡¯ Then she switched back to a friendly mode. ¡°I know you¡¯re feeling pressured to have children, but not like this, Al. Insemination before you¡¯ve really tried, indirectly demeans your wife and suggests that she¡¯s incapable.¡± She continued sharply.


    ¡°Not like that. You don¡¯t understand our situation,¡± I tried to defend myself, but I couldn¡¯t possibly mention the reason that I wanted to undergo the IVF program because our marriage was a contractual one.


    ¡°Altezza. Are you sure you¡¯re normal?¡± She asked, to which I replied with a firm nod. ¡°And are you also sure that you¡¯re normal?¡± She turned to Adaline, who also nodded. ¡°In that case, stick to conventional methods. You¡¯re still young, so why resort to shortcuts and extremes? The option you¡¯re asking for is typically chosen by people who have tried conventional methods and are desperate or have health issues.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already said, I have a condition I can¡¯t exin,¡± I tried to defend myself again. But her basic principle was ¡®women are always right¡¯, so whatever I said wouldn¡¯t get a positive response from Stefanie.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I can¡¯t help you, but I ¡®don¡¯t want¡¯ to help you. As a doctor, I feel this isn¡¯t necessary because honestly, the insemination process isn¡¯t easy and it can be quite painful. So as a friend, I wouldn¡¯t rmend it.

 Part 42

    ¡°Just find an obstetrician out there. But my advice as a friend is to stick to conventional methods because you¡¯re both young and healthy. If you¡¯re confident in your fertility, it won¡¯t take long to get pregnant,¡± Stefanie said, half mockingly. ¡°Besides, intimacy can enhance emotions, not only between husband and wife but also between parents and the baby.¡± She continued, directing her words specifically to Adaline. I saw Adaline¡¯s face turn red from Stefanie¡¯s straightforward exnation, and strangely enough, I felt fondness for the woman who was now my wife.


    Adaline didn¡¯t respond to Stefanie¡¯s remarks. My petite wife seemed unsure of what to say, and I didn¡¯t have any other words to counter Stefanie. My high school friend turned to me and said, ¡°Come on, Al. Act like a real man. Well, unless you can¡¯t ¡®rise¡¯ in front of your wife, then maybe I can help.¡± He continued with a mocking tone.


    ¡°Damn it!¡± The curse slipped out of my mouth unintentionally. I turned and saw a surprised look in those golden eyes. ¡°Alright, esteemed Doctor Stefanie,¡± I jeered, then stood up and reached for Adaline¡¯s hand. ¡°Since I didn¡¯t get anything from you, I guess this consultation is free?¡± I said mockingly. The woman just shrugged.


    ¡°No, this consultation isn¡¯t in vain. Instead, I¡¯ll consider it as a consultation for another pregnancy program, so I¡¯ll prescribe your wife vitamins and folic acid to ensure her pregnancy is healthy.¡± She said as she wrote something down on paper. ¡°And as for the cost, consider it a wedding gift.¡± She replied casually. ¡°Don¡¯t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.¡± She said as she handed her business card to Adaline along with the prescribed vitamins.


    Damn! Double damn! This time the curse was held back in my mouth.


    Author¡¯s POV:


    They left the doctor¡¯s office with their own thoughts, but ultimately with the same core.


    Adaline wondered about the possibilities of what Altezza would do, while Altezza was thinking about other obstetrician options he could visit.


    As she had mentioned earlier to Adaline, it would certainly benefit Altezza if they did it ¡®normally,¡¯ but for the girl? Don¡¯t women usually prefer to do it out of love?


    Reluctant to dwell on something that would only make his ¡®little brother¡¯ tense, he finally shifted his attention to his new wife.


    ¡°Want to go to the office? Or to your mother¡¯s house?¡± Altezza asked when they arrived at the parking area.


    ¡°Just to my mom¡¯s house. Today, my mom has a hospital appointment.¡± Adaline replied, which was met with a nod from Altezza.


    ¡°So, my wife, now that we¡¯re married, will you still call me Sir? Can you think of another affectionate term?¡± Altezza teased again. Although he was still Adaline¡¯s superior for now, it didn¡¯t feel right if his wife addressed him so formally in public.


    Adaline turned to him with a puzzled frown. ¡°Wh-what do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I mean, will you keep calling me like a subordinate to a superior? We¡¯re husband and wife now, and it¡¯s only fitting that we have endearing terms.¡±


    ¡°Especially when people might think we¡¯re head over heels in love. You should also call me with an affectionate term, like Honey for example. Or Sweetheart?¡±


    ¡°Ho-honey?¡± The girl hesitated.


    Altezza shuddered with amusement. ¡°Oh dear, just one call and it already gives me goosebumps all over. Try saying it with a sweeter tone.¡± He coaxed, causing the girl¡¯s cheeks to blush red. Altezza chuckled. He felt sorry for teasing his wife so often. ¡°Alright, if you don¡¯t want to call me Honey, Darling, or Sweetheart, try calling me by my name.¡±


    ¡°S-Sir?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not my name, darling.¡± Altezza smoothly uttered the endearing term.


    ¡°Mm¡­ Al? Altezza?¡±


    ¡°I think just Al. Shorter and sounds nicer.¡± He suggested, which was followed by a nod from Adaline.


    ¡°Al.¡± Adaline said hesitantly.


    ¡°Yes, Amore Mio?¡± Altezza replied, using his father¡¯snguage, and suddenly Adaline was left blushing by his words.


    They arrived at Adaline¡¯s mother¡¯s residence about fifteen minutester. Emma and Violet weed them with smiles. ¡°Ahem¡­ Newlyweds,¡± they teased, causing Adaline to blush while Altezza grinned proudly.


    ¡°Being newlyweds feels like having the world to yourselves, doesn¡¯t it, Mom?¡± Altezza remarked ambiguously. He warmly embraced the two middle-aged women in front of him, which they returned with equal warmth.


    ¡°Of course. The world belongs to you two while the rest of us just tag along,¡± Emma said with a mischievous grin. ¡°Come in, I just made some apple pie.¡± They entered, with Adaline being carried in Violet¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Mama, what time are you going to the doctor? I¡¯ll ask my driver to take you. I apologize for not being able to take you directly.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Emma and I are used to going to the hospital by taxi.¡±


    ¡°That was before your daughter married me. Now, you have me. Don¡¯t you consider me as your son-inw?¡± Altezza said with a pout. ¡°What¡¯s the point of having a handsome, kind-hearted, and billionaire son-inw like me if you don¡¯t make use of me?¡± He continued, which made Emmaugh and Violet shake her head at her son-inw¡¯s absurdity. He¡¯s truly peculiar, Violet thought to herself.


    ¡°My driver wille to take you. Don¡¯t send him away. Have pity on the old man, he needs the job, and if you refuse to let him take you, he¡¯llin to me for weeks, saying he doesn¡¯t want to live because he¡¯s no longer useful as a human,¡± Altezza joked again, knowing well that Adaline, Violet, or Emma would understand it was just his usual banter.


    ¡°Don¡¯t joke like that,¡± Violet finally scolded him.


    ¡°Mom, don¡¯t you believe me?¡± Altezza asked with feigned sadness. ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, go ahead and hurt his feelings. But I won¡¯t take responsibility if he throws a tantrum and cries because I couldn¡¯t find a specialist doctor for heartbreak at the hospital.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Alright, alright. I won¡¯t refuse him,¡± Violet conceded. ¡°We¡¯ll leave at three this afternoon.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll contact my driver to pick you up earlier,¡± Altezza said with a smile. ¡°Next time, make use of me again, so I feel useful as your son-inw.¡± He said, causing Emma and Violet to shake their heads at his yful demeanor.

 Part 43

    They just arrived at the Altezza apartment right at nine o¡¯clock in the evening after Altezza had picked up Adaline, Emma, and Violet from the hospital and taken them back to Violet¡¯s house. Emma, Violet, and Adaline were quite surprised when they saw Altezza at the hospital after they finished their examinations. When asked the reason for his presence there, Altezza-as usual-always had a silly answer to every question asked of him.


    shback On


    ¡°Why are you the one picking us up? Where¡¯s your driver?¡± Violet asked, quite surprised to see her son-inw.


    ¡°He¡¯s got a pretty bad stomachache, so he asked me to pick you up. That¡¯s what happens when you have an employee who¡¯s getting older, there¡¯s always some trouble whenever they¡¯re on duty. If only I didn¡¯t need him, I would still keep him because he¡¯s quite loyal,¡± he replied casually, winking mischievously, which made Emma unable to hold back herughter.


    Next, before heading back to Violet¡¯s residence, Altezza took his three female passengers to a mall not too far from the hospital. This naturally puzzled his mother-inw.


    ¡°Why are we here? Why don¡¯t we just go straight home?¡± Violet asked, puzzled.


    Once again, Altezza answered nonchntly. ¡°Just need to use the restroom, Ma. Going to a gas station restroom is normal. Going to a mall restroom makes it extraordinary,¡± he said, causing Violet to shake her head again.


    They got off at the mall parking area. Altezza led them to a rather expensive family restaurant. The uniformed waiter warmly weed them and escorted them to a quieter area. Then, after that, they were given menus.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be back in five minutes,¡± the waiter said and left the table.


    Altezza intentionally took Adaline¡¯s family out just to familiarize himself with them. Since his introduction to Adaline was rather brief, and considering Adaline¡¯s rtively simple character, Altezza tried to get closer to the women¡¯s family in a simple manner so that gradually they would get used to his presence. After ordering, as he had mentioned earlier, he disappeared towards the restroom. Dinner went on leisurely and cheerfully. When dinner ended, Altezza intended to entertain the women by taking them shopping, but both Violet and Emma declined, citing fatigue. Altezza didn¡¯t insist andter escorted them back to Violet¡¯s residence. What surprised Altezza was finding out that Adaline had already packed her belongings to bring them to Altezza¡¯s residence. Seeing her modest belongings, Altezza couldn¡¯t help but ask, which Adaline answered, ¡°We don¡¯t live far away anyway. I cane here anytime I need something.¡± Altezza simply nodded, and they left.


    Altezza showed Adaline the entire area of his apartment. His spacious workspace had tall bookshelves andrge windows that opened to a balcony. There was a small room on the other side of the apartment that had been converted into a storage area and an ironing space adjacent to theundry area. Arge pantry with a fully furnished and undoubtedly expensive kitchen ind was connected to the dining area, which in turn flowed into the living room equipped with arge t-screen TV nked by active speakers on both sides, and a collection of movies and gaming equipment below.


    Then Altezza opened one of the doors adjacent to a door of simr color.


    ¡°The one on the right is my room. And this one is yours,¡± Altezza opened one of the rooms and gestured for Adaline to enter. ¡°This ce is off-limits from my mom. But just to be safe, wherever you go, your room should be locked,¡± he said, and Adaline nodded in understanding.


    Slowly, she stepped into her room. The interior was simple yet cozy. A queen-size bed sat in the middle of the room facing a vintage-style vanity mirror. On the left side of the bed, there was arge wardrobe against the wall, facing a sofa bed forming an L-shape on a light gray fur carpet. Wide ss doors led directly to the balcony surrounded by thick ss walls.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Hope you¡¯ll feelfortable here,¡± Altezza¡¯s words startled her out of her reverie. Adaline turned around to see her husband standing casually, leaning against the door frame with his shoulders. His arms were folded across his chest.


    She tried to swallow her saliva; for some reason, she suddenly felt nervous about Altezza¡¯s presence there. Adaline nodded slowly in response.


    ¡°If you need anything, just knock on my door,¡± he instructed, once again met with Adaline¡¯s nod.


    Altezza then turned and walked away, closing the door behind him, leaving Adaline with an unusual pounding in her heart. Adaline took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. Oh God, seeing him standing there earlier felt like seeing a celebrity doing a photoshoot for a famous magazine.


    Yet what Altezza did wasn¡¯t unusual, it even seemed ordinary. But somehow she felt her heart pounding as if she had just finished running a marathon. So fast and making her breathless.


    She sat down on her soft bed and took another deep breath. Now, she was living under the same roof with a man. Even though he was her husband, their rtionship wasn¡¯t ordinary. And again, they were both adults.


    Her thoughts began to swirl. What would happen in the days toe? While the decision about the ¡®IVF process¡¯ itself still had no definite answer.


    What if Altezza decided to follow his friend¡¯s advice? The conventional way, he said. That means they would have to engage in natural marital activities?


    Adaline was already an adult, and she clearly understood what was meant by marital activities and the conventional method. Imagining Altezza touching her, kissing her, suddenly made her lower body tingle. Adaline shook her head, trying to clear her mind of the dirty thoughts that seemed to suddenly arise. Finally, she opened her bag and took out a change of clothes before cleaning herself up.


    At five in the morning, Adaline was already awake. She was used to waking up early to help her mother at home before going to work, and she carried that habit to Altezza¡¯s residence. After tidying her room, Adaline headed to the kitchen, wondering what time Altezza would wake up. Was he ustomed to having breakfast at home? Did he usually make breakfast himself or opt for office breakfast using delivery services?

 Part 44

    Adaline wanted to ask, but when she was about to knock on his door, she hesitated and chose to continue to the kitchen. Besides not wanting to disturb Altezza, she also didn¡¯t want toe off as intrusive, and Adaline had to realize her position that she wasn¡¯t Altezza¡¯s real wife, but just a surrogate mother figure for him.


    Adaline opened the big fridge door. She was surprised to find it almost empty except for frozen instant food and canned goods. Adaline bit her lip in confusion. Luckily, there was a loaf of bread that seemed to be fresh on the nightstand. Alright, even though she didn¡¯t know whether Altezza was used to having breakfast or not, Adaline would still make breakfast for the two of them with the avable ingredients.


    Adaline eventually decided to make scrambled eggs with fried sausages and toasted bread in a pan. The scent of butter from the bread and the distinct aroma of eggs made Altezza emerge from his hiding ce.


    ¡°Wah wah wah, Mrs. Quirino. What¡¯s that lovely smell?¡± he murmured as he approached the kitchen just as Adaline flipped her toast.


    ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know if you¡¯re used to having breakfast or not¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m used to having breakfast when someone makes it, Amore,¡± he said with a yful smile that instantly made Adaline blush. ¡°Come on, get used to our endearing terms because I don¡¯t want my mom to get suspicious,¡± Altezza said, still teasingly.


    ¡°Uh-honey¡­¡± Adaline stuttered, making Altezza try to hold back hisughter. ¡°I made you toast, scrambled eggs, and sausages,¡± Adaline continued, moving her toast onto a te.


    Altezza nodded as he stared at the tempting browned toast. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you use the toaster?¡± Altezza asked when he noticed the difference in color on his toast.


    ¡°It tastes different when you use the toaster,¡± Adaline replied again. ¡°Mmm¡­ Honey, what would you like to drink?¡± she continued, still slightly stuttering.


    ¡°Milk,¡± he answered and took out milk from the fridge, pouring it into a tall ss.


    Just as Adaline ced the food te on the table, the doorbell rang, and without being asked, Altezza walked towards the inte beside the door. He almost choked on the milk in his hand and instantly asked Adaline to lock her room door quietly. Adaline widened her eyes but understood Altezza¡¯s intention and could guess who the visitor wasing to see them at that early hour. So, Adaline quickly walked to her room and quietly locked the door.


    ¡°Why did it take you so long to open the door?¡± Del grumbled as she passed by Altezza, who was still frozen next to the inte. ¡°Where¡¯s my daughter-inw?¡± she asked, looking around. ¡°I asked you to bring Adaline to our house, but you didn¡¯t obey. Do you want to be a disobedient child?¡± Del Quirino scolded as she walked in and searched for her daughter-inw. ¡°Adaline, dear¡­¡± the middle-aged woman called out, almost shouting.


    ¡°Honey¡­¡± her husband interjected.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m here, Momma,¡± Adaline replied as she returned from locking her door. She approached and entered her mother-inw¡¯s embrace.


    ¡°How are you? Are you okay? Is Altezza treating you well?¡± Del Quirino asked, causing Sir Benjamin to cough softly.


    Instead of answering, Adaline just looked back at Altezza with a bashful expression.


    ¡°Have you had breakfast? Your father and I came here early this morning on purpose to bring you breakfast,¡± Benjamin interjected, lifting the bag of food he brought.


    ¡°My wife has already made breakfast for the both of us, Dad,¡± Altezza answered, guiding his parents to the dining table. Adaline epted the gift brought by her mother-inw and returned to the kitchen to transfer it onto tes.


    ¡°Why is your breakfast just this?¡± Del asked, eyeing the food on the table. ¡°You surely haven¡¯t stocked your fridge, have you?¡± she used Altezza, who only shrugged in response. ¡°This is what happens when you live with azy man. Luckily, your food items haven¡¯t expired yet,¡± Del grumbled, but then reached for the toast on the te. ¡°This toast wasn¡¯t made with a toaster, was it?¡± she guessed.


    ¡°Adaline said it tastes better if it¡¯s toasted manually,¡± Altezza replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s true,¡± Del agreed. ¡°You¡¯re lucky to have a wife who, despite being a career woman, can cook,¡± Del praised sincerely. ¡°But, Ada, don¡¯t spoil her too much. Don¡¯t handle all the household chores alone. She¡¯s used to livingfortably and being served, so she¡¯s not ustomed to doing housework,¡± Del said as she sat at the small dining table and continued to eat the breakfast made by Adaline.


    ¡°Momma, that¡¯s my breakfast,¡± Altezza protested when he saw his mother enjoying the toast and eggs.


    ¡°I also brought breakfast for you. So let¡¯s just swap. Don¡¯t be stingy with your own mother,¡± Del grumbled, ignoring her son¡¯s annoyance.


    ¡°Besides, who told you to bring breakfast here?¡± Altezza retorted bluntly. ¡°I have a wife who¡¯s a great cook, so you don¡¯t need to bother making food for me.¡± Altezza tried to reach for his te of toast, but his hand was swiftly blocked by his mother¡¯s plump hand. Meanwhile, Adaline had already ced the breakfast brought by her mother-inw on the table:sagna with abundant meat and cheese.


    ¡°If you can make this, I¡¯m sure Adaline can too,¡± he teased about his mother¡¯s cooking.


    ¡°How dare you mock my cooking. This is the food you¡¯ve eaten your entire life. Understand!¡± she snapped.


    ¡°Yeah, I know. You deliberately cooked this because it¡¯s your specialty while the other dishes¡­¡± Altezza hadn¡¯t finished his sentence when his mother pped his arm. ¡°Mom! I already said that¡­¡±


    ¡°Your hands are precious h h h¡­¡± his mother smirked, making Adaline chuckle softly.


    ¡°Alright, alright. You two,¡± his father intervened, as wise as ever. ¡°Altezza, your mother made this specifically for you, so please appreciate it.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, Dad, I know your mom came here with a purpose. She¡¯s more interested in checking on her daughter-inw than checking on me,¡± Altezza replied, ignoring thesagna in front of him and opting for the bread on Adaline¡¯s te instead.


    Instead, Adaline and Benjamin were the ones who enjoyed the fried rice made by Del.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the likelihood of me having grandchildren?¡± The question made Adaline choke on hersagna.

 Part 45

    Adaline refused when Altezza insisted she apany him to the office because, aside from Tessa and Duncan, no one else knew they were already married. And Adaline intended to keep it that way. The only office personnel aware of their marriage were the board of directors and Altezza¡¯s work partners. They had also been instructed not to spread the information because Altezza didn¡¯t want Adaline to be treated differently by her colleagues. That was the reason Altezza¡¯s assistant, Duncan, presented when he distributed the wedding invitations.


    But no matter how strongly Adaline resisted, Altezza wouldn¡¯t give in.


    ¡°Go to the office with me or be driven by the chauffeur. Those are your only options, Mrs. Quirino. Because I don¡¯t want my wife to take public transportation again, no matter what the reason,¡± Altezza asserted, causing Adaline¡¯s courage to falter instantly. Not wanting to cause trouble, Adaline chose to go with the chauffeur, with the option to drop off a bit away from the office, or if anyone asked, she would say she took an online taxi.


    Tessa was already seated elegantly at her desk, with both arms folded across her chest and narrowed eyes. ¡°Well, well, well, how are you, Mrs. Q?¡± She said with a sarcastic tone. Adaline ignored her and opted to ce her bag under the desk before turning on herputer.


    Tessa slid her chair until she was beside Adaline, cing her elbow on Adaline¡¯s desk and resting her head on it.


    ¡°So, how was your first night with Mr. Q?¡± She whispered.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Adaline tried to ignore her friend.


    ¡°Oh,e on, don¡¯t be stingy with information,¡± Tessa nudged Adaline¡¯s upper arm. ¡°Tell me, was he ¡®great¡¯ or ¡®fierce¡¯? How many rounds did you two go at itst night?¡± Her voice was just a whisper but sounded clear because her lips were so close to Adaline¡¯s ear.


    ¡°Tessa!¡± Adaline snapped. ¡°Don¡¯t talk like that. Get to work!¡± Adaline spun Tessa¡¯s chair and pushed her friend¡¯s chair back to its rightful ce.


    ¡°Oh,e on, Ada. Don¡¯t be shy with me. You know I¡¯m a good listener. And I¡¯m so ready to hear your story,¡± she urged again, still in a whisper. ¡°Didn¡¯t you skip work yesterday because he made it hard for you to walk after pounding you all night?¡± Tessa teased, her eyebrows raising and lowering mischievously, her gaze yful.


    ¡°Tessa, watch your mouth!¡± Adaline hissed, feeling incredibly embarrassed by her friend¡¯s question. She chose to return to her desk. When Tessa moved her chair again, Adaline red.


    ¡°If you ask one more time, I won¡¯t talk to you for the rest of my life,¡± Adaline threatened, met with a pleading gaze from Tessa. The girl pouted with her puppy eyes, but Adaline paid her no mind.


    Two weeks passed without much significance. They went through their days like strangers living in the same house. Their daily activities were just work and helping each other with household chores ¨C mostly dominated by Adaline since Altezza spent most of his time working. They spent weekends visiting their parents alternately.


    Adaline could hardly be said to meet Altezza often. He was so busy that he was hardly ever seen. He worked out of town for a day or two, and when he was home, he remained hidden in his workspace until midnight. Adaline knew this because asionally, she would see the light in his room or workspace still on.


    Antony¡¯s wedding required them to prepare and stay in Kansas. This was something Adaline had been avoiding, because while in Altezza¡¯s Manhattan apartment they still had personal boundaries with separate bedrooms, in Kansas they had to sleep in the same room, making Adaline feel nervous, scared, and ufortable.


    Just like when they attended the engagement party, this time they left right after work on Friday evening, but instead of going straight to the apartment, they went directly to Antony¡¯s house.


    Chaos filled the house when they arrived at nine in the evening. Unlike the engagement, this time Antony¡¯s rtives from his mother¡¯s side seemed to gather there. Not a lot of them, but it still made Antony¡¯s residence bustling and lively.


    ¡°I changed my mind, I was nning to stay here but it seems we¡¯ll sleep in our apartment instead,¡± Altezza whispered as they reached the front door.


    ¡°Look, the newlyweds,¡± eximed a middle-aged woman whose face resembled Mrs. Brianna¡¯s but looked older.


    Whether they liked it or not, Altezza and Adaline greeted Antony¡¯s rtives out of courtesy.


    ¡°How¡¯s it going? Any signs of pregnancy yet?¡± asked another woman.


    ¡°Not yet, Auntie, just pray for it to happen soon,¡± Altezza replied candidly.


    Mrs. Brianna appeared shortly after. Adaline and Altezza greeted her. ¡°Had dinner yet?¡± asked the middle-aged woman with concern.


    ¡°Actually, not yet, aunty,¡± Altezza admitted.


    ¡°Come on, join us, we¡¯re making delicious beef meatballs,¡± Brianna Quirino said as she hugged Adaline and led her to the kitchen.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Mamma and Padre?¡± Altezza asked when he didn¡¯t see his parents.


    ¡°They opted to stay at the hotel. Same goes for Gian, Letizia, and their parents. Tomorrow morning, we¡¯ll all meet at the location,¡± Brianna replied as she scooped meatballs into a bowl and poured the sauce. ¡°Are you staying here?¡±


    Altezza shook his head. ¡°We¡¯ll just sleep at the apartment,¡± Altezza politely declined. ¡°Where¡¯s Antony?¡±


    ¡°In his office, talking to his father,¡± Brianna answered with a warm smile.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­¡± Altezza hummed as he chewed on the meat. ¡°Madam? Make me meatballs like this next time,¡± he whispered to Adaline, who was also eating meatballs. Adaline just nodded, agreeing without a word.


    After eating and chatting for a while, they returned to the apartment around half past ten at night. Adaline had yawned several times during the journey, but she tried to fight off sleep because she didn¡¯t want a repeat of what happened before, causing Altezza the trouble of carrying her while she slept.


    Adaline was truly exhausted, and it seemed Altezza was too. ¡°Are you alright?¡± Adaline asked shortly after they entered the apartment.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Your face looks pale. Are you feeling sick?¡± she inquired, observing Altezza¡¯s face carefully. Altezza responded to his wife¡¯s question with a smile, and then without warning, he pinched both of Adaline¡¯s cheeks affectionately. ¡°Ow.¡± Adaline swatted away his hands, unsure if it was because his hands were cold or her cheeks were cold, but it was clear his hands felt warm. ¡°I¡¯m asking sincerely. Are you okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Madam. Just a slight headache, maybe because I haven¡¯t slept much these past few days. And I stayed uptest night too,¡± he replied with a lopsided smile that made him look even more handsome.


    ¡°Can I make you something?¡± Adaline offered. The man shook his head slowly.


    ¡°No need, I¡¯ll just sleep it off, it¡¯ll be better in the morning. Tonight, if you allow me, I¡¯d like to sleep in the bedroom, okay? I promise I won¡¯t do anything untoward to you,¡± he said with a yful tone that made Adaline feel embarrassed.


    Adaline masked her nervousness with a pout and then walked into the only bedroom in the apartment. Altezza followed her from behind.


    The man immediatelyy down and wrapped himself in the nket. Meanwhile, Adaline cleaned up first and changed into her favorite unicorn-patterned cotton pajamas.


    Adaline slept beside Altezza. This was the second time they slept together since their wedding day.


    Nervous? Of course, Adaline¡¯s heart was pounding intensely.


    For the first time in her life, Adaline found herself physically close to a man other than her father, and honestly, it felt strange to her. However, she was too tired to worry about whether Altezza might do something inappropriate to her. Instead, they both fell asleep immediately and even forgot to say goodnight.


    Adaline woke up feeling a sensation of warmth on her body. She intended to adjust the AC temperature, so she moved to lift her nket to find the remote but something held her back.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    It was Altezza, who was moving closer to her body. ¡°Cold,¡± he murmured with his eyes closed. His hand tightly embraced Adaline¡¯s stomach as shey on her back. His warm breath brushed against Adaline¡¯s head. With her free left hand, Adaline felt his forehead and indeed, Altezza¡¯s body felt hot.


    ¡°Sir?¡± Adaline turned to him, their faces so close, she tried to wake Altezza up. ¡°Sir? Are you alright?¡± she asked in a panic.


    Altezza slowly opened his eyes and looked down at Adaline. Their eyes met. ¡°Honey, Madam,¡± he corrected.

 Part 46

    ¡°Y-yes,¡± Adaline nervously replied. Their faces were too close, barely an inch apart, making Adaline feel awkward. ¡°Are you alright? Your body is hot.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel well, everything aches,¡± he answered softly. Adaline tried to get up, but Altezza stopped her. ¡°Where are you going?¡± he asked softly.


    ¡°To get medicine. Is there a medical box here?¡±


    ¡°In the kitchen cab,¡± Altezza replied.


    His arm, which had previously hugged Adaline, released her, and quickly Adaline got out of bed and went to the kitchen.


    The digital clock on the kitchen counter showed two in the morning. Adaline opened each cab until she found the medical box she was looking for. At least she hoped there was a fever reducer in there. Then she filled arge ss with warm water and took it back to the bedroom.


    ¡°Here¡¯s some paracetamol. Drink up,¡± Adaline opened the packaging and handed it to Altezza, who epted it and drank almost half the ss. ¡°Do you want to change your clothes? Yours are wet,¡± Altezza nodded.


    Adaline opened the wardrobe and found a thin material shirt and sweatpants that could absorb sweat, then handed them to Altezza.


    ¡°You can change your clothes yourself, right?¡±


    ¡°If I can¡¯t, would you help me change?¡± His teasing tone irritated Adaline.


    Without waiting for Altezza¡¯s response, Adaline left the room and headed back to the kitchen. She went to the storage area and found a small towel forpressing. Then she searched for a bowl big enough to hold water.


    She waited outside for five minutes until she felt Altezza had finished changing. He was standing, about to put hisundry away, but Adaline moved quickly.


    ¡°Just go to bed. Let me put them away,¡± Adaline took the dirty clothes from Altezza¡¯s hand and put them in theundry basket near the bathroom door, then filled the bowl with water. ¡°I¡¯llpress your forehead, okay?¡± she said, and without waiting for a response, Adaline dipped the small towel into the bowl of water, wrung it out, and ced it on Altezza¡¯s forehead.


    ¡°You should¡¯ve taken the medicine before going to bed, instead of letting the pain linger like this. If you¡¯re still sick tomorrow, you might not be able to attend ire¡¯s wedding.¡±


    Altezza smiled, his eyes never leaving Adaline as she wrung out the towel again.


    ¡°Why are you smiling like that? Is there something weird about my face?¡± Adaline asked, puzzled.


    ¡°Nothing¡¯s weird, I just didn¡¯t expect you to be so chatty,¡± he replied, still smiling mischievously. ¡°Should I be sick every day so I can hear yourints? You hardly ever talk. It¡¯s like your voice is so precious, but when I listen to it, your voice isn¡¯t as melodious as Mariah Carey¡¯s or Taylor Swift¡¯s.¡± His teasing remark made Adaline scowl in annoyance.


    Adaline didn¡¯t respond with anything verbal, but she did realize that she became chatty when dealing with sick people. Or was Adaline naturally chatty, but her shyness dominated? Her chattiness only seemed to emerge when she was feeling panicked, like now.


    ¡°Madam, just rx, your boyfriend here is strong. Tomorrow morning, I¡¯ll be back to health as if nothing happened tonight,¡± Altezza replied, still trying to joke. Adaline didn¡¯t respond. She chose to wipe Altezza¡¯s face and neck with water.


    ¡°Go back to sleep, the medicine must have started working, right?¡± Altezza nodded slowly and began to drift off as his eyelids felt heavy.


    ¡°You too, go back to sleep so you¡¯ll be fresher tomorrow. Don¡¯t let Mom think I did something naughty to you all night,¡± he teased again, making Adaline¡¯s cheeks blush.


    ¡°Why does your face look red? Is my fever contagious?¡± Altezza chuckled. ¡°Come here, go back to sleep. I don¡¯t want to be alone,¡± he coaxed, patting the empty space on the bed where Adaline had been.


    Reluctantly, Adaline obeyed and walked back to that empty space. She pulled the nket up to her waist, sleeping on her side facing Altezza, whoy on his back.


    ¡°If the towel bes ufortable, wake me up,¡± she ordered softly. Altezza nced at her briefly before nodding.


    ¡°Yes, Madam,¡± he replied softly, and both drifted back into the realm of dreams.


    Adaline woke up at five and checked Altezza¡¯s body temperature. His fever had gone down, which relieved Adaline. She left the room and promised to wake Altezza up when breakfast was ready.


    By seven in the morning, Altezza had woken up to the enticing aroma of food. ¡°Madam, did you cook?¡± he asked with his typical groggy morning voice.


    ¡°Yes, I made soup,¡± Adaline handed warm water to Altezza. ¡°Do you want breakfast now?¡±


    ¡°Mmm¡­ sounds good. Madam, where did you go shopping?¡±


    ¡°To the nearby minimarket. I asked one of the security staff,¡± Adaline replied.


    ¡°Wow, impressive. You¡¯re already acquainted with the security,¡± he said in a tone that sounded annoyed, almost mocking. But Adaline brushed it off. ¡°What vegetables did you use?¡± he asked again when Adaline didn¡¯t respond.


    Adaline mentioned the vegetables and spices she used, then poured the soup into arge bowl. ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re strong enough to go to ire¡¯s wedding?¡± Adaline felt Altezza¡¯s forehead to check his body temperature.


    His fever had indeed gone down, but Altezza¡¯s face still looked pale. Altezza nodded and took a spoonful of soup into his mouth.


    ¡°This is really delicious,¡± he sincerely praised.


    ¡°Eat as much as you want. If necessary, just finish the whole pot,¡± Adaline chuckled as Altezza ate heartily.


    Altezza asked for seconds twice, which surprised Adaline enough that she didn¡¯t try to hide her astonishment.


    ¡°Are you really that hungry?¡± she asked, causing Altezza to lift his head from his soup bowl.


    ¡°Not really, but this soup contains magic that makes me unable to stop eating,¡± he replied casually. ¡°It¡¯s your fault for making such delicious food,¡± he scolded when he saw Adaline¡¯s puzzled expression. ¡°Let¡¯s get ready, we shouldn¡¯t bete for their wedding.¡± Altezza got up and was about to take his bowl to the sink, but Adaline stopped him.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take care of it, you go take a shower.¡±


    Altezza nodded with gratitude and went to soak in warm water to rx his body. Fifteen minutester, in the bedroom, he was stunned to find his bed neatly made as if it had never been slept in, and his clothes neatly arranged and hung on the wardrobe door.


    Altezza searched for Adaline to express his admiration and gratitude, but he couldn¡¯t find the girl.


    When he finished dressing and stepped out of the room, he heard the girl on the phone with her back turned to him. ¡°Yes, Mom. We¡¯ll leave in about ten minutes,¡± she answered reassuringly.


    ¡°¡­¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes, Mom. We¡¯ll head straight to the hotel.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, see you.¡± Adaline ced her phone back into the long bag in front of her.


    ¡°Mom?¡± Altezza¡¯s question startled the girl. Adaline turned around, and Altezza almost gaped at her.


    Just like at Antony¡¯s engagement event, this time they were also wearing matching outfits, as was the custom with the entire Antony family, of course.


    The silver midi dress looked stunning on Adaline. Its skirt appeared soft as it touched Adaline¡¯s white and delicate calves. The top was tailored to fit her body, entuating parts that Adaline usually hid beneath her loose shirts and casual wear.


    The neckline was adorned with an exquisite decoration that Altezza couldn¡¯t name, but it shimmered beautifully, matching the belt that made Adaline look slim. The sleeves reached just above her elbows, allowing Altezza to see some of her small, fair-skinned hands. Her natural makeup enhanced her charming appearance. Her lips were tinted with a subtle shade of red, not too striking, and her hair flowed beautifully, adorned with a pearl hairpin on the left side, matching her earrings.


    Altezza was truly speechless. Was the beautiful girl in front of him really the wife he married two weeks ago, or was she an angel who had purposely visited his apartment and got lost? Because if she was, he would search the entire room to find her wings and hide them for himself. He wouldn¡¯t allow the angel to return to heaven just like that.


    ¡°Are you daydreaming?¡± The question snapped him out of his thoughts. Altezza shook his head. ¡°Are you having a headache again? Do you want to take more medicine?¡± Adaline asked with concern, to which Altezza shook his head.


    ¡°No, Madam. I¡¯m fine. Shall we go now?¡± Adaline nodded, and they left the apartment, leaving Altezza still in awe.

 Part 47

    They arrived at the hotel, which was a branch of the Quirino family¡¯s hotel. Before leaving, they had a debate because Adaline forbade Altezza from driving herself. Eventually, feeling defeated, Altezza decided to hire a makeshift driver instead of using an online taxi service.


    Letizia and her family, along with Altezza¡¯s parents, were already waiting for them in the hotel restaurant area. They were enjoying snacks while waiting for Antony¡¯s entourage and family to arrive. Gian immediately stood up and greeted Adaline with his annoying greeting in Altezza¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°My beauty, why do you look more and more like an angel every day?¡± He praised with sparkling eyes. He attempted to embrace Adaline with both hands, but Altezza quickly redirected Adaline behind him.


    ¡°Remember, cousin. She¡¯s my wife,¡± he growled hoarsely.


    ¡°Yes, yes, I know, but just for a moment, let your little brother hug her,¡± he pleaded with a pout.


    ¡°No, Gian!¡± Altezza shook his head. His actions only made his head spin.


    ¡°Gian! Altezza! Stop arguing!¡± Letizia snapped, starting to get annoyed. ¡°Adaline,e here, dear,¡± she said with a softer tone, coaxing. ¡°I really miss you.¡± Letizia hugged and kissed Adaline¡¯s cheek affectionately, making Gian grumble and Altezza roll his eyes.


    ¡°I wish I were Letizia¡­¡± Gian muttered. But Altezza ignored him and chose to join the rest of his family.


    Ten minutester, Antony¡¯s entourage arrived. Altezza and the rest of the Quirino family stood up and chose to stand behind the Brianna family¡¯s entourage.


    They were all dressed alike, although with different styles and tailoring, except for the bride and groom and their parents, of course.


    ¡°Where¡¯s via?¡± Adaline searched for the pretty girl but couldn¡¯t find her.


    ¡°She chose to join the ire family,¡± Altezza answered, his lips so close to Adaline¡¯s ear that she shivered. Because Adaline was wearing 4-inch heels, her height now reached at least Altezza¡¯s neck and was equal to Letizia¡¯s if only she wasn¡¯t wearing high heels.


    The procession proceeded much like Altezza¡¯s wedding. The difference this time was that there were more family members present than at Altezza and Adaline¡¯s wedding, as the ire family from both her father¡¯s and mother¡¯s side, as well as her siblings, and almost all of Antony¡¯s family from Arthur and Brianna¡¯s side, were in attendance. Their presence filled ny percent of the guest seats provided, unlike Altezza¡¯s wedding. Since Del had no siblings, and neither did Violet, only Altezza¡¯s paternal family was present, along with some of Adaline¡¯s neighbors and a few select guests.


    Two hours after the marriage validation procession, the invited guests began to arrive. Some families had already started to leave as the photo session had concluded. Only the Quirino family remained seated at two round tables. Del and Letizia didn¡¯t want to leave their seats as they were awaiting the entertainment that would be presented, so eventually, everyone else decided to stay.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Adaline gently rubbed Altezza¡¯s arm as she noticed him starting to break into a cold sweat.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. We¡¯ll be heading home soon,¡± Altezza replied, taking another sip of his drink.


    ¡°Testing, testing, testing,¡± the emcee said from the stage.


    A somewhat overweight presenter stood in the middle of the stage in a neatly pressed navy suit.


    ¡°How¡¯s our special guest¡¯s performance this afternoon?¡± The apuse of the hotel ballroom filled the air. The presenter, a familiar face from private television, turned to the guest of honor. It was a famous male solo singer known for his golden voice and, of course, his hit songs.


    ¡°This is a request from the bride,¡± the presenter said, ncing at the guest of honor. ¡°She wants you to sing a duet with someone she has chosen. Are you up for it?¡± he asked the male singer.


    ¡°With whom? The groom?¡± He inquired, ncing towards the stage where ire shook her head in response.


    ¡°No, but with one of the guests here,¡± the presenter replied again on behalf of ire. ¡°The bride wants you to duet with one of the guests and sing the song she wants to hear. Are you up for the challenge?¡±


    ¡°Why not, who¡¯s the guest of honor?¡± He asked, curious.


    ¡°Hmm, who could it be¡­¡± the presenter said, walking towards the bridal stage, ignoring the guest who requested a handshake. ¡°Mrs. Quirino, who is the guest of honor you want to sing on this stage?¡± The male presenter extended his mic towards ire.


    ¡°My sister-inw, Adaline Quirino,¡± ire answered with a mischievous smile.


    ¡°Did you hear that? Did you hear that, Mrs. Adaline Quirino?¡± The male presenter asked loudly. ¡°So, for anyone who ims to be Adaline Quirino,e up here quickly.¡± He requested with a slightlymanding yet yful tone.


    Meanwhile, those who knew her seemed to turn their heads and look towards the table upied by the Quirino family, where Adaline wanted to hide her body, now feeling extremely embarrassed and her face as red as a ripe strawberry.


    ¡°Come on, no need to hide. I¡¯ve already spotted you, Mrs. Adaline Quirino,¡± the male presenter said mischievously.


    Adaline shook her head, trying to refuse ire and the male presenter¡¯s request. But it seemed the presenter wasn¡¯t backing down as he stepped down from the stage and walked towards their table.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re the newlyweds who didn¡¯t invite me to your wedding yesterday?¡± He eximed loudly through his mic.


    ¡°Come on, Madam, don¡¯t refuse the bride¡¯s request. Come with me, or else I¡¯ll drag you forcibly,¡± he said in a humorous manner, causing some guests tough.


    ¡°Gian, can you sing?¡± Gian asked on behalf of Altezza. Seven pairs of Quirino family eyes turned towards him. Adaline shook her head, but her answer waspletely disregarded by Gian Quirino. ¡°Seems like your sister-inw ire intends to embarrass you,¡± Gian continued with his mischievous smile.


    ¡°Come on, Madam, are you going to step forward yourself, or do I have to drag you up?¡± the presenter asked right in front of Adaline.


    ¡°Come on, Aunty, don¡¯t be shy,¡± a shout came from Abigail¡¯s high-pitched voice, who was apparently standing not far from the buffet table. She even had a te of food in her hand.


    ¡°Listen, your own niece is already cheering. Come on, Madam, what are you waiting for?¡± the presenter urged again.


    Unexpectedly, Letizia pulled Adaline from her seat. ¡°I¡¯m also curious to hear your voice,e on, hurry up,¡± she ordered, pushing Adaline towards the presenter.


    ¡°But my voice is terrible. It will only embarrass me and tarnish the Quirino name,¡± Adaline tried to retreat.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, everyone here is family,¡± Letizia debated, pushing Adaline again.


    Adaline couldn¡¯t resist. She felt trulycking in confidence. How could ire y such a prank on her like this? She felt like crying right then and there. Just you wait, ire, I¡¯ll get back at you! Adaline threatened silently.


    But it seemed Letizia and the presenter wouldn¡¯t ept any refusal. Adaline¡¯s arm was held, and then she was guided towards the stage. Even with courtesy, it was the guest star who reached out a hand to help her up onto the stage.


    ¡°Typical men, they move fast when they see a beautiful woman,¡±mented the presenter, making the guests chuckle.


    Adaline and the guest star exchanged introductions in hushed tones. They discussed the parts they would sing, and Adaline¡¯s palms were already sweaty from nerves. She had no idea how she looked right now. Probably a mess.


    The presenter stood between Adaline and the guest star and spoke again. ¡°Okay, everyone. Our guest star has now epted the challenge from the bride. Now, does the bride¡¯s sister-inw also ept her challenge?


    ¡°Of course, she epts it already; otherwise, she would have run off this stage,¡± the presenter answered his own question, elicitingughter from the guests.


    A stage assistant handed a mic to Adaline. Unexpectedly, the mboyant man walked backward and chose to sit in the corner of the stage next to the musicians.


    The intro began. Adaline nced at ire, who was smiling broadly and giving her two thumbs up. She also nced towards her husband¡¯s family. Letizia, who had returned to her seat, did the same as ire, as did Gian and Del Altezza. Meanwhile, Benjamin Quirino seemed calm as usual. And Altezza? Adaline herself didn¡¯t know the meaning behind that man¡¯s gaze.


    The guest star¡¯s melodious voice resounded:


    I do swear, that I¡¯ll always be there


    Adaline took a deep breath and began:


    I give my hand to you with all my heart


    I can¡¯t wait to life my life with you, I can¡¯t wait to start


    ¡°Shania Twain  From This Moment¡±


    Thunderous apuse filled the ballroom. Adaline, who had been so lost in the song, seemed to be drawn back to reality.


    ¡°Amazing. Turns out, Mrs. Quirino here has a very beautiful voice. It seems the Quirino family has a hidden gem,¡± the presenter said, greeted with nods of agreement from the guests. Even Gian continued to whistle loudly in his seat. Adaline blushed again. ¡°Are you interested in bing a singer?¡± the presenter asked curiously.


    ¡°No,¡± Adaline answered, shaking her head.


    ¡°Why? We can make a coborative album togetherter,¡± the guest star offered with his sincere smile, causing Adaline to blush in embarrassment.


    ¡°That discussion is behind the scenes,¡± the presenter intervened. He would first need to ask permission from her husband. ¡°So, bride, are you satisfied with their duet?¡± The presenter turned to ire, who shook her head, pointing her index finger upward, requesting another song.


    ¡°It seems this Quirino daughter-inw is a bit greedy,¡± the presentermented, invitingughter again. ¡°Don¡¯t let your sister-inw take over the job of the original guest star. She¡¯ll end up with a blind paycheck,¡± he added, eliciting moreughter. ¡°Alright, one more song,¡± the presenter said, turning to Adaline.


    ire mentioned another title, and then they sang again.


    Adaline returned to her table with a face that felt extremely hot from embarrassment. Meanwhile, Gian seemed to gaze at her with sparkling eyes.


    ¡°I swear, I truly didn¡¯t know that Auntie¡¯s daughter-inw is a woman with a golden voice. Where have you been hiding all this time? Why did Altezza find you first? Why wasn¡¯t I the one who married you?¡± Gian regretted, earning a smack on the head from Altezza.


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect your voice to be so beautiful. If you ever want to be a singer, tell me. I can be your sponsor. You can join Brianna Company,¡± Del persuaded, answered by enthusiastic nods from Letizia and Gian.


    ¡°No, Mom. I¡¯m not interested,¡± Adaline replied softly.


    ¡°Just think about it, if you change your mindter, just let me know. You can¡¯t imagine how proud I would be to have a singer daughter-inw,¡± Del said enthusiastically.


    ¡°Adaline will never be a singer, Mom. I will never allow her to enter the entertainment world. I can still provide for her and buy her whatever she wants even if she doesn¡¯t work,¡± Altezza¡¯s cold and curt tone made Adaline turn.


    Her face hardened, unreadable. Adaline wondered if her performance on stage had angered him, or if there was something else. Because despite his sharp gaze, his face appeared noticeably pale.


    Adaline reached for her husband¡¯s left hand and squeezed it gently. ¡°Do you want to go home?¡± she asked softly.


    Altezza returned the gentle squeeze and nodded. They both eventually bid farewell and left the party. Their parents wanted to ask, but seeing Altezza¡¯s expression, they refrained from doing so.


    After Altezza left, Del looked at her husband. ¡°What do you think has gotten into our child? Jealousy?¡±


    Benjamin shook his head. ¡°He hasn¡¯t realized it yet, dear. I believe he¡¯s behaving like that because he doesn¡¯t want Adaline to be like ¡®that woman,''¡± Mrs. Del nodded in understanding.


    ¡°So, how is ¡®that woman¡¯ doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure by now she has received the wedding photos of Altezza,¡± Sir Benjamin replied in his usual t tone.

 Part 48

    Altezza POV


    I gaze at Adaline with a whirlwind of emotions. Surprised, impressed, and annoyed all at once. Even the surprise I felt at her beauty earlier hasn¡¯t faded yet, and now? What other trials must I endure?


    How could that shy girl look so extraordinary standing on stage with her mesmerizing voice that captivates me, my family, and even the guests? Her aura just radiates. After her first lyric, she seemed to forget everything around her. As if her world is there, on that stage. And that¡¯s what makes me angry.


    No. This time I¡¯ll be more selfish. More selfish. I refuse to be sidelined again. Especially by obsession.


    No! Adaline is only mine. I won¡¯t trade her for anything. And by God, if a single wordes out of her lips saying she wants to be a star, then I¡¯ll use a hundred, a thousand, even a million ways to silence her.


    Adaline is back in her seat. I deliberately keep quiet about it. Childish, indeed. But I want her to know that I don¡¯t like what she did earlier. Even though my mouth is itching to praise her stunning performance.


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect you to have such a beautiful voice,¡± I hear the tone of praise in my mother¡¯s voice. ¡°If you want to be a singer, tell me, I¡¯ll be your first sponsor. As for an agency, we can ask Brianna for help so she can support you.¡± Suddenly, I re at my mother but she doesn¡¯t even acknowledge me and still looks at my wife with admiration.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°No, Mom. I don¡¯t want to be a singer.¡±


    I hear Adaline¡¯s soft reply and instantly my heart warms. She didn¡¯t even say ¡®I¡¯ll think about it¡¯ as a polite refusal. And she stated her desire firmly. Suddenly, I feel the corner of my lips twitch.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Mom. If you change your mindter, let me know. Truly, I¡¯m proud to have a singer as a daughter-inw. I won¡¯t stop bragging to my friends.¡± She says enthusiastically.


    I feel frustrated, I re at my mother but once again she ignores me.


    ¡°Adaline ain¡¯t gonna be no singer, Mom. She ain¡¯t stepping into the entertainment world. I can still support her even if she ain¡¯t workin¡¯,¡± I said bluntly, causing everyone, including my wife, to look directly at me.


    Her pretty face clearly looked surprised, maybe because of my statement that was too brusque and seemed disrespectful to my Mom. Honestly, I don¡¯t care.


    Her tiny right hand suddenly reached for my left hand, squeezing it gently. Instantly, it softens my emotions.


    ¡°Wanna go home?¡± she asked softly. I quickly turn my hand around and tighten my grip on her fingers, then squeeze them gently. I nod my head slowly, and then Adaline represents us as we bid farewell to the family.


    We¡¯re already in the parking area with our faithful chauffeur still sitting in the car. Adaline and I get into the back of the car, and somehow, I choose to lean my head on her petite shoulder.


    ¡°Feelin¡¯ dizzy?¡± she asks, raising her hand and massaging the side of my forehead slowly.


    ¡°A bit,¡± I reply softly.


    She continues to massage my forehead with her left hand while her right hand still tightly holds mine. Despite my palm being sweaty, I have no intention of letting go.


    The car has reached the apartment parking area. Reluctantly, I release our handhold when the driver hands over the car keys and I pay him for his service. Then, the two of us enter the elevator to our apartment floor.


    I copse onto the bed while Adaline goes into the bathroom and changes her clothes into something casual.


    ¡°Change your clothes,¡± she says while she¡¯s already swapped her party dress for an oversized long-sleeved shirt and seven-eighth pants.


    Her hair, which was beautifully pinned up earlier, is now tied back into a simple bun at the nape of her neck, revealing her slender neck that somehow entices me.


    ¡°Sir?¡± she calls again when I don¡¯t respond.


    ¡°Later, I¡¯m feeling weak,¡± I replied hoarsely, though the source wasn¡¯t really my illness.


    Adaline opened the wardrobe and took out a thin, light brown long-sleeved shirt and ck workout pants. She walked over to me and helped me get up from the bed, then diligently unbuttoned the batik shirt I was wearing.


    The closer her body got, the more I could smell the soft scent of the lotion she used, and it made other parts of my body ache.


    I¡¯m a grown man, and for the past few months, I haven¡¯t relieved my needs. It¡¯s only been a few months and it already feels this suffocating. How¡¯s Antony, who¡¯s been around for over a decade?


    Once I had the shirt on, she handed me the workout pants and walked away.


    ¡°Why stop? Why half-ass it?¡± I grumbled as I watched her stand up and move toward the door. Without answering, the girl closed the door, and I caught a glimpse of her flushed face.


    Unaware that I had fallen asleep, I woke up to see the sun had turned a light orange. I nced at the watch still wrapped around my left wrist.


    It was four o¡¯clock, why hadn¡¯t she woken me up? But as I got up, a small towel fell onto myp. And my clothes were already soaked with sweat. It seems I¡¯m running a fever again and the girl ispressing my forehead once more.


    I decided to take a warm shower to neutralize my body temperature. Afterward, I walked out and noticed the girl was ying with kitchen utensils. I didn¡¯t know what she was cooking this time, but from the tempting aroma, I was sure it would taste as delicious as the food she cooked this morning.


    I decided to stay quiet and watch her. I saw her asionally stir the contents of the pot emitting the scent of ginger, alternating with the saute in another pan on the side of the stove. When she turned around, she screamed quite loudly at seeing me. I just smiled.


    ¡°Sorry, I startled you,¡± I said without feeling any guilt. The girl just red at me for a moment before moving her cooking onto arge te.


    ¡°Dinner tonight, broli stir-fried with beef.¡± Adaline ced the food in front of me. ¡°Once this is finished, remember to take your ginger honey remedy for indigestion.¡±


    ¡°When did you buy all this?¡± I asked, quite surprised considering my fridge must have been empty since I didn¡¯t ask the apartment attendant to restock it. Did the girl go to the market again like she did this morning?


    ¡°I intentionally went to the supermarket at the end of the street,¡± Adaline replied, to which I responded with a nod. Adaline handed me a steaming bowl of food. Without much talk, I devoured all the dishes made by my wife. And again, this time I added more to my portion. Hmm, eventually I¡¯ll lose my beloved six-pack abs. But it¡¯s okay, adding an extra hour to my gym routine is worth it if I¡¯m given delicious food every night.

 Part 49

    Adaline sat in the corner of the long sofa, watching TV as Altezza approached her. Instead of sitting down, he chose to lie down, cing his head on Adaline¡¯sp.


    ¡°Feeling unwell,¡± he said, reaching for Adaline¡¯s right hand and cing it on his forehead. Indirectly asking her to massage his head as she did earlier in the afternoon.


    Adalineplied, and her hands massaged both sides of Altezza¡¯s temples gently.


    Both of them fell silent. The only sound came from the TV Adaline had turned on. Meanwhile, Adaline thought her husband had fallen back asleep due to his illness. She was about to rece her thigh cushion with the sofa cushion, but he held her arm first.


    ¡°Madam¡­¡± Altezza spoke hesitantly. ¡°There¡¯s something I need to discuss.¡±


    Slowly, he rose from his reclined position and sat with his left knee bent on the sofa while his right leg dangled to the floor. Altezza turned his body fully towards Adaline, inevitably causing her to turn her body towards him.


    ¡°This is about the baby,¡± he continued when Adaline didn¡¯t respond.


    Adaline frowned. ¡°Yes?¡± Adaline whispered softly.


    ¡°I¡­ actually¡­¡± Altezza paused, weighing the words worthy of utterance.


    ¡°Do you¡­ want to follow Dr. Stefanie¡¯s rmendation?¡± Adaline cut straight to the point.


    Altezza was quite surprised by the girl¡¯s question; indeed, that was what he intended to say. Because after thinking for two weeks, he couldn¡¯t find any other answer except for the logical advice from his high school friend. Although he felt somewhat guilty for using the girl¡¯s body, honestly, he also needed release. And Adaline was his wife. Legally and religiously. So Altezza wasn¡¯tmitting a sin, right?


    ¡°You¡­ don¡¯t mind?¡± Altezza asked, still unable to believe his ears.


    Adaline smiled, her face blushing. ¡°Actually, it¡¯s not a matter of minding or not,¡± she answered softly. ¡°I know it¡¯s my duty and also your right¡­¡± Her face instantly turned red. ¡°I mean, ever since I signed that contract, I¡¯ve fully entrusted all decisions to you.¡±


    ¡°Whatever decision you make, I¡¯ll follow,¡± she continued, still blushing.


    ¡°But don¡¯t you mind? I mean, as I said before, usually women prefer to entrust their honor to the men they love. So what about you? Are you willing to give up your honor for me?¡±


    Silence permeated between them. Altezza heard Adaline asionally taking deep breaths, clearly indicating that the girl was trying to calm herself.


    ¡°I don¡¯t mind that. After all, I¡¯m your wife now. Mom said I¡¯m entirely yours. Except if you do it in a way that tortures me, then I won¡¯t allow it,¡± she replied in a soft voice, her head bowed.


    The red hue was not only spreading across the girl¡¯s face but also throughout her entire body.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Altezza teased her, lowering his head beneath Adaline¡¯s face, looking at her, and instantly her eyes widened in surprise. She then turned her face to the left, and Altezza followed suit. This continued until Adaline chose to cover her face with the sofa cushion.


    Altezza couldn¡¯t help butugh. The sudden boldness of the girl certainly took him by surprise. But he also realized that her shy side still outweighed the courage she tried to show.


    Altezza reached for both of the girl¡¯s hands and lowered the cushion covering her face.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to apologize, and I won¡¯t apologize. I also can¡¯t promise how things will be in the future. But what¡¯s clear is, right now I want to try. For us. For our rtionship. What do you say?¡± Yes, Altezza had decided in his heart. Right now, this moment, he would try. Try to make this marriage work.


    Adaline raised her head and looked directly into her husband¡¯s golden eyes. Clearly seeking the meaning behind his words. There was no joking in her gaze. Her stare was sharp, firm, and there was something Adaline couldn¡¯t quite interpret there.


    Slowly, Adaline nodded. The man then smiled and approached. ¡°So¡­¡± he asked, still with a smile ying on his lips.


    Adaline simply nodded, epting the man¡¯s outstretched hand and rising to her feet. ¡°Let¡¯s do it conventionally,¡± the man said softly, a tone that made Adaline nervous.


    Adaline excused herself to clean up, her heart pounding. Inside the bathroom, she leaned against the wall with weak knees. How could she be so bold? How could she challenge Altezza to this extent? How could her mouth speak of this matter as if it wasn¡¯t a big deal?


    She looked at her reflection in the mirror. ¡®What now?¡¯ she wondered. Looking at herself, there was nothing enticing about her appearance at all. Would Altezza even want her and touch her?


    She was inexperienced in dealing with men. Let alone in the bedroom, she had never even kissed before. Would she be able to satisfy Altezza, who was clearly a widower?


    Yes, Altezza was a widower, and he must have had a lot of experience. But what about Adaline? What if she ended up doing something that ruined the mood and made Altezza not want to touch her anymore?


    Adaline wanted to cry. Truly, she felt scared right now. She needed Tessa and Joanna to give her a boost with their usually irrational thoughts. With nervousness and fear, Adaline walked to her room and sighed, while Altezza turned his body slowly. It looked like a slow-motion movement on a widescreen. His face was very handsome and radiant.


    ¡°Ready?¡± the man asked with a mischievous smile that made Adaline¡¯s heart race even faster.


    Adaline swallowed hard and nodded, once again her heart racing just from the man¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re ready?¡± Altezza asked, trying to reassure her because he didn¡¯t want Adaline to feel coerced and regret itter.


    Adaline looked at Altezza and nodded slowly.


    ¡°After this, there¡¯s no turning back. Because I¡¯m not sure everything will happen only once,¡± Altezza said again.


    Adaline widened her eyes. They hadn¡¯t even tried for the first time yet, and Altezza was already threatening there would be more times.


    Seeing Adaline¡¯s surprise, Altezza smiled. He inched closer. His head moved towards Adaline¡¯s head, while his hands cupped Adaline¡¯s face and he kissed the top of her head.


    Adaline could only stay silent. Choosing to close her eyes and feel what Altezza was about to do to her.


    The man¡¯s lips slowly moved to touch her forehead, giving a gentle and pressing kiss there. Still with his hands on Adaline¡¯s face, Altezza then pressed his lips to Adaline¡¯s left cheek, soft and with a pressure like the previous kiss before moving to her


    Altezza then pulled back his head, causing Adaline to reluctantly open her eyes.


    Adaline hung her head in embarrassment, thoughts of Altezza not wanting to touch her filling her mind. But she was surprised when, without hesitation, Altezza once again cupped her face and pressed his lips to hers.


    The soft brush of Altezza¡¯s lips made Adaline freeze momentarily. Was this what a kiss felt like? She wondered. What should she do? Should she just stay still? Once again, Adaline screamed in panic within herself while clutching the hem of her skirt tightly.


    Aware that his wife was silent, Altezza withdrew his face.


    ¡°Madam?¡± Altezza asked hesitantly.

 Part 50

    Adaline looked at her husband nervously. ¡°I¡­ I¡­¡± She felt like crying from embarrassment. Especially when she saw Altezza standing up and taking off the robe he was wearing, Adaline could only look up silently.


    Altezza must be disappointed and will leave her. She screamed in her heart.


    But that thought didn¡¯t prove true. Because Altezza instead reached behind Adaline¡¯s knees and swiftly lifted her up, causing Adaline to scream instantly.


    ¡°S-Sir..?¡± Adaline screamed, reflexively hugging Altezza¡¯s neck tightly. Altezza carried Adaline and ced her on the bed. ¡°S-Sir..?¡± Adaline called out again, but Altezza ignored her call, instead kneeling in front of Adaline¡¯s feet. He looked up, his face smiling gently. ¡°Is this really your first time?¡± He asked with a mischievous smile that only made Adaline feel embarrassed and nervous. Adaline nodded her head.


    Altezza stood on both knees and approached Adaline, spreading her legs wide enough for him to stand between them and closing the distance between them.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Altezza¡¯s right hand reached out, grabbing both of Adaline¡¯s hands and cing them on his shoulders. Then both of Altezza¡¯s hands gently cupped Adaline¡¯s face.


    ¡°Don¡¯t panic,¡± he said softly. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid and don¡¯t hesitate. Just do what you want to do, Madam.¡± He continued, gently stroking Adaline¡¯s cheek with his thumb. ¡°Your body will respond naturally, and we just need to enjoy it.¡± He whispered again, making Adaline only able to nod her head in surrender.


    Altezza gazed at Adaline for a few moments, making Adaline feel awkward. He then brought his face closer to Adaline¡¯s, waiting for his wife¡¯s reaction, whether she would pull away or ept him.


    Adaline remained silent, and Altezza took it as eptance. His right thumb then touched Adaline¡¯s chin, pulling it down slightly so that her lips parted slightly.


    Altezza pressed his lips against hers and kissed her. He could feel Adaline¡¯s hand on his shoulder tensing apanied by gentle squeezing on his shirt.


    Altezza¡¯s lips moved, sucking on Adaline¡¯s lips more forcefully, causing her to feel dizzy. His tongue explored and caressed with hesitant movements, and Adaline began to respond.


    As their lips met and responded to each other with slow and intoxicating movements, Altezza moved his hand, stroking his wife¡¯s body gently and teasingly until he found the edge of Adaline¡¯s shirt.


    Slowly, he lifted the oversized shirt and removed it from her body, causing their lip lock to inevitably break.


    Both of their hearts were racing wildly, evident from how they both breathed short and fast. And Altezza couldn¡¯t tear his gaze away from the sight in front of him: Adaline¡¯s breasts, appearing white, round, and firm.


    Aware of where Altezza¡¯s gaze was directed, Adaline immediately crossed her arms in front of her chest, making Altezza smile at her. He gently pulled Adaline¡¯s hands down and said softly, ¡°Let me see.¡±


    But Adaline shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m embarrassed¡­¡± she whispered softly. ¡°My chest¡­¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Altezza asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s not as big as those actresses¡¯,¡± she answered shyly.


    ¡°Which actresses?¡± Altezza asked mischievously. He pulled Adaline¡¯s hand and ced it on his chest. ¡°To be fair, want to undo my clothes?¡± He offered teasingly. Adaline widened her eyes, her hands trembling heavily as Altezza guided her to undo his pajama buttons. ¡°Come on, help me out,¡± Altezza urged again while his hands rubbed Adaline¡¯s bare back with teasing


    Adaline swallowed hard, but she did as Altezza requested. With some difficulty, she undid three buttons of Altezza¡¯s clothing.


    ¡°Let it go, mydy,¡± Altezza requested, guiding Adaline¡¯s hand to the edge of his shirt. Adaline swallowed hard again andplied with what Altezza said. She struggled to remove the man¡¯s clothing. And once again, she swallowed hard when she saw the sight in front of her.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time Adaline had seen Altezza shirtless. During their wedding day and when the man was sick, Adaline had seen him. And each time, Adaline¡¯s heart raced because of it, but now, the pounding was many times stronger, making Adaline feel breathless.


    Altezza pulled Adaline¡¯s hand and ced it on his chest again, moving it up and down with gentle strokes. Adaline felt her hand tickled by the man¡¯s chest hair. Altezza¡¯s chest felt firm, yet warm. And so did the man¡¯s hand pressing against the back of her hand.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t fair,¡± Altezza whispered softly. ¡°You¡¯ve touched me, but I haven¡¯t.¡± He continued, reaching out his hand towards the back of Adaline¡¯s body and grabbing the hook of her bra. Adaline reflexively crossed her arms in front of her chest again. ¡°Isn¡¯t your body mine?¡± Altezza asked, as if reminding Adaline of her words some time ago.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    Altezza¡¯s hand moved up and grabbed the straps of Adaline¡¯s bra, pulling it down through her white, smooth arms. But it couldn¡¯t just slide off because Adaline still held onto the front.


    ¡°Mydy¡­?¡± Altezza looked up and gazed at Adaline¡¯s face. Adaline bit her lower lip, and without hesitation, Altezza kissed her again.


    His kiss was still gentle and as skillful as before. Meanwhile, his hands teased and once again ced Adaline¡¯s arms over his shoulders. Then, his hands cupped both of Adaline¡¯s mounds and squeezed them, making Adaline gasp and break their kiss.


    ¡°Ah¡­ ahhh¡­¡± Adaline couldn¡¯t help but moan as Altezza¡¯s mouth suddenly sucked on one of her nipples. ¡°S-sir¡­¡± Adaline whimpered uncontrobly. Altezza continued to y with her breasts. One of his hands held Adaline¡¯s back to prevent her from pulling away, while the other yed freely with her breast. He squeezed, caressed, and asionally twisted it, leaving Adaline confused with the sensations she was experiencing.


    Adaline felt her body beingid down, lifted easily so that she was now in the middle of the bed with Altezza supporting her. She wasn¡¯t sure when his pants were removed. Now he only wore tight boxers. Meanwhile, his lips kissed Adaline¡¯s again, and his hands moved to remove Adaline¡¯s sports pants until the only thing left on her body was a spandex underwear that didn¡¯t even look enticing.


    ¡°S-Sir¡­¡± Adaline called out hesitantly. She tried to bring her legs closer together to protect the only precious thing she had. But Altezza held her knees and spread them wide again before pressing his lower body against Adaline¡¯s.


    ¡°Can you feel that, mydy?¡± Altezza asked softly as he continued to press his body against Adaline¡¯s, causing her to moan from the extraordinary sensation. His warmth felt against hers, and suddenly, she felt wetness. Meanwhile, her stomach tingled with an odd feeling.


    Altezza grabbed both of Adaline¡¯s hands, linking their fingers. ¡°This will be perfect. It will feel perfect,¡± he whispered, a meaning that Adaline didn¡¯t quite understand. Altezza leaned in again and kissed her. His body moved below, rubbing against Adaline¡¯s femininity with his manhood stiffening beneath the boxer.


    Adaline moaned in response, feeling it. And somehow, her body wanted more. She didn¡¯t want just this.


    Altezza lowered his head, kissing, licking, and sucking on her neck gently and alternately. He kissed and sucked on Adaline¡¯s breasts again while his hands tried to remove the triangle covering Adaline¡¯s body.

 Part 51

    Altezza continued to descend towards Adaline¡¯s stomach, whispering something there that Adaline couldn¡¯t hear because her ears were ringing with arousal. Her hands could only grip the sheets tightly as a distraction from her rising passion.


    Then, Altezza¡¯s hands began to caress Adaline¡¯s thighs, spreading them wide as he brought his face closer to Adaline¡¯s heated and moist area.


    Feeling the warm breeze caressing her femininity, Adaline looked up. ¡°Sir¡­ please don¡¯t¡­ Ahhh¡­¡± Adaline gripped the sheets tighter as she felt Altezza¡¯s warm tongue caressing her femininity. Her legs wanted to close, but Altezza¡¯s grip was stronger. Adaline could do nothing but squirm and moan.


    Whatever Altezza did, Adaline couldn¡¯t resist. It felt hot, ticklish, and something inside her seemed to push toe out. Her toes curled as the urge continued to try to escape, and Adaline struggled to hold it back.


    ¡°Sir¡­ let go¡­¡± she begged while sobbing. But Altezza ignored her. He seemed deaf and instead extended his tongue deeper. ¡°Sir¡­ please¡­ let go¡­¡± Adaline begged again, trying to get up and free herself. ¡°Sir¡­ I want¡­ ahhhh¡­.¡± Adaline¡¯s body was thrown back onto the bed as she felt a thick liquid flowing out, and Altezza continued to lick it.


    Adaline cried. Feeling ashamed of herself and ashamed of what Altezza was doing. She cried, covering her face with both hands.


    ¡°Why?¡± Altezza asked, trying to remove Adaline¡¯s hands from her face. But this time, Adaline insisted on hiding. ¡°Darling¡­¡± Altezza called gently. Altezza tried to pull Adaline¡¯s hand away, but she still stubbornly refused. ¡°Look at me.¡± Altezza¡¯smand was firmer. ¡°Darling, this is an order.¡± Altezza threatened. Adaline let Altezza open her hands. Her face flushed, and tears streamed down her cheeks. It surprised Altezza. ¡°Why? Did I hurt you?¡± Altezza asked worriedly.


    Adaline shook her head.


    ¡°Then why? Why are you crying?¡± She asked gently.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m embarrassed,¡± Adaline replied softly. ¡°What just happened,¡± she said, wiping her tears. ¡°What you did, it makes me embarrassed,¡± she continued amidst her sobs.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Altezza smiled, and slowly that smile turned into a smirk. He kissed Adaline¡¯s forehead, nose, and both her cheeks in turn before saying, ¡°Why are you so adorable at a time like this, Darling?¡± He asked softly. ¡°That¡¯s called an orgasm. And there¡¯s nothing shameful about you feeling it.


    ¡°It¡¯s natural. It would be shameful if I couldn¡¯t make you feel it.¡±


    Altezza said with a proud smile on his face. ¡°And that¡¯s just the beginning, because after this our affair will still continue, Darling.¡± Altezza said, emphasizing the lower part of his body still wrapped in boxer shorts against Adaline¡¯s exposed one. ¡°Call my name.¡±


    ¡°S-Sir..¡±


    ¡°Call my name, Darling. Altezza.¡±


    ¡°A-Altezza..¡± Adaline murmured shyly.


    ¡°That¡¯s better than hearing you call me ¡®Sir¡¯. Listen to me, After this it might feel painful, but I¡¯m sure it won¡¯tst long.¡± He said softly while emphasizing his lips on Adaline¡¯s lips again. ¡°But still, you have to go through it as part of the process.¡± He continued with a teasing smile.


    Altezza repeated everything from the beginning. The man kissed Adaline¡¯s lips gently. Engaging his tongue that Adaline could now match. The man¡¯s hands caressed every inch of Adaline¡¯s body with teasing movements. And now, Adaline was not ashamed to touch the man even though she did it hesitantly.


    Adaline rubbed Altezza¡¯s hard chest. Squeezing his chest as he squeezed her breasts. Twisting her nipples as Altezza did the same. But when Altezza sucked her nipples, Adaline could only arch her back and grip Altezza¡¯s hair and press his head so he wouldn¡¯t leave.


    As Altezza¡¯s hand roamed her stomach, continuing to the intimate area, Adaline¡¯s legs willingly opened. And as the man¡¯s fingers yed there, Adaline could only moan in pleasure.


    Altezza moved slightly away, causing Adaline to feel lost and look at him with pleading eyes. Altezza gave her a smile, removing thest piece of fabric, leaving Adaline stunned as she looked at her husband¡¯s member.


    ¡°Al..?¡± Adaline whispered softly, shaking her head. Now the girl felt truly scared.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, it¡¯ll only hurt for a moment,¡± he said reassuringly, then resumed caressing Adaline with kisses and touches. His fingers caressed Adaline¡¯s, ensuring his wife was ready before guiding his own to touch hers. ¡°Sorry..¡± Altezza whispered in Adaline¡¯s ear as he united their bodies in one painful thrust. Not just for Adaline but also for himself.


    Adaline screamed loudly as the pain made her almost lose consciousness. Meanwhile, Altezza groaned at the strong grip Adaline had on him. He had to hold on, he couldn¡¯t lose control and let Adaline¡¯s pain go to waste.


    Altezza lifted his head, looking at Adaline who had turned pale. ¡°Just a moment,¡± he whispered, coaxing her. Adaline looked at Altezza with tears welling up again. She didn¡¯t want to trust him, but she knew what Altezza said was true.


    Her mother had told her the same thing. Even all the virgins in the world said the same. The first time would always hurt. Butter.. Adaline didn¡¯t want to think aboutter. She wanted the painful throbbing she felt to end.


    Altezza lowered his face again, kissing Adaline and soothing her. Slowly he moved, withdrawing but notpletely. Adaline and Altezza both hissed. Adaline from the pain and Altezza from trying to restrain himself from getting release too quickly.


    Slowly, the pain turned into a tingling sensation like what Adaline felt when Altezza caressed her with his tongue, but this time it felt stronger, causing Adaline to move and beg Altezza to move faster.


    ¡°Ngghhh¡­¡± A groan escaped Altezza¡¯s mouth as he tried to control himself. ¡°This¡­ is too pleasurable,¡± he whispered as he moved even deeper. His hands held onto Adaline¡¯s hips to prevent them from moving wildly. Everything had to be perfect. For him and for Adaline.


    ¡°Al¡­¡± Adaline somehow pleaded to be able to move in sync with Altezza down there.


    ¡°Be patient, Darling,¡± Altezza whispered through gritted teeth. But then he moved quickly. His hardened and swollen member made Adaline¡¯s throb even more, gripping and massaging Altezza¡¯s with strength until finally, Altezza couldn¡¯t hold back anymore.


    ¡°Aall¡­¡±


    ¡°Aaahhh¡­¡± they both moaned simultaneously as they reached the peak at the same moment. Adaline felt weak, as did Altezza who fell onto Adaline¡¯s body. Both were sweating, breathing heavily with irregr heartbeats.


    Several minutester, Altezza managed to lift his body. Supporting himself with both elbows and looking at Adaline who had her eyes closed.


    ¡°Darling, are you asleep?¡± Altezza asked as he wiped the sweat from Adaline¡¯s forehead. Adaline shook her head, still with her eyes closed. ¡°Then open your eyes, look at me, Aa,¡± he gently requested. Adaline continued to shake her head. ¡°Why?¡± Altezza inquired.


    ¡°Embarrassed¡­¡± Adaline answered softly, which made Altezza chuckle.


    Altezza rolled over, bringing Adaline into his embrace. Adalineplied, resting her head on his upper arm. Altezza reached for Adaline¡¯s hand and ced it on his thundering chest.


    ¡°What makes you embarrassed?¡± He asked above Adaline¡¯s head. Everything was perfect. The perfect first time.¡± He said as he kissed Adaline¡¯s head. Adaline didn¡¯t say much, she chose to lean her head on Altezza¡¯s chest. Listening to the thunderous beat of his heart in her ears. Whatever Altezza was thinking, it was clear that Adaline had belonged to him from the beginning.

 Part 52

    Adaline woke up feeling sore and achy in several parts of her body. Nevertheless, she felt her body so warm. A sturdy arm hugged her stomach, and there were legs pressing against her thighs and calves. She shivered as she felt the regr and warm breaths there. Adaline bit her lower lip softly. Oh God, did she do anything wrong? She did all of this under the marriage vow. But why did she feel so embarrassed?


    Adaline tried to release the embrace around her stomach and legs. But as she halfway removed it, the strong arm returned to grab her body and hold her tight. ¡°Where are you going, ma¡¯am? The sun has yet to rise,¡± Altezza whispered in her ear. His hair brushed against her neck, shoulder, and exposed back, making her ticklish and feel a strange sensation elsewhere on her body.


    ¡°B-bathing,¡± Adaline stuttered. Her hands clenched the thin nket tightly covering her naked body. Altezza sat up and rested his head on his arm. His handsome face grinned. ¡°Bathing?¡± he asked, raising an eyebrow. He nced at the digital clock on the nightstand and then at Adaline alternately. ¡°It¡¯s only two o¡¯clock, aren¡¯t you feeling cold?¡±


    ¡°Uh-um. I¡­¡± Adaline tried to find an excuse to save herself. Or more urately, to hide from her embarrassment.


    ¡°Alright, alright¡­ Go ahead and bathe,¡± Altezza said, trying to pull the nket held by Adaline, but the girl-no, the woman-held onto it tighter upon seeing the strange expression on her husband¡¯s face. ¡°Darling, nobody bathes with a nket.¡± Altezza teased with a smirk.


    ¡°B-but, I¡¯m not wearing anything¡­¡± Adaline responded nervously.


    ¡°I¡¯m the same way,¡± Altezza replied, once again pulling away the nket covering Adaline¡¯s body, albeit only halfway. ¡°But¡­ the bath isn¡¯t now, Mrs. Altezza Quirino.¡± Altezza then moved to hover over Adaline, opening her legs with his knees. Seeing the woman¡¯s eyes widen, he smiled and buried his face in the curve of her slender neck. ¡°Later, after one more scene..¡± and Altezza resumed his actions that night, filling the otherwise silent room with the sounds of gasping breaths and the collision of flesh.


    Altezza woke up to find the other side of the bed empty. Adaline was not there, and even when Altezza tried to listen for sounds in the bathroom, the answer was only silence. After their passionate lovemaking early that morning, they had fallen back asleep and woke up as the sun was about to rise, with Altezza once again asking his wife to continue the process of ¡®making a baby¡¯ until they grew tired and fell asleep again.


    ¡°It seems my animalistic desire is back,¡± Altezza murmured to himself. Reluctantly, he had to admit that he didn¡¯t feel satisfied enough with Adaline¡¯s body and wanted to do it again and again. Yet Altezza knew that for Adaline, it must feel very ufortablepared to the pleasure he experienced. Altezza himself knew that producing mature sperm didn¡¯t happen in the blink of an eye. And perhaps the most effective ejaction to fertilize Adaline¡¯s egg was the first one, while the rest¡­ Altezza shrugged.


    Well, the rest was desire. No, not desire. But passion and pleasure. Yes, this was the pure passion a man has for a woman, and anything Altezza did to Adaline was not a sin or a mistake because she was his wife, not his mistress or another man¡¯s woman.


    Altezza stepped down from the bed and walked towards the bathroompletely naked. He disregarded his neatly folded clothes by Adaline at the corner of the bed and opted for a cold shower, hoping to reach apromise between his mind and his manhood when he would see Adaline again.


    Exiting the bathroom, Altezza nced at the clock on the nightstand, showing eleven in the morning. He was still puzzled, wondering if eleven was considered morning or afternoon. Altezza shook his head. Lunch was approaching soon, and he had even missed breakfast. His stomach was undoubtedly feeling hungry at the moment. Fortunately, it seemed his wife understood his needs, as the scent of cooking filled the air upon opening the bedroom door.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Silently, Altezza walked towards the kitchen, standing tall behind his petite wife who always seemed serious whenever she cooked. Honestly, the more Altezza got to know his wife, the more he admired her. There was always something new that surprised him.


    She neverined, never talked nonsense, and never demanded. But when she panicked, her ability to speak expanded rapidly, like a sports car speeding at six hundred kilometers per hour. And that always made Altezza want tough or pinch her cheeks affectionately.


    Yes, his wife was truly an independent woman who disliked being pampered and whining. Even Altezza himself was surprised because for the past month, the girl hadn¡¯t asked him for money, and she hadn¡¯t even used the credit and debit cards he gave her at all.


    Very different from Jovanka. Even before they officially got married, that woman often asked for this and that from him. Always whining, even for trivial matters.


    Yes, Jovanka was professional when it came to work, but outside of that, she was a spoiled woman who always wanted to be the center of attention. The only simrity between Jovanka and Adaline was one. They were both virgins when Altezza married them.


    Altezza unconsciously frowned. Why did that name resurface? Why was heparing Adaline to that woman? He shook his head slightly to clear his mind.


    However, that woman was the one who had filled his days for the past six years, even though she didn¡¯t apany him all the time. And the woman in front of him now was the one who would fill his days in the future. And somehow, thinking about their future days warmed Altezza¡¯s feelings.


    ¡°Oh my God!¡± Adaline eximed as she identally stepped back and bumped into something solid behind her, which turned out to be her husband¡¯s chest.


    Altezza snapped out of his reverie and mischievously smiled back at his petite wife.


    ¡°Why do you always like to startle people?!¡± Adaline grumbled loudly.


    ¡°Good afternoon, my love,¡± he replied, kissing Adaline¡¯s left cheek. Adaline widened her eyes and then blushed.


    ¡°S-Sir?¡± she stuttered.


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am? Want more?¡± Without waiting for a response, Altezza kissed Adaline¡¯s right cheek, making the girl blush even more.


    Not satisfied, Altezza cupped Adaline¡¯s face with hisrge hands and kissed her lips. A light kissnded on her soft lips. There was a savory taste, perhaps from the spices the woman had just tasted.


    Altezza turned off the stove with his right hand before continuing his kissing session. He gently pushed Adaline¡¯s body until her hips and back touched the refrigerator. His kisses grew deeper, his tongue tracing Adaline¡¯s lower lip, tasting the spices from the woman¡¯s cooking, then sucking and nibbling on it gently.


    Adaline had no idea where she had dropped her spat. Her hands were now free to run through Altezza¡¯s hair while he continued to kiss the right side of her neck. Moving up and down towards her ears, he licked them, causing Adaline to softly moan, which sent a pulsing sensation through the lower part of Altezza¡¯s body.


    Altezza rubbed his manhood against her intimate area, eliciting the same passion from her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t wear pants when we¡¯re alone together, my love,¡± hemanded in a whisper, nibbling on Adaline¡¯s earlobe. ¡°Answer me, darling.¡±


    ¡°Y-yes,¡± Adaline responded amidst her moans.


    ¡°Good,¡± Altezza whispered, while his right hand slipped into Adaline¡¯s jeans without bothering to undo the button and zipper.


    Ding dong¡­ ding dong¡­

 Part 53

    The sound of the apartment bell snapped Adaline back to reality. Instantly, she pushed Altezza¡¯s chest, realizing what they were doing. However, her push was too weak, as Altezza didn¡¯t release his embrace at all.


    ¡°S-sir,¡± Adaline said with a soft whisper, her voice husky with desire andmand.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­¡± Altezza responded tly, paying no attention to Adaline¡¯s attempts to push him away and choosing instead to tilt her face up so he could kiss her freely.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Ding dong¡­ Ding dong¡­


    This time, with all her strength, Adaline kicked Altezza¡¯s shin. ¡°Ow! Ma¡¯am! What are you doing?!¡± Altezza snapped, grimacing. His hands rubbed his leg where Adaline had kicked him.


    ¡°There¡¯s a guest!¡± Adaline replied, pointing towards the door.


    This time, aside from pressing the doorbell, the guest could be heard impatiently banging on the door.


    ¡°Who¡¯s visiting here?!¡± Altezza grumbled. Clearly, he didn¡¯t want to be disturbed. And whoever disturbed him would¡­


    His threat was forced to halt as he looked at the inte screen. Altezza pressed the unlock button and let his guest in without a greeting.


    ¡°Why did it take so long?¡± his mother grumbled as she barged in. Unwilling to answer, Altezza chose to return to the kitchen, where his wife, who now looked neat again, stood with a surprised expression she couldn¡¯t hide.


    ¡°Mamma?¡± she asked softly, torn between confusion and surprise at their presence.


    ¡°Darling, are you okay?¡± Del Quirino approached her daughter-inw. ¡°I tried to reach both of you and wanted to ask if you two had safely returned to Manhattan. Considering yesterday you left the party abruptly, and Altezza looked pale.¡±


    ¡°But both of your phones were off. So I contacted the office. And Duncan said you didn¡¯t show up and asked him to request sick leave for Adaline.¡± Del nced at Altezza suspiciously before turning back to her daughter-inw with concern.


    ¡°Sorry, Mom, it seems my phone battery died. Adaline forgot to charge it. But I¡¯m fine, it¡¯s Altezza who¡¯s sick.¡± Adaline looked at her husband, who was sitting on the sofa with a disgruntled expression.


    ¡°He¡¯s sick? But he looks perfectly fine. His face just looks grumpy like a duck that hasn¡¯t been fed for a week,¡± Del teased indifferently.


    ¡°Actually, since Friday night, he hasn¡¯t been feeling well, Mom. He had a fever after returning from Sir Antony¡¯s house. Then on Saturday, after returning from the party, his fever came back until yesterday morning,¡± Adaline answered honestly.


    ¡°You should be more understanding, Darling. Your husband is getting old, so even a little fatigue can make him sick. Late meals, illness. Too many meetings, illness,¡± Del teased again.


    ¡°Mom, I¡¯m not a weak person. I rarely get sick. Don¡¯t be so harsh,¡± Altezza retorted curtly. ¡°Besides, why did youe here alone? Where¡¯s your faithful bodyguard?¡±


    ¡°Your father is busy. On a Monday like this, he must be working, unlike you who¡¯s justzing around,¡± Del replied sharply, causing Altezza to roll his eyes. He was already tired of responding to his mother. ¡°Have you had lunch? I¡¯ve ordered lunch from the restaurant downstairs, maybe it will be delivered here shortly.¡±


    ¡°Just because you have a daughter-inw, you only care about your daughter-inw. Do you no longer care about your only son? Do you want me to report you to the child protectionmission?¡± Altezza muttered, sounding more like a threat.


    ¡°The child protectionmission?¡± Del repeated her son¡¯s words. ¡°Do you think they care about taking care of an old man like you? You should report to the elderly care center.¡± Del replied sharply. Altezza was about to respond to his mother¡¯s words, but the apartment bell rang again, and he was forced to open the door once more.


    ¡°I actually cooked, Mom,¡± Adaline replied as Altezza walked away. She returned to the kitchen area followed by Del.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t know. I thought you were really sick,¡± she said, concerned. ¡°What did you cook?¡±


    ¡°Not much,¡± Adaline listed the menu she made while transferring them onto serving tes.


    ¡°Your cooking looks more tempting than the lunch I ordered,¡± Del said, her eyes sparkling as she looked at Adaline¡¯s dishes.


    ¡°Please, have a seat. I¡¯ll set everything up on the table,¡± Adaline said, to which Del nodded. As the middle-aged woman sat down, Altezza ced his mother¡¯s order and opened the food she had ordered.


    ¡°Don¡¯t open it, just leave it. I¡¯ll give that food to someone else. I¡¯ll eat your wife¡¯s cooking,¡± Delmanded, for a few seconds, Altezza responded with a raised eyebrow. However, he didn¡¯t say anything and just obeyed his mother¡¯s wish.


    Adaline returned with both hands carrying their lunch menu. ¡°Let me help,¡± Altezza offered as Adaline returned to the kitchen. The kitchen, separated only by a bar table, showed Altezza forcing Adaline to ept his help, which ended up adding more trouble for Adaline.


    ¡°Enough, just sit down. I can handle it myself,¡± It was not a request. Adaline ordered her husband to return to the dining table and stop bothering her. But her husband ignored her.


    ¡°Altezza Quirino! Come here and sit down! You¡¯re just making your wife tired,¡± his mothermanded in her characteristic tone.


    Altezza turned around, red at his mother, but thenplied when he saw Adaline¡¯s pleading look. The three of them finally ate hungrily, leaving nothing on their tes.


    Some timeter, Adaline sat quietly on the closed toilet seat. Several times she took deep breaths in and out.


    Disappointed? Yes, she was actually disappointed when she saw the brownish lines on the panty liner she used.


    Failure. She whispered to herself. She was undecided whether she should tell her husband about this or not. After all, Altezza wouldn¡¯t actually know because he had just left town. His ns were to go on a business trip for a week. And by the time he returned, Adaline would be clean from her menstrual cycle.


    For the past two weeks, every night they cuddled and wrestled in bed without exception. They had even tried almost every room in their apartment to fulfill his wild fantasies.


    And indeed Adaline admitted she enjoyed it. Every time he touched her, she epted it without reservation. He even refused offers to stay over from his parents-inw, iming he didn¡¯t want their ¡®baby-making process¡¯ to be interrupted.


    And now? Adaline sighed in disappointment again. What would his reaction be if he found out that Adaline failed to get pregnant? Would he be disappointed?


    Adaline brainstormed. Should she consult a doctor about ways to get pregnant quickly? Perhaps the doctor could calcte the right time for intimate rtions, foods that could increase fertility, and other things. Adaline snapped her fingers. Maybe that¡¯s what she needed to do.


    Adaline returned to her room and prepared to work with renewed vigor. She couldn¡¯t afford to be disappointed. She had to be able to give Altezza a child as he desired.

 Part 54

    After leaving the office, Duncan was already waiting for Adaline and Tessa in the lobby. The man waved with a friendly smile spread across his sweet face. Yeah, Duncan wasn¡¯t handsome. But sweet, and his friendly attitude added to his sweetness.


    ¡°Good evening,dies,¡± he greeted as they approached.


    ¡°She¡¯s the one who¡¯s already ady. I¡¯m still a miss,¡± Tessa corrected with a sharp tone.


    They walked side by side towards the office exit, exchanging greetings with the security personnel on duty.


    ¡°Yeah, but you¡¯re going to be mydy,¡± Duncan teased, poking Tessa¡¯s chin.


    ¡°Oh,e on, that¡¯s so cheesy,¡± Tessa brushed off Duncan¡¯s hand. Adaline chuckled at the scene, although her mouth refused, she could see the blush on her friend¡¯s cheek. ¡°Where are we going now?¡±


    ¡°Dinner, then dropping off the boss¡¯sdy. Then we can have some alone time,¡± Duncan replied, opening the car door.


    Tessa sat next to the driver, while Adaline took the back seat. There was no significant conversation in the car until Duncan parked at a street food stall.


    They ordered and chose to sit in a corner. ¡°So, why didn¡¯t you go with wherever the boss went this time? Weren¡¯t you invited?¡± Tessa asked, curious.


    Duncan shrugged with a nonchnt expression. ¡°Yeah, if it weren¡¯t this urgent, I would¡¯ve joined. But the situation¡¯s pretty dire right now,¡± Duncan replied tly.


    ¡°Dire? What do you mean by dire?¡± Tessa asked eagerly. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said as the waiter ced three tes of grilled chicken and coconut rice in front of them. ¡°Is ourpany on the brink of copse?¡± she asked again.


    Duncan tapped Tessa¡¯s forehead with his straw. ¡°Be careful what you say. Words are like prayers. Ourpany is fine. It¡¯s even thriving,¡± Duncan replied seriously.


    ¡°Then why did you say it¡¯s urgent? Hey, do you know something? I mean, as the boss¡¯s wife, shouldn¡¯t you know everything?¡± Adaline shook her head. Though she was indeed Altezza¡¯s wife, she never inquired about or wanted to know about work matters. In fact, she never knew much about the man¡¯s personal affairs either.


    ¡°So, between my boss and your boss, there¡¯s a big issue going on,¡± Duncan said before taking a bite of his food.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t they the same boss?¡± Tessa looked at Duncan and Adaline alternately. Adaline shrugged. She preferred to just listen. ¡°What¡¯s going on? I don¡¯t get it,¡± she grumbled as Duncan kept on eating without any intention of exining, and Adaline appeared indifferent.


    ¡°Eat first, or the chicken will get cold,¡± Adaline advised. Tessa finally took a bite, though with a pouting expression.


    ¡°So, right now, Sir Altezza and Sir Antony are at odds,¡± Duncan continued after finishing his meal.


    ¡°Why?¡± Adaline finally felt curious too. The two men had never been at odds before.


    ¡°Sir Altezza wants Sir Antony toe back here immediately to take up his position, but Sir Antony says he can¡¯t do it yet. Meanwhile, Sir Altezza needs to leave Coskun urgently. So, Sir Antony came up with apromise, suggesting that their cousin should move to Coskun and take over Sir Altezza¡¯s position,¡± he said straightforwardly.


    ¡°Where does Sir Altezza want to go? And why can¡¯t Sir Antonye back here? And the cousin who will take his position, is it that male cousin?¡± Tessa asked eagerly.


    Duncan squinted and nudged his girlfriend with his shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t start being nosy. Aren¡¯t I enough for you?¡± Duncan huffed, met with Tessa¡¯s trademark horse grin.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Sir Antony is still waiting for his wife and children to agree to move here. And Sir Altezza is overwhelmed with his ownpany matters. He feels incapable of managing his father¡¯spany and his own, plus dealing with Coskun. Sir Altezza feels he¡¯s running out of time. So Sir Antony decided Sir Gian should temporarily take Sir Altezza¡¯s position until he returns to Coskun. But Sir Altezza rejected the idea. Not just rejected it, but went ballistic.¡±


    ¡°Why? Isn¡¯t Sir Gian a good person? He took over Kralligimiz and also became a deputy in the Kansas branch, right?¡± Tessa¡¯s question echoed Adaline¡¯s.


    ¡°Yeah, even though he seems unserious and flirty, Gian is a reliable worker. And honestly, Sir Altezza knows that. But he refused Sir Gian with an unreasonable excuse,¡± Duncan couldn¡¯t help but smile mischievously.


    ¡°What¡¯s the reason? Stop making me curious.¡±


    Duncan then recounted the sequence of events to the two women in front of him.


    shback On


    Altezza, Antony, and Duncan were still in the meeting room while the others had already left.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Brother? Is there something important we need to discuss?¡± Antony asked with his usual t expression. ¡°Lunchtime ising soon.¡± Antony nced at his watch impatiently.


    ¡°Yeah, I understand. Honeymoon. But this is also urgent. When are youing back to Manhattan? Seriously, I¡¯m really swamped right now,¡± Altezza replied, rubbing his face roughly. ¡°After this, I have to fly to Virginia, and then it¡¯s on to ska. I¡¯mpletely drained, Antony,¡± Altezza grumbled.


    Duncan observed his boss, who indeed looked very tired.


    ¡°Yeah, sorry. I¡¯m not unaware of your situation. And I shouldn¡¯t involve personal matters. But I¡¯m still trying to persuade my wife and kids to move to Manhattan,¡± Antony replied truthfully.


    ¡°Yeah, but how long will you keep persuading them while mypany also needs its owner?¡± Altezza replied with resignation.


    ¡°Here¡¯s the thing, why don¡¯t you delegate some of your tasks to Gian? Let Duncan help guide him. Duncan understands all the Coskun affairs,¡± Antony suggested.


    Instead of being weed, Antony¡¯s suggestion received a re from Altezza.


    ¡°What? Gian? Are you kidding me?!¡± Altezza eximed.


    Antony couldn¡¯t help but smile, a rare sight from the man.


    ¡°If not him, then who else? Letizia? You know Ferhat won¡¯t allow her to leave Italy. And it¡¯s not feasible for me to ask my father toe back to work. It¡¯s time for him to retire and enjoy his old age,¡± Antony replied frankly. ¡°Besides, what¡¯s the problem with Gian? He does good work. He¡¯s always focused and serious.¡±


    Altezza shook his head repeatedly. ¡°No, Brother. If he moves to Coskun, what about Adaline? I don¡¯t want him flirting with Adaline every chance he gets.¡±


    Antony snorted. ¡°Come on, Brother. There¡¯s no way he¡¯s flirting with Adaline. He knows you¡¯re married. He wouldn¡¯t flirt with his own cousin¡¯s wife.¡±


    ¡°You just don¡¯t know him. Just yesterday, he tried to persuade Adaline to leave me and choose him. And he did it right in front of me. If he really moves to Manhattan to take care of Coskun, I don¡¯t know how he¡¯ll pursue Adaline.¡± Altezza¡¯s face looked genuinely panicked.


    Antonyughed, augh heard more often after his marriage. ¡°Come on, Brother. Don¡¯t take that seriously. He did the same thing with ire.¡±


    ¡°But ire and Adaline are different.¡±


    ¡°Different how? Because ire loves me while Adaline¡­?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t bring that up. The point is, I don¡¯t want that bastard Gian moving to Manhattan. Not until I bring Adaline to move with me. I¡¯d rather endure until you return than leave Adaline in the clutches of a lizard like Gian,¡± Altezza replied firmly, choosing to end the conversation.


    shback off


    ¡°Ooh¡­ someone¡¯s jealous here¡­ Aww, someone¡¯s being jealous¡­ Feeling a bit emotional, huh?¡± Tessa said, fanning her face with both hands.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t make sense indeed, but that¡¯s how it is in reality,¡± Duncan replied, addressing Adaline¡¯s confusion.


    ¡°But where does Sir Altezza want to move to? If Sir Altezza moves, will you move too?¡± Tessa asked again. Adaline just looked at Tessa puzzled. She herself was still trying to digest Duncan¡¯s words.


    ¡°Sir Altezza has his own business, Tess. And right now, hispany really needs attention,¡± Duncan informed. ¡°He¡¯s currently going out of town because of his business matters and also to handle his father¡¯s hotel affairs.


    ¡°It¡¯s tough being wealthy. You¡¯ve got only one head but your thoughts have to branch out everywhere. Luckily, he¡¯s smart, right? Otherwise, Quirino¡¯s kids could get a brain overload,¡± Duncan replied casually.


    ¡°Are you moving too then?¡± Tessa asked again. Duncan shrugged.


    ¡°Not sure yet. Because in Sir Altezza¡¯spany, there are already assistants and deputies whom Sir Altezza trusts.¡±


    Tessa nodded along, while Adaline was preupied with her own wandering thoughts.

 Part 55

    Adaline had alreadyid her body on her mother¡¯sp. Duncan had escorted Adaline to her mother¡¯s house because during Altezza¡¯s absence, Adaline had asked for permission to stay with her mother as she felt afraid to stay alone in Altezza¡¯s apartment. Even though the ce had excellent security measures.


    Adaline reached for her phone, checking if there were any messages from her husband.


    Nothing.


    Had Altezza arrived already? It was clear he had, as the trip to Virginia didn¡¯t take long. But why hadn¡¯t he contacted her? At the very least, he could have informed her that he had arrived safely. She felt irritated with herself.


    Adaline searched for Altezza¡¯s name in one of the chat apps. She had intended to inquire about his well-being, but then she hesitated and threw her phone behind her body. She was afraid to contact him first. What if she ended up bothering him?


    ¡°If you miss him, just say so. Don¡¯t pout like that,¡± Emma teased when she saw Adaline¡¯s sulky face.


    ¡°Who said I miss him?¡± she retorted, but her bodynguage betrayed her restlessness.


    Emma smiled teasingly.


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s you who misses your husband. How could it be me? But I might miss those handsome Korean boy bands,¡± Emma replied casually.


    ¡°Yeeeyyy¡­ you¡¯re learning to be a flirt, huh? Liking Korean boy bands, you¡¯ve been hanging out too much with today¡¯s youth, that¡¯s why you¡¯re like this,¡± Adaline felt a gentle tap on her upper arm. She turned to see her mother¡¯s re. ¡°Watch your words. If you miss him, just admit it, no need to keep up appearances in front of us,¡± her mother teased, though Adaline thought her mother was going to reprimand her for her remarks to Emma.


    Emma¡¯sughter erupted in the simple living room. ¡°See, even your mother gets it. You¡¯re the only one pretending not to. It¡¯s not that hard to say it out loud. Newlyweds naturally miss each other. Besides, nowadays, missing each other isn¡¯t as difficult as it was in our youth. Back then, if we missed our partners, it wasn¡¯t as easy as just sending a text or making a video call. We had to rely on expensive phone calls or even telegrams, and those weren¡¯t cheap. Nowadays, all you need is a phone and inte connection to see each other¡¯s faces. And you¡¯re still trying to deny it? Let me tell you, Ada. When I missed my sweetheart back then, I could only kiss his photo because phone calls were expensive, and public phones were far away. Not to mention, I was afraid to go alone. It¡¯s not like you now, who can just grab your phone, send a chat, and video call.¡±


    ¡°Your words sound like those of a lovestruck teenager,¡± Adaline still tried to deny.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who looks like a lovestruck teenager. Just because you¡¯ve never dated before, you¡¯re confused about what to do now,¡± Emma teased.


    ¡°Exactly, follow the trend so you¡¯ll know what dating is like for today¡¯s youth. Where the beautiful date spots are and¡­¡± Before Emma could continue her dream, Adaline chose to get up from her bed. ¡°Hey, where are you going?¡± Emma and her mother asked simultaneously.


    ¡°To sleep. I¡¯m tired.¡±


    ¡°Ohe on¡­ Probably just going to video call with your handsome husband, right?¡± Emma teased, to which Adaline replied with a yful gesture. Emma and Violetughed again. Adaline and her cute antics whenever teased made them miss her even more.


    Adaline had changed out of her work clothes into her pajamas and was now lying on the bed. The clock showed it was eight in the evening. Adaline wasn¡¯t sleepy yet, but she also didn¡¯t have anything else to do. So, she searched for a collection of unread novels. When she returned to bed, her phone vibrated.


    Adaline reached for it, and a smile spread across her face unconsciously. It turned out that while she was showering, her husband had sent her several messages.


    Husband:


    Hi, Mrs., are you asleep already? (7:45 PM)


    Mrs¡­. Are you really asleep??  (7:50 PM)


    Mrs¡­. Is it true you¡¯re already asleep at this hour? Don¡¯t you miss your husband who¡¯s far away? (7:55 PM)


    Test Test Test¡­ Mrs¡­ You used to stay upte when I¡¯m around. Or could it be you¡¯re mad because I¡¯m not here to apany you to sleep? (8:00 PM)


    Alright, alright, I give up. Have a good sleep. Dream of me. (8:01 PM)


    Me:


    Yes, sweet dreams too. Don¡¯t forget to pray.


    Then her phone vibrated again, and Altezza¡¯s name filled the screen. Adaline bit her lower lip, sitting cross-legged on the sofa and cing a pillow on herp. She cleared her throat with a cough before finally sliding the green screen on the phone.


    ¡°Hi.¡±


    ¡°Hi¡­ turns out you¡¯re still awake. Why haven¡¯t you replied to my messages earlier??¡± Altezza grumbled from the other side.


    ¡°Sorry, just finished showering.¡±


    ¡°Ohh¡­¡± he replied, trailing off. ¡°Are you going to sleep now? What are you wearing tonight?¡± Altezza teased.


    Adaline furrowed her brow and nced at her pajamas. ¡°Star pajamas,¡± she replied tly.


    ¡°Really? Why not wear ck lingerie?¡± Altezza teased again.


    ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you?¡± Adaline felt embarrassed. Altezza really enjoyed it when Adaline wore minimal sleepwear.


    ¡°Hm¡­ Just imagine if you were here¡­ I really can¡¯t resist,¡± the man teased again. Adaline bit her lower lip, feeling confused. Should she tell her husband that she¡¯s currently on her period? And his dream is on hold?


    ¡°Amore Mia, why are you silent? Is something wrong?¡± Altezza¡¯s voice sounded panicked.


    ¡°No, everything¡¯s fine. But¡­¡±


    Adaline fell silent again. And the silence she created made Altezza ufortable and panicked himself. Especially when he heard his wife¡¯s soft sob.


    ¡°Cara, what¡¯s wrong? Is something the matter? Are you feeling unwell? Do you want me toe home?¡± Adaline shook her head, unaware that Altezza wouldn¡¯t see her gesture.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine. Really,¡± she replied softly. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­ I¡¯m on my period,¡± she said sadly.


    ¡°Period?¡± Altezza¡¯s question was apanied by a sigh of relief. ¡°Oh God, I thought something was seriously wrong,¡± Altezza breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°Mydy! You scared me.¡±


    ¡°But I thought¡­?¡± Adaline trailed off.


    ¡°Why? Is it the baby?¡± Altezza asked, and Adaline nodded in response.


    ¡°Y-yes.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s okay. It just means it¡¯s not our time to have a baby yet, but it¡¯s my luck.¡±


    ¡°Why is that?¡±


    ¡°Well, it means every night I can still touch you,¡± Altezza burst intoughter. Inevitably, Adaline blushed. ¡°It¡¯s okay, don¡¯t worry too much. You heard what Stefanie said. We¡¯re still young. And besides, it¡¯s only been a few tries. If it fails, we can try again, and again, and again. It feels good during the trial period, you know.¡±


    ¡°What are you saying¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, just¡­ We¡¯ll try again when I get back. Always move forward, never backward. I don¡¯t mind having you three times a day. Even more is fine too. I¡¯m not afraid of overdosing. I¡¯m just afraid you won¡¯t be able to standter,¡± Altezza teased further.


    ¡°You¡¯re unbelievable¡­¡± Adaline was turning redder by the second.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget your voice, darling. The louder you are, the more aroused I be. If you don¡¯t believe me, I can video call you now; I¡¯m already excited,¡± Altezza continued teasing.


    ¡°Altezza!¡± Adaline eximed loudly, but Altezza justughed heartily.


    ¡°Yes, yes. I won¡¯t video call. You prefer it live, right? Okay-okay, we¡¯ll go liveter. Wait for your mighty lover to return, alright? I¡¯ll try toe back as soon as possible so my beloved won¡¯t have to sleep alone anymore.¡±


    ¡°Al¡­!¡±


    ¡°Yes, Cara. I understand you miss me. But hold on, alright? I¡¯m stacking up dors for our future,¡± Altezza continued tough on the other end.


    ¡°Ugh¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. I know. Well, I¡¯m going to hang up now. Don¡¯t miss me too much. Just believe that I¡¯m here working for our future,¡± he said, making Adaline blush even more. ¡°Say hi to Mom and Emma. If you need anything, you can ask Duncan.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Okay what?¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll ask Duncan if I need anything.¡±


    ¡°Answer, ¡®Yes, dear.¡¯ Like that,¡± he instructed softly.


    ¡°Yes, dear,¡± Adaline followed suit.


    ¡°Good. Don¡¯t bete for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.¡±This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes, dear.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t let Gian the troublemaker tempt you when hees to Manhattan.¡±


    ¡°Yes, dear.¡±


    ¡°I know you miss me right now¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, dear,¡± Adaline replied again, then suddenly widened her eyes. ¡°Huh, what?¡±


    ¡°No instant reys, Madame. Goodnight..¡± Altezza said with hisughter. While Adaline, now confused by her response, buried her head into the pillow and hit her bed hard.


    Another message came to her phone.


    Husband:


    ¡°No need to scold the pillow or the bed. If you miss me, just ept it. Hold on. When I¡¯m back, we¡¯ll satisfy our longing for each other.¡±


    Adaline groaned as she read it. Without replying, she buried her face back into the pillow. ¡°Arrgghh!!¡± She screamed into the muffled cushion.

 Part 56

    Adaline spent her Friday night with Tess at one of their favorite cafes, reliving the routines they used to have when Adaline was still single. Although Tess was already dating Duncan at that time, due to Altezza¡¯s busy schedule, Tess and Duncan rarely enjoyed time together.


    Adaline wore a knee-length ck dress with small floral patterns. The cor was round, and the sleeves puffed up to above her elbows. A white leather belt cinched her slim waist. Her long hair cascaded beautifully in waves down her back, making her look more like a teenage girl than a twenty-five-year-old woman. Perhaps it was because of her petite frame and natural makeup that she looked youthful.


    ¡°Have you been waiting long?¡± Tess sat in front of her, wearing a long-sleeved turtle neck top and a ck leather mini skirt. Her body looked beautiful and sensual with curves in all the right ces. Even Adaline herself desired Tess¡¯s ideal body. Compared to Joanna, Tess had an equally sexy body, just shorter. And that one w was what Joanna often teased whenever they met. Her long ck hair fell onto her back, slightly damp from the drizzle outside the cafe. Yes, it was drizzling outside, but it only made Tess look even sexier.


    ¡°Not too long, I just got here myself. But I haven¡¯t ordered anything yet,¡± she said, and then they ordered food while chatting again.


    ¡°After this, where do you want to go? Watch a movie or stroll around the mall?¡± Tess asked after they finished eating.


    ¡°Both are fine with me,¡± Adaline agreed. ¡°How¡¯s Duncan doing?¡±


    Tess squinted her eyes. ¡°Duncan? Why not ask about the Boss?¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ I just wanted to know about Duncan, not the Boss,¡± Adaline turned her face away, her cheeks flushed.


    ¡°Who knows, maybe you miss your husband but feel embarrassed to ask when he¡¯sing home,¡± she teased again.


    ¡°I don¡¯t miss him. He said he¡¯ll be back tomorrow,¡± Adaline replied shyly.


    ¡°A¡­ seems like it¡¯s getting more intense. Could it be¡­¡± Tess teased, making Adaline even more embarrassed.


    ¡°What¡¯s that, Tess?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± A cough interrupted their conversation. Adaline and Tess looked up. A young man stood beside them with a bright friendly smile. Judging by his appearance, he seemed to be a high school student or maybe a college student.


    ¡°Yes, can we help you?¡± Tess asked politely.


    ¡°Um, miss, uh¡­ can I sit here?¡± The guy asked again, slightly nervously. His tan skin darkened a bit out of embarrassment.


    Adaline and Tess were indeed sitting at a round table with four chairs surrounding it. And because Adaline and Tess were sitting facing each other, the chairs on their right sides were empty.


    Tess smiled charmingly while Adaline looked at her friend in disbelief. The woman intended to entertain the young man even though she didn¡¯t know his motives.


    ¡°Sure, the chair is empty.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± he replied and then sat next to Tess on her right, meaning he was sitting next to Adaline on her left.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee,¡± Tess replied. She rested her elbow on the table and leaned her head on her hand. ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°Can we introduce ourselves?¡± The guy asked again, extending his hand toward Tess. ¡°I¡¯m Dennis.¡±


    Tess shook his hand and smiled warmly. ¡°I¡¯m Tessa, and this is Adaline.¡± Adaline shook his hand. ¡°What¡¯s the bet?¡± Tess asked again.


    The guy widened his eyes. His mouth gaped as he looked awkwardly at Tess and Adaline.


    ¡°Oh,e on. I know you and your friends are making a bet. I¡¯ve known it all along,¡± Tess replied, and the guy chuckled nervously, scratching his neck.


    ¡°Can I get your phone numbers?¡± The guy finally asked, handing his phone to Tess.


    ¡°Sure, but don¡¯t spam us, okay? Especially don¡¯t bother us with cheesy pickup lines. I¡¯m a materialistic girl, so I prefer gifts rather than cheappliments. So, are you still up for it?¡± Tess challenged. The guy looked astonished but then blushed.


    Tessa typed her number into the rectangr device of the young man. ¡®Beautiful Tessa¡¯ was her self-given nickname. Tessa handed her phone to Dennis. Dennis smiled as he saw the name on the screen and pressed the call button, and immediately Tessa¡¯s phone rang.


    ¡°See,¡± she said, showing the screen of her phone as proof that she wasn¡¯t deceiving the young man.


    The guy smiled again and was about to hand his phone to Adaline. However, when Adaline reached out for it, the phone was already taken by someone else.


    Adaline and Tessa turned simultaneously to the figure who had taken the phone. They were surprised, their mouths wide open.


    ¡°Duncan?!¡±


    ¡°S-Sir,¡± they both responded simultaneously.


    ¡°So, this is what you¡¯re doing behind my back?¡± Altezza asked, one eyebrow raised and eyes sharp.


    ¡°So now, you¡¯re into younger guys?¡± Duncan looked at Tessa cynically.


    ¡°Well, it wouldn¡¯t hurt once in a while, right?¡± Tessa replied casually. ¡°We¡¯re just lonely girls,¡± she added. Duncan hissed while Altezza was still waiting for Adaline¡¯s response.


    ¡°S-Sir?¡± she stuttered.


    ¡°Now you¡¯re into younger leaves too?¡± His tone sounded sarcastic.


    ¡°No. It¡¯s just¡­ um¡­¡± Adaline was confused. She felt like a thief caught red-handed. But she hadn¡¯t done anything wrong.


    Altezza handed the phone to the young man. ¡°She¡¯s my wife,¡± he said with a fierce growl. ¡°Even though she¡¯s petite and cute, she¡¯s already married. Didn¡¯t you see our wedding ring on her finger?¡± Altezza growled. He grabbed Adaline¡¯s left hand and showed their wedding ring. His tone sounded threatening, while the young man looked embarrassed.


    ¡°I hope we never meet again. And I hope you and your friends never do anything foolish like this again.


    ¡°Lucky for you, you met my wife. Because I¡¯m not sure if another woman¡¯s husband would react like I did.¡± After that, Altezza grabbed Adaline¡¯s right hand and led her out of the cafe.


    ¡°S-Sir,¡± Adaline panicked, trying to free her hand from Altezza¡¯s grip.


    ¡°Yes, Madam?¡± Altezza replied coldly after they reached the parking area.


    ¡°I-It¡¯s not what you think,¡± Adaline tried to defend herself.


    ¡°What did I see then?¡± Altezza asked back, his hands folded in front of his chest. His face looked angry, and the dark circles under his eyes showed that he was physically tired. But Adaline was still grateful that Altezza wasn¡¯t being rough, whether to her or to the young man who had tried to get her number.


    ¡°Madam?¡± Altezza called her again as Adaline remained silent.


    Adaline jumped in surprise, unconsciously biting her lower lip, causing Altezza to tense up instantly.


    ¡°That phone, he¡­¡±


    ¡°I know he tried to introduce himself to you. And that inexperienced kid also asked for your phone numbers. Is there anything else I need to know?¡± Adaline frowned, then shook her head. So Altezza didn¡¯t misunderstand her.


    ¡°B-But, how did youe here?¡± She asked, confused. Now that she realized the situation, Adaline felt puzzled herself. Didn¡¯t the man sayst night that he wouldn¡¯t being home yet? Then why was he now towering in front of her? How?


    ¡°Oh,e on, Darling. This is the modern age where everything is easy. What¡¯s the point of having an assistant as smart as Duncan? Just click to ask anything, and he¡¯ll answer,¡± he replied nonchntly. Adaline could only nod, although she doubted his thoughts.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Are you both full?¡± He asked, looking at Adaline and Tessa in turn. Adaline nodded, as did Tessa.


    ¡°In that case, where do you want to go for round two?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, maybe we could go to the mall? Or if there¡¯s an exciting movie, we could watch that,¡± she suggested again. Altezza just nodded in response. He ushered Adaline into the car. Tessa shouted out the name of the mall they were heading to before getting into Duncan¡¯s car.


    The journey proceeded in silence; neither Adaline nor Altezza uttered a single word. Adaline didn¡¯t want to ask, and Altezza didn¡¯t seem inclined to exin.


    They arrived at the mall parking lot. Tessa got out of her car and caught up with Adaline as they were about to take the elevator.


    ¡°So, where are we going tonight?¡± she asked Adaline. ¡°If I were you, I¡¯d prefer to spend my boyfriend¡¯s money.¡± She whispered again. ¡°Oops, my bad, he¡¯s your husband,¡± she teased, winking. Behind them, Duncan and Altezza stood side by side.

 Part 57

    It seemed like the men preferred to ept the decisions of the women. Adaline herself was unsure of what to do, so she chose to go along with whatever Tessa wanted to do.


    When Tessa pulled her into a boutique, Adaline noticed that Altezza was busy picking out items for her. And when they exited the store, Altezza had more bags than Tessa.


    ¡°Boss, I noticed the Mrs. didn¡¯t choose anything inside, but howe there are so many shopping bags?¡± Duncan remarked, eyeing the bags in Altezza¡¯s hands.


    Altezza shrugged nonchntly. ¡°The Boss can do as he pleases. No need to be jealous,¡± he replied casually.


    Tessa alsomented on this to Adaline. Like Altezza, Adaline responded with a shrug.


    There was no movie watching. What they did for hours was wander around the mall, going in and out of stores and shopping. After enjoying their stroll and having a meal, they returned home in their respective vehicles.


    Adaline felt tired herself from apanying Tessa and Altezza shopping all night. Yes, the more appropriate term would be that they both were the ones shopping, while she and Duncan were merely apanying them. Or one could say they were just spectators.


    Just look at the shopping bags filling Altezza¡¯s car trunk now. Adaline herself wasn¡¯t sure how much money the man had spent. And she didn¡¯t even know what was inside those bags.


    They had entered the apartment, and Altezza had already stored all the shopping in the room they now shared. Yes, ever since the incident in Kansas a while back and their return to Manhattan, Altezza had decided that they now lived in the same room.


    His reasoning was straightforward; he said it would make the process of ¡°making a baby¡± easier. Adaline didn¡¯t mind; after all, her own room was never disturbed by Altezza. So whenever she needed some time alone, she could lock herself in the room provided by the man.


    Adaline chose to clean herself up first, and then Altezza cleaned up. She noticed the shopping bags were no longer in thest ce she saw them; whether Altezza had tidied them up or stored them somewhere, she didn¡¯t know.


    ¡°Tired?¡± he asked with concern. Adaline nodded. Of course, how could she not be tired after walking non-stop for hours?


    Adaline sat on the bed, looking at her husband intently. ¡°I¡¯m curious how you ended up there, I mean how did you suddenly appear at the cafe where Tess and I were, when yesterday you said you¡¯d be back tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Why, regretting seeing me there? Regretting missing the chance to get to know that guy?¡± Altezza raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°N-No, it¡¯s just that I¡¯m curious. Is everything done with your work?¡± Adaline squinted upon hearing her husband¡¯s response.


    ¡°Everything was done on purpose so I coulde back quickly and meet you.¡± Adaline blinked at her husband¡¯s response. ¡°Why is he looking at me like that, as if he¡¯s reluctant toe back quickly?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you missing me being away for so long? Because I miss you. I¡¯m tired of sleeping alone every night without anyone to cuddle,¡± Altezza coaxed.


    His hand began to touch Adaline and he wrapped his arms around his petite wife.


    ¡°Hmm, why does my wife smell so good?¡± Altezza sniffed Adaline¡¯s hair, temples, and behind her ears, making Adaline squirm with ticklish delight.


    ¡°Well, of course, I just finished showering,¡± she replied.


    ¡°Hmm¡­ Was it a regr shower or a thorough one?¡± Altezza teased again. Adaline didn¡¯t answer. ¡°Seems like it was both. In that case, can I indulge a little? I think I can.¡± Altezza answered without waiting for Adaline¡¯s reaction.


    Slowly, Altezzaid Adaline down on the bed. Although it wasn¡¯t the first time for Adaline, each time Altezza touched her, she felt a warm sensation throughout her body.


    Altezza caressed Adaline¡¯s face with the back of his right hand, while his left hand supported his own weight. Their eyes met.


    Altezza slowly observed his wife¡¯s face, beautiful and fresh even without makeup. He gently kissed Adaline¡¯s forehead, causing her to close her eyes. He then kissed her left and right cheeks before lifting his head and gazing at Adaline again.


    The lower part of his body, already hardened, deliberately rubbed against Adaline¡¯s sensitive area. Adaline blushed as she felt Altezza¡¯s arousal pressing against her.


    ¡°Still shy, hmm?¡± Altezza nuzzled his nose into Adaline¡¯s neck and shoulder. Adaline bit her lower lip, her hands gripping the bedsheets tightly. ¡°My little friend has been standing tall since we were in the cafe parking lot, Madam,¡± he whispered again.


    Altezza¡¯s right hand now roamed Adaline¡¯s left thigh, bending it open wide. His hand massaged Adaline¡¯s thigh in circr motions while his tongue licked her sensitive neck and behind her ears. Adaline moaned, as she usually did. Her head provided more ess for Altezza to explore her neck, making him even more tempted.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Altezza unknowingly stripped his wife¡¯s clothes. His lips kissed Adaline¡¯s lips gently, starting with a light peck, then licking, and finally sucking eagerly. Meanwhile, his fingers yed in Adaline¡¯s sensitive areas.


    Adaline moaned, and the man¡¯s hand slipped into her underwear, his fingers entering her warm valley. Adaline gripped his shoulders tightly. ¡°Aahhh¡­¡± Her voice was so arousing in Altezza¡¯s ears. She couldn¡¯t contain her voice even though she tried to hold it back by biting her lip. Adaline tried to pull away, but the man yed with her breasts instead, causing her even more torment. Not because of pain, but because of the pleasure she couldn¡¯t resist. Altezza kept teasing her. His fingers danced in Adaline¡¯s valley, skillfully and tantalizingly. And Adaline enjoyed his touch.


    His hands and lips continued to y on Adaline¡¯s body. The man¡¯s position was now on top of Adaline. His lips alternated between ying with her breasts. Meanwhile, his right hand continued to move down there. His left hand squeezed her right breast, and his mouth didn¡¯t stop ying with her left breast. Altezza licked it, sucked it gently, and then harder, causing Adaline to arch her back, silently asking him to continue his game. Her petite hands gripped Altezza¡¯s hair tightly, trying to bury his head in her chest.


    Until finally, Adaline couldn¡¯t take it anymore and was about to reach her peak. The man lifted his body and looked at Adaline¡¯s face, feeling proud that he could satisfy his wife with just his fingers and mouth.


    Adaline¡¯s body writhed. Her skin glistened with sweat. Her long beautiful hair scattered messily on the bed, adding to her allure. Her face was flushed, her lips swollen and wet. Altezza smiled and kissed his wife passionately. He wouldn¡¯t give his wife any break. After a week of fasting, he would satisfy his hunger.


    ¡°How about it, Madam? Ready for the ¡®little one¡¯s¡¯ attack?¡± he whispered when he felt Adaline¡¯s heartbeat returning to normal. Adaline didn¡¯t give any response. His wife just bit her lower lip. And for Altezza, he took it as a ¡®Yes.¡¯


    And the process of ¡®making a baby¡¯ began. Throughout the night, throughout the weekend, they spent it satisfying their longing.

 Part 58

    Adaline rubbed her head. Her vision blurred. Since morning, her stomach had felt uneasy. Earlier everything was fine; she felt perfectly healthy. She had even had breakfast. So why did she feel nauseous now?


    Adaline unlocked her phone and received a message from Altezza that he had just arrived at the project site. For the past two weeks, Altezza had ceased to lead Coskun Company. After returning from Bangka Belitung recently, it was finally decided that Gian would officially take Altezza¡¯s position in thepany, as Duncan and Tessa had discussed earlier.


    Now Gian held the position of COO-Chief Operating Officer-which was previously held by Altezza in Coskun Company. Meanwhile, Altezza had returned to his own foundedpany, an architecture firm that had been established over thest five years and which he had left to assist Antony at Coskun.


    So for the past two weeks, Adaline and Altezza had been going to the office separately. However, if Altezza had no urgent matters, he would first drop Adaline off at Coskun before going to his office. And his new habit now was that every time he entered the office, Altezza would advise-or more urately,mand-Adaline to keep her distance from Gian. Even if necessary, Adaline had to flee even if all she saw was Gian¡¯s shadow. Apparently, the rivalry between the two cousins still persisted.


    Tessa nced at her friend intently. ¡°Are you okay, Ada? You look pale.¡± Tessa touched Adaline¡¯s forehead with the back of her hand. Not warm, but rather cold and sweaty.


    ¡°My head feels dizzy, and my stomach is queasy. I think I caught a chill,¡± Adaline replied softly.


    ¡°Shall I make you some hot sweet tea?¡± Tessa offered, and Adaline nodded.


    Soon, Tessa returned with a steaming cup of jasmine-scented tea.


    ¡°Take it slowly. If you still feel dizzy, it¡¯s better to go home,¡± she suggested.


    Adaline nodded. But it turned out that ten minutester, her nausea had disappeared, and she was feeling better.


    Adaline and Tessa decided to have lunch in the cafeteria. For some reason, Adaline really wanted to eat something slightly sour.


    ¡°Wow, this girl keeps getting sexier. If I had a wife like this, I¡¯d happily stay at home all day,¡± Adaline heard a manmenting quite loudly behind her.


    ¡°Who?¡± herpanion asked.


    The man might have been pointing at an article he was looking at because then the second manmented, ¡°Huh, like a girl like her would even want us. I bet a girl like her would only go for rich guys. Just buying her sandals might cost three times our sry.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, true. But who would actually want her anyway? Girls like her might not even make good mothers. Just for fun, looking at her makes you happy.¡±


    ¡°Damn, I¡¯d even take a knockoff Jovanka Lawrence. That body is¡­¡± The man whistled.


    Adaline shifted her attention back to Tessa, who was bringing their order. ¡°Why?¡± Tessa asked curiously.


    ¡°Those guys, when they talk about girls, it¡¯s always so lewd,¡± Adaline replied, shuddering.


    ¡°Who¡¯s talking about who though?¡±


    ¡°Those guys behind. They were talking about Jovanka Lawrence. You know her, right? The famous model?¡±


    ¡°Oh yeah. She¡¯s in the same agency as Joanna, right?¡± Tessa asked. Adaline nodded. ¡°Yeah, they probably like her. Guys always like seeing girls with big chests, curvy hips, lips with red lipstick¡­¡±


    ¡°Tessa, seriously. What are you even saying? Sometimes you just go off on a tangent.¡±


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s the fact. Guys¡¯ minds are all about how to fill their stomachs and please the little guy down there.¡±This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Just eat your food before it gets cold. You¡¯ll get a headache if you keep thinking about it,¡± Tessa ordered, met with a nod from Adaline.


    However, for some reason, the name Jovanka Lawrence continued to upy Adaline¡¯s mind. There was something unsettling about that name. Yet Adaline had to admit she had never been associated with that name, even though she had a friend who was a model.


    Later in the evening, Gian waited for Adaline in the lobby. His smile greeted her. Without hesitation, he waved to Adaline. For some people, this seemed odd, especially since Adaline was not someone who easily warmed up to others. She felt ufortable with Gian¡¯s actions. Although he was her brother-inw, for Coskun employees who didn¡¯t know about Adaline and Altezza¡¯s marriage, they might assume their new boss was having an affair with Adaline.


    ¡°Hello, sister-inw. You¡¯re quite difficult to meet, it¡¯s like meeting a celebrity,¡± he greeted warmly as they got closer.


    ¡°S-Sir. You can¡¯t act like this, other employees don¡¯t know that we¡¯re rted. Especially if your fans find out, what if they get jealous,¡± Gian just shrugged nonchntly.


    ¡°I¡¯m not one to care about other people¡¯s opinions, just so you know. And as for fans, I know I¡¯m that popr, but don¡¯t worry, there won¡¯t be any malicious fans hurting you, because before that, I¡¯ll be the one to protect you first,¡± he said with amendable level of confidence.


    Adaline narrowed her eyes at her brother-inw. ¡°Then why were you waiting for me in front of the lobby? Is there something you need to tell me?¡±


    ¡°Ohe on. Does it really have to be this formal? Besides, this is outside of work hours, so stop with the fake formality,¡± Gian casually draped his arm around Adaline¡¯s shoulder and led her towards the car. The man seemedpletely unconcerned with what others might think. In a rather gentlemanly gesture, he even opened the car door for her and gestured for her to get in.


    ¡°S-Sir?¡± Adaline nced at Gian with hesitation. Her eyes scanned the surroundings; she knew people were watching them. They must be wondering about the rtionship between Gian and Adaline.


    ¡°Gian, Adaline, Gian. Besides, we¡¯re practically the same age,¡± Gian suddenlyughed. ¡°No, we¡¯re not exactly the same age. I¡¯m three years older. But let¡¯s just say we¡¯re the same age. You and I were born in the same year, albeit different months. So stop using formalities like that when we¡¯re off the clock. And this, my current actions, are to prove to all the employees here that we¡¯re close. Since you didn¡¯t announce your marriage to the public, I¡¯m doing it first,¡± he continued in a casual tone. Gian nodded towards the car, silently gesturing for Adaline to get in.


    ¡°And actually, I also wanted to ask you about that. Why did you choose not to disclose your marriage?¡± Gian asked as Adaline settled into the passenger seat.


    Adaline furrowed her brow. The reason why she didn¡¯t want to disclose her marriage to Altezza to the employees at thepany was because she didn¡¯t want them to treat her differently. She knew there would be rumors, like Cindere¡¯s story, where she, an ordinary person, suddenly married a prince. And there were many risks involved if people knew about her marriage to Altezza. One of them was people trying to get close to her. They might even tter her just to get close to Altezza. Or perhaps they would gossip behind her back and malign her, listing Adaline¡¯s ws one by one. Adaline wasn¡¯t ready for that kind of mental punishment.


    ¡°I have some business with Altezza, and he asked me toe to the apartment, so since we¡¯re heading in the same direction, why not go together?¡± she said, avoiding Gian¡¯s question.


    Adaline simply nodded her head, whatever happened between Altezza and Gian was beyond her control. There was no meaningful conversation during the journey. Adaline only answered Gian¡¯s questions briefly without wanting to engage further. Just being in the car with him made her ufortable.


    They arrived at the apartment, but Adaline didn¡¯t allow Gian to apany her to the upper floor. Not because it was impolite, but as a wife, Adaline felt it was inappropriate to bring a man into the house without her husband, even if he was her own cousin. So, to avoid gossip, Adaline chose to have Gian wait in the apartment lobby. She tried to exin to Gian, and fortunately, he understood.


    Once inside the apartment, Adaline chose to freshen up. And as usual, she began preparing dinner afterward. This time, she made an extra portion for Gian. Wasn¡¯t Gian fine in the lobby? The answer came shortly after.


    Altezza and Gian entered right after Adaline finished cleaning up. As has been their habit in recent weeks, Altezza kissed her forehead in greeting. Although Gian called it a pretense, Altezza disregarded it. After dinner, Altezza and Gian chose to busy themselves in the study. Meanwhile, Adaline opted to watch TV. Bored with the TV broadcasts, Adaline finally turned to her phone. And somehow, news about Jovanka Lawrence became the main topic in the gossip column.


    Curious, Adaline finally clicked on the news. It recounted Jovanka Lawrence¡¯s journey from her initial steps into modeling to being cast by a famous director and signing a contract for a major film project. The film, touted to cost billions to trillions, was scheduled for release soon. Besides the article, there was also a video interview conducted on a renowned TV station. Filled with curiosity once again, Adaline clicked on the video.


    A beautiful face with a stunning body was now disyed on Adaline¡¯s phone screen. As a woman, Adaline was automatically drawn to aspire for a figure like that. A body with perfect curves coveted by all women. Smooth skin without blemish, a wless face that seemed well cared for. And Jovanka Lawrence seemed more like a real-life angel.


    For some reason, Adaline suddenly felt the urge topare herself to Jovanka Lawrence. She herself remembered the past when her friend Joanna started her debut in the modeling world. Joanna admired Jovanka Lawrence, who had already been in the modeling world before her. Joanna was one of Jovanka Lawrence¡¯s fans. To Joanna, Jovanka Lawrence was an idol. A senior who was friendly, kind-hearted, and never stingy in sharing knowledge. Even her friend praised that Jovanka Lawrence had never been involved in the negative aspects usually associated with the modeling industry.


    Adaline felt unlike her usual self; normally she felt grateful for what she had. But this time, there was something different about Jovanka Lawrence. She couldn¡¯t quite put her finger on it, but there was something unsettling in her heart. Or perhaps it was just her intuition speaking?

 Part 59

    Adaline lifted her head upon hearing her name called. A beautiful woman with long, flowing hair waved at her with a wide smile. It couldn¡¯t be said that she wasn¡¯t surprised to see her there. It was Joanna, her friend, who somehow looked even more stunning, especially since they hadn¡¯t seen each other for quite some time.


    ¡°How have you been?¡± Adaline approached, and they hugged each other, releasing the longing.


    ¡°As you can see, I always look as beautiful as ever,¡± Joanna replied with her usual proud tone. ¡°How about you? I really have to apologize for disappearing like that.¡±


    Adaline remembered the moment when Joanna instructed her to return the money she borrowed from Altezza. Her friend even willingly covered the losses Adaline had incurred. Or to put it more urately, she was willing to cover all the costs of her mother¡¯s surgery. But Adaline hadn¡¯t had the chance to mention the continuation of the debt between her and Altezza because Joanna had already left due to a sudden job she epted. And as usual, if there was a job, it would be difficult to reach her as her manager always kept her away from all her gadgets.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s fine. No problem,¡± Adaline replied honestly.


    ¡°Is that one of the reasons why you got married? Did he threaten you until you agreed to marry him?¡± Joanna asked eagerly.


    Adaline shook her head in response to Joanna¡¯s barrage of questions.


    ¡°I¡¯m really sorry, my manager didn¡¯t allow me to use anymunication devices. I was even quite surprised when I found out you were married to him. You¡¯re not lying to me, are you? Everything¡¯s really okay, right? He¡¯s a good husband, right? He never mistreats you?¡± Joanna asked with concern.


    Adaline gently rubbed her friend¡¯s arm. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Joe. Everything you¡¯re afraid of never happened. Altezza is a good person, a good man, a good and caring husband. His family is also very kind.¡±


    ¡°I truly feel epted in that family, even though they know my true status,¡± Adaline answered honestly.


    Joanna observed Adaline closely. The girl never lied, so if her facial expression seemed a bit strange, Joanna would know if she was being deceived. And now, she only saw sincerity in Adaline¡¯s face.


    ¡°Alright, I believe you. I¡¯m grateful for that. But if you ever need my help, don¡¯t hide anything from me. Promise?¡± she requested, and Adaline nodded in agreement.


    ¡°So, how¡¯s your film project going? Is everything going smoothly?¡±


    Joanna nodded enthusiastically. And she flowed with the story of the film production process from beginning to end.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t my first project being paired with Jovanka. But it¡¯s our first project together in one film. And she¡¯s truly everything I imagined all this time. She even helped me a lot. If only I were a man, I¡¯d surely fall in love with her,¡± Joanna praised repeatedly.


    Jovanka, why has that name been popping up so frequentlytely? Why does Adaline¡¯s heart feel disturbed by that name?


    ¡°I also saw articles on the inte. Everyone even predicts that the film you¡¯re working on will be sessful in the market.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s not without hard work. But for Jovanka herself, the shooting process isn¡¯t finished yet. I still have to go back for the editing process. And yes, there¡¯s still the promotional process from city to city. Although I¡¯m not the main character, my presence there is said to be quite necessary.¡±


    ¡°And does that mean you won¡¯t be staying here for long?¡± Joanna nodded, her face looking downcast.


    ¡°Not too short, but not too long either, just a few days. After that, I¡¯ll return to the shooting location. Actually, I miss your mom. Can I ask your mom to cook my favorite spicy squid?¡±


    ¡°Just ask, I¡¯m sure Mom will be happy to make it for you. Andter, I¡¯ll introduce you to Altezza. You should have met before we got married,¡± Adaline replied, met with enthusiastic nods from Joanna.


    That evening, as nned by the two friends, they gathered at Adaline¡¯s mother¡¯s house. Altezza mentioned that he would arrivete, but luckily, he came just before dinner was served.


    Joanna, who initially had a skeptical attitude towards Altezza, eventually softened. Altezza¡¯s open demeanor and mischievous character made him easily likable by everyone, including Joanna. She no longer harbored suspicions about their rtionship.


    Joanna and Altezza were sitting together on the terrace while Adaline prepared drinks for them. Joanna tried to start a conversation.


    ¡°Sorry for not being present at your wedding. Not because I was pretending to be busy, but because I really didn¡¯t know,¡± Joanna said with a regretful expression.


    ¡°Sorry also for only getting to know my wife¡¯s friend now,¡± Altezza replied warmly.


    Altezza considered Joanna to be a good friend, much like Tessa. However, he also noticed that Joanna was a more assertive figure than Tessa. He could see the immense love the girl had for his wife. From her bodynguage, Altezza could ascertain that she would stand at the forefront to defend Adaline if she ever faced any problems. And upon reflection, it was likely Joanna who suggested Adaline return the borrowed money she used for her mother¡¯s surgery.


    ¡°Please take care of Adaline,¡± she pleaded softly. ¡°I¡¯ve known her for quite some time. Even though it could be said that you¡¯re the one who knows her more intimately now. But before your presence, I was the one by her side. Not in the sense that I want to be praised for my affection towards her. But I love her as a younger sister that I¡¯ve never had.¡±


    ¡°Adaline is a gentle-hearted person. She¡¯s a very caring woman. Although she appears patient, she¡¯s not actually a patient person. And although she seems strong, she¡¯s actually a fragile girl. Her confidence is eroded because of her constantly highlighted status. I think you know what I mean. Adaline mentioned that you already know the truth about her,¡± Joanna exined.


    Altezza nodded. If Joanna was referring to Adaline¡¯s status as an adopted child, then yes, Altezza was already aware of it.

 Part 60

    ¡°Whatever happens, no matter how angry you are, never yell at her. If she¡¯s silent, it means there¡¯s something wrong with you and she can¡¯t say it. Never waste her love. Because if she loves, she¡¯ll love with all her heart. But if she¡¯s hurt, she¡¯s very difficult to forgive. Maybe her mouth says she forgives, but her heart doesn¡¯t,¡± Altezza nodded again at Joanna¡¯s words.


    Altezza wanted a better future with Adaline, even though he never said it to her. And he was trying to understand her. He realized that all the attention Adaline had given him so far was genuine. He even realized that until now, Adaline had never asked him for anything. She just epted whatever he gave her without ever demanding. Adaline, his funny wife. Somehow, every time he saw her smile, his heart felt warm. Somehow, every time he remembered her name, he felt nostalgic.


    Altezza was confused about his feelings. On one hand, he wanted to maintain the initial agreement they made. But on the other hand, he wanted to take this rtionship to a more serious level. Adaline was the wife he longed for and dreamed of. The ideal wife and perfect future mother. Her attention, affection, and everything about her were the criteria he had always imagined whenever he thought about his future wife.


    ¡°Sorry for the wait,¡± his wife¡¯s gentle voice snapped him out of his reverie. Adaline ced three cups of warm tea in front of them. Somehow, Altezza reached out for her petite hand to ept it. She smiled softly and took his extended hand. When Adaline sat beside him, Altezza wrapped his arm tightly around her waist, closing the distance between them even if it was just an inch.


    ¡°Hmmm¡­ I guess it¡¯s time for me to find a partner too,¡± Joanna teased. Her words made Adaline¡¯s face blush. ¡°So, any good news yet? Who knows, maybe this time when Ie back, I¡¯ll receive news that I¡¯ll have a new nephew or niece?¡± She asked, teasingly.


    ¡°Just pray that you¡¯ll receive good news soon. Because, truthfully, I myself am also eagerly awaiting that good news,¡± Altezza replied honestly.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Adaline bit her lower lip. In her heart, she really wanted to share this happy news with her husband. But she tried to hold back because she felt that the news would be better received when they were together. Yes, Adaline wanted Altezza to be the first to know about her pregnancy.


    Adaline is already pregnant. She just found out this afternoon. Again, in the morning, she experienced dizziness and nausea. Tessa asked her to take a pregnancy test. And Adaline followed her friend¡¯s advice.


    And thankfully, the result she got was as she had hoped. And indeed, when Adaline counted, she was already over a weekte this month. Initially, she thought it might be due to stress because her workload at the office has been piling uptely. But Adaline was mistaken. The doctor said that herst period was not actually a period. Because it turns out she¡¯s already seven weeks pregnant.


    They kept talking until it was ten o¡¯clock at night. Adaline is not someone who likes to stay upte. But because their conversation was so engrossing, she lost track of time and ended up staying upte.


    Luckily, the next day was a day off. So it seems they didn¡¯t mind sleeping in.


    Joanna said goodbye and went back to her apartment even though Adaline had insisted she stay over. Her reason was that she still had work tomorrow. Meanwhile, Adaline was too tired to share the good news she had kept with Altezza. As a result, when they arrived at Adaline¡¯s room, Adaline fell asleep right away. While Altezza went back to her unfinished work.


    The next morning, Adaline helped her mother and Emma prepare breakfast. But after breakfast was over, her morning sickness red up. In the room, she threw up all the breakfast she had eaten. And that surprised Altezza.


    Altezza, who was about to leave to check on the project, ended up apanying Adaline to the bathroom. Patting the woman¡¯s back gently.


    ¡°Are you okay, Darling.?¡± He asked with concern.


    Adaline was too weak to answer. Normally, she didn¡¯t vomit this early in the morning. Usually, she would vomit when she arrived at the office, around 8 to 10 in the morning. And it was still 7 o¡¯clock when she started feeling nauseous and dizzy.


    ¡°Are you catching a cold?¡± Altezza asked again, and Adaline shook her head. ¡°Shall we go to the doctor?¡± she suggested when Adaline finished vomiting all her food. Once again, Adaline shook her head.


    Adaline tried to stand up, but her knees felt too weak. Without being asked, Altezza helped her. The man carried her back into the room and sat her down on the bed.


    ¡°My bag,¡± Adaline requested, pointing towards where she kept her bag.


    Altezza frowned, but he did as Adaline asked. Adaline handed him a small blue-covered book. Altezza¡¯s forehead furrowed even more.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± he asked, confused. Without waiting for an answer, he slowly opened the book. A ck and white photo and the doctor¡¯s writing greeted his eyes. ¡°This¡­?¡± Altezza stared at the book, then at his wife in turns.


    Adaline smiled and nodded. ¡°I thought it was my period at the time, but it turns out the doctor said it wasn¡¯t. The doctor said it was imntation bleeding. Not menstrual blood.¡±


    ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°So, since then, I¡¯ve been pregnant. The doctor said the pregnancy has reached seven weeks.¡±


    A happy smile never left Altezza¡¯s face. The man hugged Adaline tightly. So happy that he wanted to jump and leap with her. But he remembered there was another creature they had to take care of. Their baby. The child they both longed for.


    ¡°Does Mom know?¡± Adaline shook her head.


    ¡°You¡¯re the first to know,¡± she replied, her face blushing. ¡°And¡­¡±


    ¡°And¡­?¡± Altezza lowered his head until he could see Adaline still bowing in shyness.


    ¡°The baby is twins,¡± she answered with a radiant smile.


    ¡°Oh my God¡­¡± the man then prostrated himself in gratitude. Afterward, he rose and hugged Adaline tightly. ¡°Thank you, my love.¡± Altezza kissed the top of Adaline¡¯s head. ¡°My beauty.¡± He then kissed her forehead and both of Adaline¡¯s cheeks. ¡°Thank you, God. Mom and Dad will be so happy to hear this news.¡± He then kissed Adaline¡¯s lips, making her blush even more.


    ¡°Al,¡± she whispered softly. She didn¡¯t expect Altezza to be this happy.


    Adaline knew that her husband wanted a child so badly. To the extent that the man in front of her was willing to do things beyond reason. But she truly didn¡¯t expect his reaction to be like this.


    Adaline¡¯s heart warmed. Whether it was truly her feelings or she was indeed feeling so loved, so valued, so adored.


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m just too happy,¡± he said, lifting Adaline¡¯s body easily so that she now sat on hisp.


    Altezza hugged Adaline tightly again. Adaline hugged him back. She didn¡¯t want this moment to pass just like that. There was a little fear in her heart. That one day Altezza would leave her. That after this baby was born, Altezza would leave her. Because from the beginning, he only wanted the baby.


    But whatever it was, however it would be. Adaline could only pray that God would give the best for their rtionship. And the first thing she wanted right now was for her baby to grow up healthy, to be born perfectly without defects.


    Altezza continued to hug her and kept expressing his gratitude. Even when he announced her pregnancy to everyone, he never let go of her hand.

 Part 61

    Morning sickness for Adaline worsened day by day. Every time she finished eating, all the food woulde back up. And it happened every time she was at the office. As a result, she always looked weary andcked enthusiasm.


    Joanna contacted her again, this time inviting her for lunch at a five-star hotel restaurant. Joanna also invited Tessa to join them, stating briefly that she wanted to tease Tessa as usual.


    True to form, when the beautiful model waited for their arrival in the lobby, her first words to Tessa were teasing remarks.


    ¡°Hey, aspiring model of limited height, long time no see,¡± she greeted with an exaggeratedly friendly face. Tessa squinted at her, but shortly after, they hugged each other.


    ¡°Long time no see, skinny girl. Been modeling for so long, you seem to be getting thinner,¡± Tessa retorted with mockery.


    ¡°I¡¯m skinny, but not just any skinny. Skinny from modeling brings in money. Are you skinny from worrying?¡± Joanna replied.


    ¡°Enough already, you two look like Siamese twins when you meet,¡± Adaline responded, earning a disgusted grin from Joanna. Tessa even pretended as if she was about to vomit. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s hurry up and eat! You promised to treat us to delicious food, didn¡¯t you?¡± Adaline looked at Joanna hopefully, which her friend answered with an enthusiastic nod.


    Joanna led them to the hotel dining area. Some of her fellow models waved friendly greetings.


    ¡°There happens to be a photo shoot for a product here,¡± Joanna exined their presence and her fellow models.


    Joanna, Tessa, and Adaline chose to sit in a shadier area. When the waiter handed them the food menu, Tessa nced towards the entrance.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Jovanka Lawrence?¡± Adaline and Joanna looked in the same direction, and indeed Jovanka Lawrence and her assistant had just entered the restaurant area. They even seemed to be arguing, albeit in hushed tones.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care, but today I have to meet with her. You have to make sure where she is and I wille to her. Otherwise, I won¡¯t attend the uing shoot. I don¡¯t care about her tantrums,¡± Jovanka¡¯s voice faintly reached the three of them. As the renowned model approached their table, she paused momentarily and greeted, ¡°Hi, Joan. Your besties?¡± Her eyes shifted between Adaline and Joanna.


    ¡°Yep. This is Adaline,¡± Joanna pointed at Adaline. Adaline reached out her hand.


    ¡°Hi, Jovanka, just call me Joe.¡± She returned the handshake warmly.


    ¡°Adaline,¡± Adaline replied, feeling a bit nervous.


    ¡°This is Tessa.¡±


    ¡°Joe,¡± she greeted with the same friendly tone. ¡°If I join, is it okay?¡± she asked again after a few seconds of consideration.


    Tessa, Adaline, and Joanna looked at each other until they nodded simultaneously. The table was still empty, and they had no reason to refuse. As a result, the four of them sat together.


    ¡°It feels good to have good friends. After a long journey, it feels like having a home to return to.


    ¡°And meeting good friends is like curing tiredness,¡± Jovankamented after observing their interaction.


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right. Absolutely.¡± Joanna agreed. ¡°No matter how mischievous your friend is, often that¡¯s what we miss.¡± Joanna nced at Tessa.


    ¡°You¡¯re being cheesy. I¡¯m sure, your intention is an insult, not apliment.¡± Tessa joked, and the other three burst intoughter.


    ¡°You look young,¡± Jovanka nced at Adaline.


    ¡°Meaning, me and Tessa look old, right?¡± Joanna squinted at Jovanka, and she nodded. Adaline and Tessa just responded with smiles.


    ¡°But from what I see, it looks like you¡¯re married. Or am I wrong?¡± she asked again, which was answered by Adaline shaking her head.


    ¡°Little ones turned bride.¡± Tessa answered her colleague¡¯s question. ¡°She¡¯s still a newlywed.¡±


    Jovanka¡¯s eyes widened, genuine happiness sparkled there. ¡°Wow, congrats then. How long has it been?¡±


    ¡°Entering the fourth month,¡± she replied, unconsciously stroking her belly.


    ¡°Wow, just entering the fourth month and it seems you¡¯re already pregnant?¡± Once again, Jovanka appeared impressed.


    Adaline nodded with a blush on her face. After getting to know her, Adaline could conclude that Jovanka was an observant person. In a short time, she could discern various things about others.


    ¡°Congrattions to you and your husband, may the baby remain healthy until the day of birth,¡± she said sincerely.


    ¡°What about yourself, do you have any prospects for the future?¡± Adaline dared to ask. At least for a woman like Jovanka, there must be countless men trying to pursue her.


    ¡°Yeah, if I may ask for your prayers, I ask that you pray for my sess in matters of romance too.¡± Her answer with a saddened expression. All three of them echoed ¡°Amen¡±. ¡°Actually, not long ago I made a mistake,¡± she began her story.


    ¡°Can I trust you?¡± The three heads in front of Jovanka nodded simultaneously. ¡°Actually, a few months ago I made a mistake. The man I loved asked me to reject a coboration contract. But because this coboration has been my dream for a long time, I disregarded his warning.


    ¡°I chose to continue signing the contract for my future. And he didn¡¯t ept it, so in the end, he decided to part ways.¡±


    ¡°If he truly loved you, he should have supported whatever decision you made. Not forbid it,¡± Tessamented passionately.


    ¡°From the beginning, that man always supported me. He never objected to anything. All my desires, all the contracts I signed behind his back, he never raised an issue about them.


    ¡°This is the second time he¡¯s asked me to stop. Not in the sense of quitting as a model. But to stop doing anything without his permission.¡±


    ¡°Does that mean he¡¯s an overly protective man or perhaps he¡¯s a possessive one?¡± Joanna spoke up this time.


    ¡°Yes, he possesses both of those traits. Do you think I¡¯m wrong? If I want to pursue the dream I¡¯ve always had?¡±


    ¡°Everyone has dreams and everyone has the right to pursue them,¡± Tessa answered, nodded in agreement by Joanna.


    ¡°So what do you think about him asking us to part ways? What should I do? He¡¯s a stubborn man, it¡¯ll be very difficult to persuade him,¡± Jovanka sounded unsure.


    ¡°Just try to persuade him again. Woo him. It won¡¯t be hard to woo a man who still loves us,¡± Joanna replied, echoed by Tessa¡¯s nod.


    ¡°But I heard he¡¯s already engaged.¡±


    ¡°So soon?¡± Tessa and Joanna asked simultaneously. Jovanka nodded.


    ¡°That engagement could just be a lie. The engagement is a camouge to test whether you¡¯lle back to him or not. To test the seriousness of your love.


    ¡°Or maybe it¡¯s his way of testing whether you¡¯re jealous of him or not,¡± Tessa¡¯s answer this time was met with a sharp look from Joanna.


    ¡°You watch too many soap operas and Korean dramas,¡± shemented sharply.


    ¡°Yeay, that¡¯s Adaline¡¯s hobby, not mine,¡± Tessa countered.


    Realizing that their petite friend had been silent all this while, Tessa, Joanna, and Jovanka all turned to look at her.


    ¡°Ada, don¡¯t you have anyments?¡± Tessa inquired.


    Adaline smiled upon hearing her friend¡¯s question. ¡°You act like Adaline doesn¡¯t know anything,¡± Joanna interjected.


    Joanna turned to her fellow model. ¡°Adaline takes her time to draw conclusions. Among us three, she¡¯s the one who finds it hardest to givements. Especially if it involves very personal matters.¡±


    ¡°Like being wise, right?¡± Jovanka asked, met with nods from Tessa and Joanna.


    ¡°Not wise,¡± Adaline spoke up this time. ¡°It¡¯s just that when ites tomenting on personal matters, I¡¯m afraid of being wrong.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s not like I¡¯m trying to act smart or anything, but sometimes as women, or generally as humans, we tend to seek justification for every problem that urs. We always assume that we are right in every problem that arises. We often me others for being wrong. But that¡¯s not necessarily true. Being a third party who passes judgment on an event from one perspective is not good in my opinion. Because sometimes we¡¯re also driven by emotions and always feel that we are the ones being harmed. I¡¯m afraid that myments might even worsen the situation. So I prefer to choose silence,¡± Adaline responded with her logical reasoning.


    ¡°So, what do you think I should do?¡± Jovanka asked, unable to hide her curiosity. Because this was the first time she had received a different listener from what she had been ustomed to. Jovanka was the type of person who didn¡¯t like to be opposed.


    ¡°Everything can be discussed in a civilized manner. Maybe now your emotions have both subsided, so it would be best for you to meet the man. You can discuss it with a cool head. Or maybe if needed, you can seek someone who can act as a mediator. Someone who knows well about the issues in your rtionship,¡± Adaline suggested. Tessa, Joanna, and Jovanka nodded in agreement.


    ¡°But earlier you said he¡¯s already engaged?¡± Tessa frowned. Jovanka nodded.


    ¡°That¡¯s thetest news I¡¯ve heard.¡±


    ¡°If indeed he¡¯s engaged, it wouldn¡¯t be right for you to ruin their rtionship. Unless there¡¯s consent from both of them,¡± Adaline advised again.


    ¡°But I love that guy, and I know he loves me too,¡± Jovanka replied confidently.


    ¡°Even if that¡¯s the case, everything can still be resolved amicably. Maybe you can exin things to his partner. But if the woman refuses, it¡¯s her right. Don¡¯t take impulsive actions that will only harm yourself. Always believe that fate has already been written before we were born into this world. No matter how far you go, if that man is meant for you, he wille back to you. But no matter how close you are, no matter how long you wait, if he¡¯s not meant for you, then you won¡¯t be together,¡± Adaline¡¯s response this time seemed not to be well-received by Jovanka, evident from the cynical smile on her face.


    ¡°I feel unsure about that. Actually, I¡¯m not one to like losing. If calming the storm requires going through apetition, then I¡¯ll make sure Ie out as the winner,¡± the woman replied confidently. Tessa and Joanna looked at her with bewildered expressions. However, Adaline stared at the woman with a look of pity in her eyes. It was clear to her that the woman was starting to lose her mind. ording to Adaline, it wasn¡¯t love anymore but obsession.


    On the other side,


    Del Quirino gazed at her husband who was engrossed in reading on his tablet. The man she had been married to for forty years had a furrowed brow. His eyes narrowed and the corners of his mouth creased. Del realized that her husband was likely holding back his emotions at that moment.


    ¡°Darling?¡± she asked softly.


    Sir Benjamin lifted his head and looked directly into his wife¡¯s eyes. ¡°That woman is back,¡± he said, causing his wife to widen her eyes in shock.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.

 Part 62

    Altezza shook his head from side to side. His shoulders and neck felt stiff from too long spent hunched over the monitor screen. Suddenly, his phone rang, disying Antony¡¯s name.


    ¡°Yeah?¡± he answered on the first ring.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Still at the office?¡± Antony asked from the other end of the line. Altezza nced at the watch on his left wrist. It was 4:15.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be heading home soon,¡± he replied, leaning back in his chair. ¡°What¡¯s up, cousin? Any problems?¡±


    ¡°None! Just wanted to extend an invitation. My beloved wife invites you and yours for dinner at our ce tonight.¡±


    ¡°Finally, you both moved back to Manhattan?¡±


    ¡°Yups,¡± Antony¡¯s voice sounded cheerful.


    ¡°via?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯ll move next academic year. But for now, she¡¯s here.¡±


    ¡°Alright, then Adaline and I wille. Should we bring anything? Or perhaps the appropriate question is ¡®will you be giving us gifts¡¯?¡±


    ¡°Already rich but still stingy. But be prepared, cousin, because another cousin will also being,¡± Antony said yfully.


    ¡°What?!¡± Altezza eximed suddenly. ¡°Come on, cousin. Don¡¯t stir up trouble. Why would you invite Gian to an event like this?¡±


    ¡°Because my wife requested it. She said she misses you both. And I can¡¯t refuse my wife¡¯s requests,¡± Antony replied, still teasingly.


    ¡°Damn!¡± Altezza cursed without restraint.


    ¡°Sorry, cousin. No swearing allowed,¡± Antony warned. But Altezza chose to ignore it. ¡°Okay, cousin. I¡¯ll see you tonight.¡± The call ended. Altezza tossed his phone onto the table. ire had truly brought back Antony¡¯s mischievous nature.


    Altezza decided to call it a day. He grabbed his phone, intending to call his wife. But upon further thought, it seemed better to surprise her instead. He grabbed his car keys and headed towards the Coskun Company.


    Altezza parked his car in the basement area, just like he used to when he worked at Coskun. At the same time, someone he recognized stepped out of a car.


    ¡°Honey¡­¡± a voice she knew all too well greeted her.


    Altezza furrowed his brow. Not surprised, but not happy either. The smile that had adorned the beautiful, well-kept face slowly faded.


    ¡°Altezza, Honey,¡± the woman tried to reach out to Altezza. But Altezza remained unmoved.


    ¡°How could you be here?¡± The cold statement froze Jovanka¡¯s steps.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m back,¡± she said hesitantly.


    ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°How could you be like this, Altezza?¡± Jovanka felt confused by Altezza¡¯s cold attitude. Where was the friendly Altezza who had been by her side for six years?


    ¡°What am I supposed to be like? Weing you with flowers? We¡¯re nothing to each other anymore. Our rtionship ended when you chose to continue your contract with that director you admire,¡± he replied bluntly.


    ¡°But, Altezza?¡± Jovanka tried to reach out to the man again. But Altezza¡¯s sharp gaze shut down her intention.


    ¡°Stop it. You don¡¯t need toe to me anymore because it¡¯s all over. In case you didn¡¯t know, I¡¯m married.¡± Altezza showed the beautifully engraved tinum ring on his finger.


    ¡°No, Altezza. That¡¯s all lies, right?¡± She screamed in disbelief. ¡°I know, I heard you were engaged. But married?¡± Jovanka shook her head in disbelief. ¡°That¡¯s all just rumors, right?


    ¡°I haven¡¯t even seen any articles about it. You¡¯re just joking, right? You said you loved me! You said you wanted to prove to the whole world that you¡¯re my husband! That Jovanka Lawrence is your wife!¡± She spoke with loud fervor.


    Jovanka didn¡¯t want to believe a word that came out of the man¡¯s mouth. She couldn¡¯t lose. She knew that everything Altezza said was a lie. The man just wanted to test her. How could he get married just like that, when all this time he had praised her so much?


    ¡°Now I¡¯m ready. I promise I won¡¯t make any contracts without your knowledge anymore,¡± she pleaded.


    Altezza smirked sardonically. ¡°Everything I said is the truth. Have I ever joked about something I find serious?¡± Altezza answered the woman¡¯s question coldly.


    Jovanka shook her head in disbelief, trying to reject anything the man said.


    ¡°Believe it or not, but everything is true. I¡¯m married. I have a legitimate wife. A wife known by all members of my family. Not a wife hiding because she¡¯s ashamed of my existence. And also, I have a wife who will give me what I¡¯ve always dreamed of as a husband. Children,¡± Altezza¡¯s words were icy.


    ¡°And all your recent words. They¡¯re all true. I did say all that in the past. What I wanted to do in the past. But as I said, that¡¯s all in the past. Because you¡¯re the one who shattered all those dreams. To me, we¡¯re back to seven years ago. Nobody. And I will act as I have done to you for the past six years. At your request. Just as you¡¯ve been doing to me. Showing the world that we don¡¯t know each other. So goodbye, Miss Jovanka Lawrence,¡± Altezza replied coldly and chose to walk away from the woman.


    ¡°No, Altezza!¡± Jovanka approached and reached for Altezza¡¯s arm. But the man brushed her off roughly. ¡°If you think I¡¯ll stop, the answer is no! I will bring you back to be mine again! Because from the start, you belong to me! Because in your heart, there¡¯s only me! Because the only woman you love is me! Jovanka Lawrence! Remember that!¡± she shouted loudly.


    Altezza ignored her and walked further away. Jovanka herself didn¡¯t care to maintain her image. She didn¡¯t care if anyone heard her words, which might turn into gossip.


    This time, she was determined to bring Altezza back into her arms. By any means necessary. However she had to do it, that man had to be hers again.


    Altezza gritted his teeth. His hands clenched at his sides. Why did shee back without shame after disappearing for thest eight months? And what did she say earlier? Wife? Did she still consider herself his wife? Unfortunately, Altezza didn¡¯t share the same sentiment. Because in Altezza¡¯s mind, there was now only one name worthy of the position of wife. Adaline Scott.


    Altezza was already sitting on the sofa in the lobby. Five minutes left until 4:30. It was almost time for the Coskun employees to leave. He wanted to surprise his wife.


    Soon, he saw the elevator doors open. Revealing the petite figure wearing a long-sleeved white blouse with a dark gray high-waisted skirt. As usual when she worked, his wife hid her beautiful long hair in a simple bun, showcasing her graceful neck.


    Beside her was her good friend and senior, Tessa. Who was also the girlfriend of his former assistant, Duncan. Altezza himself noticed that his former assistant was standing behind Tessa, and standing next to the man he most wanted to keep away from his wife. None other than his own cousin, Gian.


    ¡°How are you, Brother? Long time no see,¡± Gian greeted warmly, while Altezza stared at him sharply. Gian smiled meaningfully. He knew his cousin was feeling jealous.

 Part 63

    ¡°I always feel not quite right whenever I see you,¡± Altezza replied curtly.


    Tessa, overhearing them, could only gape in disbelief. Although she didn¡¯t understand the man¡¯s words, she could tell that he was angry with his cousin. And she never expected to see that handsome face filled with such hostility, because as far as she knew, Altezza was always friendly to everyone.


    ¡°Are they arguing?¡± Tessa whispered to Adaline, who shook her head in response because she didn¡¯t understand what they were saying either.


    ¡°And please, stay away from my wife. Pretend you don¡¯t know her even if you identally meet her.¡±


    ¡°Ohe on, Cousin. How could I act like that? Ignoring an angel as beautiful as her just like that? Even other people would do a double-take if they saw her. What about me?¡± Gian seemed unwilling to back down. Altezza sneered.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. Whatever the reason, you need to keep your distance from her. At least one meter. If not, I¡¯ll put blinders on that ugly head of yours.¡± He threatened sharply.


    Gian raised both hands above his head, a sign of surrender. ¡°Alright, alright. I give up,¡± he replied with a wounded expression.


    ¡°Wow, it¡¯s like watching an Italian drama here,¡± Tessa whispered in amazement. She looked at the two cousins alternately. Then she turned to Adaline. ¡°Do you understand what they¡¯re talking about?¡± she asked in a whisper. Adaline shook her head. Tessa then turned to her boyfriend. And the man shrugged even before Tessa asked. ¡°It seems like one of us needs to learn Italian. At least if they are really arguing, there¡¯s someone who can mediate. Why didn¡¯t one of us use Google Voice earlier?¡± Tessa furrowed her brow. She realized it was her own fault for noting up with that idea until after they had finished talking.


    Altezza ushered Adaline back into the elevator heading towards the basement parking, ignoring Gian. He also didn¡¯t invite Gian even though they were going to the same ce.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Adaline finally dared to ask after a few moments of ufortable silence.


    Altezza turned and smiled. His left hand reached out and gently stroked Adaline¡¯s head. ¡°Nothing¡¯s wrong, Mrs.,¡± he reassured. ¡°Just feeling bored because there¡¯s no one to tease.¡± Altezza shed his trademark smile. ¡°Oh, by the way, Antony invited us for dinner at his ce. Do you want to go home first or head straight there?¡±


    ¡°Sir Antony?¡± Altezza nodded. ¡°They¡¯re back already? Does that mean Sir Adshkan will start working again tomorrow?¡± Once again, Altezza nodded. ¡°Would it still be polite if we went straight there? Because if we go home first, it¡¯ll take time. And Aa seems tired.¡± Adaline¡¯s suggestion was once again affirmed by Altezza.


    Yes, Altezza did feel tired. Mentally tired, to be precise. His unexpected encounter with Jovanka and the scene between Gian and Adaline. Even though he knew there was nothing between them, it still always made him angry.


    They finally arrived at Antony¡¯s house after buying some gifts at a nearby supermarket. It turned out their family was already gathered there. Minus Gian¡¯s family, because Gian¡¯s parents, siblings, and brother-inw had returned to Italy.


    ire, the homeowner, greeted them warmly. via and Abigail were also there. Both came along with ire.


    The dinner was lively with the ongoing tension between Gian and Altezza, not to mention the disturbances caused by via, Abigail, and ire.


    After dinner, Altezza, Gian, and Antony secluded themselves in the study. About 15 minutester, Gian emerged, joining the parents and women.


    ¡°Where are Altezza and Antony?¡± Brianna asked.


    ¡°They¡¯re still having a private discussion inside,¡± Gian replied. Brianna simply nodded.


    In the study,Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Antony nced at Altezza over the rim of his ss. ¡°Is something wrong, Cousin?¡± Antony initiated the conversation.


    The eldest of the youngest generation in the Quirino family looked at Altezza tly. They were standing on Antony¡¯s study balcony, overlooking the backyard where their family was gathered.


    ¡°She¡¯s back,¡± Altezza replied with just two words, and Antony knew exactly who ¡®she¡¯ referred to.


    ¡°And why does it matter if she¡¯s back? Are you starting to waver and consider going back to her?¡± Antony asked, raising an eyebrow. The man couldn¡¯t hide his dislike for Jovanka Lawrence, or more precisely, his former sister-inw.


    ¡°Why would you think that?¡±


    ¡°Because I know that you once loved her for a long time. The time you spent praising her. The time when you always gave in. The time when you always granted all her requests even if they sounded unreasonable. And frankly, I still doubt your feelings. At least this question always crosses my mind.¡± Antony fully turned his body, leaning against the balcony, folding his arms across his chest, and gazing sharply at Altezza.


    ¡°I¡¯ve always wondered what you would do if that woman ever returned. And now I can see the answer,¡± Antony scanned Altezza¡¯s bodynguage. ¡°You¡¯ve seemed restless all night. Your body is here, but I don¡¯t know where your mind and heart are.¡± Antony gave his assessment.


    Altezza turned his body again, observing his family chatting not far from them. ¡°That¡¯s just in your mind, Brother,¡± Altezza deflected.


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right,¡± the older man replied without shifting his gaze. ¡°It¡¯s just in my mind. And I hope what I¡¯m thinking never bes reality. You have to remember that now there¡¯s a heart you have to take care of. Don¡¯t act rashly, Al. Think about Adaline¡¯s feelings before you do anything to that woman.


    ¡°Even though the beginning of your marriage was based on a false n, I always hoped that your marriage would be true. I¡¯ve never wished ill for you, Cousin. I¡¯ve always wished happiness for you. But you have to know that happiness is sought and created. Not just waited for. That¡¯s what I¡¯ve realizedtely.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for happiness toe. Until I realized that if I didn¡¯t move, I would never get that happiness. The same goes for you. You¡¯ve found the source of happiness, whether you realize it or not. You should cherish the presence of the one who creates happiness for you and your family.


    ¡°You have to take care of it well. Remember that regretes from a choice. Not from circumstance.¡± Antony gently patted Altezza¡¯s shoulder before leaving him standing alone.


    Altezza watched Adaline, engrossed in conversation with her family. In his heart, he wondered what Adaline meant to him. He tried to sort out his feelings for his petite wife.


    There was nothing he disliked about her. Adaline, a beautiful woman. She was kind, gentle, and caring. A friendly woman, obedient yet firm at the same time. A woman who never demanded but knew what she wanted. He admired Adaline¡¯s character, with all its strength and vulnerability.


    He wanted to say it was love, but he wasn¡¯t sure himself.


    Recalling his encounter with Jovanka that afternoon, he couldn¡¯t help but admit in his heart what Antony had said.


    Jovanka Lawrence. That figure still lingered in his heart and mind. Even though for the past eight months he had never tried to remember her. But her real presence before him earlier made him falter.


    If only he hadn¡¯t been overwhelmed by anger at that moment, he would probably have embraced her. Holding her tight. Swearing to both of them that he forgave her and would never let her go again. Because clearly, the love for her had not yet disappeared.


    He never liked seeing women cry. Especially if he was the cause of those tears. And earlier, Jovanka cried for him.


    But because of his ego, Altezza was reluctant to admit it. And just as Antony had said earlier, there was now a heart he had to take care of.

 Part 64

    The silence before the storm. Have you ever heard that term? That¡¯s what Adaline feels right now. There¡¯s an uneasy feeling filling her chest. A feeling Adaline can¡¯t quite interpret. Restlessness, difort, feeling off. Things like that, but she doesn¡¯t know what it¡¯s all for.


    There¡¯s nothing wrong with her job. Everything¡¯s going smoothly. There are no problems at home either. Although she noticed Altezza has been a bit quiet since their return from Antony¡¯s house. But Adaline thinks it might be because of work matters.


    There are no issues with her mother either because she just got a call from her to check on the routine checkup results. And her mother said everything¡¯s fine.


    So what¡¯s this feeling for?


    Adaline decides to have lunch outside the office area with Tessa. However, when it¡¯s time to return, Tessa has a bit of business to attend to, so Adaline ends up returning to the office alone.


    As Adaline enters the lobby, she¡¯s quite surprised to see Jovanka there. Even her fellow coworkers who are about to return to their rooms seem held back. Just like her, they seem to wonder what Jovanka Lawrence is doing there.


    Soon Gian appears, looking puzzled.


    ¡°Jovanka Lawrence?¡± Gian greets the woman warmly, although there¡¯s confusion in his expression. Jovanka lifts her head towards the greeter, also looking puzzled. ¡°Did you request to meet me? Is there something I can help you with?¡± Gian asks politely.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Jovanka asks back, clearly confused.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Gian looks stunned. ¡°Didn¡¯t you ask the receptionist to meet with me?¡±


    ¡°I asked the receptionist to meet with Mr. Quirino. The COO here,¡± Jovanka still looks perplexed. Gian, hearing that, is equally confused.


    ¡°Yeah. You¡¯re looking for Mr. Quirino, and coincidentally, I am Mr. Quirino. And coincidentally, the Mr. Quirino who serves as the COO here is only me.¡±


    Jovanka shakes her head in disbelief. ¡°No, you¡¯re not the person I¡¯m looking for.¡± Once again, she shakes her head in confusion.


    The woman looks around the lobby area. Her gaze falls on one point. Right onto the highest authority figure.


    Antony, walking apanied by his personal secretary and Duncan, appears to have just returned from his lunch event. The strides of the bespectacled man halt. His forehead creases, and his gaze sharpens. And instantly, his stare disperses the frozen employees. Only Adaline remains standing there, hiding behind a pir with great curiosity.


    ¡°Miss Jovanka Lawrence,¡± he greets with a cold tone.


    Even Adaline, who stands quite far away, can feel the displeasure aura emanating from the man.


    ¡°Can I help you?¡± he asks skeptically. ¡°I must say I¡¯m quite surprised by your presence here. This is Coskun, not Kralligimiz, and Coskun has no dealings with you.¡± He continues with his cold tone. There¡¯s a subtle dismissal in his spoken words.


    Getting no response from the one he asked, Antony directs his gaze towards Gian. Gian shrugs. ¡°The receptionist told me I had a visitor. And she¡¯s the visitor. But when I asked what it was about, she seemed a bit confused,¡± Gian replies tly.


    ¡°I want to meet the COO,¡± Jovanka answers.


    ¡°You¡¯ve met him. He¡¯s our COO. Gian Quirino,¡± Antony replies again.


    ¡°You know he¡¯s not who I¡¯m looking for!¡± This time Adaline hears Jovanka¡¯s voice rising.


    ¡°If it¡¯s not him, who are you looking for?¡± Antony maintains his t and cold demeanor.


    ¡°You know who I¡¯m looking for, Antony. Don¡¯t pretend not to know!¡± she yells irritably.


    Adaline is startled to hear Jovanka¡¯s tone towards the highest-ranking person in thepany. And it seems Adshkan heard it too because he immediately turns towards where Adaline is hiding.


    Is this Adaline¡¯s hallucination, or is her brother-inw actually smiling at her and even winking mischievously? If it¡¯s Gian, Adaline might not be surprised, but Antony? The man¡¯s attention returns to the guest, and his face returns to its t mode, making Adaline sure that what she saw a few moments ago was just her hallucination.


    ¡°I clearly don¡¯t know who you¡¯re looking for, Miss Jovanka Lawrence,¡± the man says in a low, cold tone. ¡°You told the receptionist to meet Mr. Quirino, who serves as the COO of thispany, and you¡¯ve met him. Because he currently holds that position and he¡¯s also a Quirino.¡±


    ¡°You know it¡¯s not him I¡¯m looking for!¡± She points at Gian.


    ¡°Then who?¡± Antony seems to be testing the supermodel¡¯s patience.


    ¡°Altezza! Altezza Quirino!¡± Her raised voice echoes in the almost empty lobby area.


    There¡¯s only Gian, Duncan, Antony, and Adaline there. Adaline is startled again to hear her husband¡¯s name mentioned. Once again, she sees Antony grinning.


    ¡°And may I ask for what matter?¡± His voice sounds soft but somehow makes Adaline shudder with fear.


    ¡°Where is he? I want to meet him.¡± Jovanka still looks at Antony with emotion, asionally scanning the area with her beautiful face. Perhaps hoping to find Altezza hiding somewhere.


    ¡°He no longer works here, Miss. Why don¡¯t you try contacting him?¡± Antony suggests. The woman frowns.


    ¡°I¡¯ve tried contacting him several times. But he avoids me, he doesn¡¯t take my calls!¡±


    ¡°In that case, he clearly doesn¡¯t want to hear from you,¡± this time Adaline hears Gian speak.


    The voice is so calm and controlled, yet somehow it also sends shivers down Adaline¡¯s spine. Both Quirinos are indeed¡­


    ¡°Don¡¯t interfere!¡± she snaps at Gian. And in the next moment, she looks back at Antony with cold eyes. ¡°And tell me where he is, and don¡¯t even try to hide it!¡± Jovanka sounds impatient. Her voice demanding.


    ¡°I¡¯m not hiding him, Miss. Besides, why would I? He¡¯s grown up. But if there¡¯s something you want to convey, perhaps I can help,¡± he says, once again with a very soft tone.


    ¡°I know from the start you don¡¯t like me and don¡¯t approve of our rtionship. But I want to start everything anew. Please tell me where Altezza is now.¡± The woman pleads, begging.


    ¡°And my answer is still the same as it was before, nothing has changed. I don¡¯t approve of your rtionship.

 Part 65

    ¡°I myself don¡¯t understand, what ¡®new beginning¡¯ you want. Because my cousin clearly started a new beginning since you chose to leave him,¡± Antony responds in his t tone.


    The man¡¯s eyes nce back at Adaline hiding. Perhaps to make sure Adaline hears all of his words. And now Adaline realizes who Jovanka is, her status, and the reason why the woman is here and searching for her husband.


    ¡°Please, Antony. Give me one more chance.¡± The woman looks so pitiful. Her face seems pleading.


    ¡°It¡¯s useless to plead to me. I¡¯m nobody. I have nothing to do with your rtionship.


    ¡°If you really want to meet him, just find him. Because if you truly know him, you¡¯d know where he is,¡± Antony says before leaving the lobby area toward the executive elevator, followed by Gian and Duncan.


    From her spot, Adaline can see Jovanka sitting back on the sofa. The woman¡¯s shoulders appear to be trembling, her face covered by her hands adorned with diamond rings.


    On one hand, Adaline feels pity. On the other hand, she feels that she must show morepassion to herself. Because now, the figure her husband once loved is back. And that makes Adaline realize that her own position is not secure. The beloved wife has returned, which means she must revert to her role as the substitute mother. Yes, she¡¯s just a surrogate mother figure, and she shouldn¡¯t expect more.


    Unconsciously, Adaline strokes her belly. Her presence now seems significant because of the fetus inside her. But if the fetus is no longer there, she¡¯s clearly nobody.


    Adaline turns her body, walking towards the elevator, passing the other side of the door so Jovanka wouldn¡¯t notice her.


    Fifteen minutester, she notices Tessa¡¯s presence at her desk.


    ¡°Everyone¡¯s buzzing about Jovanka Lawrence being in ourpany?¡± That was the first sentence the girl uttered.


    Adaline nods in response.


    ¡°What is the supermodel doing in ourpany? Is ourpany making an ad with her as the model?¡± She asks curiously.


    Adaline shrugs. It feels more appropriate for her to pretend not to know.


    ¡°Maybe I can ask Duncan about itter,¡± she mumbles, ending their conversation for the afternoon.


    Altezza came homete that night. He said he¡¯d have dinner out with his colleagues. But Adaline, alone in the apartment, instead thinks of bad things. She suspects that Altezza didn¡¯t really go out with his client but met Jovanka Lawrence, his ex-wife.


    But she quickly dismisses her negative thoughts. Even if in reality, he did meet Jovanka Lawrence, she has no right to forbid it. She¡¯s nobody to him. She only holds the status of a wife. But in fact, she¡¯s nothing more than a surrogate mother. A woman needed by Altezza to carry his descendants.


    Adaline nces at the clock on the living room nightstand. It¡¯s already nine o¡¯clock, and the man still hasn¡¯t returned. She checks her phone, but he hasn¡¯t sent any messages either. Eventually, Adaline rises. She¡¯s tired enough tonight. Her heart feels weary.


    She gets up from the couch and decides to go to bed. When she¡¯s about to enter the room they¡¯ve been sharing, Adaline changes her mind. From the start, that ce wasn¡¯t suitable for her.


    She walks back and enters another room that Altezza had given her from the beginning. Locking the door from inside, Adaline finallyys her body on the bed that she hasn¡¯t used in months.


    She closes her eyes but still can¡¯t drift off to sleep. The day growster, but she also doesn¡¯t hear any signs of Altezza¡¯s presence. Where is he? Why doesn¡¯t he even want to contact her? Why doesn¡¯t he give any updates on his whereabouts or when he¡¯lle home?


    Adaline feels utterly unimportant to him. She feels unconsidered. Her heart feels tight and painful. She knew about all of this from the beginning, but why can¡¯t she ept it gracefully?


    Adaline suppresses her tears, trying to calm herself down. But even though she holds back her tears from falling, they still stream down her cheeks. Adaline eventually falls asleep, still with tears on her eyelids, unaware of the time.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Adaline wakes up with swollen eyes and a throbbing headache. She¡¯ste. She quickly gets up from her bed, finishes her chores, and heads to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. The atmosphere in the apartment is so quiet. She wonders what time Altezza came backst night. Did he look for her? What was his reaction when he found out that Adaline didn¡¯t sleep in their room but in her own room with the door locked?


    All of her questions were answered in a piece of paper. The man was no longer in the apartment because he had to catch an early flight to Lombok. There was an issue with his father¡¯s branch hotel in that city.


    He didn¡¯t attempt to wake Adaline up. He also didn¡¯t try to ask or wonder why Adaline chose to sleep in her own room instead of theirs.


    Adaline¡¯s sense of inferiority resurfaces. Whether it¡¯s due to pregnancy hormones or her bing a bit more sensitive, she feels like she¡¯s no longer needed.


    Or perhaps it¡¯s because the man¡¯s desire to have a child will soon be fulfilled, so he no longer needs to bother paying attention to Adaline.


    Adaline sits quietly at the dining table. Her interest in making breakfast has vanished. She doesn¡¯t even feel hungry anymore, despite only eating a littlest night.


    Adaline stands up and gets ready to go to work. She gently taps her cheeks. Encouraging herself. Trying to keep thinking positively for the sake of the baby she¡¯s carrying.


    Everything will be okay. She just has to y her role. She may be the man¡¯s legal wife, but she¡¯s not the woman he loves.


    She¡¯s just a woman carrying his son or daughter, but not a mother to his children. That sentence keeps revolving in her mind. More as a reminder that she shouldn¡¯t expect something she shouldn¡¯t hope for.

 Part 66

    Two days passed just like that. Adaline knew that by now Altezza should have returned to Manhattan. But even over the past two days, the man hadn¡¯t tried to contact her at all. And Adaline hadn¡¯t tried to contact him either because she was afraid of bothering him.


    That morning was terrible for Adaline. Her morning sickness still hadn¡¯t subsided. This time it seemed even worse. Especially because for the past two days, she hadn¡¯t been eating properly or getting enough rest.


    Her body felt weak, her face pale. Every food she ate came back up. Only sweet tea settled well in her stomach.


    Tessa was so worried every time she went back and forth to the toilet. Sometimes the girl even waited for her, afraid that Adaline might faint from exhaustion.


    ¡°Ada, are you okay?¡± Tessa looked at her with concern.


    Adaline tried to wipe the cold sweat off her forehead. Her body felt weak, her head so light, and her eyes seemed to sparkle. Her face looked very pale. Even her lips were chapped.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the doctor, okay?¡± Tessa urged.


    Adaline looked at her friend and nodded slowly. Tessa helped her tidy up her bag. Then she helped Adaline stand up and assisted her to the elevator.


    Adaline¡¯s petite body seemed unsteady. Just as the elevator door opened on their floor, Duncan and Gian were already inside. They nced at Tessa and Adaline alternately.


    ¡°Ada, are you okay?¡± Duncan¡¯s question came out of nowhere.


    Adaline, whose gaze was already unfocused, could only nod weakly. Tessa helped her into the elevator.


    ¡°Please take us to the doctor,¡± Tessa asked Duncan softly, which the man agreed to. Finally, they pressed the basement button.


    Adaline whimpered softly. Her hand gripped Tessa¡¯s shirt sleeve tightly until her knuckles turned white.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Tessa¡­¡± She whispered faintly. A momentter, she slumped into Tessa¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Ada¡­ Adaline¡­¡± The three people in the elevator called her name alternately. But the owner of the name didn¡¯t respond at all.


    Gian carried Adaline. Duncan led the way and opened the back door of his car for Gian. Gian supported Adaline¡¯s shoulders in the back seat. Meanwhile, Tessa ced a smelling salt under Adaline¡¯s nose, hoping she would regain consciousness. Meanwhile, Duncan sat behind the wheel, driving their car towards the nearest clinic or hospital as quickly as possible.


    Ten minutester, they arrived at arge hospital. Gian still faithfully held Adaline and took her to the emergency room. A doctor greeted them and asked for details about Adaline.


    ¡°Is the patient pregnant?¡± the doctor asked when Tessa exined the situation.


    Tessa nodded in confirmation. A female nurse arrived, pushing a trolley with medical equipment. She began to set up an IV drip on Adaline¡¯s hand as per the doctor¡¯s instructions.


    ¡°A patient with early pregnancy is indeed vulnerable. In such condition, she should not be tired, let alone stressed. Has she been experiencing severe morning sickness?¡± the doctor inquired again.


    ¡°Yes, Doctor. In fact, for the past few days, she has had difficulty eating,¡± Tessa replied. Because indeed, for the past two days, Adaline seemed to have lost her appetite.


    ¡°After she regains consciousness, I rmend she consults an obstetrician. An obstetrician knows more about vitamins and what pregnant women should do. For now, I¡¯ll give her a vitamin infusion as a recement for body fluids,¡± the doctor continued before excusing himself to attend to another patient.


    Tessa looked at Gian and Duncan alternately. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said gratefully. ¡°I don¡¯t know what would¡¯ve happened without you guys.¡± Tessa slumped exhausted in a chair next to Adaline¡¯s bed.


    Just a moment ago, when she saw Adaline faint, she felt truly panicked, confused, and worried.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to thank us. After all, she¡¯s my sister-inw. It¡¯s only right that I help,¡± replied Gian.


    ¡°But is her condition really that severe?¡± Gian asked, his eyes looking at Adaline who was still asleep. Her face appeared even thinner than before and very pale.


    ¡°Since she found out she¡¯s pregnant, her condition can be described as quite miserable. Not in the sense that she¡¯s sickly. It¡¯s just that her morning sickness is quite severe.


    ¡°Even not just morning sickness, but every time she finishes eating, she always ends up vomiting her food. Whether it¡¯s breakfast or lunch, and when I asked about her dinner, she said she always vomited her dinner too.¡±


    ¡°Does Altezza know about this?¡± Gian asked again. Tessa shook her head.


    ¡°I also asked Adaline about it, but Adaline answered that Altezza doesn¡¯t know. And she feels Altezza doesn¡¯t need to know. She doesn¡¯t want to worry Altezza,¡± Tessa replied again.


    Gian was quite surprised to hear that. But he tried to understand. He hase to know Adaline¡¯s charactertely, and he knows that Adaline is not the type to be spoiled, and she is someone who doesn¡¯t want to inconvenience others.


    ¡°Do you guys have other business? If so, you can go. Let me take care of Adaline here,¡± Tessa said to the two men who were still faithfully waiting for Adaline.


    ¡°Actually, we have a meeting, but I¡¯ve called the client and postponed it for a while,¡± Duncan replied calmly. ¡°Is it okay if we stay?¡± Tessa nodded assuredly. ¡°If there¡¯s anything, you call me,¡± she softly instructed, which was again nodded by Tessa.


    Altezza put down his drawing tools and stretched. His back felt stiff. He nced at his watch and realized that lunchtime was approaching. He missed Adaline¡¯s cooking. But it wouldn¡¯t be possible for him to ask his wife to cook lunch for him.


    Adaline. The name of his wife made him feel guilty. Two days ago, after meeting with his client, he identally ran into Jovanka. The woman intercepted him and asked for his time to talk. Although he didn¡¯t want to, he eventually relented, hoping that this would be thest time they spoke.


    **shback On**


    Altezza led them to the private area of his father¡¯s hotel restaurant. ¡°What do you want now?¡± he asked, not pleased.


    ¡°Darling, why are you acting like this? You¡¯re not the Altezza I know.¡±


    Jovanka tried to reach for Altezza, but he avoided her touch.


    ¡°Al?!¡± She eximed, staring at Altezza with sad eyes.


    ¡°What do you mean, acting like what? What kind of Altezza do you know?¡± Altezza asked tly. He tried his best to conceal the erratic beating of his heart inside. The feeling was still there, apparently.


    ¡°My Altezza was never this cold. He was a friendly and loving man.¡±


    ¡°I believe I am still that Altezza. I just reserve that treatment for the right person. Like my wife, for example.¡±


    ¡°I am your wife,¡± Jovanka replied firmly.


    ¡°We¡¯ve been separated for eight months if you¡¯ve forgotten,¡± Altezza reminded her.


    ¡°No. We are not divorced, and I haven¡¯t epted the separation.¡±


    ¡°Like it or not. Whether you ept it or not, I¡¯ve decided not to reconcile with you.¡±

 Part 67

    ¡°Altezza?! Why are you like this? You used to say you loved me, but why have you changed like this?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but that was then. Back then, when you were the Jovanka I knew. The Jovanka who promised to be a good wife. The Jovanka who promised to give me many children.


    ¡°And I lost that love when the Jovanka I knew changed. Changed into an ambitious Jovanka. A Jovanka who likes to break promises,¡± Altezza said tly, almost without emotion.


    ¡°Altezza, you know my dreams. You know what I want to be. You gave me hope to pursue my dreams.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did. I pushed you, I supported you to reach those dreams. But you never felt satisfied.


    ¡°When I asked you to stop, you didn¡¯t want to. Even though all I asked for was a momentary pause so you could at least fulfill my dreams, but you didn¡¯t make it happen.


    ¡°And I¡¯m tired. Tired of giving you time. Tired of asking you to fulfill my desires,¡± Altezza emphasized.


    ¡°Altezza, please. Haven¡¯t I promised that this is thest time? Now I¡¯m back. Let¡¯s fix everything from the beginning,¡± Jovanka pleaded with a pitiful face.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. But my decision is also final. I¡¯m a man, and I can¡¯t just retract my words like that. I¡¯ve told you that I will find someone else. And I did.


    ¡°So now I hope you can ept my decision. Please live your life as you wish. And I will do the same,¡± Altezza replied coldly.


    ¡°Al¡­?¡±


    ¡°I have a new life now. And you can continue your life. I hope you don¡¯t need to bother me anymore.¡±


    ¡°But I love you¡­¡± Jovanka said loudly.


    Altezza was touched. Seeing tears on that beautiful face made him want to embrace Jovanka tightly. But he tried to restrain himself.


    Adaline. That one name shed in his mind. Like a subconscious rm warning him.


    ¡°But I no longer have love for you,¡± Altezza replied coldly.


    The woman wailed and cried loudly, covering her face with her small hands. But Altezza remained unmoved.


    No, he mustn¡¯t falter. He had to endure. He mustn¡¯t fall back into the charm of that woman.


    Jovanka was just the past. Meanwhile, Adaline and the baby in her womb were his future.


    ¡°I hope we never meet again. I hope this is ourst encounter.


    ¡°We started everything well, and I¡¯ve ended it well. And if you don¡¯t ept this separation, it¡¯s not my concern.


    ¡°Remember that I¡¯ve given you chances time and time again. But each opportunity I gave, you returned with disappointment.¡± Despite Jovanka¡¯s increasing cries, Altezza walked away.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    **shback off**


    Adaline. Once again, that name echoed in his mind, and the beautiful face of his wife lingered in his thoughts.


    Altezza felt guilty. Because in his busyness over the past two days, he forgot to contact his wife. How was his little wife doing? It seemed Altezza needed to surprise her.


    Altezza walked towards the hotel parking area and got into his car. On the way, he spotted a flower shop. Altezza pulled over. After chatting with the shop owner, Altezza chose light pink roses.


    He also stopped by a bakery. Knowing Adaline loved tiramisu, he bought arge tiramisu cake.


    Altezza entered the lobby of the Coskun Company just as Antony was leaving. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± his cousin asked in surprise.


    ¡°Is this how you wee someone who has enriched yourpany?¡± Altezza retorted sarcastically.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. I¡¯m asking what you¡¯re doing here. Duncan and Gian just took your wife to the hospital.¡±


    Altezza was incredulous, but Antony seemed serious. Especially since it was about the hospital.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Antony asked skeptically. ¡°What kind of husband are you?¡± His question was apanied by a tone of displeasure. It was clear Antony was angry with him, and Altezza felt there was more to Antony¡¯s anger than just Adaline¡¯s health issue.


    ¡°Follow me,¡± he ordered roughly. ¡°I¡¯m also going to the hospital. Gian has informed your mother about Adaline, and it seems they are already at the hospital.¡± They got into the car that Antony¡¯s driver had prepared. ¡°Has Adaline found out about your ex-wife?¡± The question came out so suddenly, and it surprised Altezza.


    Adaline knew that he had been married before, but she didn¡¯t know who his ex-wife was. Altezza¡¯s silence was his response to Antony¡¯s question.


    ¡°Three days ago, Jovanka came here looking for you. She thought you were still working here and asked to meet you. Unfortunately, Gian showed up instead. We had a confrontation because she insisted on meeting you.


    ¡°We argued, and Adaline was there, even though she was hiding behind one of the pirs. I thought she already knew who your ex-wife was, so she chose to listen by hiding behind the pir.


    ¡°But it seems I was wrong. She didn¡¯t know that your husband¡¯s ex-wife is a supermodel.¡±


    ¡°What did she say?¡± Antony recounted all his conversations with Jovanka.


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Altezza cursed. He rubbed his temples, suddenly feeling a throbbing pain. So, was that the reason why he couldn¡¯t find Adaline in their bed when he returned to the apartment three days ago?


    Altezza thought his wife needed some time alone. But it seemed she was clearly trying to avoid him.


    And to make matters worse, that morning Altezza had rushed, so he didn¡¯t wait for his wife to wake up and talk to her.


    Also, Altezza hadn¡¯t contacted her at all because he felt there was nothing wrong.


    And it turns out he had indeed made a serious mistake. A mistake that was very fatal. He had damaged her trust in him. And now Altezza had to find a way to regain that trust.


    ¡°This time you have to work extra hard, Cousin. Because if I observe, Adaline is not someone easy to control.


    ¡°Adaline is a woman of conviction. And clearly, a woman who doesn¡¯t like to depend on men is a woman who is very difficult to conquer.


    ¡°ttery and sweet talk won¡¯t be enough for a woman like her. Even with proof, it¡¯s not guaranteed to move her heart.


    ¡°A woman like her won¡¯t easily forgive when she¡¯s hurt. I don¡¯t mean to scare you. But I¡¯m just reminding you of the past, the love story of your parents.


    ¡°And about your ex. If in the future there are issues between you three, then from now on, I decide that whatever happens, I will stand behind Adaline.¡±


    The warning tone of those words marked the end of their conversation. Because a momentter, they arrived at the hospital parking lot.

 Part 68

    Adaline opened her eyes, unsure of how many times she had done so already. But this time, what she saw was slightly different from thest time she opened her eyes. The ceiling was still white, but the turquoise curtains she had seen before were no longer there.


    ¡°Darling, are you awake?¡± asked a voice beside her. Adaline turned her head and saw her mother-inw standing on the right side of her bed.


    ¡°Mamma?¡± she asked, puzzled.


    ¡°Yes, dear. It¡¯s Mamma. How are you feeling now? Are you still dizzy? Weak?¡±


    ¡°A bit, Mamma,¡± she weakly replied. ¡°Where¡¯s Tessa?¡±


    ¡°She left to go back to the office earlier. She said she¡¯lle back hereter this afternoon. I¡¯ve already contacted your mother; the driver is picking her up toe here,¡± Del continued without Adaline asking. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me that you were experiencing severe morning sickness?¡± Her mother-inw reprimanded her. Adaline winced.


    The sound of the door opening diverted their attention. ¡°Darling, are you okay?¡± Altezza rushed in. Behind him, Antony walked calmly.


    ¡°Altezza, calm down a bit. This is a hospital,¡± his cousin¡¯s brother warned.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m really sorry,¡± he said, full of regret.


    Ignoring his mother¡¯s presence, he approached Adaline in the bed. He reached for her right hand, which was free from the IV tube, and gently squeezed it. Adaline smiled and returned the grip.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Al. Everything¡¯s fine. Right, Mamma?¡± She turned to her mother-inw, seeking assistance.


    But instead of answering, her mother-inw turned her head away with a huff. Del must be upset with her only son.


    ¡°Aunty, where¡¯s ire? I heard she brought you here,¡± Antony asked, looking around for his wife.


    ¡°We came here without having lunch. So, your wife went to get lunch for us,¡± Mrs. Del replied, now seated on the room¡¯s sofa.


    ¡°How are you feeling, better?¡± Antony directed the question to Adaline this time.


    ¡°Better,¡± Adaline replied. ¡°Thank goodness for Gian and Duncan,¡± she said without any particr intention.


    ¡°Yes, thank goodness for them,¡± Antony replied with a meaningful smile. ¡°What did the doctor say, Aunty?¡±


    ¡°The doctor said she¡¯s malnourished,¡± Del replied curtly. ¡°Seems like she¡¯scking attention and affection too,¡± she continued in the same tone.


    ¡°Mamma¡­¡± Adaline tried to make her mother-inw understand.


    ¡°Let it be, you don¡¯t need to defend your husband. How can a husband not know that his wife is experiencing severe morning sickness? What kind of husband is that?¡± Del squeezed her son¡¯s hand tighter, silently asking him not to entertain his mother.


    Altezza nodded.


    ¡°Have you eaten? Do you want something to eat?¡± he asked with concern. Adaline shook her head.


    ¡°I¡¯m not hungry,¡± she whispered softly.


    ¡°But you haven¡¯t had lunch yet, Darling. You fainted before lunchtime. Tessa told me earlier,¡± her mother-inw chimed in.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Adaline bit her lower lip awkwardly. ¡°I want a chocte milkshake and tiramisu cake,¡± she said, her face flushing.


    ¡°Oh my.¡± Altezza sighed, pping his forehead. ¡°The cake?¡± He turned to Antony.


    He had forgotten the cake he had bought earlier and left it in the car. Antony handed him the car keys without being asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go buy the milkshake,¡± Altezza said. Adaline nodded. He kissed her forehead briefly before leaving. Just as Altezza opened the door, ire arrived with two bags of food.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± she asked Altezza, her forehead furrowing in confusion.


    ¡°To the cafeteria downstairs,¡± he quickly replied.


    ire only muttered ¡®Oh¡¯ as she continued into the room. ¡°Aunty, here¡¯s your lunch.¡± ire ced the food bag on the table, handing one food box to her aunt-inw, then to Antony, who had also requested it to be bought for him. She then walked over to the bed and handed the food to Adaline.


    ¡°Come on, let¡¯s eat first.¡± ire adjusted the bed¡¯s position until Adaline was sitting up, and then adjusted the table to align with the bed.


    Adaline opened her meal box and saw a salmon steakplete with vegetable sd. Thinking about rice earlier had made her feel nauseous. But after seeing the menu in front of her, she suddenly salivated.


    Seeing Adaline looking enthusiastic about her lunch, ire returned to the table and started eating with her husband and mother-inw. Altezza appeared with a cup of chocte milkshakeplete with ice cream topping. He also brought arge tiramisu cake that he had bought before going to the hospital. Without many words, he handed the treats to Adaline, who had almost finished half of her meal.


    ¡°This is your lunch,¡± ire handed another box that she had ordered for Altezza.


    Altezza murmured his thanks and began to eat his lunch. Meanwhile, Adaline started on her tiramisu.


    In the evening, Tessa, Gian, and Duncan came to visit. Mrs. Del, ire, and Antony had already returned home. In the room, there were only Adaline, Altezza, Violet, and Emma.


    ¡°Feeling better?¡± Tessa asked.


    Adaline nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll be able to go home tomorrow,¡± she replied.


    ¡°Thank goodness,¡± Gian sighed in relief.


    They continued their light conversation until eventually, the three colleagues decided to leave. Duncan kindly offered to drive Violet and Emma home, while Altezza stayed behind to keep Adalinepany at the hospital.


    When they were alone, Altezza tried to initiate a conversation with his wife.


    ¡°Are you ready to sleep?¡± Altezza asked. Adaline shook her head. ¡°There¡¯s something I want to talk to you about. It¡¯s about my ex-wife.¡±


    Adaline knew that this conversation would eventuallye up. She observed Altezza carefully, trying to gauge his reaction.


    ¡°Yes. Is there something you want to discuss?¡± Adaline chose to listen because, even though she postponed it, sooner orter the story would reach her ears. She preferred to hear it directly from him rather than from someone else, as it had happened before, albeit identally.


    ¡°My ex-wife, she¡­¡±


    ¡°Jovanka Lawrence,¡± Adaline interjected. Her husband nodded.


    ¡°I heard from Antony that you saw Jovanka at the office three days ago,¡± Adaline nodded in agreement. ¡°I really didn¡¯t know what she was thinking until she dared to show up at thepany. But what I want to rify here is that we no longer have any rtionship.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Adaline asked. Altezza furrowed his brow. ¡°Initially, Adaline didn¡¯t know what rtionship there was between you and Jovanka. And yesterday, Adaline was still uncertain until she saw Antony¡¯s expression, only then did Adaline realize that Jovanka was a woman from the past that Aa had mentioned.¡±


    ¡°But what I want to know is, is it true that your rtionship with Jovanka has really ended? I may not have the right to ask this given my actual position. And even if your rtionship with Jovanka hasn¡¯t ended, it¡¯s no problem for me.


    ¡°It¡¯s just perhaps better if you both settle everything properly. Don¡¯t let either of you suffer, and ultimately tarnish the reputation you¡¯ve built all this time.


    ¡°You¡¯ve seeded in your career and so has Jovanka.¡±This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°No, dear. Listen to your husband carefully. Jovanka and I have absolutely no rtionship anymore. Our business is finished.


    ¡°She is now a stranger. Maybe she was my wife for six years in the past, but now Adaline Scott Quirino is my only wife.


    ¡°I have promised that there will be no other women in our marriage. And I will keep that vow.¡±


    ¡°But Al¡­¡±


    ¡°No ¡®buts¡¯.¡± Altezza didn¡¯t want to be opposed. ¡°My business with Jovanka is over, period.¡±


    ¡°Do you still love her?¡± Adaline tried to investigate her husband¡¯s expression, but couldn¡¯t guess it. ¡°Because I know that she still loves you.¡±

 Part 69

    Now Altezza¡¯s forehead wrinkled. ¡°How do you know that she still loves me?¡±


    ¡°She said it directly to the three of us. Me, Tessa, and Joanna. We met by chance and she suddenly told us about her love story.


    ¡°At that time, I didn¡¯t know that she was your ex-wife. And she also seemed unaware that I am now your wife. She sincerely wanted to apologize and get back together with you. She said she would change. Don¡¯t you want to give her a chance?¡±


    Altezza¡¯s forehead furrowed even more. He looked at Adaline with a puzzled expression. ¡®What does his wife mean by saying things like that?¡¯ The question filled his mind.


    ¡°We got married because of a contract,¡± Adaline answered as if understanding the unspoken question from Altezza. ¡°You wanted me to bear your son in exchange for the expenses you incurred to help heal my mother.¡±


    Altezza shook his head. ¡°I won¡¯t deny that. Because that¡¯s indeed the fact.


    ¡°But when I said my marriage vows, I meant them sincerely. This marriage is a covenant between us and God. And I don¡¯t want to y games with that.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± Adaline looked at her husband with an iprehensible gaze.


    ¡°Listen to me. I asked you to marry me, even without love. And with the addition of a contract asking you to bear my child.


    ¡°But I take this marriage seriously. I strive to be a good husband. A husband worthy of you and now trying to be a good father for our child.


    ¡°Even though I know I¡¯m far from being ¡®good¡¯ itself. But I¡¯m trying.


    ¡°Not because of that contract. Nor because I want a child in exchange for the money I lent for your mother¡¯s surgery. Because even if you refuse, I will still help you.


    ¡°I admit I was wrong. But I¡¯m not lying that I truly want a child.


    ¡°I¡¯m also wrong for forcing you into this marriage without considering your feelings. But I really entered into this marriage sincerely.


    ¡°When I made my marriage vows, I also promised myself and to God that you would be the only one to be my wife. The mother of my children, even though I didn¡¯t know what would happen in the future.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t thought about that contract at all, and I have never demanded you to immediately give birth to a child for me.¡±


    ¡°But IVF?¡±


    ¡°That was another reason to bind you. I know how a woman, especially a woman like you who is still pure and untouched by any man, desires the touch of a man she loves. And I haven¡¯t been able to give that love. Maybe even now, I don¡¯t know if love exists or not.


    ¡°But I do care for you. I want to take care of you. Because you are my wife.


    ¡°Don¡¯t see yourself just as a surrogate mother figure. Because you¡¯re not a surrogate mother. You¡¯re my wife. The future mother of my children.¡±


    ¡°Al¡­¡±


    ¡°I know I was wrong. I apologize for that. I truly apologize.¡± Altezza held his wife¡¯s small hands. Squeezing them gently, more to reassure himself that all of this was real. ¡°My intentions from the beginning have caused you misunderstandings. I couldn¡¯t exin it because I was afraid.


    ¡°And now, when that woman reappears, I feel even more afraid. I¡¯m afraid that you might have other thoughts. Bad thoughts about me. And I swear I have no dealings with that woman anymore.¡± Altezza looked at Adaline with a convincing gaze.


    ¡°But you were with her for six years. It¡¯s impossible for that feeling to just disappear,¡± Adaline¡¯s statement wasn¡¯t meant to shake Altezza, but to reassure herself that Altezza was expressing his true feelings.


    ¡°Yes, logically, that¡¯s true. I can¡¯t just make the love of these six years disappear.¡±


    ¡°But nothing is impossible if it is God¡¯s will to erase all those feelings towards her. And even if those feelings still exist, I will try to push them far away. And I hope you will help me do that. Because what I want now is to rectify our intentions and run this household as best as we can.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°Why? Are you doubting what I¡¯m saying? Don¡¯t you want tomit to this marriage wholeheartedly?¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m not like that.¡± Adaline bowed her head, her face reddened with embarrassment. ¡°From the beginning, I also vowed that I would try to be a good wife. Just like what you¡¯re doing. I never took this marriage lightly. That¡¯s why I entrusted myself to you.¡± Her answer was stuttered, her hands twisted nervously.


    Altezza was happy to hear it, and he immediately reached for his wife¡¯s body and hugged her tightly. Altezza kissed the top of her head several times. Feeling touched and grateful at the same time.


    He didn¡¯t expect that his wife would feel the same way he did.


    ¡°Adaline Scott. The only wife of Altezza Quirino. The future mother of the Quirino descendants. The beloved daughter-inw of Mamma Del and Padre Benjamin. My wife.¡± Altezza kissed Adaline again. Forehead, cheek, chin, nose, and ending on her lips. It was an intense and lingering kiss. ¡°I truly missed kissing you these past three days.¡±


    ¡°Liar.¡± Adaline replied, her small hand lightly hitting Altezza¡¯s chest.


    ¡°I¡¯m not lying, Mrs. I¡¯m serious,¡± Altezza replied earnestly.


    ¡°Then why did you just leave me three days ago like that? You even chose to write a letter instead of waking me up and saying goodbye in person?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because I didn¡¯t want to disturb your sleep. You looked tired as if you¡¯d been up all night, and your eyes seemed swollen from crying.¡±


    ¡°How could you possibly know? I slept in my room, and the door was locked from the inside. I didn¡¯t even take the key out of the door, so how could you have entered?¡±


    ¡°There are many ways to Rome, Mrs.,¡± Altezza replied mysteriously.


    Adaline pinched his waist. ¡°Al¡­¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay, I¡¯ll tell you the secret. After the meeting that night, I identally ran into some college friends. They invited me to go clubbing. Initially, I intended to contact you, but it turned out my phone died.¡± Altezza stated the truth except for the fact that he met Jovanka beforehand. ¡°Around one in the morning, I finally returned home. But it turned out thedy of the house wasn¡¯t sleeping in her room and chose to hide instead. Eventually, I showered and decided to look for you. And as you said, the door was locked.


    ¡°I even brought a spare key, but it wouldn¡¯t fit. So your beloved husband finally resorted to taking the key to the secret door.¡±This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Secret door?¡± Adaline looked at him puzzled. Altezza nodded, grinning mischievously.


    ¡°Did you forget that your husband is an architect? I can even create various secret doors without the homeowner knowing.¡± But Adaline was still not satisfied with his answer.


    ¡°So where is this secret door?¡±


    ¡°Do you really want to know, or are you just curious?¡± he teased. Once again, Adaline pinched his waist.


    ¡°Al,e on¡­¡±


    ¡°Later,¡± he promised. ¡°When we get home, I¡¯ll show you where the secret door is. For now, it¡¯s better for mydy to sleep. It¡¯s not good for the baby. And mydy needs to be healthier too. If there¡¯s anything, don¡¯t hesitate to tell me. Aren¡¯t you feeling sorry for me being scolded by Mamma all the time?¡± Adaline shook her head with a sheepish expression.


    ¡°I¡¯m actually happy when Mama scolds you. It means Mama really cares for me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re really heartless. I¡¯m tired from work and getting scolded by that olddy, not to mention tomorrow the olddy¡¯s husband will add to the list of people who will scold me. And even earlier today, Sir Antony scolded me.¡±


    ¡°Sir Antony?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. You don¡¯t believe he scolded me?¡± Adaline shook her head. ¡°When Antony gets angry, his scolding is longer than a girl¡¯s. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask ire or via.¡± Adaline smiled and shook her head simultaneously. She couldn¡¯t believe that someone like Antony, who had a t expression, rarely spoke, and hardly smiled, could get angry like a woman.


    ¡°Just try to make him annoyed or angry. Your ears will change, no longer as red as ripe tomatoes but will turn as red as rotten tomatoes.¡± Theyughed together, imagining how the color of their ears would change to that of rotten tomatoes.


    ¡°Let¡¯s sleep.¡± Altezza adjusted his sleeping position. ¡°It¡¯s going to be a long night at the hospital.¡± He said as heid down beside his wife.


    Adaliney on her side, facing left, keeping her arm with the IV tube. Altezza pressed Adaline¡¯s back against his chest. His right hand wrapped around her stomach and held her free hand tightly, free from the IV tube.


    That¡¯s how they fell asleep until the early morning. They didn¡¯t even wake up when the nurse came to their room. Even when Del and Violet came to deliver breakfast, they were still in the same position.

 Part 70

    The rtionship between Altezza and Adaline is improving day by day, especially after Altezza¡¯s confession to Adaline the other day. Adaline¡¯s confidence suddenly emerges.


    As they had agreed, they started everything with a fresh intention. And Adaline finally found out about the secret door mentioned by her husband. It turns out Altezza had built a connecting door between his room and the one upied by Adaline. And indeed, Adaline never knew about it because the door was hidden inside the wardrobe. The next day when she returned from the hospital, Altezza showed her the spot.


    ¡°This is why your wardrobe is so wide and doesn¡¯t have a lock,¡± Altezza said as he opened her wardrobe door and slid the connecting door, revealing the inside of Adaline¡¯s wardrobe.


    Adaline looked at him with a fearful expression.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Honey. I¡¯ve never abused this door for anything improper,¡± Altezza reassured.


    Adaline still looked at him with an incredulous gaze. The man just grinned.


    They spent the weekend going out, not visiting family as usual. The reason being Altezza didn¡¯t want to get a lecture, especially from his parents. As the man had anticipated, when on the second day Adaline was discharged from the hospital and about toe home, his father-inw came and scolded Altezza, just as the man had expected beforehand.


    Altezza took her wherever Adaline requested. Eating out, visiting bookstores, and even watching movies at the cinema for two films. The man seemed not to mind. And surprisingly, throughout the movie-watching, he didn¡¯t feel bored or seem sleepy. So Adaline didn¡¯t feel guilty for boring the man.


    They decided to have dinner at a Japanese restaurant because suddenly Adaline wanted hotpot. Not only that, Adaline¡¯s portion even doubledpared to what she usually ate. Altezza didn¡¯t mind; he even liked the way the woman ate.


    Adaline¡¯s pregnancy has reached four months. Currently, they are gathered at Adaline¡¯s family home to celebrate her pregnancy.


    Mrs. Violet couldn¡¯t stop smiling, and neither could Adaline¡¯s mother-inw, Del Quirino. Seeing them like that filled Adaline¡¯s heart with happiness.


    ¡°The Quirinodies are so lucky to have husbands like the Quirino men,¡± whispered one woman to Violet Scott, ncing at the Quirino men. ¡°Adaline is also lucky to have a husband like Altezza. He¡¯s handsome, kind, and friendly.¡±


    ¡°Lucky or not depends on our perspective, dear,¡± replied Brianna, who had overheard the whispers wisely. ¡°There¡¯s no marriage without problems. It alles down to how we deal with them,¡± she continued, causing the other women to blush with embarrassment.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Brianna Quirino indeed had a rigid character, just like her son, Antony. She wasn¡¯t the type to be overly friendly, so those who just met her always assumed she was arrogant. However, once you got to know her, she also had a mischievous side and a sense of humor. And she was also a caring woman.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, dear?¡± Del Quirino looked at her daughter-inw, who was currently holding her stomach with a furrowed brow. ¡°Are you okay, dear?¡± she asked again, panicking.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Mom. It¡¯s just that I feel something strange in my stomach.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with your stomach?¡± This time it was Violet who asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but it feels like there¡¯s something fluttering in my stomach. Like there are little butterflies flying inside.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God¡­¡± Del and Violet eximed simultaneously. Adaline looked at the two women alternately. ¡°God has breathed life into the fetus you¡¯re carrying, dear. If previously the fetus was just a lump of flesh, then now the fetus in your stomach already contains the soul of your future child,¡± Violet replied. Adaline nodded in understanding.


    ¡°You have to be careful. Right now, a soul is growing within you. From now on, you must always watch your words, actions, and feelings. Because inside the fetus, they will mimic all the actions of the parents. And they will start learning even while they are still in the womb.


    ¡°They will listen to what you say. They will feel what you feel. And they will behave as you behave. So, from now on, before doing anything, you have to consider the twins that are here.¡± Del Quirino replied, gently rubbing Adaline¡¯s stomach. ¡°I can¡¯t wait to see what Adaline and Altezza¡¯s junior will be like.¡± Del¡¯s eyes sparkled with happiness. So did Violet¡¯s.


    Elsewhere.


    Jovanka stared at her manager with a sharp gaze. Her manager returned the stare with an equally sharp one. ¡°Don¡¯t ruin your future because of this, Joe,¡± the man cautioned.


    Jovanka didn¡¯t care. She chose to shut her ears. Her career was important, but there was something else more important to her right now.


    Evans shook his head. He was losing his mind. Jovanka had truly lost control. And soon, she would lose everything if she intended to continue with her n.


    ¡°Joe, this is my final warning. I don¡¯t want you to proceed with your n. Everything will end badly. You won¡¯t gain anything. You¡¯ll only lose in the end.¡±


    ¡°And once again, tell him that I DON¡¯T CARE!¡± She snapped at every word. ¡°I don¡¯t care what happens next, all I know is I have to get that man back now!¡±


    ¡°Joe, please. Don¡¯t act crazy like this,¡± Evans persisted in trying to change Jovanka¡¯s mind.


    ¡°I¡¯m not crazy! And even if I am, it¡¯s all because of you! If only you hadn¡¯t offered me that contract back then. I wouldn¡¯t have lost Altezza!¡±


    ¡°Now you¡¯re ming me?! Me?! When all I did was show you that contract.¡±


    ¡°Have you forgotten that all those decisions were on you?! And if you¡¯ve forgotten, I reminded you to hold back and not take that contract yet. But what did you say?


    ¡°You said working with that director was your dream. And if I need to remind you, I warned you about Altezza. But what did you say then?


    ¡°You said Altezza loved you too much and that he would never leave you! And now you¡¯re ming me?!¡± Evans couldn¡¯t ept being med like that. His pride as an artist manager was wounded.


    Jovanka wailed in front of him,menting all her mistakes, regretting all her decisions in the past. She herself was aware that her chances of going back were very slim. Maybe even nonexistent.


    It wasn¡¯t just unlikely. It was indeed nonexistent.


    Nil.


    Zero.


    But it wasn¡¯t Jovanka Lawrence if she didn¡¯t fight.


    Jovanka looked again at the photos sent by her hired detective. She chuckled cynically at the figure on every page. She had to take action. If Altezza wouldn¡¯te back to her, then he also shouldn¡¯t be happy with his chosen woman.


    From the beginning, the position as Altezza¡¯s wife was hers. Not anyone else¡¯s.


    Evans chose to step away from the woman. After this contract was over, he really had to leave Jovanka. He didn¡¯t want to be destroyed along with her. He had endured enough of all her antics. He was sick of it.


    Even though she was his source of ie, if he stayed with her any longer, he wasn¡¯t sure if he wouldn¡¯t go insane himself.


    Jovanka searched for a name on her phone and dialed.


    Altezza had just finished a meeting with the hotel clients. It was already toote to take Adaline out for lunch. And it was still too early to take his wife home.


    Altezza nced at his phone, intending to switch his silent mode back to normal when his eyes caught a message.


    0xxxxxxxxx


    Al, I¡¯m sick. The doctor said I¡¯m poisoned. Please help me.


    Altezza furrowed his brow. He pressed the sender¡¯s number. The third ring was answered.


    ¡°Hello, who¡¯s this?¡± Altezza asked without preamble.


    ¡°Hello? Altezza Quirino?¡± An unfamiliar woman¡¯s voice responded.


    ¡°Yes. Who is this? Who¡¯s sick and poisoned?¡±


    ¡°Um. I¡¯m Cindy. Jovanka¡¯s assistant. Jovanka is poisoned. The doctor just checked her, and now she¡¯s being treated at home.¡±


    ¡°If she¡¯s sick, why didn¡¯t you take her to the hospital?¡±


    ¡°Well, she¡­¡± The woman sounded flustered. ¡°Jovanka didn¡¯t want to go to the hospital. She said she¡¯s afraid. And she doesn¡¯t have any family here either. So, there¡¯s no one to take care of her. And I can¡¯t take care of her.


    ¡°Can I ask for your help? Please pity Joe. She doesn¡¯t have anyone. She¡¯s still living in the house you provided. She asked me to contact you, she said you would help her.¡±


    Then the call was abruptly disconnected. Altezza growled, torn between whether to go see Jovanka or not.


    Indeed, in his acquaintance with her, the woman really disliked hospitals. If her condition allowed outpatient treatment, then Jovanka would prefer it. And once again, the woman¡¯s assistant gave another reason why Altezza should visit Jovanka.


    The woman had no family in this city. All her family lived outside the country. Because Jovanka was a wanderer. And honestly, in almost seven years of knowing her and five years of being her husband, Altezza had never known her family. He had never even seen a photo of them.


    Strange, isn¡¯t it? But that¡¯s the fact. The woman had never even gone home, and her family had never been seen visiting. And all this time, Altezza had never felt it was important.


    But when it came to Adaline. Even before they knew each other for a week, he already wanted to meet her family.


    Altezza roughly tousled his hair. Alright, for humanitarian reasons. And considering their past rtionship, he would check on her condition. And afterward, he would ask someone for help to take care of her if needed.


    And Altezza didn¡¯t realize that the choice he made was the wrong one.

 Part 71

    Adaline smiled gratefully at the person who had just ced the documents on her desk. She resumed her work without opening the files she had just received. When Tessa reached for a document on her desk, the woman waved a brown envelope in front of her.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± she asked, curious.


    Adaline furrowed her brow. She didn¡¯t know she had received an envelope. There was no sender¡¯s name on the A5-sized envelope either.


    Curious, Adaline opened it. She almost dropped all the photos inside if it weren¡¯t for Tessa who held them back. Her hands were remarkably quick.


    ¡°Is this?¡± Tessa opened each photo in her hands. She mentioned a date. It happened three days ago.


    Three days? What was Altezza doing three days ago?


    Adaline reached for her phone in the drawer. She opened a chat application and scrolled to three days ago.


    Husband:


    Madam, it seems I¡¯ll being homete. There¡¯s some urgent matter¡­ (15:12)


    Adaline:


    (15:20) I understand.


    Husband:


    I¡¯ll be backte. No need to prepare dinner. Don¡¯t wait up. Get enough rest, Madam.


    Adaline:


    Is it really that urgent that you have toe homete?


    Husband:


    Yes. I¡¯m sorry, Madam.


    Adaline:


    It¡¯s okay. Be careful on your way home.


    Husband:


    Alright, Madam.


    And as Adaline remembered, her husband didn¡¯te home that night because of the bad weather. It was pouring rain and the thunder even made Adaline herself scared to look out the window.


    Adaline tried to calm herself. There was nothing out of the ordinary in the photos. There was a picture of Altezza entering a house through the side door. Then there was also a photo of Altezza helping Jovanka andying her down. Another photo showed Altezza feeding the woman.


    That was it. But it was the remaining photos, those without marked dates, that made Adaline want to cry.


    Photos where Altezza was so intimate with Jovanka. There was even a selfie where Altezza was kissing Jovanka. And vice versa.


    There were also selfies taken on the bed where both of them appeared topless, covering only the lower part of their bodies with a nket. There were also intimate photos of them vacationing abroad.


    Her chest felt tight. Adaline felt like she was losing oxygen to breathe. Her head throbbed with pain. She bit her lip to suppress the long groan she wanted to let out.


    Why would Altezza be so heartless to lie to her?


    Why couldn¡¯t he be honest?


    Wasn¡¯t it him who said he wanted to mend their rtionship? That he wanted to make this marriage a real one?


    But why would he deny it?


    ¡°Adaline?¡± Tessa reached for Adaline¡¯s shoulder. The woman¡¯s panic only made Adaline panic too. ¡°Adaline, are you okay?¡± she asked again.


    Adaline lifted her head and smiled. Not a genuine smile. But a calming smile.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Tess. It¡¯s ok.¡± Adaline put the photos back into the envelope and ced it in the drawer.


    ¡°I¡¯m still confused. How could they¡­?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell youter. Get back to work.¡± Adaline gently pushed Tessa¡¯s arm, who still looked puzzled.


    Until it was time to go home, Adaline didn¡¯t say a word. And that made Tessa even more panicked.


    Adaline was ustomed to silence when there was a problem. She preferred to solve everything herself. Unless she really couldn¡¯t handle it anymore, then she would ask for help from others.


    Tessa could only stay silent. Regardless, this was an internal matter. She didn¡¯t have the right to question the marital affairs between Adaline and Altezza.


    Upon reaching the apartment, Adaline acted as usual. She cooked, then bathed, and prepared for dinner. Just as the sunset, Altezza came in.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Good evening, Madam,¡± the man greeted as he kissed Adaline¡¯s forehead.


    Adaline smiled and returned her husband¡¯s greeting as usual. After praying together, they had dinner. Adaline still didn¡¯t bring up the envelope. She chose to wait. However, by the time it was bedtime, her husband hadn¡¯t said anything.


    The next morning, Adaline went about her usual routine, preparing breakfast and her husband¡¯s clothes. However, every time her husband tried to touch her, Adaline avoided it.


    Altezza didn¡¯t mind. He thought Adaline¡¯s behavior was due to her pregnancy hormones. His mother had warned him that pregnant women had unpredictable moods. So Altezza tried to understand.


    ¡°Would you like to have lunch togetherter?¡± Altezza asked after they finished breakfast.


    Adaline shook her head. ¡°No, thank you. I already have lunch ns with Tessa,¡± Adaline politely declined.


    She cleared their dirty tes on the sink, not washing them as usual. After that, Adaline excused herself and left Altezza. The man was left staring at his wife¡¯s departure. Something was off, and Altezza could feel it.


    Adaline arrived at her office with her driver. Since she found out about her pregnancy, Adaline had beenmuting between the apartment and the office with a driver. That was if Altezza happened to be unavable to drive her. If Altezza had free time, he would be the one to drive Adaline.


    Seeing Adaline¡¯s expression, Tessa knew her friend hadn¡¯t resolved her issues yet. She chose to stay silent and just apany Adaline.


    And suddenly, Tessa and Adaline heard something unpleasant.


    They had just finished lunch. Tessa and Adaline were in the restroom area of the cafeteria.


    ¡°The one from the finance department?¡± a woman¡¯s voice echoed in the women¡¯s restroom. Adaline, who was about to leave the restroom stall, suddenly canceled her intention.


    ¡°Yeah. The petite one. The cute pretty-faced one.¡±


    ¡°Really? Where did you hear this gossip?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know either. I heard it yesterday from the marketing department. They said she¡¯s pregnant out of wedlock. They even said she¡¯s having an affair with one of the directors¡¯ staff here,¡± the second voice continued.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t talk without facts. Adaline seems nice, you know. From what I know, she never had any rtionships with anyone in the office. She¡¯s very modest. I don¡¯t think it¡¯s possible for her to do something like that.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be fooled by appearances. Didn¡¯t you see what happened a while ago when she was seen with Sir Gian? Her face may look innocent, but her actions? She seemed¡­ What if that baby is Sir Gian¡¯s?¡± The first woman¡¯s voice sounded startled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t jump to conclusions. They might have known each other for a long time. Their ages probably aren¡¯t that far apart either,¡± the second woman defended.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be ridiculous. I know which university she graduated from, and Sir Gian only recently moved back from America. So, it makes sense why she doesn¡¯t have rtionships with other employees because her target is probably those with more money,¡± the voice faded away.


    Then everything fell silent. Adaline looked up at Tessa, who was standing in front of her, pulling the restroom door wide open. Tessa returned her gaze.


    ¡°Am I wrong to suspect that the person they were talking about is me?¡± Adaline asked, more to convince herself.

 Part 72

    ¡°Come on, don¡¯t listen to them. They¡¯re just jealous people,¡± Tessa replied casually.


    After washing their hands, they stepped out of the restroom area. Once again, Adaline felt uneasy. Was it just her imagination, or were people looking at her differently now? What were they thinking? Were they mocking her? Or were they passing judgment on her? Adaline couldn¡¯t find the right words to describe how they were looking at her, but she definitely felt ufortable.


    Tessa wrapped her arm around Adaline¡¯s shoulder and squeezed her arm tightly. ¡°Don¡¯t think negatively,¡± she whispered softly. ¡°Remember the baby in your belly,¡± she reminded. Reflexively, Adaline¡¯s hand reached for her stomach, which was now slightly protruding.


    After work, Tessa invited Adaline to hang out again, hoping to cheer her up. Since Adaline was craving sweets, they chose a cafe with a variety of desserts on the menu.


    Adaline¡¯s tray was filled with a slice of cheesecake, chocteva cake, and a bowl of soup. She opted for a chocte milkshake as her drink, while Tessa chose a regr dinner without dessert.


    ¡°Pregnant women sure have big appetites, huh?¡± Tessa teased as she looked at Adaline¡¯s food. Adaline smiled shyly. ¡°But it¡¯s understandable, you¡¯re carrying twins after all,¡± Tessa continued sympathetically. ¡°But shouldn¡¯t pregnant women avoid eating a lot of ice? They say it makes the babies too big.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I¡¯m not sure either. But not having ice feels strange. I¡¯ve been holding back,¡± Adaline replied honestly.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, as long as it¡¯s within reason. Be careful, okay? Watch what you eat, don¡¯t eat too much spicy food, h h h¡­¡± Tessa gave her advice as if she were a mother talking to her child. Adaline listened attentively, nodding along. ¡°But where¡¯s Joanna? She said she¡¯d catch up but she¡¯s not here yet,¡± Tessa looked around.


    Her eyes scanned the parking area, which they could still reach. Joanna had said she would join them after her photoshoot was finished. But until their food was almost gone, she hadn¡¯t shown up.


    When they finished eating, Joanna finally arrived. However, the surprising thing was the person who came with her.


    ¡°Sorry, I¡¯mte,¡± she said apologetically.


    ¡°Did you get stuck in traffic or have stomach trouble? You said you were on your way but it took forever for you to get here,¡± Tessa grumbled.


    It was clear that Tessa didn¡¯t like the guest her friend brought, although she managed to hide her dislike well. Yes, Tessa knew who Jovanka was. Adaline had told her everything earlier that afternoon, and since then, Tessa¡¯s view of Jovanka had changed.


    ¡°Sorry¡­ Oh yeah, coincidentally, we were heading the same way earlier. It¡¯s okay if Joe joins us too,¡± Joanna said, ncing at Jovanka who was still standing beside her.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. Are you hungry? We¡¯re done eating,¡± Tessa replied, noticing Joanna looking around and eventually nodding.


    ¡°Man, I¡¯m starving. I¡¯ll order some food first, okay? Joe, what about you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not having dinner. Mind if I sit down?¡± Jovanka asked. Adaline and Tessa nodded, while Joanna headed towards the buffet-style food area. ¡°It¡¯s been a while since west met. How are you and your baby? Are you both healthy?¡± she asked with concern.


    ¡°We¡¯re both very healthy. We¡¯re almost five months along,¡± Adaline replied casually.


    ¡°Wow, it feels like just weeks ago when west met. Time really flies, huh?¡± said the woman, receiving nods from Adaline. Meanwhile, Adaline noticed Tessa¡¯s sharp gaze directed at her friend.


    ¡°Yeah, time flies fast. When we look ahead, it feels like it¡¯s taking forever. But when we look back, it feels like the years that have passed were just yesterday,¡± Tessa replied as she sipped her drink. ¡°How¡¯s your film project going?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s done. Just waiting for theunch.¡±


    ¡°Then there¡¯ll be a city-to-city promotion, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but it¡¯s still a few months away. There are still some stages to take care of,¡± the woman added.


    Joanna returned with a te full of food. Despite the buffet style, she never had any food restrictions. She was diligent about exercising, and her body had always been slim.


    ¡°Seriously, what were you two talking about?¡± she asked, curious.


    ¡°We weren¡¯t talking about anything. We were just discussing your film,¡± Tessa replied.


    ¡°Ohh¡­¡± Then the girl started eating. ¡°Don¡¯t miss me too much, okay, when I join the city-to-city promo event. But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll bring back souvenirs.¡± She replied, then turned to Adaline. ¡°For Adaline.¡±


    ¡°Just for Adaline? Not for me?¡± Tessa asked with a pouty expression.


    ¡°You¡¯re already wealthy. Your lover also has a big sry. You can ask himter,¡± Joanna replied casually.


    ¡°Wow, what does Tessa¡¯s lover do? Is he a businessman?¡± Jovanka asked, curious.


    ¡°Not yet, but he might be heading there soon,¡± Joanna replied sincerely. ¡°Tessa¡¯s lover is a hardworking person.¡±


    ¡°Wow, he must be a great guy then. My lover is also the type of hardworking man,¡± Jovanka proudly replied. They all turned to Jovanka simultaneously. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Did I say something wrong?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Tessa and Joanna replied simultaneously.


    ¡°Is the man you¡¯re talking about now the same man you talked to us about some time ago?¡± Tessa asked, curious. Jovanka nodded. Adaline felt a pang of sadness in her chest. ¡°So, are you two back together now?¡± Once again, Jovanka nodded. ¡°Then, how is his rtionship with his fiancee? Didn¡¯t you say he was already engaged?¡± The question made Jovanka¡¯s expression instantly turn sad.


    ¡°He¡¯s not engaged,¡± Jovanka replied with a long sigh. ¡°But he¡¯s married,¡± she continued sadly. Tessa showed no reaction whatsoever, neither did Adaline. But Joanna clearly looked surprised.


    ¡°Married? But how can you two reconcile if he¡¯s already married?¡± Joanna asked, forgetting her dinner instantly. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re the third person in their rtionship. That¡¯s clearly a wicked act,¡± Joanna said sternly.


    ¡°My lover says he doesn¡¯t love his wife. They got married so they could have a child. After their child is born, he¡¯ll divorce his wife ande back to me.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Tessa and Joanna eximed simultaneously.


    ¡°Is that man insane?! Are you sure he¡¯s a good guy?¡± Joanna asked angrily.This is from N?velDrama.Org.

 Part 73

    ¡°I¡¯m very sure. He¡¯s a very good man. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll like him once you get to know him. My lover is the ideal type of boyfriend and husband. He¡¯s caring and attentive,¡± Jovanka praised with shining eyes. Joanna responded to her friend¡¯s words with a serious nod, while Tessa nced at Adaline, who was now smiling faintly.


    In Adaline¡¯s heart, she did indeed agree with Jovanka¡¯s statement about Altezza¡¯s character, although there was a pain that emerged that she couldn¡¯t just brush aside.


    ¡°But if he¡¯s a good man, he shouldn¡¯t abandon a woman who¡¯s already carrying his child,¡± Joannamented again.


    Jovanka shrugged nonchntly. ¡°I also don¡¯t know why he did that foolish act. But indeed, since the beginning, when we were still together, he really wanted to have a child. It¡¯s just that back then I kept postponing it because I wasn¡¯t ready to give up my career.


    ¡°But even though it seems cruel, I like the way he handled it because it benefited both of us. So even if we get marriedter, he won¡¯t nag me anymore to have a child. Because he already has a child from his current wife.¡±


    In silence, Tessa reached for Adaline¡¯s clenched hand on herp under the table. Offering her friend silent support.


    ¡°What if you¡¯re criticized as the destroyer of someone else¡¯s marriage?¡± Tessa asked. ¡°Isn¡¯t the man¡¯s marriage now known by his family? If suddenly he divorces his current wife, there will surely be a lot of negativements about your marriage, won¡¯t there?¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t happen,¡± Jovanka replied proudly.


    ¡°Why do you think so?¡±


    ¡°Because actually, the one who became the third person in our rtionship is his current wife.¡± Jovanka replied again. A smile bloomed on her beautiful face. ¡°This is a secret, don¡¯t let it slip.¡± The woman said. ¡°He and I actually got married secretly, and this is our sixth year of marriage.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± Once again Joanna and Tessa eximed simultaneously.


    ¡°We got married six years ago. But secretly. When we decided to get married, I was still a beginner in the modeling world. Still building my career. So I epted his proposal on the condition that this marriage must not be known to the public.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that actually disadvantageous to you?¡± Once again, it was Joanna who asked.


    ¡°Not really. Like I said, my husband is the ideal man. He provides everything in my name. Grants all my requests.


    ¡°His behavior is like any other husband¡¯s. It¡¯s just that his one w is that we can¡¯t announce it publicly,¡± Jovanka stated.


    ¡°He loves you too much to do all that,¡± Joannamented, unaware that her words had hurt her friend¡¯s heart.


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Jovanka said again, proudly.


    ¡°And because of that love, did he forgive you and take you back?¡± Joanna nodded her head. ¡°So, what¡¯s your status with him now?¡±


    A happy smile spread across Jovanka¡¯s face. ¡°Of course, his wife.¡±


    ¡°Meaning?¡±


    ¡°We did separate a while ago, but we got back together yesterday. He even took care of me all night when I was sick.¡±


    ¡°Oh, during the food poisoning incident?¡± Joanna asked, to which Jovanka nodded. ¡°He¡¯s so sweet,¡± she praised again. Once again, Jovanka nodded.


    ¡°In that case, you¡¯re a young wife now, right?¡± This time, Tessamented.


    Jovanka nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t I have a double advantage? Not only has my husband returned to me, but I¡¯m also now the young wife who will surely be more pampered,¡± she said. Tessa¡¯s grip on Adaline¡¯s hand tightened. ¡°Adaline, why are you so silent?¡± She turned to Adaline, who hadn¡¯tmented since earlier.


    ¡°I¡¯m genuinely happy for your happiness,¡± she replied sincerely. ¡°However, considering my current position, I can¡¯t help but feel sorry for your husband¡¯s first wife.


    ¡°Nevertheless, as fellow women, especially when she¡¯s pregnant, the game you and your husband are ying seems cruel. But I also can¡¯t judge you,¡± she said softly. ¡°Because life is indeed about choices. Happiness or sadnesses from the choices we make, right?¡± She asked Jovanka, who nodded.


    ¡°But, hypothetically speaking, if you were in the position of the first wife, what would you do?¡± Jovanka asked, her eyes full of curiosity.


    Adaline furrowed her brow for a moment. ¡°I would reassess the situation.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Jovanka looked at Adaline, puzzled.


    ¡°God can change hearts. I can only pray, in my efforts to win over my husband¡¯s heart. Hopefully, during the course of my pregnancy, my husband can truly fall in love with me,¡± she replied sincerely.


    ¡°What if he can¡¯t love you?¡± Jovanka asked.


    ¡°You should ask your husband to choose,¡± Tessa said, Joanna nodding in agreement.


    Adaline shook her head. ¡°Love is not something that can be forced. No matter how hard we try to be the woman a man adores, if his heart isn¡¯t for us, our efforts will be in vain.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I prefer to be myself. And if I do want to change, it¡¯s because of my own desires, not because I want to be what he desires.


    ¡°So I won¡¯t ask him to choose. Because that¡¯s heavy. Let him do what he wants.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Because if his heart is truly for me, he wille back to me,¡± she answered honestly.


    ¡°What about the baby? What about the custody rights of your baby? Are you willing to hand over the baby you¡¯ve carried for nine months to another woman?¡± Joanna looked at her sharply.


    ¡°Why not? He is also the father. He has rights over it. He has a duty to raise and care for his children.


    ¡°If what Jovanka says is true, that the father really wants a child, then he must be prepared for all the consequences of having one. Including taking care of, raising, and giving love.


    ¡°It alles back to you, are you ready to raise the child of your husband¡¯s first wife? Because no matter what, blood is thicker than water. In the future, there will surely be shadows of the first wife haunting your marriage.


    ¡°And because of that, you shouldn¡¯t hate your husband¡¯s child. Because children don¡¯t understand their parents¡¯ issues,¡± Adaline replied again. ¡°Not to scare you. But most cases happen like that.¡±


    Joanna and Tessa nodded in agreement with Adaline¡¯s words.


    ¡°Adaline is right. Sometimes if the first wife doesn¡¯t agree with their separation or feels jealous of her ex-husband¡¯s new marriage, they always find many ways to make their husband¡¯s new marriage ufortable.


    ¡°Sometimes they even use the children as tools to create problems.


    ¡°But I¡¯m sure Adaline is not a bad person,¡± Tessa replied. It was more like a subtle jab and a warning to Jovanka.


    ¡°I hope so, as you suspect.¡± Adaline said with a smile on her face. ¡°If that happens to me, I¡¯ll ept it willingly. It¡¯s better to let go than to have to share a husband. Because honestly, I¡¯m a greedy person.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like sharing what should rightfully be mine with others. But my mother always taught me that ¡®goodness will meet goodness.¡¯ So maybe if that man isn¡¯t the right one for me, then God will give me a good man. Because even until now, I¡¯m still working on myself.¡±


    Jovanka looked at Adaline uneasily. She didn¡¯t expect that kind of response from her. Initially, she had hoped for a confrontation so she could provide all the reasons why she was the better woman and the one more deserving of Altezza. But after hearing Adaline¡¯s response like that, Jovanka felt satisfied because it turned out she didn¡¯t need to make the effort to get rid of her. But even so, there was still a lingering difort in her heart that she didn¡¯t know how to interpret.

 Part 74

    Adaline suddenly missed her mother. She asked Tessa to take her to her mother¡¯s house, and her friend happily agreed. Adaline sent a message to Altezza that she would stay at her mother¡¯s house, and Altezza said he would join herter.


    Throughout the journey, Tessa observed Adaline in silence. Adaline wasn¡¯t someone who liked to talk a lot and be chatty like herself and Joanna, but Adaline¡¯s silence this time still worried Tessa. Finally, tired of this suffocating silence, Tessa spoke up.


    ¡°Is everything okay?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s a smart woman. She knows what she¡¯s doing. And she¡¯s clearly baiting me. I¡¯m just saying what needs to be said, not what she wants to hear.¡±


    ¡°Adaline¡­?¡±


    Adaline turned and smiled. ¡°You don¡¯t need to be sad like that.¡± Adaline reached for her friend¡¯s hand, who was gently rubbing her arm. ¡°Everything will be okay.


    ¡°From the beginning, I knew the consequences. Everything you heard from me is what I¡¯m thinking. I won¡¯t try to make him love me or force him to choose between me and Jovanka. The children currently in my womb are his right. I¡¯m just here to lend him my womb.¡±


    ¡°Adaline¡­?¡±


    ¡°Enough, Miss Tessa Field. Don¡¯t be sad. Life is short. Let¡¯s just enjoy it.¡± Adaline teased, reminding them of their age difference.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Tessa squinted. Discussing age was indeed a sensitive topic for women.


    Tessa parked her car right in front of Adaline¡¯s mother¡¯s house. Before getting out, Adaline looked at her friend again and said, ¡°Just pretend you never heard this. What happens to me, only we know. I hope Joanna will never know about Jovanka and Altezza¡¯s rtionship.


    ¡°Joanna knows about the agreement Altezza and I made, but she thinks the agreement is no longer valid because she sees how Altezza treats me, and she¡¯s confident that Altezza loves me.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want Joanna to treat Jovanka or Altezza poorly. You know her character yourself,¡± Adaline tried to reassure.


    ¡°I promise not to mention those photos to her. I can only pray that you and Altezza never separate. I hope Jovanka¡¯s wishes nevere true. I don¡¯t want my future nieces and nephews to have a stepmother like Jovanka.¡± Tessa gently rubbed Adaline¡¯s stomach. Adaline silently agreed. ¡°But regardless of what happens in the future, I want you to always think positively.


    ¡°Remember the babies here. Their health, your health is paramount.¡± Tessa gently rubbed Adaline¡¯s stomach.


    ¡°Yes, yes, Miss Field.¡± Adaline teased again.


    That nickname was her call to Tessa almost four years ago. When she was still a new employee at Coskun.


    ¡°Alright, Junior. Have a good rest. Prepare yourself for a new day tomorrow and of course for the pile of work.¡± Her friend said with a positive aura. Adaline nodded. Then she said goodbye and entered the house.


    Adaline entered after greeting. She intentionally startled the two middle-aged women in front of her. ¡°Mom!!¡± She greeted loudly. Both of them were surprised and stared at Adaline wide-eyed.


    ¡°Oh my God, Adaline. You scared me,¡± her mother said, rubbing her chest while Adaline just grinned mischievously.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t scare you, you were too focused on watching TV. Didn¡¯t you hear me open the door?¡± Adaline replied, then sat between the two middle-aged women.


    ¡°Are you alone?¡± Her mother asked.


    ¡°I came with Tessa. Altezza still has work, he might jointer,¡± Adaline answered and grabbed the pie on the table. ¡°I¡¯m bored at home alone. Lately, Altezza has been busy with hotel and office matters. Sometimes when hees home to the apartment, he still keeps working.¡±


    ¡°Hmm.. poor your husband. Working so hard to earn money,¡± Emma replied sympathetically.


    ¡°How¡¯s the baby? Have you had another check-up? Still vomiting often?¡± Her mother asked, stroking Adaline¡¯s head as shey on herp as usual.


    ¡°Not yet. The check-up schedule is still next week.¡± Without realizing it, Adaline rubbed her stomach. It became her new habit after finding out she was pregnant. ¡°Lately, I haven¡¯t been nauseous anymore. In fact, my appetite has increased a lot.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good news. But it doesn¡¯t mean you can eat whatever you want. You still have to watch your food intake,¡± her mother reminded her.


    ¡°Especially if it¡¯s because of ¡®cravings.¡¯ That¡¯s not allowed. If you really want something, just say you want it, don¡¯t keep saying ¡®craving.¡¯ Especially when you want to eat Altezza, you say you¡¯re ¡®craving.¡¯ Even though you¡¯re just hungry.¡± Emma teased. Adaline pouted at her.


    ¡°What are you talking about, I¡¯m not like that¡­¡±


    ¡°Really? I don¡¯t believe your words.¡±


    ¡°Auntie,e on¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright, you two always argue whenever you¡¯re together. Come on up and change your clothes, give my grandchild some space if you keep pressing him with your office clothes.¡± Violet ordered, making Adaline nce at her skirt suit.


    Her stomach hadn¡¯t bulged yet, and the skirt she was wearing still fit her well, not too tight. But Adaline obeyed anyway. She went upstairs and changed her clothes.


    Once in the room, Adaline washed herself with warm water and changed into a knee-length dress with short sleeves. Suddenly, she felt sleepy. She nced at the clock, which showed eight o¡¯clock. But because her drowsiness couldn¡¯t be resisted, she chose to lie down on the bed and quickly fell asleep.


    Altezza cautiously opened the gate of his inws¡¯ house so as not to wake the residents. He drove his car straight into the garage and closed it carefully. Adaline had intentionally duplicated all the house keys to make it easier for them toe and go.


    It was already ten o¡¯clock, and the atmosphere in the house was quiet. It seemed that all three women there were already fast asleep.


    Altezza went up to the upper floor, where his wife¡¯s room was located. The room was dim, with only the light from the bathroom and the bedsidemp on the nightstand. His wife appeared curled up like a fetus, hugging her favorite pillow. Altezza smiled and approached.


    Even in the dim lighting, he could see the glow on his wife¡¯s face. Adaline never wore heavy makeup. Nevertheless, she always looked beautiful. And even without makeup, his wife always looked beautiful to him.


    Slowly, Altezza opened the wardrobe. He kept some clothes in Adaline¡¯s room, and vice versa. Adaline kept her clothes in Altezza¡¯s room at her parents¡¯ house. It made it easier for them whenever they stayed over.


    Altezza grabbed a short-sleeved shirt and boxer shorts, then headed to the bathroom. He quickly freshened up. He returned to the room and saw his wife still in the same position.


    Altezza climbed onto the bed. Hey down on the right side of his wife, who was sleeping on her side with her back facing him. Gently, he caressed her stomach, hoping his movements wouldn¡¯t wake her up. ¡°My children, behave in Mama¡¯s belly. Stay healthy, don¡¯t make Mama nauseous again. Have mercy on your Mama,¡± he whispered as he continued to stroke and ended with a kiss on Adaline¡¯s stomach.


    ¡°Yes, Papa. We won¡¯t misbehave,¡± Adaline answered in a soft whisper.


    ¡°Darling?¡± Altezza lifted his body and saw his wife smiling at him. ¡°Did I wake you up? I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said, full of regret. Adaline shook her head gently.


    ¡°Not at all. I woke up because I needed to pee,¡± she answered honestly and got up from bed. She left Altezza and headed to the bathroom. Shortly after, she returned and saw Altezza sitting, stretching his legs with his back against the high pillow he had arranged.

 Part 75

    Upon seeing Adaline, the man spread his arms wide, inviting his wife toe closer and into his embrace. Adalineplied. She walked over and nestled into her husband¡¯s embrace. His warm body enveloped hers, providingfort. Adaline rested her head on her husband¡¯s chest, while Altezza gently rubbed her back.


    ¡°Are you tired? Have you had dinner?¡± Adaline looked up. Altezza nodded in response to both of his wife¡¯s questions.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I haven¡¯t had much time with you. Just hold on a little longer, my dear. My wife, my children,¡± he said in a deliberately affectionate tone, while caressing Adaline¡¯s stomach. ¡°If Antony feels that Gian is ready to be released, I¡¯ll bring Duncan with me. Working with Duncan feels easier.¡±


    ¡°Maybe because Duncan is already ustomed to your way of working. And perhaps the chemistry between you two is strong because you¡¯ve been working together,¡± Adalinemented, which was met with a nod from her husband.


    Adaline remembered her encounter with Jovanka earlier that evening and the photos she had received some time before. She raised her head again and looked at her husband¡¯s face.


    Altezza appeared tired. His forehead seemed more wrinkled than before. The bags under his eyes also appeared darker. Adaline, who had intended to discuss Jovanka, changed her mind.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Altezza asked because Adaline suddenly sat up straight and looked at him with a gaze that Altezza couldn¡¯t interpret. But momentster, Adaline smiled.


    ¡°You¡¯re getting old, aren¡¯t you?¡± She said still smiling.


    ¡°Wow, darling. Why are you suddenly talking about age?¡± Altezza sat up straight too, looking at his wife with narrowed eyes. His facial expression seemed offended. Adaline burst intoughter.


    ¡°But that¡¯s the truth. You¡¯re getting old. We have a ten-year age difference.¡±


    ¡°Now now now¡­ are you trying to provoke my emotions?¡± Altezza asked, looking displeased.


    ¡°Just look at the wrinkles on your forehead and around your eyes. It¡¯s quite obvious,¡± Adaline teased again.


    Altezza frowned in annoyance. But then, suddenly, Adaline straddled hisp. Her body rested on her knees. Altezza held onto his wife¡¯s waist, still confused by her actions.


    ¡°These wrinkles are because Daddy of the kids thinks too much,¡± Adaline traced her finger along Altezza¡¯s forehead. Then, she reced the touch of her finger with a kiss. ¡°Don¡¯t think too much. Don¡¯t get too tired,¡± she said after the first kiss.


    She then kissed the corners of Altezza¡¯s eyes alternately. ¡°Don¡¯t work too hard. And don¡¯t even think about looking at other beautiful women out there.¡± Altezza closed his eyes, trying to absorb and enjoy his wife¡¯s touch.


    Adaline continued by kissing the tip of Altezza¡¯s nose, and she said again, ¡°Don¡¯t catch the scent of other women¡¯s perfume.¡± Then, Adaline kissed both of Altezza¡¯s cheeks. ¡°Never want to kiss another woman¡¯s cheek.¡± And finally, Adaline kissed her husband¡¯s lips. ¡°Never kiss another woman¡¯s lips.¡± Hermand was firmer than before.


    Adaline withdrew her face. She was back sitting on her husband¡¯s thigh. Her head tilted up, while Altezza leaned down. Their eyes met. Slowly, Altezza cupped his wife¡¯s face. He kissed her forehead, the corners of her eyes, nose, and cheeks, just as his wife had done before. But without words like Adaline had spoken.


    Altezza kissed the corners of Adaline¡¯s lips. ¡°Never smile for another man. This smile is only for me, the father of your children,¡± he said, then he kissed Adaline¡¯s lips. ¡°And these lips belong to me too.¡± Altezza pulled Adaline¡¯s waist closer, indicating that his passion had ignited.


    Feeling something stir beneath her, Adaline let out a soft sigh. Slowly, Altezza removed Adaline¡¯s clothing over her head. His wife was only wearing thin ck underwear without a bra.


    Altezza gazed at his wife¡¯s body with passion. Her breasts were fuller than before. Altezza touched them with both hands, caressing her sensitive nipples with his thumbs.


    Adaline sighed, choosing to close her eyes and feel her husband¡¯s touch. And the lower part of Altezza pulsed again.


    Altezza lowered his hands to his wife¡¯s slightly bulging belly. ¡°Hello, Papa¡¯s little ones,¡± he greeted, rubbing Adaline¡¯s belly in circr motions. ¡°Daddy wille to visit you soon.¡± He murmured, then gentlyid Adaline¡¯s body down in one smooth motion.


    Adaline watched as Altezza removed his short-sleeved shirt. Her hand reached out, reaching for her husband¡¯s broad chest. Her touch continued down to her husband¡¯s muscr abdomen, and then her fingers slipped into his boxer shorts. She fondled the firm flesh inside, causing Altezza to groan.


    ¡°Learning to be naughty, darling?¡± her husband asked, his gaze full of desire.


    Adaline didn¡¯t answer. Instead, her hands continued to caress and massage her husband¡¯s body, eliciting more groans from him.


    Altezza lowered his body, cupping his wife¡¯s lips. He kissed her passionately, his hands exploring and touching her body. Both of them moaned and groaned together.


    Altezza kissed Adaline¡¯s neck, asionally licking and sucking. His hands squeezed Adaline¡¯s breasts firmly, making her moan in pleasure. His kisses trailed down to Adaline¡¯s pelvic bone, then moved up to her breasts.


    Altezza knew that his wife¡¯s breasts were now more sensitive than before, so he deliberately yed with them, teasing her until she writhed.


    Adaline tried to touch him again, but Altezza stopped her. He raised both of his wife¡¯s hands above her head. With one arm, he held them down while his other hand continued to explore her body.


    Altezza pressed his manhood against the outside of Adaline¡¯s underwear, causing her to stifle her cries. ¡°Altezza, please¡­¡± This was the first time Adaline had mentioned his name during their marriage.


    Altezza was momentarily taken aback, but then he smiled. He wanted his wife to call his name again. To moan it and even scream it when she found release.


    Altezza continued to kiss Adaline, allowing his fingers to tease her body. His left hand twisted her breast while his right hand continued to stroke her intimately outside her underwear.


    ¡°Altezza¡­¡± She pleaded again.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Yes, darling?¡±


    ¡°Please¡­¡± Adaline writhed again, unconsciously spreading her legs wide open.


    ¡°What do you need, darling¡­?¡± Altezza teased her again, sucking on her breasts.


    Adaline¡¯s back arched. Her hands, now free, tangled in Altezza¡¯s hair, trying to lift his head from her chest.


    ¡°What do you need, darling?¡± he asked again, his gaze teasing.


    ¡°Please enter me¡­¡± She pleaded. And dly, Altezza obliged. They wrestled in the pleasure you know about. Ending with exhausted bodies and sweat covering them, their breaths still heavy.


    ¡°Altezza¡­¡± she sighed in his ear. Altezza copsed onto Adaline¡¯s body, burying his head in the curve of her neck and inhaling the scent of her body, mixed with their sweat.


    ¡°Mmm¡­¡± Altezza whispered behind her ear.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Adaline said with a happy smile on her face.


    Altezza lifted his body, propping himself up with his elbows. His right hand caressed Adaline¡¯s face, her forehead, her cheeks, her jaw, her lips. Altezza gently kissed her lips.


    ¡°I should be the one thanking you,¡± he replied sincerely. He kissed her forehead, her cheeks, and returned to her lips, which were starting to swell. ¡°Thank you for everything. For being a wife and mother to our children.¡± Again, Altezza kissed her lips.


    Adaline gazed at her husband¡¯s face. Her hand reached out and touched his jaw. Without many words, she kissed his lips. In her heart, she felt so grateful for the love she had. The care and affection given by her husband. Whatever happens in the future, Adaline feels ready. Whether it¡¯s good or bad, she believes she will be strong enough to face it.


    ¡°I¡¯m tired,¡± she said, closing her eyes.


    Adaline¡¯s tiredness wasn¡¯t physical, but rather a weariness of the heart. She wanted to hide her tears. She didn¡¯t want to spoil this beautiful moment by showing her sadness. She would bear it all herself. Her husband had already given her the best of everything.


    ¡°Sleep now,¡± Altezza said. Heid his body down and reached for Adaline, pulling her into his embrace. ¡°Have a peaceful sleep, my dear,¡± he said, stroking Adaline¡¯s back gently and kissing the top of her head. They both drifted off into the realm of dreams, hoping that happiness would greet them afterward.

 Part 76

    Arge parcel, beautifully wrapped, was delivered by a courier and left at the lobby receptionist¡¯s desk. Therge package contained expensive choctes that seemed to have been intentionally imported from abroad. Employees who happened to be returning from lunch approached out of curiosity. They admired the expensive gift, examining it and murmuring their admiration.


    ¡°Congrattions on your pregnancy. May your baby be healthy until the day of its birth. I heard you have a sweet tooth. So, I intentionally sent this to the office because I didn¡¯t know your home address.


    Sincerely,


    J. L¡±


    Someone read the message aloud. ¡°This person is really something. All these expensive choctes.¡± The employees who also saw it just gasped with amazed expressions.


    ¡°Whose is it?¡± another asked the receptionist. The receptionist checked the guestbook.


    ¡°It says here the package is for Adaline Scott. Finance Division,¡± the receptionist replied innocently.


    She wasn¡¯t the one who received the parcel. It was her colleague who epted it. And coincidentally, her colleague had gone for lunch. She herself didn¡¯t know which Adaline was being referred to.


    ¡°Adaline Scott? That Adaline Scott?¡± whispered someone there.


    ¡°Is she pregnant? Is she married?¡± another asked.


    ¡°So, the gossip is true?¡± The whispers continued to fill the lobby until the name¡¯s owner appeared.


    Adaline was stunned as the gathered people all turned to look at her simultaneously. Their gaze fell on Adaline¡¯s hand, which was then resting on her stomach.


    ¡°Adaline, are you pregnant?¡± someone asked her.


    Adaline turned to Tessa. Her friend was also looking at the questioner.


    ¡°Are you pregnant?¡± the woman repeated her question. ¡°Are you already married? When? Why didn¡¯t we know? Or is the father of your unborn baby unclear?¡± She prodded. Everyone was really focused on her, waiting for an answer.


    ¡°Y-yes. I am indeed pregnant,¡± Adaline answered honestly.


    ¡°But with whom? Is it true what¡¯s been circting that you¡¯re involved with one of the bosses?¡± another asked. Adaline tried to exin, but her words were cut off.


    ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect this. I thought you were a good woman who upheld the principle of avoiding personal rtionships with coworkers. But it turns out you¡¯re having an affair with one of the bosses.¡±


    ¡°So, you¡¯re really fishing in troubled waters,¡± another said. Disappointment could be heard in every word.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, I¡­¡±


    ¡°Come on, just admit it. Are you the third wheel? Is that why your rtionship is kept secret? Who¡¯s your lover? Mr. Antony Quirino? Gian? Altezza?¡± These words came from one of her colleagues in the same division.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you guys? Even if Adaline is pregnant, what¡¯s it got to do with you?¡± Tessa looked at them with a displeased look. ¡°Whether she¡¯s married or someone¡¯s mistress, what business is it of yours? It¡¯s her private matter; you don¡¯t need to meddle in her life. Are you going to pay for her wedding or support the baby she¡¯s carrying? No, right?¡± Tessa continued passionately.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like that. What she¡¯s doing clearly brings shame to thepany. It tarnishes Coskun Company¡¯s good image.¡±


    ¡°What does her pregnancy have to do with thepany? What happens outside of working hours is the employee¡¯s personal right. Why are you bothering?¡± Tessa answered with irritation.


    She grabbed Adaline¡¯s left hand and pointed it at everyone.


    ¡°Whoever Adaline¡¯s partner is, she¡¯s definitely not a mistress or someone¡¯s fling. Adaline is married. Legally. Do I need to show you her marriage certificate? And yes, she¡¯s pregnant. Her husband¡¯s child, not from an affair.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure? The ring she¡¯s wearing could just be a cover-up. We can buy it anywhere as long as we have money,¡± her colleague retorted.


    ¡°Why are you so eager to pry into Adaline¡¯s personal affairs? Are you in love with her that you want to know everything about her?


    ¡°In thispany, there¡¯s no rule that says married people or those having affairs should broadcast it. Or that pregnant women must make an official announcement. What Adaline is doing doesn¡¯t harm thepany in any way,¡± Tessa replied passionately again. Adaline herself remained silent, not wanting toment on anything.


    Tessa herself walked towards the source of the conversation. She parted the crowd into two and reached the reception desk. She read the message inside the parcel¡¯s stic wrapping and clenched her fists.


    ¡°Darn it!¡± she muttered. She seemed to be waving the g of war, and she seemed very eager to hurt Adaline.


    Silence suddenly pervaded the lobby. ¡°What¡¯s going on here? Isn¡¯t lunch break over?¡± Antony¡¯s voice sounded icy.


    ¡°It¡¯s still noon, Sir,¡± almost all the employees replied in unison.


    Antony nced at Adaline. Adaline only smiled, not a cheerful smile, just a calming smile that she usually disyed.


    Antony¡¯s gaze shifted to Tessa. He walked towards where Tessa stood and saw the parcel that seemed to be the center of attention for his employees. He took the card, read it, and then nced back at Adaline.


    ¡°Is this what you¡¯re all talking about?¡± Antony asked his employees. His question and cold expression startled them. Antony shook his head and ced the greeting card back a little roughly. ¡°Don¡¯t you have any other work to do besides meddling in such matters? Haven¡¯t your jobs been plentiful enough so far?¡±


    They all shook their heads simultaneously, wearing fearful expressions.


    Antony turned and walked away from the crowd, heading for the executive elevator, followed by his assistants, causing the crowd of employees to disperse instantly.


    Reluctantly, Adaline took the parcel sent to her to her office. Tessained and mentioned all the possible harm Jovanka could do to the choctes she sent.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°What if she¡¯s poisoned them?¡± or ¡°What if she¡¯s cast spells on the food?¡± and other suspicions.


    Adaline just shook her head, smiling at Tessa¡¯s thoughts.


    Tessa was indeed like that, full of unreasonable suspicion, almost like Joanna. But she was at a lower level than Joanna.


    Adaline ced the parcel at the bottom of her desk and resumed her work. She ignored the whispers of people who, for some reason, suddenly seemed to be passing by her cubicle more frequently, casting obvious nces in her direction. She tried to disregard the stares of her colleagues from the same division.


    At exactly 3:00 p. m., all the t screens mounted on the walls, which previously only disyedpany project photos or announcements, suddenly began ying a song that Adaline recognized. Some people who were walking around suddenly stopped and stared at the screens intently, while Adaline remained seated and even hummed along as Shane Fn¡¯s voice began singing the first line of the lyrics of ¡°Beautiful In White.¡±


    ¡°Not sure if you know this


    But when we first met


    I got so nervous I couldn¡¯t speak¡±


    ¡°Adaline Scott.¡± Adaline froze momentarily as her name was mentioned, and she also looked at the square screen now surrounded by people. ¡°The beloved daughter of her parents. This time, I, Altezza Quirino,e here, apanied by my family as witnesses, with the intention of proposing to you.


    ¡°Will you, Miss Adaline Scott, agree to be my wife? To be the mother of my children. To be the grandmother of my grandchildren. So on and so forth, and to be with me until death do us part.¡±


    All heads turned and looked at her with disbelief. Adaline stepped closer to the screen and tilted her head up, seeing herself and Altezza there. At their engagement event.


    ¡°Sir Altezza Quirino. I happily answer ¡®Yes.''¡±


    It was her own voice. Adaline gazed at the screen still in disbelief. The song continued to y, showing scenes of the family embracing each other.


    As the lyrics were sung, the screen disyed the wedding preparation process until the marriage vows were exchanged. Altezza¡¯s voice once again overshadowed the background music.


    ¡°So as long as I live I love you will have and hold you


    You look so beautiful in white¡±


    The song continued, showing the wedding procession they had during the wedding. As one song ended, the voice of Calum Scott ¨C You Are The Reason filled the room.


    The screen disyed how festive Adaline and Altezza¡¯s wedding procession was. Until finally, the song ended, and everyone in her division looked towards her, apuding.


    They showered her withpliments, congrattions, and apologies for falsely using Adaline of wrongdoing. Tessa rushed over, looking at Adaline with a puzzled expression.


    ¡°Adaline¡­¡± she said, tears welling up in her eyes. She hugged Adaline tightly. ¡°I¡¯m speechless¡­¡± she said again. ¡°When I left the marketing division earlier, I was truly shocked. Who did all this?¡±


    Adaline grimaced and shook her head. She really didn¡¯t know who did it. It clearly wasn¡¯t Tessa because the girl seemed surprised too.


    Most likely Antony. Because he was the only one in the lobby earlier. Yes. Adaline was sure, ire¡¯s husband was the one who did it. Oh God, why could the Quirino family do such irrational things?

 Part 77

    Jovanka tossed her phone aside. She screamed hysterically until Cindy, her assistant, covered both of her ears. Jovanka¡¯s elderly housemaid also hurriedly ran from the first floor to the second floor to check on her employer.


    All the items that were on the table had turned into a mess on the floor. Even the wide-screen television had been shattered by a chair. The woman¡¯s rage was truly terrifying.


    Cindy, feeling frightened, had even begun to crawl towards the door, afraid of bing the target of the woman¡¯s wrath.


    ¡°Aaaarrrrgggghhhh!!!!¡± She screamed again.


    The woman grabbed her own hair. Her gaze seemed unfocused. She paced back and forth in her room, oblivious to the ceramic shards that could potentially injure her feet.


    Evans arrived shortly thereafter, looking out of breath from running. He saw Cindy and the middle-aged woman alternately. Cindy simply shook her head. Evans promptly entered the room, embracing the woman from behind.


    His hand reached for a box from his bag. He pulled out a syringe from it and injected it into Jovanka¡¯s arm. Instantly, her body went limp in his embrace.


    Evans carried Jovanka¡¯s body to another room on that floor, instructing the housemaid to tidy up the mess in Jovanka¡¯s room and asking Cindy to follow him.


    ¡°What happened?¡± He asked when Cindy was in front of him. ¡°What¡¯s with the chaos she caused?¡±


    ¡°She asked me to prepare a parcel containing expensive imported choctes,¡± Cindy began to exin. ¡°Iplied after she handed me a postcard with her message.¡±


    ¡°And then?¡±


    ¡°As requested, I sent the parcel via express delivery service. I don¡¯t know why. Earlier after lunch, she was fine. In fact, she seemed happy because I saw herughing while looking at her phone.


    ¡°But just now, when I went to her room, she seemed to be looking at her phone. She got angry and threw her phone away. Then she started screaming and going berserk. Messing up the room like you saw.¡±


    ¡°She keeps mentioning the name ¡®Adaline¡¯ and calling her ¡®damn woman¡¯, ¡®indecent woman¡¯, ¡®whore¡¯. And other words. I can¡¯t remember anymore. Is she always like this? She¡­¡± Cindy nced at the sleeping Jovanka, who looked peaceful and beautiful as if she didn¡¯t have a care in the world. ¡°She¡¯s terrifying,¡± Cindy whispered.


    Cindy was new to working with Jovanka, so naturally, she didn¡¯t know much about the woman.


    Evans sat in the corner of the bed, running his fingers through his hair and rubbing his face roughly. He didn¡¯t know what craziness the woman would do next. And what scared him even more. He didn¡¯t know the consequences that the woman would face if she continued to disturb the Quirino family.


    Evans cared for Jovanka. As a manager who had been looking after and guiding Jovanka, he hade to see her as a little sister. He had known Jovanka since she started her career in modeling. And that had been almost ten years ago. And for the past ten years, he had observed all of Jovanka¡¯s developments. And the Jovanka he knew before was not like this.


    The old Jovanka was a sweet, spoiled, cheerful girl. And a hard worker. But everything changed because of her ambition.


    The dissatisfaction that filled her mind. Until she, who used to be so caring for others, became indifferent. She who used to enjoy sharing became selfish. She who used to be so innocent became ambitious.


    She no longer nced at those who had helped her. She was even willing to leave the ones she loved to fulfill her dreams.


    The humble and simple Jovanka Lawrence had long been dead. Transformed into Joe Lawrence, the ambitious supermodel. And Evans was one of the few people who knew her and regretted her change.


    He nced at the still-sleeping Jovanka. The beautiful face untouched by surgery was not as beautiful as her heart.


    Slowly, those who cared about her began to leave her because of her own behavior. And soon, Evans would leave her too. Because he was tired of all her selfishness.


    If only Jovanka realized her mistakes. If she would humble herself and appreciate the people who loved her. She wouldn¡¯t have be like this. She wouldn¡¯t have lost the people who loved her. The people she once loved.


    Nothingsts forever.


    Jovanka should have realized the meaning of that sentence. Even the love she boasted would always be with her eventually chose to retreat.


    There¡¯s no enduring love if the recipient of that love doesn¡¯t reciprocate.


    In this world, there¡¯s no true love without expecting something in return. That¡¯s just poetic words filled with emptiness. All love requires reciprocation. Those who don¡¯t get love in return eventually choose to leave or let go. Unless they¡¯re masochistic and willing to live with suffering.


    There¡¯s no ¡®unconditional love¡¯. All lovees with conditions. The condition of love itself is happiness. If there¡¯s no happiness, love fades. Or seeks new love.


    Jovanka worshipped herself too much. Thinking that the whole world revolved around her. Believing that she was the center of rotation.


    She disregarded other people¡¯s dreams as long as her own dream came true. She didn¡¯t care about other people¡¯s feelings as long as she was satisfied and happy. And look at her now. Losing the most meaningful people in her life.


    Thinking that Altezza would always wait for her. Love her. Thinking that Altezza couldn¡¯t live without her. Ignoring the dreams they built together. Until finally, only Altezza held onto those hopes tightly. Squandering all the sincerity that man gave her.


    And look at her now. Suffering because of her own actions.


    Altezza, an independent man. He had his own dreams. And now, he pursued his dreams. But Jovanka didn¡¯t ept it. When Altezza shared in Jovanka¡¯s happiness, Jovanka couldn¡¯t feel the same. The love Jovanka had for Altezza now turned into obsession.


    The desire to be happy with Altezza had now turned into her ambition. While the man had truly rejected her. Closing his heart. And all because of whom? None other than the woman herself.


    Jovanka woke up two hourster feeling disoriented. She observed the entire room, and her gaze stopped when she saw Evans standing by one side of the window. His back was turned to her.


    ¡°What happened?¡± She asked softly. Evans turned around and looked at the beautiful woman sitting on the bed.


    ¡°How are you?¡± He asked in return.


    ¡°A little dizzy.¡±


    ¡°Do you not remember what you did earlier?¡± Evans saw the woman furrow her brow. Shortly after, she shook her head. ¡°You caused another mess, Joe. Aren¡¯t you aware?¡±This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    The woman nced around the room again. She was still in her house, though not in her bedroom. Her memory slowly returned.


    ¡°That damn woman!¡± She muttered, gripping the nket tightly.


    ¡°Stop calling her that. She¡¯s a good woman.¡± Evans gentlymanded. He walked closer and sat at the foot of Jovanka¡¯s bed. ¡°Stop it, or you¡¯ll lose everything.


    ¡°Stop your obsession with Altezza. Let¡¯s start anew. You¡¯re still young. There are plenty of opportunities ahead for you.


    ¡°We can move to another country and advance your career there. You could be even more famous than you are now. You know you have that potential.¡± Every word Evans spoke was met with a shake of the head from the woman.


    ¡°No, Evans! It¡¯s enough for me. Now I just want Altezza. To be his wife again and bear his children.


    ¡°I love him. I don¡¯t want to lose him. And before that, I have to get rid of that woman.¡±


    Evans was angry. He stood up from his seat again. He paced back and forth in front of the woman with clenched fists, asionally running his hand through his hair. His teeth gritted to contain his anger.


    ¡°Stop it, Joe!¡± He growled. ¡°Stop destroying yourself! Stop all your obsessions! He¡¯s noting back to you!¡± He said with a loud shout.


    Jovanka looked at him sharply. ¡°I won¡¯t stop,¡± she replied coldly. ¡°He promised me that he would love me. He asked me to be the mother of his children. And that woman took him away from me.¡±


    ¡°Jovanka!¡± Evans shouted. His emotions had reached their breaking point. ¡°Wake up! He did love you and asked you to be the mother of his children. But that¡¯s in the past!


    ¡°In the past, Jovanka!


    ¡°In the past before you ruined that dream. Please, wake up¡­¡± Evans pleaded and returned to the bedside. He held Jovanka¡¯s delicate hands and squeezed them gently. ¡°Come back to the Jovanka I know. Forget him. I¡¯ll help you start a new life.¡±


    ¡°No, Evans. I don¡¯t want to. I want Altezza. If you want to help me, help me get him back..¡± she pleaded so pitifully.


    Evans stood up again and shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Joe. I can¡¯t help you destroy someone else¡¯s life. Please do it yourself.


    ¡°But if you change your mind. If you want to start a new life without Altezza in it, then I¡¯ll dly help you. I¡¯m leaving.¡± And Evans truly left the woman alone.

 Part 78

    The weekend arrived. With Adaline¡¯s pregnancy considered stable and Violet deemed healthy enough, the Altezza family finally decided to spend the weekend together in Kansas. It was also to celebrate the birthday of their daughter, Antony, via.


    From Kansas, they continued their journey to a mountainous area that was one of via¡¯s desires. They arrived at their destination around nine in the evening, and amazingly, the little girl had already made reservations for all of them.


    Four condominiums and two tents were reserved by via and Abigail. The couples were assigned specific amodations: Del and Sir Benjamin Quirino, Antony and ire, Altezza and Adaline, Emma and Violet.


    One of the two tents they rented would be used by Abigail and via, and the other by Gian. This naturally made Gian the subject of teasing.


    That evening, there was also a bonfire. The atmosphere was lively, with a group of young people seemingly spending their weekend for fun. Adaline felt like a teenager again.


    After settling all their belongings in their rooms, Adaline, Altezza, ire, Antony, Gian, Abigail, and via chose to gather at the bonfire event. They introduced themselves while eating roasted marshmallows.


    After feeling quite tired, they decided to return to their respective rooms and sleep.


    The next day, after breakfast, they enjoyed the outbound facilities. Abigail, via, ire, Antony, and Gian chose adrenaline-pumping games. Meanwhile, Altezza, Adaline, and the parents preferred to enjoy safer facilities, considering Adaline¡¯s pregnancy and also taking into ount the health of the parents.


    In the afternoon, they gathered again to rest before starting the evening activities. When the bonfire was lit again, the resort staff suddenly brought a lot of food disyed in the dining area buffet-style. They also brought two young roasted goats to the bonfire area.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    It turns out that all of it was Antony¡¯s treat for all the lodging tenants as a gesture of gratitude for his daughter¡¯s birthday. The event was, of course, greeted with cheers from the guests.


    Adaline enjoyed it all with a sense of emotion. Seeing how Antony showed his love for his eldest daughter. She recalled the incident in the office a while back and smiled unconsciously.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, darling? Don¡¯t smile to yourself like that. You¡¯re scaring me.¡± Altezza whispered, covering Adaline¡¯s body with the small nket he brought.


    ¡°Why be afraid of someone smiling?¡± Adaline turned to her husband.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t be afraid if your smile had a reason. But if you¡¯re smiling for no clear reason? That¡¯s worrisome.¡± The man uttered, receiving a pinch from Adaline.


    ¡°For the pregnantdy. Don¡¯t eat too much. This should be enough.¡± Suddenly, Gian handed a te filled with slices of roasted goat meat and some steamed vegetables as mealpanions.


    ¡°No need to act so caring. Remember, she¡¯s a married woman.¡± Altezza said disapprovingly.


    ¡°So just being a husband already makes you proud. Where were you when your wife needed you?¡± Gian sneered.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Altezza asked, confused.


    Gian nced at Adaline. ¡°He doesn¡¯t know about that incident?¡± Gian asked Adaline, who furrowed her brow in confusion. ¡°The video at the office that time?¡± He asked again. This time, Adaline shook her head. ¡°No wonder.¡± Gian scoffed, openly insulting Altezza.


    But instead of continuing the conversation and clearing Altezza¡¯s confusion, Gian just left his cousin and returned to the crowd of young people.


    ¡°Darling, what video is he talking about?¡± Altezza asked, curious.


    ¡°Your wedding video.¡± Antony, who had been there for who knows how long, suddenly answered Altezza¡¯s question.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with our wedding video?¡± Altezza asked again. He truly didn¡¯t understand his two cousins who seemed to enjoy talking in riddles.


    ¡°Should I tell everything or should you?¡± Antony nced at Adaline for approval. But then he continued without waiting for an answer. ¡°Your ex-girlfriend sent a package to Adaline.¡± He said, causing Altezza to widen his eyes in surprise. ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal. Just an expensive chocte gift. But the problem lies in the greeting card she included in the package, which seems to announce to the world that Adaline is pregnant and involved in an illicit rtionship with a superior at the office. And those who didn¡¯t know about your marriage suddenly judge Adaline as if her pregnancy is a crime because she¡¯s having an affair with one of the board members? Well, something like that.¡± Antony answered tly.


    ¡°Regardless of the reason why that woman sent Adaline a gift, I still don¡¯t like the way she did it. I don¡¯t know your ex-girlfriend very well, and maybe because her behavior has always seemed bad to me, so whatever she does always seems wrong to me.¡± Antony replied again.


    ¡°And I think that woman¡¯s sweet gesture wasn¡¯t without a n. But actually, there¡¯s something I want to know. How could she send you that package? How did you two get to know each other?¡± Adaline nced at her big boss and brother-inw.


    ¡°I got to know Jovanka a few months before the incident in the lobby a while ago.¡± She said. ¡°My friend, Joanna, happens to be a model who is in the same agency as Jovanka. And coincidentally, they were involved in the same film project. We were introduced identally.¡± Adaline answered truthfully.


    ¡°Did you really talk in detail enough for her to send you an expensive gift while you just met?¡± Adaline bit her lip. It felt right if she voiced her concern.


    ¡°To be honest, I¡¯m not too sure myself. At our first meeting, she suddenly talked about her desire to get back to her ex-boyfriend. At that time, I really didn¡¯t know that the man she meant was my husband.¡± Adaline nced at Altezza.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if she knew that I am the wife of the man she loves. And even if she knew, I don¡¯t know since when she knew it. Because if she did know about our marriage before we met, it means all this time she pretended not to know, just like me pretending not to know that she is my husband¡¯s ex-wife.¡± She replied again.


    Altezza stared at Adaline with a jumble of emotions.


    ¡°Since when?¡± Altezza wanted to know. ¡°I mean, since when did you suspect that she knew about our rtionship?¡±


    Adaline shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t know, it¡¯s just my suspicion. I don¡¯t want to assume the worst.¡± She answered still emotionless.


    Altezza, Adaline, and Antony fell silent. They were all busy with their thoughts.

 Part 79

    Altezza nced at his wife while Adaline seemed to maintain her nk expression. Altezza couldn¡¯t guess what the woman was feeling right now. Whether she was angry with him or not. Whether that nk expression was because she genuinely had no ill thoughts or because she was very good at hiding her feelings, Altezza didn¡¯t know. But Altezza would question that when they were alone.


    At ten o¡¯clock, Adaline chose to retire because she felt tired and Altezza followed her. ¡°Are you very tired, Madam?¡± He asked when they were alone.


    Adaline was taking off the nket Altezza had put on her earlier. The mountain air was indeed very coldpared to Manhattan. That¡¯s why she put on a sweater and socks. Adaline chose to climb into bed and cover half of her body with the nket.


    ¡°Pretty tired but not too much. Why?¡± She asked when she feltfortable in her position.


    Altezza walked closer. He got into bed and slipped under the same nket.


    ¡°It¡¯s about what Antony and Gian said earlier. Can you exin everything to me?¡±


    ¡°Exin about what?¡±


    ¡°Everything,¡± he requested gently. ¡°About what I don¡¯t know. About your meeting with that woman. About what Antony said earlier.¡±


    ¡°Do you want to hear everything?¡± Altezza nodded. ¡°Do you want the honest version or a lie?¡±


    ¡°Honest, as honest as possible.¡±


    Adaline took a deep breath. She found afortable position and began to recount the beginning of her encounter with Jovanka. About how Joanna identally introduced them and how it led to the photo she received.


    Altezza was clearly shocked to hear this. He felt pped in the face and also felt guilty for deliberately deceiving his wife. Altezza was about to interrupt and give his version of the story, but Adaline stopped him.


    Eventually, Adaline¡¯s story ended with Jovanka vaguely mentioning her ¡®ex-lover¡¯-which of course Adaline knew was Altezza-asking her toe back with him and saying he would divorce Adaline after the child she was carrying was born.


    Silence filled the room. Altezza couldn¡¯t even find the right words when Adaline finished her story.


    ¡°None of that is true,¡± Altezza protested softly. Adaline only responded to her husband¡¯s words with silence. ¡°By God, I never intended to go back to her. I never even mentioned your pregnancy, let alone divorcing you.


    ¡°I did say that I had achieved my dream. But that¡¯s all. I know I lied. I omitted the part about meeting Jovanka when I came homete that night-referring to when I said I went to the club with my friends-and I also lied about not being able toe home because of work issues. (Referring to when Jovanka was poisoned). But that was all because I wanted to protect your feelings. Because I didn¡¯t want to hurt you.¡±


    Altezza reached for Adaline¡¯s hand. He squeezed his wife¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°Everything she said is just nonsense.


    ¡°I told you, didn¡¯t I, that there¡¯s nothing between us? There¡¯s no love left in my heart for her. Everything I did for her yesterday was just out of humanity. Because no matter what, as you once said, we were together for six years.¡±


    ¡°Impossible for me to ignore her when she needed help,¡± Altezza said with regret in his voice.


    Adaline didn¡¯t respond. She didn¡¯t dare to look at her husband¡¯s face either. It was Altezza who took the initiative to lift Adaline¡¯s chin and make her look up.


    ¡°Look at me, Love. I¡¯m not lying. I swear, there¡¯s no longer any feelings for her in my heart. Forgive me,¡± he pleaded with a pitiful expression.


    ¡®And who is in your heart now? Is it me?¡¯ The question almost slipped out of Adaline¡¯s mouth, but she held it back.


    Adaline reached for Altezza¡¯s hand and removed it from her chin. Adaline put on a smile, but Altezza knew that the smile didn¡¯t reach her eyes.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need to forgive you,¡± Adaline said softly. ¡°As I told Jovanka before, I will never burden you.


    ¡°I won¡¯t make you choose between the two of us. If you want to go back to her, I won¡¯t hold it against you.


    ¡°I won¡¯t force you to always be honest about your actions either. Because I know, you must have thought about everything before acting. So you don¡¯t need to feel guilty towards me and you don¡¯t need to apologize,¡± she replied almost expressionlessly.


    ¡°But why didn¡¯t you tell me all this?¡± Altezza demanded.


    ¡°Because you never asked,¡± she replied simply, and it pierced Altezza¡¯s heart. Had he been so indifferent to Adaline all this time? Or was it because he thought his past with Jovanka was over, so he assumed that Jovanka would never touch Adaline?


    Altezza was foolish. When he assumed that Adaline would never know Jovanka and their past affairs, fate identally brought them together. And even more foolishly, just to spare his wife¡¯s feelings, he lied and only ended up hurting her more.


    ¡°Perhaps Jovanka truly regrets it and wants to mend her rtionship with you,¡± Adaline suddenly said in the midst of the silence that enveloped them.


    ¡°Darling¡­ I¡¯ve told you that I no longer have any feelings for her. Even if she insists on wanting to fix everything, it¡¯s toote. Because I¡¯ve closed that door since she left me.¡±


    Altezza knelt before Adaline. His hands touched her knees, his head tilted up, seeking Adaline¡¯s full attention.


    ¡°I¡¯ve told you that I want to fix our marriage. Won¡¯t you support me?¡±


    Once again, Adaline smiled. ¡°I always support whatever decision you make. Whatever you think is right, I believe it must be right.


    ¡°And I¡¯ve also said from the beginning that I want this marriage to be done properly.¡±Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°But..?¡±


    ¡°But now, don¡¯t ever ask me to do what I can¡¯t do. Don¡¯t ever ask me to give what I can¡¯t give,¡± she continued softly.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Altezza gazed at his wife, puzzled by her ambiguous statement.


    ¡°Someday you¡¯ll understand what I mean,¡± she replied. And that was the end of their conversation that night.

 Part 80

    Adaline returned to her daily activities, although it could be said that her body was not asfortable as usual. Lately, she had trouble sleeping and would only fall asleep after three in the morning. As a result, she often felt tired and extremely drowsy during the day.


    Her pelvic bones also often felt sore. When she consulted the doctor, the doctor said it was normal. What was not normal was Adaline¡¯s sleeping schedule and her health issues.


    During a blood test, Adaline¡¯s hemoglobin levels were found to be low. She was experiencing anemia. It was amon condition for pregnant women, but it would be extraordinary if it persisted. Especially since Adaline was pregnant with twins. There were many risks if her condition persisted until she gave birth.


    As a result, she returned from the doctor¡¯s with a lot of vitamin prescriptions. And she intentionally didn¡¯t tell Altezza. He was already tired enough every day, managing his own business and his father¡¯spany. Yet despite his fatigue, he still gave her his full attention.


    Even after their return from the weekend getawayst week, her husband had changed. He always contacted Adaline whenever he had the chance. He would tell her where he was going and with whom. He seemed like a young teenager in his antics. He often sent photos of himself working or eating with his clients.


    Every time Altezza returned from work, he would always ask what she wanted to eat, or if there was anything he needed to buy beforeing home. Small gestures, but they touched Adaline¡¯s heart. She even hoped Altezza would always be this sweet, not just now, when she was pregnant.


    Adaline also often felt sorry for her husband. It was not umon for Altezza toe homepletely exhausted. He would return veryte and immediately fall asleep without cleaning up or changing his clothes.


    It was also the reason why Adaline didn¡¯t tell Altezza about herints. Every time she had trouble sleeping, Adaline preferred to gaze at her husband¡¯s face. Or even draw closer and nestle into his embrace. Unconsciously, Altezza always responded to her embrace. He would even kiss her forehead and temple with his eyes closed.


    Adaline also never mentioned her condition to anyone, especially not to her mother. She didn¡¯t want her mother to worry about her. After all, her mother¡¯s health was still unstable.


    On weekends, Altezza would drive Adaline to her parents¡¯ house because he had to travel out of town again.


    ¡°Take care of yourself here. If you need anything, don¡¯t hesitate to tell Mom or anyone else in the house,¡± he instructed before leaving. Adaline just nodded her head. Altezza kissed her forehead before he left.


    Del led her daughter-inw back to the guest room on the ground floor. It wasn¡¯t that Del didn¡¯t want Adaline to sleep in her old room with Altezza, but due to her daughter-inw¡¯s pregnancy condition, the middle-aged woman felt that going up and down the stairs wasn¡¯t good for Adaline.


    ¡°You two sleep here for now,¡± Del exined her reason so her daughter-inw wouldn¡¯t misunderstand. ¡°I¡¯m worried about you having to go up and down the stairs.¡± Adaline smiled and felt grateful for her mother-inw¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Are you okay, dear? You look pale,¡± Del asked with concern.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Mom,¡± she reassured.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Del invited Adaline to sit on the chair at the end of the bed. ¡°You know, I love you, right?¡± Her mother-inw suddenly asked, to which Adaline responded with a nod. ¡°I gave birth to Altezza 35 years ago. But I still remember vividly what it was like to carry and give birth to him, as if it happened just yesterday. And remembering that, I think your pregnancy condition seems worse than mine was.¡±


    Adaline could only remain silent.


    ¡°Are you having trouble sleeping every night?¡± Adaline was surprised, but she chose to be honest and nodded. ¡°I used to be like that too. So, what did the doctor say?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong. The doctor said I have anemia, but it¡¯smon for pregnant women.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say it¡¯smon, dear. There¡¯s always danger threatening pregnant women. Remember, if you need anything or feel something, anything at all, you have to tell me. Promise?¡± Del demanded firmly. Adaline smiled and nodded again.


    ¡°Do you have any ns to take leave or maybe resign from your job?¡± Del asked again, causing Adaline to fall silent. ¡°I know how difficult it is when carrying Quirino¡¯s descendants. Brianna also felt the same when she was pregnant with Antony. And Gian¡¯s mother also felt the same. So I know what you¡¯re going through right now.


    ¡°My advice is, you¡¯d better resign from your job for now. Later, after you give birth to them and if you still want to work, I won¡¯t mind. You have your rights, but right now you need to take care of your health and the twins in your womb.¡±


    Del said all of this with the gentle concern of a mother, which moved Adaline deeply. Adaline responded to her mother-inw¡¯s advice with a nod.


    As her mother-inw said, she had to take care of herself and the twins. And if after the twins were born Adaline had to return to work, it wouldn¡¯t just be because she wanted to, but because she had to provide for herself.


    There was still her mother and Emma whose lives Adaline had to support. Even though the money Altezza had been giving her might not run out quickly, Adaline couldn¡¯t just sit idly.


    Yes, her husband was too generous. Every month his ount swelled with his transfers. Even when Adaline refused and tried to send it back, he would just say that it was Adaline¡¯s right and his duty as a husband to provide for his wife.


    But Adaline herself was indeed surprised, because the amount given by the man was not insignificant. Even with all the money in her ount right now, Adaline was sure she could buy a luxurious house for her mother.


    ¡°Go to sleep. You and my grandchildren must stay healthy. I¡¯ll wake you up when it¡¯s time for lunch,¡± Adaline nodded again and followed her mother-inw¡¯s advice.

 Part 81

    Later that evening, they sat in the family room. Her mother-inw turned on the TV, which was airing a talk show. What surprised Adaline was the guest who filled the show. Yes, the guest was none other than Jovanka Lawrence, the woman Adaline had begun to influence her thoughts without even realizing.


    ¡°So, can you tell us a little about the content of this film? What makes this film worth watching?¡± asked the host. The four main stars of the film being discussed looked at each other as if asking who would speak first before the main actor spoke up and answered the presenter¡¯s question. The film starring Jovanka was about a man¡¯s struggle to win the heart of his beloved woman who went abroad due to a misunderstanding. It was somewhat simr to the love story of Jovanka and Altezza, but with reversed roles. Adaline was tied up in her silence.


    ¡°It¡¯s quite interesting, the story,¡±mented the host. ¡°But regarding the love story. If I may ask, how about your love life in real life? Especially Jovanka. Honestly, I salute you because so far I¡¯ve never heard about your love story. Do you not have a love story or are you and your agency just really good at hiding it?¡±


    In her silence, Adaline noticed how Jovanka blushed.


    ¡°Not being heard doesn¡¯t mean it doesn¡¯t exist,¡± replied one of her co-stars, making Jovanka seem embarrassed to the point where she unintentionally hit her co-star¡¯s thigh. ¡°Jovanka is indeed good at keeping secrets. Her romantic rtionships have never been sniffed out. Even though¡­¡±


    ¡°Yet there is, but deliberately hidden, right?¡± the presenter asked again.


    ¡°Not deliberately hidden, it¡¯s just that it¡¯s not time yet to be revealed to the public,¡± Jovanka replied, looking a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°Hmmm, so there is indeed,¡± the presenter nodded meaningfully. ¡°In that case, give us a clue about your lover, the man who has captured your attention. After all, your fans are numerous, especially the male fans. Surely some of them are hoping to have you. Don¡¯t make them hope while they clearly don¡¯t stand a chance,¡± said the presenter, making Jovanka smile sheepishly. ¡°Tell us who the lucky man is. What does he do or where is he from?¡±


    ¡°Mmm¡­ I¡¯m embarrassed to say this, but I shouldn¡¯t let others hope in vain for me, right?¡± she asked shyly, answered by a nod from the presenter. ¡°My boyfriend, he¡¯s a young entrepreneur, handsome, and he¡¯s in the field of architecture,¡± she said with details that made people exim simultaneously.


    ¡°Who is he?¡± the presenter asked curiously.


    ¡°Later,¡± Jovanka said with her cheerful smile. ¡°When the timees, I¡¯ll definitely tell you,¡± she promised.


    ¡°Alright, alright, I won¡¯t push it. So, you gentlemen, you¡¯ve heard that your beloved woman already has a boyfriend,¡± the presenter said, eliciting cheers from the audience in the studio. ¡°Promise me, when you¡¯re ready to announce your news to the public, I must be the first to broadcast it,¡± the presenter demanded of Jovanka, who responded with a nod.


    A scoff from Del made Adaline turn. The middle-aged woman looked smugly at the television in front of them.


    ¡°What do you think of that person¡¯s personality?¡± she asked, tilting her chin towards the television. ¡°Her, the woman named Jovanka.¡± She repeated as Adaline looked at her with a puzzled gaze. ¡°Do you like her? I, for one, don¡¯t like her,¡± Del answered her own question.


    ¡°Do you know her?¡± Adaline asked innocently. As far as she knew, Altezza had said that his parents themselves didn¡¯t know about his marriage to Jovanka.


    ¡°Not intensely. But I know who she is. Don¡¯t you also know her?¡± Adaline remained silent, unsure of how to respond because she feared her thoughts might differ from what her mother-inw meant.


    Del reached for Adaline¡¯s hand and squeezed it gently.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think just because I often stay at home, I don¡¯t know what¡¯s happening out there. I may not be a smart person. I¡¯m not a graduate of prestigious universities like my husband and Altezza. But I am a mother. I know what¡¯s happening to my children. I know what¡¯s happening to all of you,¡± Mrs. Del said.


    Adaline couldn¡¯t help but look up and gaze at her mother-inw intently. ¡°Mom¡­¡±


    ¡°You know that I love you, right?¡± she asked softly, and Adaline nodded. ¡°And it¡¯s not just words, Adaline. I love you as much as I love Altezza. To me, you¡¯re not just a daughter-inw. But also my daughter.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I don¡¯t want you to get hurt. Especially if you get hurt because of my son, Altezza. If there are problems in your marriage. And if indeed the fault lies with Altezza, you should know that I won¡¯t defend him at all.


    ¡°So, if there are problems, tell me everything. Don¡¯t keep it to yourself. If you don¡¯t want to talk to Altezza or your mother, you can talk to me about everything. Especially if it¡¯s rted to Altezza,¡± Mrs. Del said again.


    Once again, Adaline nodded. A sense of emotion enveloped her heart. Tears slowly fell down her cheeks. Gratitude overwhelmed her for having a mother-inw like hers. She didn¡¯t want to lose that affection.


    ¡°Is there something you¡¯re hiding from me?¡± the middle-aged woman asked. ¡°You know, I even know all the secrets between you two,¡± she added. Adaline looked up and stared at her mother-inw with confusion.


    ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t know the reason why Altezza suddenly introduced you as his fiancee to us? I know everything, dear. So please, don¡¯t bury all your problems alone. I¡¯m here to help you. Whatever your problem is.¡±


    Adaline copsed into her mother-inw¡¯s embrace, releasing all the tears she had been holding back, all the pain she had been containing.


    ¡°Mamma¡­¡± she sobbed. Del Quirino gently stroked her daughter-inw¡¯s back, crying together in their silence.


    ¡°I feel like a failed mother because I couldn¡¯t raise my son properly. I feel sinful for exploiting you and your mother.


    ¡°But honestly, I don¡¯t regret Altezza¡¯s actions towards you. Because truthfully, I am very happy that he married you and made you my daughter.


    ¡°All I can do is pray, no matter how your rtionship began, may you end up happy,¡± Mrs. Del said.


    Adaline simply nodded silently.


    ¡°That woman will continue to disturb your marriage,¡± Del warned again. Adaline wiped her tears amidst her nods. ¡°I hope you won¡¯t give up on Altezza. I will help as much as I can to keep you together. You must remember that. Okay?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mamma. I will always remember that.¡±


    ¡°Do you love Altezza?¡± her mother-inw suddenly asked. Adaline was surprised. She could only bite her lower lip. ¡°I know Altezza has fallen for you now. He just hasn¡¯t realized it yet.


    ¡°Therefore, I will make him realize that the woman he loves now is you, not that woman. Altezza and his father are the same. Both need to be scolded first to realize,¡± Mrs. Del said with a smirk. Adaline just smiled at her mother-inw¡¯s childishness.

 Part 82

    Altezza nced at her phone. An unknown number was calling. ¡°Hello?¡± she asked without taking her eyes off her work.


    ¡°Is this Mr. Altezza?¡± a voice on the other end replied.


    ¡°Who is this?¡± she asked coldly.


    ¡°It¡¯s me. Cindy. Jovanka¡¯s assistant,¡± the voice stuttered.


    ¡°What is it? Didn¡¯t I say not to contact me again?¡± he said harshly.


    There was a rustling sound from the other end. ¡°Um. It¡¯s. Jovanka,¡± the woman sounded panicked.


    ¡°She¡¯s not my concern anymore. So don¡¯t contact me again,¡± Altezza then abruptly hung up the phone.


    Shortly after the call ended, her office door swung open. The woman who had been the subject of the phone call appeared. She looked stunning in an expensive and sexy outfit.


    ¡°Honey,¡± she greeted. Her gaze seemed unfocused.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Altezza asked rudely. Her secretary hurried in behind her.


    ¡°S-Sir. I¡¯m sorry. She came in while I was in the bathroom,¡± her secretary said fearfully.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, just go back to your room,¡± Altezzamanded tly. ¡°What else do you want now, Jovanka?¡± she turned to the approaching woman.


    ¡°I miss you,¡± she said coyly. Her hand reached out, caressing Altezza¡¯s chest provocatively.


    ¡°Stop it, Jovanka!¡± Altezza pped Jovanka¡¯s hand away roughly. ¡°You¡¯re acting like a cheap woman,¡± she said coldly. The woman stood frozen.


    ¡°Why are you like this? How can you call me a cheap woman? Do you forget that you were the one who chased after me? You were the one who asked me to ept you? You were the one who forced me to be your lover? You were the one who begged me to marry you!¡± she exploded with emotion.


    ¡°Why are you like this, Altezza? What¡¯s so great about that womanpared to me? She¡¯s not even prettier than me. Just because she¡¯s younger, is that why you left me?¡± Jovanka approached again.


    Both of Jovanka¡¯s hands caressed Altezza¡¯s neck sensually. Her body pressed against Altezza¡¯s in a seductive manner. It would be a lie if Altezza wasn¡¯t tempted. ¡°Look, even your body still longs for me,¡± Jovanka whispered in his ear. Her lips kissed Altezza¡¯s neck and even nibbled on his earlobe, knowing it was his sensitive spot. But soon Altezza pulled away from her body. ¡°No cat will refuse fish, Jovanka. But no matter how tempted my body is by yours, I still have faith.


    ¡°There is still awful woman for me whom I can embrace freely. If you¡¯ve forgotten, my reason for marrying you first was to avoid falling into sin.


    ¡°And what did you say earlier? She¡¯s less beautiful than you? Maybe ording to you, yes. She¡¯s not as beautiful as you. But to me, she¡¯s more beautiful.


    ¡°She¡¯s the perfect wife. And as you know, she¡¯s carrying my child.


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you the one who bothered to send chocte gifts to her office?¡± Jovanka fell silent.


    ¡°She¡¯s better than you in every way,¡± Altezza concluded his statement. Jovanka¡¯s face paled. ¡°Go, Jovanka. Please. I¡¯ve let you pursue your dreams. Now let me pursue mine. Let me and my little family live in peace and happiness.¡± Jovanka froze in ce. Her head shook slowly.


    ¡°No, Altezza. You won¡¯t be happy with her. You can only be happy with me.


    ¡°Have you forgotten? You want a child from me! And I will give it to you.


    ¡°I will give you that child!¡± Jovanka moved with a quickness that Altezza couldn¡¯t predict. Suddenly, she threw herself at Altezza and kissed him fiercely. Altezza tried to pull away, but the woman seemed to gain strength from somewhere, making it difficult to break free.


    ¡°Joe, stop!¡± Just as Altezza managed to push the woman away, the door to his office opened.


    ¡°Oh my God¡­!¡± A stifled scream escaped from his mother¡¯s mouth. ¡°What are you two doing?¡±


    ¡°Mamma..?!¡± Altezza eximed. ¡°Mamma, this isn¡¯t what you think.¡± Altezza tried to defend herself. Her hands still attempted to keep her body away from Jovanka¡¯s.


    ¡°Do you even know what I think?¡± Mrs. Del red at Altezza sternly. Jovanka took a step back and began fixing her hair. A smile crept onto her beautiful face.


    ¡°Mamma.¡± The woman approached and extended her hand, intending to shake Del¡¯s hand. However, Del only stared at the slender hand without any intention of reciprocating.


    ¡°Since when did I be ¡®Mamma¡¯ to you?¡± Mrs. Del asked coldly. ¡°I only have one daughter who has the right to call me ¡®Mamma.¡¯ And that¡¯s not you.¡± Del walked to the sofa. She sat down casually while the two people in front of her stood frozen.


    She never expected her visit to the hotel where her daughter took over her husband¡¯s business to turn into such a spectacle.


    ¡°I¡¯m your future daughter-inw,¡± Jovanka insisted.


    Del Quirino looked back at the young woman before her. In her eyes, the woman¡¯s appearance was far from graceful. Instead, she seemed more like a cheap woman.


    ¡°Daughter-inw? Since when? I never proposed to you in front of your parents. I also never sent engagement gifts. And I haven¡¯t even held a reception for you.¡±


    ¡°So, when exactly did you be my daughter-inw?¡± Del raised an eyebrow. Her hands folded in front of her chest, trying to appear intimidating.


    ¡°I married Altezza six years ago,¡± the woman replied.


    ¡°Really? All this time?¡± Del acted surprised.


    Jovanka smiled wider and nodded. ¡°How could I not know?¡± She asked disappointedly. ¡°I only have one child, and she got married six years ago without me knowing. Do I still deserve to be called a mother?¡± Del looked at her only child. Altezza paled.


    ¡°It¡¯s because I asked Altezza to keep our marriage a secret,¡± Jovanka tried to defend herself.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Del snorted. ¡°Then why are you now calling yourself my daughter-inw when before you never considered me your mother-inw?¡± This time it was Jovanka who paled.


    The door opened again, and Benjamin Quirino appeared. Del had indeed visited her husband¡¯s room, but he was entertaining a guest. And it seemed the guest had already left by the time her husband followed her here.


    ¡°Darling, I heard you¡­¡± His words stopped when he saw Altezza and a woman standing frozen. Altezza with her pale face and the woman with suddenly sparkling eyes. ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡± The elderly man asked. His eyes nced at the three people alternately.


    ¡°My love,e here,¡± Del requested her husband. She reached out her hand to her husband, who then epted it, albeit with a raised eyebrow. Del led her husband to sit down, ignoring the other two who remained standing in their ces.


    ¡°Darling, could you have been a witness to our son¡¯s wedding?¡± Del asked after her husband sat down beside her.


    ¡°Of course, a few months ago,¡± Benjamin replied tly. The two of them chatted as if they were alone in the room.


    ¡°Not that one, but six years ago. Were you ever a witness to our child¡¯s wedding?¡±


    Benjamin Quirino chuckled mockingly. ¡°My dear, are you dreaming? Our child just got married a few months ago. How many children do we have anyway?¡±


    ¡°Did you give birth to another child behind my back?¡± Mr. Benjamin narrowed his eyes at his wife.


    Del furrowed her brow. ¡°As far as I remember, I only gave birth once. Because after Altezza was born, you forbade me from having any more children.¡± Del red at her son. ¡°Or perhaps you got married again to another woman behind my back? And had another son from that marriage?¡± Del looked sharply at her husband.


    ¡°For God¡¯s sake, what kind of usation is that? There¡¯s no other woman besides you. And there never will be.¡± Benjamin Quirino reached for his wife¡¯s hand and kissed it. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t want to repeat the past. I suffered enough losing you once, don¡¯t torture me again,¡± the elderly man said.


    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t have another child?¡± Del asked suspiciously. Benjamin shook his head. ¡°Have you never adopted another son?¡± Del asked again, to which her husband shook his head. ¡°Then why is there suddenly someone iming to be our daughter-inw, Darling?¡± Del¡¯s gaze shifted to Jovanka.


    ¡°Daughter-inw?¡± Benjamin also looked at Jovanka. ¡°Who are you, youngdy?¡± Benjamin asked with a raised eyebrow.


    ¡°I¡¯m Jovanka Lawrence,¡± Jovanka replied weakly. She felt her confidence waver as Benjamin¡¯s gaze fell upon her.


    ¡°Hmm¡­ My wife said you imed to be our daughter-inw?¡± Jovanka nodded. ¡°Since when have you been our daughter-inw?¡±


    ¡°I married Altezza six years ago,¡± Jovanka muttered.


    ¡°Six years ago?¡± Benjamin Quirino looked at his only son. ¡°Son, this woman ims that she married you six years ago. How could your father not know, son? Or do you not consider me your father anymore just because you¡¯re grown up?¡± Benjamin¡¯s t tone sent shivers down Altezza¡¯s spine.


    ¡°Padre¡­¡± Altezza felt her tongue tied.


    ¡°It¡¯s because I asked him to keep our marriage a secret. I¡­¡± Jovanka spoke softly, trying to defend herself again.


    ¡°Are you ashamed to have a husband like my son?¡± Benjamin asked again.


    Jovanka shook her head vigorously.


    ¡°Then are you ashamed to have inws like us?¡± Jovanka shook her head again. ¡°Then?¡±


    ¡°I-I¡­ At that time, I still had a contract not to get married.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Benjamin replied. ¡°So the contract was more valuable than my son.¡± Jovanka¡¯s eyes widened. Once again, she had answered wrongly. ¡°Then why did you appear after six years?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because I love Altezza.¡±


    ¡°Love? You said you love my son?¡± Jovanka nodded. ¡°So for the past six years, you didn¡¯t love my son?¡± Benjamin asked again. Jovanka couldn¡¯t find words to say.


    ¡°Padre.. we have separated,¡± Altezza replied.


    ¡°You got married without us knowing. Then why should we know when you¡¯re separating?¡± Benjamin asked sharply.


    ¡°If you want to keep a secret, then keep it until you die. There¡¯s no need to parade it around. Married for six years? What kind of marriage is that?¡± Benjamin sneered. ¡°For us, Altezza¡¯swful wife is only one. And that¡¯s not you, Miss Lawrence.


    ¡°And I must emphasize. My family does not adhere to polygamous beliefs. So, sorry, no matter how much you want us to acknowledge you, we can¡¯t do it.¡± Benjamin stood up and reached for his wife¡¯s hand. ¡°Come on, Darling. Didn¡¯t you promise to have lunch with the mother of our future grandchild?¡± He casually invited her.


    Del nodded and took her husband¡¯s hand. They left Altezza behind them without saying a word.

 Part 83

    Adaline rubbed her throbbing head. Last night, she had trouble sleeping again. Even though she tried to go back to sleep after dawn, it felt very difficult. And now her work was piling up.


    She hadn¡¯t experienced morning sickness anymore. But still, there were times when she would vomit her food if nausea suddenly struck her. In return, she always kept mints in almost every essible ce.


    Tessa invited her for lunch. Adaline agreed. She really wanted to have spicy meatball soup.


    They walked to the office cafeteria. But she felt ufortable because she felt like people were watching her. And her suspicion was quite reasonable, because when she turned her head to look, they instantly closed their mouths and tantly looked away.


    Adaline nced at Tessa. Tessa looked back at her puzzled. When Adaline queued for lunch, she finally found out why people were staring at her.


    ¡°Seriously? So who¡¯s the third person then?¡± said the person in front of Adaline¡¯s queue.


    ¡°How would I know? Maybe Adaline, maybe Jovanka,¡± replied the second woman. Adaline didn¡¯t know either of them. But she also didn¡¯t know if they really knew her?


    ¡°But here it says they¡¯ve been involved since seven years ago,¡± said the first woman as she tapped on her phone screen. Adaline froze. She chose to step back and walk towards the cafeteria restroom.


    Adaline locked herself in one of the stalls. Voices chatting could be heard again.


    ¡°A few days ago, I saw her on a talk show, and she said she would give an exclusive interview on that show. And I was surprised to see the news on the gossip online ount,¡± said a woman.


    The sound of water in the sink and the roar of the hand dryer echoed.


    ¡°Why should you be surprised? Nowadays, it¡¯s very easy to go viral. Especially someone like Jovanka Lawrence who is already famous. Especially when it involves dealings with the rich. What surprises me is how she managed to keep her seven-year marriage a secret? She¡¯s so skilled that such big news went undetected by the media.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s so great about that? If I were her, I¡¯d definitely be proud to be known by people after marrying a wealthy man. Especially Altezza Quirino, who is handsome. And he¡¯s the type of man who is kind and friendly. Just imagine, walking with him isn¡¯t embarrassing but rather a pride in itself,¡± replied another woman.


    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± agreed her friend. ¡°So, what about Adaline¡¯s fate now? They just got married recently. And you can also see how luxurious their wedding was. How could she possibly be the third person?¡±


    Finger snaps could be heard. ¡°But Adaline could indeed be the third person. Think again about why they got married secretly. It could be that Sir Altezza¡¯s marriage to Jovanka wasn¡¯t approved by the family, so they chose to hide it, and then Sir Altezza¡¯s family arranged for him to marry Adaline so that only Adaline would be acknowledged as the daughter-inw while Jovanka remains unrecognized.¡±


    ¡°You watch too many family dramas. What you¡¯re saying is so cliche,¡± replied another voice, followed by chuckles. Then there was silence.


    Adaline could only listen while clutching her phone tightly. She herself had seen the online gossip columns on her phone.


    Many news portals featured the private wedding news between Jovanka and Altezza. Photos of their closeness were also disyed so intimately. Some of them were even photos that the woman had sent to her some time ago.


    Then there were also photos of Adaline¡¯s wedding with Altezza, where Adaline¡¯s face was blurred and her name was reduced to initials.


    Adaline rubbed her temples. Her head was throbbing even more. And her chest felt tight again. What more trial is this?


    Now people think she¡¯s a destroyer of others¡¯ happiness. Such hurtful nder for her.


    Adaline didn¡¯t know how long she had been sitting on the toilet until she was startled by her own phone vibrating. Tessa¡¯s name appeared on the screen, but Adaline ignored it because she didn¡¯t even have the energy to move her fingers to answer her friend¡¯s call.


    A few secondster, a message pop-up appeared on the screen showing an iing message from Tessa.


    Tessa:


    Ada, where are you?


    Adaline still didn¡¯t respond.


    Tessa:


    Ada, don¡¯t make me panic. Tell me, where are you? I¡¯ve got permission from Mrs. Jessi, I¡¯ll take you home.


    Adaline:


    Cafeteria restroom.


    About five minutester, a knocking sound was heard on the stall door. ¡°Adaline? Are you in there?¡± Tessa whispered.


    Adaline opened the stall door and Tessa pulled her out from outside.


    ¡°Ada, are you okay?¡± Adaline nodded.


    ¡°My head hurts,¡± Adaline replied softly.


    Tessa nodded and helped Adaline stand up. Adaline¡¯s legs were tingling. She almost fell if Tessa hadn¡¯t supported her body.


    ¡°Sorry, my legs are tingling,¡± she said to reassure.


    Again, Tessa nodded. In silence, Tessa guided her to the car park. She opened the passenger door and closed it again.


    Tessa walked around to open the driver¡¯s door. She helped Adaline fasten her seatbelt and drove her car out of the office parking lot. ¡°Want something to eat? You didn¡¯t get a chance to eat earlier, did you?¡±


    ¡°No need. I¡¯ll eat at hometer,¡± Adaline replied softly.


    ¡°Where do you want to go? Your apartment or your mom¡¯s house?¡±


    Adaline shook her head. ¡°Just take me to Mom¡¯s house,¡± she replied softly. Adaline leaned her head against the car door.


    Her headache was getting worse. Cold sweat felt like it was flowing heavily. She could even feel it between her breasts.


    ¡°What if we go to the doctor first?¡± Tessa asked. She was worried seeing her friend¡¯s condition. But Adaline refused.


    ¡°No need. I just forgot to take my vitamins. I¡¯ll be fer,¡± she answered honestly. She should have taken her vitamins already. Besides the iron supplement she always took before bed. Although Adaline knew deep down that her current condition wasn¡¯t just because of that.


    Fifteen minutester, they arrived in front of a luxurious house enclosed by a three-meter-high ck gate. When Tessa honked the horn, the face of the security guard appeared on a ten-inch small screen on Tessa¡¯s right side.


    ¡°I¡¯m dropping off Mrs. Adaline Quirino,¡± Tessa slightly leaned back so the inte could capture Adaline¡¯s face. The door opened automatically, and Tessa drove her car forward.


    The front door of her house opened just as Tessa stopped her car. Del emerged in her casual attire, a ck kaftan. Her face looked worried. She walked towards the passenger door and opened it for Adaline.


    ¡°Darling, what happened to you?¡± she asked worriedly. Tessa had already walked towards the passenger door and helped Adaline out.


    ¡°I¡¯ll exin inside, Madam,¡± Tessa replied.


    Mrs. Del nodded. They both escorted Adaline inside and headed straight to her room.


    ¡°Someone, please make some warm sweet tea,¡± she requested as Del¡¯s maid rushed in hurriedly. The woman in her forties nodded and hurried away.


    Tessa and Del Quirino settled Adaline, who was growing paler, on the bed. Del stepped out of the room momentarily and seemed to make a phone call. Tessa helped Adaline and covered her with a nket, while the maid brought the warm sweet tea. Tessa thanked her and helped Adaline drink it.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? What happened to Adaline?¡± Del asked anxiously. The middle-aged woman gently stroked Adaline¡¯s head. Adaline closed her eyes, but it was clear she wasn¡¯t asleep. Tessa handed her phone to Del. Del moved the screen out of her reach due to her failing eyesight.


    ¡°Oh my God¡­ what else is this?¡± she eximed after finishing reading the article shown by Tessa. ¡°That woman really intends to stir up trouble,¡± she muttered again.This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.

 Part 84

    ¡°We only found out during lunch today. People were whispering, and it turns out it¡¯s all about this.¡±


    ¡°It seems that soon the journalists will be looking for the truth. And I think Adaline shouldn¡¯t go to the office for a while, especially since her condition doesn¡¯t allow it,¡± Tessa nced at her friend. Her face was slightly flushed after finishing her warm sweet tea.


    Del nodded. She reached for her phone again and called Antony. ¡°Yes, Adaline is at home.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Antony. I understand. But please, Adaline might not be able to work for a few days ahead. For more details, I¡¯ll consult with her obstetrician first.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, thank you, dear.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    She hung up the phone. Del stroked Adaline¡¯s forehead again. ¡°The doctor wille shortly. You eat first, okay?¡± she asked gently.


    Adaline just nodded faintly. She didn¡¯t even have the energy to speak.


    Adaline could only manage to put three spoonfuls of food into her mouth. But even that was an improvement.


    The doctor arrived shortly afterward. She was a doctor Adaline knew, her husband¡¯s high school friend. The woman whom Altezza consulted for her pregnancy program before. She was also the doctor Adaline chose as her obstetrician.


    ¡°Auntie,¡± she greeted as the housemaid escorted her to the room Adaline upied.


    ¡°Stefanie, thank you foring,¡± Mrs. Del weed her.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, Auntie.¡± The woman approached Adaline. ¡°Ada, how are you feeling right now?¡± she asked, reaching for Adaline¡¯s hand and feeling her wrist.


    As doctors typically do, Stefanie checked her blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. She also palpated her abdomen and examined Adaline¡¯s belly with the device she brought. The rumbling sound from the device echoed quite loudly in the spacious room.


    ¡°How many hours did you sleepst night?¡± Stefanie asked after putting back her equipment into herrge ck bag.


    Adaline stared at her. ¡°Three hours,¡± she replied more like a murmur. Stefanie nodded.


    ¡°Have you eaten the prescription I gave you yesterday?¡± Adaline nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll administer an IV drip. I¡¯ll put in medication so you can sleep. After that, I¡¯m sure your body will feel fresh again.¡± Adaline just nodded her head slowly.


    Stefanie reached for the IV drip from her doctor¡¯s bag, searching for a suitable ce to hang it. Luckily, there was a clothes hanger in the corner of the room. She hung it there.


    ¡°This is not harmful, Auntie. Its contents are a recement for Adaline¡¯s body fluids so she doesn¡¯t feel too weak. Once this fluid is used up, the IV drip can be removed directly. I¡¯ll let you know how to remove itter,¡± Stefanie continued. Del simply nodded.


    Stefanie attached the IV needle to Adaline¡¯s right hand. Then she injected a liquid into the IV tube. After that, she wrote a prescription.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Don¡¯t consume the vitamins from yesterday anymore. Rece them with these.¡± Stefanie handed the sheet to Del, then looked at Adaline, who seemed to be getting drowsy. ¡°Remember to rest a lot. Sleep if you¡¯re sleepy. And most importantly, eat properly and don¡¯t stress too much.¡± Shemanded, which was answered by Adaline¡¯s slow nod. Soon Adaline fell asleep.


    Del, Tessa, and Stefanie left Adaline¡¯s room without closing the door. They walked to the living room.


    ¡°I¡¯ve read the article, and I¡¯m quite shocked,¡± Stefanie said as they sat down. ¡°It¡¯s not my ce toment, but as Adaline¡¯s doctor, I think this is serious.


    ¡°The mental impact of something like this is very serious, Auntie. Especially since a pregnant woman¡¯s emotions are different from those of an ordinary woman. And for Adaline¡¯s condition itself, this is quite worrying. Because even without burdens like this, her physical condition is already quite weak,¡± Stefanie exined.


    Tessa looked at the doctor seriously. ¡°What¡¯s happening with Adaline, Doctor?¡± she asked, concerned.


    ¡°Adaline already has a history of anemia before pregnancy. And when pregnant, especially with a twin pregnancy, her condition can be said to worsen,¡± Stefanie answered.


    ¡°For women without a history of anemia, it can still be difficult at times. Especially with a previous history. Such a situation is very worrying, especially when approaching the childbirth process.¡±


    Tessa recalled, before marriage, Adaline would easily get tired. Her face often looked pale, although it never reached the point of fainting.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to say this, but it¡¯s better to be prepared for the future. And I¡¯ve mentioned this to Adaline before. The risks of Adaline¡¯s pregnancy are considered quite serious. There¡¯s no problem with the baby. Its development is normal. The issue lies with Adaline.


    ¡°I¡¯ve exined all the possibilities to Adaline. Not to scare her, but to make her more aware. Her current condition can have a negative effect on her. Including the possibility of Postpartum Depression.


    ¡°Indeed, this is still a possibility. But if during pregnancy Adaline feels stressed and anemia persists, such a situation could ur.¡±


    ¡°Is that like Baby Blues?¡±


    Stefanie shook her head. Baby blues and Postpartum Depression are different. Baby blues can recover within two weeks after giving birth, especially if the people around provide mental support. Baby blues might not even happen.


    ¡°But Postpartum Depression is even more dangerous. In its worst case scenario, patients experiencing this kind of depression always think about ending their lives.


    ¡°But that¡¯s just the worst-case scenario. I hope Adaline doesn¡¯t experience it. So here, family support is very much needed for her mental recovery.


    ¡°And besides that, there¡¯s also the possibility of bleeding after giving birth. We also need to be prepared for the possibility of the baby she¡¯s carrying being born prematurely.¡±


    Tessa paled, and Del shed tears.


    ¡°Besides, I¡¯m still observing Adaline¡¯s condition. Is it possible for her to have a normal delivery? Because I rmended to her to consider a cesarean section during childbirth.


    ¡°But Adaline insists on refusing it. Despite all the possibilities I mentioned earlier,¡± she continued. ¡°I don¡¯t want to scare anyone, I just want everyone to know Adaline¡¯s condition so they can help during her pregnancy and delivery.¡±


    Once again, Del and Tessa simply nodded. Del reached for Stefanie¡¯s hand and squeezed it.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± she said sincerely.


    Stefanie cupped the back of the middle-aged woman¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s my duty, Auntie. On the other hand, as Altezza¡¯s friend, I want the best for them. And honestly, I¡¯m very impressed with your daughter-inw. She¡¯s a strong and resilient woman. I believe she¡¯ll be okay,¡± Stefanie said, and Del nodded in agreement.


    Stefanie then stood up. ¡°It¡¯s not that I¡¯m notfortable, but I have an afternoon shift duty,¡± she said again. ¡°If anything happens, Auntie, just call my cell phone. And don¡¯t forget the prescription,¡± she reminded.


    Del nodded again. When the middle-aged woman offered to escort her, Stefanie declined.


    Del sat back on the sofa. Tessa just looked at her. The woman cried silently. After a moment, she looked up and nced at Tessa, then smiled.


    ¡°Thank you, I don¡¯t know what would happen if it weren¡¯t for you,¡± she said, reaching out her hand. Tessa took it and held it.


    ¡°Adaline is my friend, and I already consider her like my own sister,¡± Tessa said sincerely, which was met with Del¡¯s nod.


    ¡°Thank you again,¡± Del said as she wiped away the remaining tears from the corner of her eyes.

 Part 85

    Adaline woke up feeling thirsty. She nced at the clock on the wall of her room and realized it wasn¡¯t toote yet. It was only eight in the evening, but all the windows were already covered with thick curtains.


    Adaline nced at her bedside table and saw that her ss was empty. She got up from bed to walk to the kitchen. However, as she was about to turn towards the kitchen, she could hear a conversationing from the living room.


    ¡°Mom doesn¡¯t want to know. However you do it, you need to fix all these problems,¡± her mother-inw¡¯s voice sounded.


    ¡°Antony has tried to shut down the news portal. But some of the news has already spread through personal ounts. So, it¡¯s harder to contain,¡± Adaline heard Antony¡¯s voice too. It seemed they were discussing the news Adaline had read earlier that afternoon.


    ¡°What about the TV station? Their social media ounts? That woman has even uploaded a lot of evidence photos of you guys. Even if we report her, it¡¯ll only make things worse,¡± Del continued.


    ¡°Darling, calm down,¡± Sir Benjamin¡¯s voice could be heard calming his wife.


    ¡°How can I calm down!¡± Del eximed loudly. It seemed like herposure hadpletely worn off. ¡°This is all because of you! I don¡¯t care how, but stop her, or I¡¯ll take matters into my own hands!¡± Del threatened again.


    ¡°Mom¡­¡± Altezza¡¯s voice interjected.


    ¡°Why? Do you think I can¡¯t do it?! Do you think I¡¯m incapable?!¡± Del challenged. ¡°Even right now, I can destroy everything she considers her hard work,¡± she hissed sharply.


    Adaline couldn¡¯t see her husband¡¯s response, but she knew for sure that her husband couldn¡¯t argue.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you two days. Sort everything out. Make her retract all the news she¡¯s made. If necessary, make her appear in public and apologize.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care and don¡¯t want to care how you do it. The news must disappear, and my son¡¯s reputation must be restored!


    ¡°If she dares to challenge me, then she¡¯ll face the consequences.


    ¡°Tell her that Del will shatter Jovanka Lawrence¡¯s name instantly. And she won¡¯t have anything left afterward,¡± Del¡¯s voice echoed.


    Footsteps were heard, which Adaline presumed to be the steps of her father and mother-inw. Adaline still stood leaning against the wall, blocking her view from the direction of the living room.


    ¡°Listen to what your mother says, Al. You know she never jokes,¡± Antony¡¯s voice sounded weary.


    ¡°I¡¯ve tried, Antony. I don¡¯t understand how she could be this insane,¡± Adaline could hear Altezza¡¯s voice, sounding wounded.


    Yes, however, that woman was a woman he once loved. Or maybe his husband still loves her.


    Adaline chose not to listen. Her thirst wasn¡¯t worth the pain she would hear if she continued to eavesdrop on the cousins¡¯ conversation. She returned to her room and chose toy her body down.


    Meanwhile, in the living room.


    ¡°What are you really afraid of?¡± Antony looked at Altezza.


    Altezza massaged his forehead. He himself didn¡¯t know how he felt at the moment. Confused, annoyed, angry, he felt all at once.


    Confused because of Jovanka¡¯s changes. Annoyed because of his impulsive actions. And angry because all of this caused chaos in his life and especially hurt his wife. Although he had promised that their marriage would be fine.


    ¡°What should I do now, Antony? I don¡¯t even recognize her anymore. She¡¯s like a stranger,¡± he muttered softly.


    Antony snorted. ¡°Did you really know her all this time?¡± he taunted. ¡°You¡¯ve just assumed that you knew her, Brother. When in reality, you didn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Altezza looked at Antony with a furrowed brow.


    ¡°All this time, you¡¯ve just been lulled by false happiness. She only gave you false happiness.


    ¡°You were too captivated by her to realize that everything she gave you was just a mirage. Your heart was blinded by something you mistook for love.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°But love isn¡¯t like this, Al.


    ¡°And now she¡¯s losing you. Not because she¡¯s afraid of losing your love but because she¡¯s afraid of losing her admirer.


    ¡°You!


    ¡°You thought all this time you knew her, when all she showed you was the image she wanted you to see. Not her true self.


    ¡°Love isn¡¯t always beautiful. It¡¯s not always happy. Nor is it always miserable.


    ¡°Love is about giving and receiving. But all this time, she¡¯s been receiving too much and you¡¯ve gotten nothing.


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t love you. Not since the beginning and not now either.


    ¡°I beg you, Altezza, open your eyes and realize who you are and your worth in her eyes. Don¡¯t waste something right in front of you for something unclear in the distance.


    ¡°Get rid of your mother¡¯s feelings. Act firmly. Before everything falls apart and you truly lose everything.


    ¡°Do what your mother asks, or else she¡¯ll carry out her threat. What she said earlier. And in the end, there will be nothing left for both of you.


    ¡°Neither you nor Jovanka will be happy together.


    ¡°I¡¯ve seen how terrifying Quirino¡¯s wives can be. I¡¯ve experienced it. Don¡¯t let yourself go through the same. Your mother isn¡¯t someone you can fight against.¡± That was Antony¡¯s clear warning. Altezza could only groan.


    The next morning.


    From : XXX


    ¡°I won¡¯t lose. Altezza will be mine forever.¡± (05:22)


    ¡°I won¡¯t fear anyone¡¯s threats. Altezza will protect me because he loves me.¡± (06:37)


    ¡°Get ready to leave your husband¡¯s side. Because eventually, he wille back to me.¡± (07:12)


    Adaline set her phone down after reading all those anonymous messages. She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, hoping to calm her slightly aching heart.


    Adaline had just woken up right as the short hand of the clock pointed to nine while the long hand pointed to three. Last night, she managed to sleep soundly despite listening to unpleasant conversations. And since she was dered unemployed, she chose to go back to sleep after fulfilling her duties, and now she felt really hungry.


    Adaline rose and descended slowly from her bed. The stiffness in her back felt increasingly intense, requiring her to asionally massage it and apply the ointment given by the doctor to make it feel a bit morefortable.


    She cleaned herself up, exchanging her pajamas for short-sleeved maternity wear with a long skirt reaching her calves. Now wearing a long skirt felt morefortable.


    She stepped out of the room and saw her mother-inw sitting in front of the TV, which was broadcasting a cooking show.


    ¡°Adaline, dear. You¡¯re awake,¡± she greeted cheerfully.


    Adaline knew her mother-inw was trying to create afortable atmosphere for them, as if nothing urgent was happening in their household. So Adaline would act ordingly. For herself, and for the twins in her womb.


    ¡°Are you hungry?¡± she asked again, to which Adaline nodded.


    Her mother-inw approached and led her to the dining table, seating Adaline while she herself went into the kitchen area.


    ¡°I purposely bought salmon. I¡¯m curious to make tom yam soup. I think it tastes delicious, but who knows what you¡¯ll think. If you like it, eat plenty. If not, we can make something else.¡±


    Her mother-inw served a bowl of diced fish with reddish-colored sauce. Its aroma instantly heightened Adaline¡¯s appetite.


    Her mother-inw ced steaming white rice as her mealpanion on a separate te. Adaline murmured her thanks and began to eat. The tangy and slightly spicy vors tingled her tongue. Unconsciously, Adaline finished two tes of rice along with two bowls of salmon.


    Del smiled, observing her daughter-inw¡¯s hearty appetite, hoping that her health would improve.


    As the housekeeper cleared away the empty dishes, Del handed Adaline a small te containing the vitamins she needed to consume. The red and orange-colored vitamins quickly went into Adaline¡¯s mouth.


    Afterward, Del guided Adaline back to the living room.


    ¡°Darling, when should we go baby shopping?¡± Del asked eagerly. She turned on her tablet and opened the online shopping app. ¡°I actually prefer shopping in person. But I¡¯m afraid of tiring you out, so it¡¯s better if we shop online.¡± Del handed her tablet to Adaline, disying several baby products.


    ¡°Is it okay to shop this quickly?¡± Adaline asked. Nheless, she began to swipe the screen, looking at baby cribs.


    ¡°Why, are you afraid of getting the wrong size?¡± Del chuckled softly, to which Adaline nodded. ¡°It¡¯s okay, if it¡¯s too small, we can donate it. Meanwhile, if it¡¯s too big, we can wait until the size is suitable. Oh, by the way, have you found out the gender?¡± Mrs. Del asked enthusiastically.


    ¡°Stefanie said the gender is already visible. But she thinks it¡¯s better to wait another six or seven months to be sure.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s Stefanie¡¯s prediction?¡±


    ¡°Stefanie said they¡¯re a pair of twins,¡± Adaline replied without turning her head from the screen. But the sound of pping drew her attention. Del looked joyfully amused.


    ¡°Let¡¯s hope her prediction doesn¡¯t change,¡± she said cheerfully. Adaline just nodded in agreement.


    Adaline returned to her room with the intention of taking a nap. Before lying down, she purposely checked her phone, fearing there might be iing messages. She regretted it because apparently, Jovanka hadn¡¯t stopped bothering her.


    From : xxxxx


    Haven¡¯t I told you that he wille back to me? (08:55)


    A photo apanied the message. Altezza, casually dressed, appeared to be entering through the side door of a house.


    Adaline sat on her bed. Her chest felt tight. She had tried to calm her heart and think positively, but with all this¡­


    Adaline still tried to believe that Altezza was now fulfilling his mother¡¯s request. But she couldn¡¯t lie to herself that he could be doing something else there.


    Adaline set her phone down again without intending to reply to the message she received. What for? To make that woman feel victorious? No, Adaline wouldn¡¯t do that.


    Shey on her bed and rubbed her increasingly prominent belly. ¡°Whatever happenster, you both must know that I love you very much,¡± she said, continuing to rub her belly until she fell asleep.

 Part 86

    Altezza parked his car on the side of the house as usual, a habit he¡¯d maintained since long ago. Although he no longer had spare keys to the house, old habits die hard. He knocked on the iron door several times until the figure of a middle-aged woman he knew appeared.


    ¡°Is Jovanka in?¡± he asked, to which the woman nodded in response. Altezza followed her inside, heading towards the kitchen and choosing to wait in the family room. In the past, Altezza would have gone straight upstairs to Jovanka¡¯s room. But this time, he refrained. He was a stranger now, so he was mindful of his position.


    ¡°Altezza, Honey, you¡¯re here,¡± the woman eximed. She looked elegant in a maroon long-sleeved dress with a knee-length skirt, her face beaming.


    She half-ran towards Altezza, trying to kiss him, but he dodged.


    ¡°I came to talk,¡± Altezza said tly. He nced at Cindy, Jovanka¡¯s assistant, and Evans, her manager.


    ¡°Speak,¡± Jovanka¡¯s demeanor turned cold. ¡°I don¡¯t have much time; I have an event with one of the TV stations,¡± she said arrogantly.


    ¡°Whatever you¡¯re nning, I hope you¡¯ll stop it, Joe,¡± Altezza requested coldly. ¡°You¡¯ve caused enough chaos by bringing up our marriage in articles. And I don¡¯t want you appearing on TV discussing it.¡±


    Jovanka looked at him cynically. ¡°Chaos, you say? That¡¯s not chaos. I¡¯m just stating facts.¡±


    ¡°Yes! Facts! Stale facts you¡¯ve been hiding all this time,¡± Altezza replied, still maintaining controlled emotions.


    ¡°As long as I¡¯m asking you nicely, Joe, do what I ask. Don¡¯t waste the career and reputation you¡¯ve cherished and maintained. A career you deem more important than me.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense. You¡¯re not threatening me, Al!¡± Jovanka retorted, her fists clenched. ¡°However it takes, I will make you two separate.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care about all the reputation and hard work. And you¡¯re clearly more important to me. Why do you think I¡¯m doing all this?¡± she pleaded. Altezza didn¡¯t respond, which infuriated Jovanka.


    ¡°What about a win-win solution?¡± she offered again, still attempting to negotiate. ¡°I¡¯ll stop all the media coverage. I¡¯ll decline all interview invitations. But in return, youe back to me and promise that you¡¯ll leave her after she gives birth,¡± Jovanka bargained.


    Altezza lifted the corner of his mouth, smiling mockingly as he shook his head softly. ¡°No, Joe. I can¡¯t do that.¡± Then he quickly corrected himself. ¡°I won¡¯t do it!¡± His voice sounded resolute.


    ¡°In that case, I won¡¯t do what you ask either,¡± Jovanka shrugged.


    Altezza looked at Evans, seeking the help of the tall man. ¡°Try to persuade him,¡± he said openly. ¡°Your time is only until tomorrow. If he continues to roam the television and spread false news about our rtionship, I can¡¯t guarantee he¡¯ll survive in this industry anymore,¡± he warned.


    Altezza didn¡¯t even nce at Jovanka, considering his business with her concluded. Nodding to Evans as a sign of farewell, he walked away.


    ¡°I¡¯m not afraid, Altezza!¡± Jovanka shouted as Altezza walked away. ¡°What can you possibly do to destroy me? Nothing!¡± She continued yelling even though Altezza was no longer visible. Jovanka looked at Evans. ¡°Give me your phone,¡± she reached out to Evans.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Evans asked, his forehead furrowed.


    ¡°I know you¡¯re a coward. You¡¯ll surely do what Altezza says. You¡¯ll reject all invitations from TV stations inviting me to rify the issues regarding my marriage with Altezza. And I don¡¯t want that to happen!¡±


    ¡°Jovanka, listen to me. What Altezza said is true. It¡¯s better if we stop all of this. And your career will be fine,¡± Evans advised.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°You know Altezza¡¯s threat is not to be taken lightly. You don¡¯t know the power of the Quirino family. We are under the umbre of his family¡¯s agency,¡± Evans reminded.


    Jovanka smirked and snorted. ¡°There are still plenty of agencies out there that would hire me, Evans,¡± she said arrogantly. ¡°You¡¯re just too cowardly. The Altezza family isn¡¯t a ruling family. They¡¯re not the owners of this country. What can they possibly do, huh?¡± Jovanka challenged.


    ¡°Joe¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop it, Evans!¡± she shouted. ¡°Give me your phone right now!¡±


    Jovanka moved quickly and began to forcefully open Evans¡¯s bag, searching for the t object he always used specifically to handle Jovanka¡¯s business calls. After finding it, she handed it to Cindy.


    ¡°If there are any interview invitations, just say yes. I¡¯ll dly ept them,¡± she said firmly.


    ¡°Joe¡­¡± Evans called her name again, but she ignored him.


    Altezza had run out of ways to make Jovanka stop her antics. As he entered the hotel parking lot, he became even more tired with the multitude of journalists waiting for him. Even the hotel security seemed overwhelmed by the sudden and simultaneous onught of people.


    Fortunately, they didn¡¯t recognize his car, so he continued to drive into the family¡¯s designated parking area. With a firm m, he closed his car door, walked hastily to the elevator, hoping not to encounter anyone on his way.


    In his room, he summoned his secretary. ¡°Call thepanywyer right now. Tell him toe here. And tell him to be cautious of the journalists,¡± he instructed. His secretary nodded and left without much talk. The thirty-year-old woman felt scared alone with the aura Altezza disyed.


    Forty-five minutester-which felt like a year to Altezza-the middle-aged bespectacled man arrived. His face appeared calm, seemingly undisturbed by the chaos. Altezza weed him and asked his secretary to bring drinks.


    ¡°So, what can I do?¡± the man asked straightforwardly.


    ¡°I¡¯ve talked to her nicely. But she refused. Now she¡¯s going around announcing our already-ended marriage,¡± Altezza replied without beating around the bush. Hiswyer clearly knew what and who Altezza was talking about.


    ¡°It¡¯s quite difficult, actually. Considering she has proof of your marriage while you don¡¯t have evidence that you¡¯re divorced. The only way is to tell the truth to the public. Although it will tarnish both of your reputations. But we can make the public think that she¡¯s in the wrong,¡± thewyer said again.


    ¡°We can even sue her for defamation. About the unpleasant behavior and vition of cyberws. The evidence is her posts on social media and her appearances in public that have harmed you and your family. What do you think?¡±

 Part 87

    ¡°We only have today and tomorrow. Just send her a legal notice first. If she doesn¡¯t respond, you appear in public tomorrow. I¡¯ll tell you all the facts about my rtionship with her. My witness is Antony,¡± thewyer nodded in agreement.


    Altezza then revealed everything from the beginning of their meeting. The woman¡¯s request for a secret marriage and her desire to have a child, which was rejected by her due to career issues.


    ¡°Would you mind if we make a rification video? At least to tell the public that what I¡¯ve stated is with your knowledge,¡± thewyer suggested.


    ¡°Is that necessary?¡± Altezza actually objected. He didn¡¯t want his face to be known publicly for something as negative as this. But thewyer nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll think about it. But please remember, I don¡¯t want my wife involved. Especially not to be used as the third party.¡±


    Again, thewyer nodded. Shortly after, he bid farewell. Altezzay back in his chair, sighing heavily. His head throbbed painfully. This issue made him feel as if the weight of the entire world was on his shoulders.


    Altezza suddenly smiled. How¡¯s his wife? Was she awake? Last night, she seemed so peaceful in her sleep. She looked so calm and beautiful. Once all of this was over, he had to apologize to her. Everything that happened was because of his mistakes. If only he could turn back time, he truly wanted to resolve all of these issues at their core so that she wouldn¡¯t bother him and their household anymore.


    Altezza reached for his phone. Suddenly, he missed his wife so much. He nced at his watch; it was past lunchtime. His wife must be awake by now. Altezza pressed his wife¡¯s number and initiated a video call.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    A lovely smile always greeted him from his wife. ¡°How are you, my wife, the mother of our children?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just finished lunch. How about you? Have you had lunch?¡± she asked from a distance.


    His wife¡¯s face looked so fresh and radiant. A rosy hue started to appear on her face, unlike yesterday when she looked pale. Altezza nodded in response to his wife¡¯s question.


    ¡°How are the twins? Are they mischievous?¡±


    ¡°No, they¡¯re very good. They also ate well. I¡¯m embarrassed; I might end up finishing all the food stocks at Mamma¡¯s house.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, just finish them. Mamma and Padre are wealthy, so they won¡¯t go bankrupt that quickly. Do you want anything? I feel like a soon-to-be husband who¡¯s being asked for a lot of things by his wife,¡± heined, making Adalineugh.


    ¡°Other people don¡¯t want to be bothered by a wife craving strange things. Yet, you want it. You¡¯re strange. If I ask for fruits from the neighbor¡¯s garden guarded by a fierce dog, would you get them?¡±


    ¡°No problem. As long as you don¡¯t ask me to steal the neighbor¡¯s underwear, I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    ¡°Why would I ask for that?¡± Adalineughed again. ¡°Aren¡¯t you busy?¡±


    ¡°Not too much. This is the perk of being born into a wealthy family. I¡¯m free to do anything, anytime. While others work hard, I can sleep on a stack of papers, and no one would stop me,¡± he replied casually.


    Once again, Altezza¡¯s words made Adalineugh. Herughter brought a sense of joy to Altezza.


    ¡°Have you taken your vitamins?¡± Altezza asked attentively. Adaline nodded. ¡°Get plenty of rest, eat healthy and delicious food. Don¡¯t worry about bankrupting my parents,¡± Altezza emphasized.


    ¡°Yes, I will. I¡¯ll finish all the food in the kitchen.¡±


    ¡°Great. That¡¯s my wife. Well, if you need anything, just let me know. I¡¯ll inform you beforeing home.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t miss me too much. If you do, hold it in for now. You can express your longing when I¡¯m back home.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to give me a long-distance kiss?¡± Altezza saw his wife widen her eyes.


    ¡°Ugh..¡±


    ¡°Why ¡®ugh¡¯? I¡¯m craving a kiss from my wife. If you don¡¯t do it, I¡¯ll pout.¡±


    ¡°The one pouting is the baby.¡±


    ¡°Yes, if the baby¡¯s mom is craving but doesn¡¯t get it. But this is the baby¡¯s daddy craving. So, it¡¯s the baby¡¯s daddy pouting too. Come on, give the daddy of the kids a long-distance kiss.¡± Altezza pushed his lips toward the screen. Adaline smiled shyly, but she finally gave Altezza a long-distance kiss. ¡°Hmm¡­ Suddenly my battery feels one hundred percent charged. Thank you, Mama of the kids. Daddy of the kids is going back to work to earn money and buy food for Grandma and Grandpa.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Papa. Work hard.¡±


    ¡°Yes, dear. See youter.¡±


    ¡°See you.¡±


    Altezza pocketed his phone and stood up, still wearing a smile on his face. He truly felt calm now. At least, despite the problems he faced, he could still see his wife¡¯s soothing smile.


    As they say, a husband¡¯s happiness lies in his wife¡¯s happiness. If the wife is gloomy, the entire household will be gloomy as well. But if the wife is happy, the house will be filled with joy.


    Altezza returned to his oversized chair, attending to his tasks. He indeed had problems. But on the other hand, amidst those problems, he had thousands of backbone supporters who relied on his decisions. He couldn¡¯t just shirk his responsibilities.


    Meanwhile, at Del¡¯s residence, Adaline felt ashamed under her mother-inw¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°So, that¡¯s how it is. When given a long-distance kiss, suddenly you feel cheerful. Your face suddenly flushes, the smile doesn¡¯t disappear. If only I knew, I would¡¯ve asked Altezza to ask for long-distance kisses more often,¡± Del remarked.


    ¡°Mamma,e on¡­¡±


    ¡°Just bear with her. It¡¯s called being in love,¡± Emma quipped mischievously. Emma and Violet hade to visit Del¡¯s residence to check on Adaline.


    ¡°Yes, I can understand. After all, we got married without dating, so the sweetness of being in love only started to kick inter. I was young once too,¡± Del replied, chuckling.

 Part 88

    Joanna widened her eyes at the 40-inch t screen, shocked to see the news being broadcasted on one of the TV stations where her fellow model colleague was currently being interviewed.


    Once again, she felt blindsided. This time, it was her close friend, Adaline, being disparaged by her friend, Jovanka. And she had just found out about it.


    It was all because of her manager who always restricted her from using her phone and social media.


    Joanna red at her manager. ¡°You¡¯re really heartless, Fer!¡± she shouted, disregarding the hotel guests who were enjoying their snacks. ¡°This is not trivial, Fer. My friend is the subject of discussion here.¡±


    ¡°Joan. I know you care about Jovanka, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Care about Jovanka? I couldn¡¯t care less about her!¡± Joanna snapped again.


    Her somewhat timid manager furrowed his brows and then widened his eyes with his mouth agape.


    ¡°Give me back my phone!¡± she demanded.


    Her manager retrieved the t object from his bag and handed it to Joanna. Joanna searched for her friend¡¯s contact. However, instead of contacting Adaline, she called Tessa.


    ¡°Tessa, I¡¯m sorry, I just saw the TV. What really happened?¡±


    Joanna ran her fingers through her hair roughly as she paced back and forth in the hotel restaurant area. Ignoring the attention of the people who were now focused on her upon hearing Tessa exining all the details. From Jovanka¡¯s questions and statements at the cafe, the photo she anonymously sent to Adaline, to the chocte gift purposely sent to thepany.


    ¡°Damn! I can¡¯t believe she¡¯s that crazy. I¡¯m truly sorry, Tess. It¡¯s all because of me. I never thought it would turn out like this.¡± Joanna genuinely regretted it. She had unwittingly be the bridge between Jovanka and Adaline, inadvertently hurting her good friend in the process.


    ¡°I¡¯m actually curious, Joan. Our initial meeting at the restaurant that time. Was that idental, or did you already arrange to have lunch with her?¡± Tessa¡¯s question made Joanna pause for a moment.


    ¡°The first one was purely coincidental,¡± Joanna replied honestly. ¡°As for the second one, I¡¯m not sure. Because at that time, I said I was meeting up with you guys. And suddenly she wanted to tag along with me.¡±N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°So my gut feeling was right that she intentionally wanted to stir up trouble with Adaline.¡±


    ¡°Oh my God, poor Adaline. By God, if I knew Joe was that evil, I would never have introduced her to you guys.¡±


    ¡°How would I know she would be this extreme? I couldn¡¯t even handle hearing people¡¯sments here. Let alone Adaline.¡±


    ¡°How¡¯s Adaline doing?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s staying at her inws¡¯ house. It¡¯s safer there. Reporters can¡¯te in. Aunt Violet and Aunt Emma are also staying there to apany Adaline. Luckily, she resigned. If not, I wouldn¡¯t know how to calm her down. You know how she is. Even when she¡¯s sick, she would never admit it.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that girl is really something else. She¡¯s getting crazier by the day. This isn¡¯t just impatience anymore, it¡¯s madness.¡±


    ¡°Enough, don¡¯t curse someone else¡¯s child. Like you¡¯re not crazy yourself. You¡¯re already ranting and raving like a mad person, you know.¡±


    ¡°Whatever. Venting out emotions is a sign of our mental health. And it keeps us looking young.¡±


    ¡°Really? Says who?¡±


    ¡°Says me. I just said it, didn¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°Ohhh¡­ I thought you were quoting from a book.¡±


    ¡°So what if I was quoting from a book?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just weird because you¡¯re the one who dislikes books the most. Working in the entertainment world but yourself being clueless.¡±


    ¡°Damn you. Always making fun of me. Fine, I¡¯m going to call Adaline. My hair¡¯s going to curl if I keep talking to you.¡±


    ¡°I actually enjoy talking to you. My hair suddenly bes straight. So I don¡¯t need to straighten it every morning.¡±


    ¡°You devil.¡± Joanna cursed and immediately ended the call. She then continued the call with Adaline. ¡°Ada¡­¡± she eximed as Adaline answered the phone.


    ¡°Joan, my ears hurt!¡±


    ¡°Sorry. Ada, I¡¯m in Bali right now, staying at your inws¡¯ hotel. Can you tell your inws to give me the presidential suite when Ie there?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what you want!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, obviously, it¡¯s what I want. How are my future nieces or nephews? Are they healthy?¡±


    ¡°Very healthy.¡±


    ¡°Still having morning sickness?¡±


    ¡°Nope. My appetite has actually increased.¡±


    ¡°Wow, when I meet them, they¡¯re going to be as big as a horse, right?¡±


    ¡°Oh, Joanna. I don¡¯t think they¡¯ll be that big. It¡¯s only been five months.¡±


    ¡°What do you want as a souvenir? Aromatherapy candles? Aromatherapy tea? Aromatherapy soap?¡±


    ¡°No need. Your safe return here is already enough. But if you can, bring lots of milk pie. And also some pies.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s easy. Just transfer the money to my ount.¡±


    ¡°Oh, Joanna.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright, what wouldn¡¯t I do for a pregnant woman? If not tomorrow afternoon, I¡¯ll be back the day after tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Take care.¡±


    ¡°Roger that¡­¡± Joanna hung up her phone.


    She sat back, leaning against the chair. The TV show had changed. Jovanka¡¯s face was no longer visible. Even the food she had eaten earlier had gone cold. But she was still curious about the news that had brought her friend¡¯s name up.


    Joanna opened the online media app and started reading every article she saw. All the news stories told the same tale. Jovanka had a secret marriage and was then left because her husband chose to marry another woman. Some media outlets even spiced up the story with details like theck of parental approval, her husband¡¯s forced arranged marriage by his parents, and many other phrases.


    Joanna growled in anger. If only that woman were in front of her, Joanna would love to yank her hair. Consider it representing Adaline. Knowing her friend wouldn¡¯t do something so extreme.


    But don¡¯t think Adaline is weak. Behind her silence, Adaline always carried out vicious revenge. Joanna had witnessed it before.

 Part 89

    Jovanka flopped onto her favorite plush sofa, lifting both legs and asking her assistant to massage them. Evans stood facing the window, observing the multitude of journalists gathered outside Jovanka¡¯s house.


    ¡°Everyone¡¯s gone crazy. I¡¯m being chased by the news. And now everyone knows who Jovanka¡¯s husband is. Soon enough, Altezza wille back to me,¡± Jovanka said proudly.


    Evans turned to look at Jovanka. ¡°Are you sure he¡¯lle back?¡± he asked sarcastically.


    Jovanka narrowed her eyes at him. ¡°Of course. Haven¡¯t I told you he loves me too much?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too confident,¡± Evans replied. He walked closer and sat on a single sofa, reaching into his bag and handing her a white envelope.


    ¡°If he really loves you that much, he wouldn¡¯t send you this letter,¡± he continued.


    Jovanka roughly took the envelope and read it, then crumpled it. The letter contained demands-not requests-that instructed Jovanka to retract all her statements to the press and publicly apologize to the Altezza family. If she failed to do so within twenty-four hours, the Altezza family would take legal action against her for harassment, defamation, and vition of cyberws.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a bluff!¡± she eximed, tossing the paper aside.


    ¡°I warned you, Joe,¡± Evans retorted. ¡°Even some of your contracts are suspended right now. And the ads that have been runched are being pulled again. Do you know how much in penalties you¡¯ll have to pay?¡±


    ¡°How much exactly? It won¡¯t bankrupt me, will it?¡± she grunted.


    ¡°Not for now. But what about the future?¡± Evans questioned.


    ¡°There will still be plenty of other contractsing my way,¡± she said confidently. ¡°Enough. You all go away! I¡¯m tired,¡± she dismissed them, choosing to close her eyes.


    On the other hand,


    ¡°How¡¯s it going?¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Fine. If he¡¯s still holding out, pull everything back. Let him pay all the penalties. Includingpensating for the losses from the failed film release.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll make sure everything is wiped outpletely. I might even take back everything my child has given him. I¡¯ll make him return to ground zero where he came from.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°Just wait for my instructions. Rx, your position is secure. I¡¯ve even prepared a recement who¡¯s far more brilliant than your protege.¡±


    Back to Jovanka.


    Jovanka woke up in a very good mood. Today she would again attend invitations from several television stations to rify the news she had created. Jovanka was proud of herself. She felt that this was her greatest achievement. Starting with her chat with one of the gossip ount owners, now all the news about her began to spread throughout the country. No one would suspect that she was the instigator of the news. She merely sowed the wind, and the public reaped the whirlwind. The storm of news about her secret marriage.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Cindy¡­!¡± she shouted. Her assistant appeared shortly after.


    ¡°Yes, Joe.¡±


    ¡°Bring breakfast here. I¡¯m getting ready,¡± she said, then headed to the bathroom.


    ¡°But Joe¡­¡±


    Jovanka turned around, looking cynically at her assistant. ¡°What else?¡± she askedzily.


    Instead of answering, Cindy grabbed the TV remote, which had just been reced after being damaged by its owner previously, and switched it to a channel airing a gossip show. Jovanka¡¯s attention shifted.


    A famouswyer, nked by his colleagues, appeared to be giving a rification.


    ¡°Here we, as the Altezza Quirino family, want to file awsuit against Miss Jovanka Lawrence for allegations of defamation, unpleasant behavior, and vitions of cyberws.


    ¡°We have sent her a prior notice, but received no response. Therefore, from now on, if she continues to spread false news, we will take legal action against her.


    ¡°But if she retracts her news and apologizes publicly, we will withdraw ourwsuit,¡± the leader said.


    ¡°What is the Quirino family¡¯s response to this case?¡± asked one of the journalists.


    ¡°The Quirino family has entrusted this case to us. As for the next steps, we are still awaiting a response from Miss Jovanka. That¡¯s all we announce. Thank you.¡±


    Jovanka growled. Her head was pounding. Her body trembled with anger. She tightly gripped the remote in her hand until her knuckles turned white. She was about to throw the remote again, but Cindy stopped her.


    ¡°Enough, Joe. There¡¯s no use in breaking things,¡± Cindy said. Jovanka looked at her and roughly brushed off Cindy¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Evans?¡±


    ¡°He hasn¡¯t arrived yet.¡±


    ¡°Contact him, tell him toe here as soon as possible!¡± She stormed into the bathroom.


    Evans was already in her room after getting dressed. ¡°What¡¯s on my schedule today?¡± he asked while applying cream to his face.


    ¡°Nothing. Except for your appearances on television,¡± Evan replied curtly.


    ¡°How can there be nothing?! You saidst week that my schedule was packed for several months ahead!¡±


    ¡°That was before you ruined everything!¡± Evan retorted, his tone rising in frustration. ¡°Now the agency is calcting all the losses you have to pay. Including the cancetion fees for the film you boasted would be sessful and boost your name in the entertainment industry.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible. How could this happen?¡± Jovanka looked at Evans incredulously.


    ¡°What¡¯s impossible and what can¡¯t happen, Joe? I¡¯ve told you that we are under the umbre of the Quirino family. In case you forgot, the owner of Kralligimiz is Antony Arthur Quirino, Altezza¡¯s cousin.


    ¡°And you yourself know that living in this industry is very easy to rise and fall. The length of your career doesn¡¯t guarantee your name will stay at the top, especially when you stir up controversies like this.


    ¡°Do you forget the case of a famous singer who imed to have a child with an official? Do you forget what happened to him now?


    ¡°There are no more on-air or off-air contracts for him.


    ¡°Or if you forget about the scandal of a famous artist who was ¡®allegedly¡¯ involved in a prostitution case? He lost his reputation. Completely disappeared from the screen.


    ¡°And now, you will end up just like them if you persist with your intention to sue your ex-husband.¡±


    Evans spoke with a firm tone, emphasizing each sentence to make the woman in front of him realize.


    ¡°You only have today to fix everything before you¡¯repletely destroyed, Joe. Admit that you¡¯re sorry. rify everything. We can move abroad. Start everything anew.¡±


    Jovanka remained silent. She nced at Evans wordlessly. Her eyes seemed distant. Meanwhile, Evans felt worried about what he saw.


    He was afraid Jovanka was plotting something sinister. Something beyond reason that would only further harm her.


    The woman suddenly stood up, her face hardened, showing determination. ¡°Which TV station invited me today?¡± she asked emotionlessly. Evans frowned but still informed her where they were going.


    Half an hourter, Jovanka was in the artist¡¯s dressing room of a TV station. The makeup artist had finished her makeup. The show would go live in fifteen minutes. And they all anticipated what Jovanka would say on the show, as it was clear Evans could no longer guess what was on Jovanka¡¯s mind right now.


    ¡°Wee back with our guest star who¡¯s been the talk of the town for the past few days. Who else but our supermodel, Jovanka Lawrence,¡± Evans heard the host call out to his actress.


    Jovanka emerged from behind the door, d in a long-sleeved white blouse paired with mocha-colored trousers that entuated her slender legs. She didn¡¯t forget to wear twelve-centimeter high heels thatplemented her appearance.


    Her face was perfectly adorned, her hair styled into beautiful waves. A radiant smile graced her face. However, Evans felt uneasy about the woman¡¯s actions.


    The small talk was over. ¡°So, what¡¯s yourment after the rification from the Quirino family?¡± the host asked again.


    ¡°I have noment on that. What¡¯s clear is that I¡¯m the one who feels wronged here.


    ¡°After six years together, now he¡¯s suing me back. I never expected him to leave me like this.


    ¡°A while ago, he just came back to my ce and asked me to return,¡± Jovanka replied sadly. The camera even zoomed in on her face, allowing the audience to see tears streaming down her cheeks.


    ¡°Really? He came back?¡±


    Jovanka nodded as she wiped her tears with the tissue handed to her by the host. ¡°He even took care of me when I was sick. He was so attentive. I have proof.¡±


    ¡°Yes, viewers. Miss Jovanka previously provided us with CCTV footage as evidence.¡± Then the host nced at therge screen behind him. ¡°This happened not long ago, as you can see from the date disyed below.¡± The presenter continued, pointing to the screen. In the footage, Altezza was seen entering the house through the back door. The date coincided with the incident when Jovanka was poisoned. ¡°Oh, he left the next day, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, he stayed with me all night. He even came back to my house two days ago. That¡¯s why I never expected thewyer to say such things to the public suddenly,¡± Jovanka said, tears welling up again.


    Then the screen showed thewyer¡¯sment that Jovanka had seen earlier that morning. ¡°He asks you to apologize and retract all your statements. What about that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure this isn¡¯t Altezza¡¯s doing. Altezza loves me so much. He wouldn¡¯t do something as cruel as this.¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s not Altezza, then who do you think did it?¡±


    Jovanka looked at the presenter with a sad look. ¡°His parents.¡±


    ¡°Meaning? Your inws?¡±


    Jovanka nodded. ¡°From the beginning, they never epted me. Even until now, they never considered me their daughter-inw.¡± Jovanka¡¯s tears flowed even more, engulfing everyone who saw her in sadness.


    ¡°And what about his current marriage? Is it true, as rumored, that their marriage was arranged? That Altezza doesn¡¯t love his current wife?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what Altezza told me. Unfortunately, I don¡¯t have proof for that. But I know that Altezza is also hiding it because he doesn¡¯t want his marriage to be known to the public.¡±


    ¡°But they held a grand wedding party.¡± On the screen behind Jovanka, excerpts from Altezza and Adaline¡¯s wedding were disyed. ¡°How could such avish party be considered secretive?¡±


    ¡°The party was indeedvish. But secluded. Just look at the guests, it was only family and closest business associates.¡± The presenter nodded again.


    ¡°That¡¯s true. If their marriage was based on love, they should have invited their friends too.¡± The presenter¡¯sment was met with a nod from Jovanka.


    ¡°Alright, viewers, let¡¯s take amercial break. After this, we have another guest who has a story somewhat simr to Jovanka¡¯s. Don¡¯t go anywhere.¡±


    Evans stared sharply at Jovanka. The woman truly disregarded his warning. It seemed she had no fear at all.


    Evans chose to stand by the exit, continuing to watch Jovanka. He was at a loss for words. He had lost a way to make Jovanka realize.


    Elsewhere,


    ¡°Destroy everything. Make sure not a single contract remains.¡±

 Part 90

    Adaline could only stare at the TV nkly. Eventually, what she tried to hide from her mother-inw and aunt was exposed. Adaline and her mother-inw had agreed to cover up the bad news that Jovanka was currently spreading. That¡¯s why ever since Adaline brought her mother-inw and aunt to Del¡¯s residence, they tried their best to keep both middle-aged women away from the television and engage them in various activities. Whether it was cooking, gardening, or just chatting. Turning on the TV was something they actively avoided.


    However, this afternoon, Del was careless. Violet turned on the television right when a program interviewing Jovanka was airing, and both women were transfixed by the contents of the interview. And during themercial break, their eyes turned towards her.


    ¡°Is there¡­?¡± both her mother and aunt asked simultaneously. Adaline could only offer them her smile.


    ¡°It¡¯s all just nder, Ma, Aunty,¡± she said reassuringly. ¡°That woman used to be Altezza¡¯s girlfriend. But their rtionship ended before we got married,¡± she continued.


    Both middle-aged women rose from their seats and approached Adaline, sandwiching her between them. Simultaneously, they gently stroked Adaline¡¯s hair and back. Meanwhile, their free hands tightly sped Adaline¡¯s.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to worry. That¡¯s why I asked Mom and Aunt to stay here. So you wouldn¡¯t be bothered by the unclear gossip from the outside,¡± Adaline said. ¡°You believe me, right?¡± she asked, both of them nodding in response.


    ¡°But you¡¯re okay, right?¡± Violet asked worriedly.


    ¡°Mom and Aunt saw for themselves how Altezza treats me,¡± they nodded again. ¡°That¡¯s enough evidence for me to refute that woman¡¯s ims,¡± she added, and they nodded once more.


    ¡°I just don¡¯t want you to get hurt, Darling. If there¡¯s anything, I beg you to tell me, okay?¡± her mother requested, and Adaline nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Everything will be fine. You trust me, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Darling. I trust youpletely. Whatever decision you make, as long as it¡¯s right, I¡¯ll stand by it. But remember, don¡¯t hurt yourself, okay?¡±


    ¡°Sure, Mom. I have to think about the babies in my womb. I can¡¯t make decisions that would harm myself recklessly.¡±


    Violet hugged her daughter tightly. ¡°You¡¯ve always been like this, solving everything on your own. Sometimes I feel like as a mother, I haven¡¯t fully been a mother. I¡¯m afraid you might not see me as one anymore.¡±


    ¡°Mom, don¡¯t talk like that. You¡¯ve always been Adaline¡¯s mother. Even though I wasn¡¯t born from your womb. But it¡¯s your hands that have taken care of me, nurtured me, fed me all this time. Your love that has helped me grow this far. If I¡¯ve be independent, me it on Dad,¡± Adaline teased.


    ¡°Why do you have to bring up yourte father?¡± her mother asked, puzzled.


    ¡°Have you forgotten the advice Dad gave me?¡± she asked, pouting. ¡°Dad always said, ¡®Handle everything you can handle on your own. But if you feel incapable, the choice is to either stop or ask for help.¡¯ That¡¯s why I try my best before giving up.¡±


    Violet nodded. ¡°That¡¯s why I didn¡¯t like your father. I wanted my child to pamper me. So I would have plenty of time to spoil myself.¡±


    ¡°Oh, did you forget? What made Dad fall in love with you was your resilience and independence. That¡¯s why Dad wanted me to grow up like you,¡± Adaline hugged her mother again. Unbeknownst to the woman who raised her, tears welled up in her eyes. Adaline wasn¡¯t her biological daughter, but her love for Adaline was no less than those women out there who could conceive and give birth to their own children.


    ¡°Am I not getting a hug?¡± Emma lightened the mood.


    ¡°Yes, my dearest Aunt. Come here, I¡¯ll hug you. Thank you for being my Aunt. For loving me and caring for my mother. I hope I haven¡¯t disappointed you. And I hope, in the future, I can be great women like you,¡± Adaline hugged Emma and sincerely kissed her cheek. The three of them thenughed tearfully.


    Del Quirino, who observed their interaction, also felt moved. Unconsciously, her tears fell. She was proud of her daughter-inw. Her gentleness, her affection, and her resilience. Adaline possessed all of that, and Altezza was truly fortunate to meet a woman like Adaline Scott. In her heart, Del vowed that she would make her son kneel before Adaline. She wouldn¡¯t allow herself to lose a daughter-inw like Adaline. Her only son might not find another figure like Adaline, who even though wounded, still tried to heal the wounds of others. Altezza had to realize it, whether through his own means or through Del¡¯s.


    Meanwhile, at Altezza¡¯s ce¡­


    Quirino Corp, the two-story architecture office owned by Altezza, lost its tranquility. Due to the news spread by Jovanka, now journalists were causing chaos down there. The residents around the housing area alsoined to Altezza because of the disturbance.


    Yes, Quirino Corp wasn¡¯t located in a tall building like Coskun or Kralligimiz. Quirino Corp stood in an elite residential area far from the hustle and bustle because that¡¯s the tranquility Altezza sought. And that tranquility had been elusive for him in recent times.


    Altezza¡¯s office door was knocked, and his secretary appeared with a panicked face.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°S-Sir,¡± the woman who had worked with him for the past five years stammered.


    ¡°Yes, what is it?¡± Altezza replied, annoyed.


    ¡°Downstairs, Jovanka Lawrence,¡± the woman said, causing Altezza to tense up instantly. He looked at his secretary and then stood up.


    ¡°Now, what else does she want?¡± Altezza asked, irritated.


    ¡°The security team can¡¯t handle the journalists. And she said Jovanka Lawrence is at the forefront and keeps shouting your name even though she¡¯s been told not to. Should we contact the police?¡± she asked, confused.


    Altezza shook his head. If the police were toe here, the situation would only escte. He chose to go down and find out for himself what Jovanka really wanted.


    ¡°What else do you want, Joe?¡± Altezza asked coldly right in front of the woman.


    Altezza had no intention of talking to the woman one-on-one. He needed witnesses more than falling into her trap again.


    ¡°Why are you doing all this to me?¡± The woman¡¯s voice sounded sad and loud. The voices that had been raised by the journalists suddenly disappeared, making the area silent.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Altezza asked, confused.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you admit to everyone that I¡¯m your wife? That you don¡¯t love that woman?¡±


    ¡°Jovanka! Are you out of your mind?¡± Altezza looked at her with disbelief.


    ¡°Yes! I am out of my mind! And it¡¯s all because of you! You told me you were going to leave her. But now you¡¯re leaving me instead! Why? Because that woman is pregnant? I¡¯m also carrying your child!¡± Jovanka¡¯s loud shout was met with surprise from his employees and the journalists who intentionally brought recording devices closer to Jovanka.

 Part 91

    Altezza couldn¡¯t afford to get trapped. He couldn¡¯t answer Jovanka¡¯s questions recklessly because otherwise, his words would be weapons against himter.


    ¡°Pregnant? How could that be?¡± he asked with a mocking smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re really heartless! After touching me, you just tossed me aside like that? Just because your parents didn¡¯t approve of our rtionship, you abandoned me just like that. How could you be so heartless?¡±


    ¡°Jovanka?!¡± Altezza growled softly. He truly didn¡¯t understand the drama Jovanka was ying out, and why she brought her parents into it.


    ¡°If you really don¡¯t want me anymore, there¡¯s no point in me living.¡± Then somehow, the woman already had a small knife in her hand and swiftly sliced her wrist. Altezza was shocked, as were everyone else present.


    ¡°Jovanka?!¡± Altezza yelled as the woman¡¯s body swayed. Altezza approached and reached for her body. He panicked when he saw blood flowing so profusely from Jovanka¡¯s hand. ¡°Get the car ready!¡± he shouted.


    Altezza loosened his tie and quickly tied it around the girl¡¯s arm, hoping his action could help a little.


    He carried Jovanka¡¯s body and took her to the car waiting in front of his office. He asked his driver to drive quickly to the nearest hospital.


    Jovanka was rushed into the operating room, and Altezza waited. Evans-Jovanka¡¯s manager-and Cindy-Jovanka¡¯s personal assistant-arrived some timeter.


    They stood in front of the operating room, worried. It was understandable; Jovanka had lost a lot of blood, and now the doctor was stitching the torn wound on her wrist.


    ¡°We¡¯ve sessfully stitched her wrist,¡± said the doctor attending to Jovanka. ¡°The wound was quite deep, and it seems the patient had taken medication prior to this.¡± The doctor nced at Altezza. Altezza looked at Evans.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Sheined of a headache, so I gave her aspirin,¡± Cindy replied nervously.


    The doctor nodded in understanding. ¡°We¡¯ve taken a blood sample. Because there¡¯s a possibility the patient also consumed medication of another kind. I¡¯ll inform you once theb results are out. My advice for now is that you consult a psychiatrist about the patient¡¯s condition. Because if a patient attempts suicide, there¡¯s a psychological issue involved.¡± The doctor¡¯s suggestion was met with a nod from Evans.


    After the doctor left, Altezza stared sharply at Evans. ¡°I don¡¯t know how she could leave without my knowledge.¡± Evans tried to defend himself. ¡°We were discussing the canceled contract issues from the employer as well as all the penalties Jovanka has to pay. She said she had a headache and wanted to sleep. I made sure she went to her room before I left; I didn¡¯t know she would run to your ce.¡±


    Altezza continued to stare coldly at the man. ¡°Of course, she left with a well-thought-out n, Evans. She deceived you. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t havee along with the journalists and disturbed me,¡± Altezza replied cynically.


    Evans remained silent. He nced at Cindy, who looked confused and nervous. ¡°Do you know something?¡± Evans asked sharply.


    ¡°What?¡± The woman jumped. ¡°Wh-what do you mean?¡±


    ¡°The business phone was with you after she snatched it from me. It¡¯s clear there are journalist contacts in there. Who contacted them? You or her?¡±


    Cindy looked at Altezza and Evans alternately. Both men stared at her sharply. Cindy paled, her head bowed instantly. She was truly scared, especially when Altezza gave her a cold-blooded killer look.


    ¡°She¡­ she asked me to contact a certain name. She said she would give exclusive news to him. She asked me to send an address to that man. That¡¯s it,¡± Cindy replied stuttering.


    Altezza rubbed his temples. Evans did the same. Shortly after, a nurse pushed a gurney where Jovankay pale on it. Her hands were connected to IV tubes and blood transfusion.


    ¡°We¡¯ll move the patient to the treatment room,¡± the nurse said. Evans, Altezza, and Cindy followed.


    After seeing Jovanka¡¯s condition, which Altezza deemed okay, he finally left. But Evans stopped him.


    ¡°Can we talk privately?¡± he asked. Altezza thought for a moment then nodded. ¡°Contact me immediately if she wakes up. Or if she asks for something strange,¡± Evans instructed Cindy before leaving the VIP room.


    Evans led Altezza to the quiet area of the hospital yard. ¡°Speak quickly. I don¡¯t want to waste my time,¡± Altezza said coldly.


    ¡°Are you really going to be like this to her? After six years together? Don¡¯t you feel sorry for her?¡± Evans asked.


    ¡°What should I feel sorry for, Evans? I¡¯ve done the best I could. I¡¯ve given her chances. But she¡¯s the one who always squandered the opportunities I gave her.¡±


    ¡°But not by destroying her like this, right?¡± Evans asked again.


    Altezza frowned. What did Evans mean? Who was destroying whom?


    Altezza hadn¡¯t done anything to Jovanka at all. He wasn¡¯t the type of petty man who would destroy someone just because he didn¡¯t like them. Moreover, he was the one who had pushed Jovanka to seed in the first ce. How could he destroy her?


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you mean?¡± Altezza asked.


    ¡°You threatened her, didn¡¯t you forget? You asked her to stop all those stories.¡±


    ¡°I did,¡± said Altezza, and he did indeed threaten her, but it was all empty threats. ¡°I did ask her to stop all of it. But she ignored it. That¡¯s why mywyer intervened,¡± Altezza replied frankly.


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯ve received a legal notice from her too. But I didn¡¯t expect you to act so extreme by asking employers to cancel all contracts and demanding Jovanka to pay all the penalties. She could go bankrupt, Al. There won¡¯t even be anything left of her if she has to pay all the penalties from those contract cancetions.¡±


    Altezza¡¯s brow furrowed even deeper. He didn¡¯t understand what Evans was saying. He had nothing to do with Jovanka¡¯s job cancetions. He didn¡¯t even know what kind of work she was involved in. If he had known, he wouldn¡¯t have been caught off guard when Jovanka signed contracts behind his back.


    And it seemed Evans knew he was talking to the wrong person. ¡°You¡¯re not behind all of this?¡± Altezza shook his head.


    ¡°I don¡¯t even understand what you¡¯re saying,¡± Altezza replied irritably. ¡°If I knew who she was signing contracts with, do you think we would end up like this?¡± Altezza countered, making Evans even more convinced that Altezza had nothing to do with all of Jovanka¡¯s contract cancetions.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving. I don¡¯t want her to bother me again no matter what her problem is. We don¡¯t have any rtionship anymore, so sort out your own problems.¡± And Altezza truly left Evans to his confusion.

 Part 92

    Altezza stormed into the house with explosive anger. He couldn¡¯t fathom all the surprises thrown at him withmon sense.


    He searched for his mother¡¯s whereabouts, disregarding the presence of Gian and Antony who were visiting his home. In the family room, ire, Adaline, Mrs. Del, Mrs. Brianna, Mother Violet, and also Emma were visible. How could everyone gather at a time like this? It¡¯s as if everything had been nned beforehand, he wondered silently.


    ¡°Mamma, can we talk?¡± he asked his mother sharply. Altezza was not being friendly or greeting people as usual, and it clearly caught everyone off guard.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± his mother asked confused, but she still got up and followed her only son.


    Altezza entered his father¡¯s study, leaving the door open. Del followed in and closed the door behind her.


    ¡°What did you do to Jovanka?¡± Altezza asked coldly, without beating around the bush.


    Del frowned and looked at her son puzzled. ¡°What did I do?¡± she countered.


    Altezza stared at his mother sharply. ¡°Don¡¯t pretend to forget, Mamma. You¡¯re the one who threatened me that you would ruin Jovanka if she didn¡¯t rify our rtionship.¡±


    ¡°Mamma terminated all her contracts and demanded her topensate for all the losses, that¡¯s what Mamma did!¡± Altezza growled, looking at his mother with restrained anger.


    Altezza knew his mother was angry, but what she did was unforgivable. How could she destroy a career that someone had worked so hard to build just like that? And Altezza was even more furious because his mother¡¯s actions had nearly cost someone their life.


    ¡°So what if I did?¡± Del retorted, looking back at her son challengingly. Her petite stature forced her to look up to her son. ¡°I gave an ultimatum. I gave you two days to fix it. Don¡¯t me me if you didn¡¯t seed.¡±


    ¡°Because of your indecisiveness, that woman is spreading more rumors and tarnishing our family¡¯s reputation. My daughter-inw¡¯s reputation. Do you think I should just stay silent?!¡± Del retorted, looking back at her son passionately.


    ¡°But Mamma, it¡¯s not that easy to stop gossip,¡± Altezza replied softly. ¡°I¡¯ve been trying to contain it. But she didn¡¯t heed my warnings.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because she knows you¡¯re just bluffing,¡± Mrs. Del replied coldly. ¡°But I¡¯m not you. I prefer to take action,¡± Mrs. Del added, still maintaining herposed demeanor.


    Altezza ran his hand through his hair and rubbed his face roughly. ¡°But not like this, Mamma. You¡¯ve destroyed what she has built for so long in the blink of an eye,¡± he said sadly.


    ¡°So, what do you want me to do? Show her pity? No, dear. I¡¯m not that kind,¡± Mrs. Del replied.


    ¡°Mamma, she tried tomit suicide,¡± Altezza said again, trying to get his mother¡¯s understanding.


    ¡°That¡¯s her choice. If she dies by suicide, it¡¯s her fate,¡± Mrs. Del replied emotionlessly.


    ¡°Mamma!¡± Altezza eximed.


    ¡°Altezza!¡± someone retorted with an equally loud shout. Altezza turned and saw his father and cousin walking into the room. ¡°Is this what you¡¯re doing to your mother?¡± his father asked in a softer tone. ¡°After all, she¡¯s the woman who gave birth to you. Respect her!¡± his father whispered. Antony stood silently with his arms folded across his chest.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Padre, please ask Mother to stop all of this,¡± he requested softly.


    ¡°Why should your mother stop?¡± his father asked without emotion.


    ¡°Padre¡­?¡± Altezza looked at his father with pleading eyes.


    ¡°Why? Do you feel sorry for her? Do you still love her?¡± his father asked, investigating with his eyes.


    ¡°Not like that, Padre¡­ I¡¯ve told you, I don¡¯t love her anymore,¡± Altezza replied in frustration.


    ¡°Then what? Pity?¡± This time Antony spoke up. Altezza looked at his cousin sharply.


    ¡°Humanity,¡± Altezza replied tly. He looked back at his mother with pleading eyes. ¡°Mamma, don¡¯t destroy her like this. Appreciate all her hard work all this time.


    ¡°If she goes bankrupt, who will take care of her family?¡± He continued to plead with his mother.


    Del smirked mockingly. ¡°Her family? What do you know about her family?¡± she asked her son. ¡°After years together, do you know who her parents are?¡± Altezza fell silent. ¡°Do you know what their jobs are? Do you know where they live?¡± Altezza looked at his mother bewildered.


    For all those questions, Altezza clearly didn¡¯t know the answers. But why was his mother questioning it now?


    ¡°You don¡¯t know, do you?¡± his mother asked, still with a mocking tone. ¡°All these years you¡¯ve known each other, she never introduced you to her family like you never introduced her to us. Even though we¡¯re not far away from each other.


    ¡°You know why? Because she has lost her humanity.


    ¡°And now you defend her for the sake of humanity? Do you think I¡¯ll be moved?


    ¡°No. There is not an ounce of pity from Mamma for that woman,¡± Del replied again, this time with a tone of disappointment and sadness in her voice.


    ¡°Mamma¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop whining like a child, Altezza. She¡¯s not someone you should defend,¡± his mother said harshly. ¡°If you forget, there¡¯s Adaline whose feelings you should care about.¡± She gestured outside. ¡°Why do youplicate your life by taking care of someone who is none of your business?


    ¡°She¡¯s not even deserving of your sympathy.¡±


    ¡°Mamma. Jovanka is the backbone of her family. She has to support her siblings. If she loses her source of ie. If she loses all her money. How will she and her family survive?¡± Altezza still tried to change his mother¡¯s mind.


    ¡°Do you think I care?¡± Mrs. Del still looked at him tly.


    ¡°Mamma? How could you be this heartless?¡± But as Del was about to answer, Altezza¡¯s phone rang. ¡°Yes?!¡± he asked with a shout.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°What?! Alright, I¡¯m going there now,¡± he said before putting his phone back into his pocket.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± his mother asked.


    ¡°To deal with the mess you created,¡± he replied tly.


    ¡°Never go see her again, Altezza. She means nothing to you. Your wife now is Adaline,¡± his mothermanded loudly, but Altezza ignored her.


    ¡°Mamma, please. Don¡¯t let me be as insensitive as you,¡± he said coldly, disregarding his mother¡¯s shocked expression, as well as his father¡¯s and cousin¡¯s.


    Altezza left without another word. He didn¡¯t even notice Adaline standing right beside the study door. In silence, Adaline just watched her husband¡¯s back with empty eyes.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± ire touched Adaline¡¯s shoulder, trying to snap her out of it. Adaline turned and saw ire looking at her sympathetically.


    She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself, but her tears just fell freely.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± ire hugged her sister-inw and tried tofort her.


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have eavesdropped,¡± Adaline replied with a bitter smile in ire¡¯s embrace. ¡°They say, if we eavesdrop, it¡¯ll hurt more. And indeed, it hurts this much, ire,¡± she said softly.


    ire hugged her friend and gently rubbed her back. Adaline returned the hug and gripped the end of ire¡¯s clothes tightly.


    Her tears flowed in ire¡¯s embrace.


    What happened between Altezza and his mother made Adaline realize that she never meant anything to him. Altezza might say he wants to fix their marriage, but it¡¯s clear that Jovanka¡¯s position still can¡¯t be reced. He still loves his ex-wife.


    Her heart ached. It felt like thousands of needles piercing her entire body simultaneously and pulling them out together, only to stab her again repeatedly.


    ¡°Adaline..?¡± her mother-inw¡¯s voice filled her ears. Adaline froze. She tried to wipe her tears that flowed so freely.

 Part 93

    ¡°Mamma..?¡± She shifted her embrace to her mother-inw. ¡°Forgive me,¡± she said amidst her sobs. ¡°It¡¯s all because of my mistake. If only I had refused everything from the beginning. None of this would have happened. Altezza wouldn¡¯t have treated you like that.¡±


    ¡°No, dear. It¡¯s not your fault. It¡¯s all that woman¡¯s fault for not realizing her position. You¡¯re not to me, dear. I¡¯m the one at fault for involving you in all of this.¡± Del hugged her tighter.


    ¡°Mamma¡­¡± But suddenly, Adaline groaned softly. She held onto her stomach, which suddenly felt painful, while her other hand gripped Del¡¯s arm for support.


    ¡°Adaline? What¡¯s wrong?¡± Adaline still held onto her stomach and even slowly sat down on the floor. Her hands gripped her mother-inw¡¯s hand even harder until the middle-aged woman winced in pain.


    ¡°Mamma¡­¡± she said more softly. Adaline bit her lip to stifle her groans, ignoring her mother-inw¡¯s calls. Her vision became blurry. Her chest felt tight, and her breath became short andbored. Cold sweat covered her forehead and temples. ¡°Mamma¡­ please¡­ the baby¡­ hurts¡­¡± and after that, she couldn¡¯t see anything but darkness.


    Elsewhere.


    Altezza sprinted up the final stairs that would lead him to the rooftop of the hospital building. Once again, Evans messed up. Jovanka escaped from her room and attempted suicide again. She stood on the edge of the rooftop¡¯s boundary wall, threatening to jump if they didn¡¯t call Altezza for her. Altezza caught sight of her when he parked his car earlier, and he wanted to curse everyone for their negligence.


    Altezza stepped closer to the metal door when he heard Evans shouting, trying to persuade Jovanka toe down.


    ¡°Joe,e down!¡± Evans ordered coldly.


    ¡°I¡¯ve told you I won¡¯te down! It¡¯s either jump or Altezza.¡± She shouted amidst the wind. ¡°Tell Altezza toe here and fetch me then I¡¯lle down!¡± She ordered again.


    ¡°I¡¯m here!¡± Altezza shouted, making everyone turn their gaze to him as he just emerged from the emergency exit. ¡°Come down, Joe. Don¡¯tmit more sins.


    ¡°You¡¯re like a human without God.¡± He said coldly.


    ¡°Do you really not want me around, Al? You don¡¯t want to see me alive?¡± Jovanka appeared to wipe her tears roughly.


    ¡°Stop talking nonsense, Jovanka. Come down right now!¡± Hismand was harsh. Evans looked at him sharply, warning him to be gentler with Jovanka.


    ¡°I love you, Altezza. If you really don¡¯t want me anymore, I¡¯d rather die.¡± She took another step. And shouts of prohibition filled the otherwise silent floor.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be foolish, Jovanka. Suicide won¡¯t solve anything.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care!¡± She screamed. ¡°I don¡¯t care about anything anymore, except if you promise not to leave again.


    ¡°I swear I¡¯ll change and improve myself. I promise I¡¯ll be a good wife to you. And I promise I¡¯ll give you as many children as you want. Please,e back to me¡­¡± She pleaded with a pitiful tone.


    ¡°You know I can¡¯t!¡± Altezza snapped.


    ¡°Altezza!¡± Evans snapped back.


    Altezza was torn. He couldn¡¯t make any promises to Jovanka. But on the other hand, he didn¡¯t want to be the cause of the death of the woman he once loved. Jovanka¡¯s mental state was unstable. He knew that.


    ¡°Fine,¡± he replied ambiguously. ¡°Now,e down.¡± Altezza approached Jovanka and reached out his hand.


    ¡°Say you love me. You can¡¯t live without me.¡±


    Altezza growled. ¡°Yes, Jovanka. I love you and can¡¯t live without you.¡± He said half-heartedly but was rewarded with a wide smile from Jovanka.


    Jovanka epted Altezza¡¯s hand and immediately hugged him tightly. The doctor approached, and without Jovanka¡¯s awareness, injected a calming drug into her.


    They were now in Jovanka¡¯s VIP room. Evans, Altezza, and two doctors stood there. A man in his forties introduced himself as a psychiatrist. While the other man, not much older than Altezza, was the one who assisted in Jovanka¡¯s surgery earlier.


    ¡°Miss Lawrence can be said to have serious mental issues. From theb reports, Miss Jovanka¡¯s blood results showed traces of Alprazm. It¡¯s a medication for anxiety disorders and panic disorders. Usually, this medication is prescribed after consultation with a doctor, but it seems the patient obtained it illegally.


    ¡°The patient also shows signs of depression. Today, she has attempted suicide twice. There¡¯s a possibility she might try it again.


    ¡°Or she might choose self-injury or hurting herself. And that¡¯s one of the mental disorders. Or even worse, she might choose to harm others.


    ¡°She needs psychological therapy,¡± the psychiatrist concluded. ¡°My advice is, don¡¯t leave her alone for now.


    ¡°Until her wounds heal, you should provide strict supervision. After that, assist her recovery through consultations.


    ¡°There are many ways to heal if the patient truly wants to recover. But in mental health issues, the support of the environment ys a crucial role in healing,¡± she continued.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Altezza and Evans remained silent, lost in their own thoughts even after the doctors left.


    ¡°Help her. At least until the doctor deres her mental condition stable,¡± Evans finally spoke up.


    ¡°She¡¯s not my responsibility,¡± Altezza replied tly.


    ¡°She may not be your responsibility. But you¡¯re the reason why all of this is happening to her,¡± Evans eximed, not epting Altezza¡¯s response.


    Altezza looked at him sharply. He saw the woman lying pale on the bed. Whether he liked it or not, Altezza had to admit that Evans was right. He was one of the reasons Jovanka ended up like this, and he had to take responsibility.


    ¡°Just until the doctor says her condition is stable,¡± Altezza replied tly. He truly felt defeated and had no other choice.


    Meanwhile, in the same hospital, in a different room, everyone looked at Adaline in panic.


    ¡°The fetus is experiencing stress,¡± the thirty-five-year-old female doctor stated.


    Her eyes nced at the patient and the two middle-aged women standing with panicked faces beside the bed.


    ¡°Fanie already said that Adaline shouldn¡¯t be under pressure. This is the result, Aunt,¡± she replied in a more rxed tone. ¡°This time Adaline was lucky to receive prompt treatment. And Fanie hopes there won¡¯t be a second time. Because Fanie can¡¯t guarantee her condition if this happens again.


    ¡°Adaline¡¯s condition was already weak before. Her anemia hasn¡¯t been properly addressed. Plus, the twin pregnancy and stress.¡± Stefanie shook her head, unable to find the words. ¡°The bottom line is she needs to be kept away from anything that stresses her out. Because mental issues have a significant impact on pregnant women.¡±


    Violet melted. She squeezed her daughter¡¯s hand with affection. Her tears couldn¡¯t be held back anymore. She didn¡¯t want anything bad to happen to her daughter.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do everything to keep her calm,¡± Del replied with remarkable calmness. Stefanie nodded. Shortly after, she excused herself.


    Del looked at her sister-inw. ¡°We need to talk,¡± she said. Violet nodded. She followed Del out of Adaline¡¯s room, leaving Emma and the rest of the family to take care of her.


    All the ns in Del¡¯s head had beenid out. Violet simply nodded without intending to object. Afterward, there was only one sentence she uttered. ¡°Whatever decision Adaline makes, I¡¯ll follow.¡±

 Part 94

    Altezza finally managed to leave Jovanka¡¯s room. Last night, he had intended to leave the woman, but she had already woken up and asked him to stay and apany her through the night. While he had promised Evans that he would help Jovanka¡¯s recovery. And this morning, with the excuse of wanting to change clothes, she finally allowed him to leave after making Altezza promise to return.


    Altezza parked his car and entered the house through the side door. The atmosphere in the house was eerily quiet. Even his mother, who usually bustled around, was nowhere to be seen. Bik Minah, who was usually busy with cooking ingredients, was also absent. Perhaps the mothers had all gone to the market together in a group, he thought simplistically.


    He then entered his wife¡¯s room. In his heart, he felt guilty for neglecting herst night. He had to apologize and exin everything. He knew Adaline would understand. She was a woman full of understanding.


    He opened the door slowly and was stunned. Surprised by the sight of their room. His wife¡¯s bed was neatly made, and the curtains were drawn open, letting sunlight flood in. It was an unusual sight because as far as Altezza knew, Adaline usually went back to sleep after dawn because her sleep was often disturbed due to her frequent trips to the restroom.


    Altezza thought, perhaps this time his wife had gone shopping at the market with the other mothers. With that thought in mind, Altezza entered the bathroom and freshened up.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Altezza emerged from the room feeling refreshed, and at the same time, he heard voices chatting. He suspected the mothers had returned from their shopping trip. And sure enough, he could see the arrival of the three women who were almost the same age simultaneously. But strangely, they didn¡¯t bring any groceries. And he also didn¡¯t see Adaline among them.


    His mother looked at him with a gaze full of anger. Meanwhile, Violet and Emma regarded him with sad looks. Without a word, Emma and Violet chose to enter their rooms. While his mother stood motionless, staring at him.


    ¡°Mamma¡­¡± Altezza was about to start the conversation. He wanted to apologize to his mother for his rude behaviorst night.


    ¡°Do you want breakfast? Just ask the servant. I¡¯m tired,¡± his mother replied coldly.


    ¡°I want to apologize,¡± he said softly. His mother¡¯s steps, about to climb the stairs, stopped. ¡°Last night, I lost my temper. I¡¯m sorry for shouting at you.¡± His mother didn¡¯t respond and chose to climb the stairs. ¡°Mamma¡­ where¡¯s Adaline?¡± he asked again. Once again, Mrs. Del fell silent.


    ¡°Who¡¯s Adaline?¡± she asked tly.


    ¡°Mamma, don¡¯t joke. Of course, Adaline is my wife.¡±


    ¡°Oh, your wife¡¯s name is Adaline. I thought your wife¡¯s name was Jovanka,¡± she replied sarcastically.


    Altezza didn¡¯t want to argue with his mother. He still hoped his mother would give him an answer about Adaline¡¯s whereabouts. But instead of telling him about his wife, his mother continued to walk away, leaving him behind.


    Altezza tried to win back his mother¡¯s favor, but she remained indifferent. Right at the top of the stairs, his mother stopped, a moment Altezza thought was deliberately done to provide an answer. Unfortunately, Altezza¡¯s assumption was wrong because it turned out his mother stopped because she saw Altezza¡¯s father emerging from his room.


    ¡°Why did youe back?¡± Benjamin asked his wife. Hearing the question, Altezza frowned.


    ¡°I needed to change clothes. I¡¯ll be leaving again soon,¡± his mother replied and went into the room.


    ¡°Mamma?¡± Altezza tried to stop his mother. But she chose to ignore him.


    ¡°Your mother is tired, she wants to rest,¡± his father held Altezza back from following his mother into the room. ¡°Why did youe back?¡± The same question that had been asked to his mother.


    ¡°Padre?¡±


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be heading to the office?¡± His father asked again.


    ¡°I requested a few days off from the office,¡± he replied.


    ¡°Why? You never even ask for leave, even when your wife is sick. Does this have something to do with that woman?¡± His father asked again, this time with a harsh tone.


    ¡°Padre, she¡¯s depressed. Last night, she attempted suicide again. The doctor said she needs to be treated, and she needs me to recover,¡± Altezza spoke frankly. But instead of feeling pity, his father looked at him coldly. ¡°Padre?¡± Altezza waited for his father¡¯sment.


    ¡°Padre has noments,¡± the man replied coldly. ¡°Your mother¡¯s wordsst night already represent my opinion,¡± his father continued tly. ¡°But Al, there¡¯s one thing I want to know.¡±


    Altezza tensed up, looking at his father with a pounding heart. ¡°Do you love Adaline?¡± his father inquired.


    Altezza furrowed his brow, looking at his father in confusion. ¡°Why are you asking that?¡±


    Benjamin shrugged. ¡°Just my curiosity as a man,¡± he replied tly. ¡°Answer me, Al. Do you love Adaline?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, if you¡¯re still unsure, I won¡¯t say much. But act like a husband, Al. However she¡¯s the woman you chose to be your wife. Respect and honor her. Resolve what needs to be resolved. I won¡¯t oppose any decision you make in the future,¡± his father replied, then walked away, leaving his son behind. Altezza fell silent, trying to digest the meaning of his father¡¯s words.


    Altezza followed his father downstairs. The man walked to the dining table, sat down, and turned on his tablet while the household assistants prepared breakfast.


    ¡°Good morning, everyone,¡± a greeting came from the front door. Altezza saw Gian arriving in his work attire. He approached Sir Benjamin and gave him a brief hug.


    Shortly after, Del, Emma, and Violet also emerged from their rooms, looking fresher and having changed into new clothes. They entered the dining room together, and still, Altezza didn¡¯t see Adaline.


    It seemed like the question about his wife¡¯s whereabouts slipped out of his mouth unintentionally. Because everyone seemed to look in his direction. But none of them gave him an answer.


    They started breakfast in silence, finishing the ritual quickly. Unlike usual, which was always filled with light conversation.


    ¡°Do we need to take breakfast from here?¡± Del was the first to break the silence.


    ¡°No need. Adaline didn¡¯t ask for it either,¡± Violet replied.


    Del nodded, and the three middle-aged women simultaneously stood up from their seats. Gian also rose from his seat, while his father was still engrossed with his tablet.


    ¡°Can someone tell me where Adaline is?¡± His question froze the movement of the three middle-aged women.


    Gian looked at his cousin incredulously, his mouth wide open. ¡°Do you know something, Gian?¡± He asked his youngest cousin.


    ¡°Are you out of your mind?!¡± Gian retorted harshly. Altezza frowned, looking at Gian displeased. ¡°You don¡¯t know that your wife is hospitalized?¡± he countered with an using tone.


    ¡°Hospital?¡± Altezza was stunned and immediately stood up from his seat.


    ¡°Enough, Gian. He¡¯s too busy taking care of his ex-wife that he forgot his legitimate wife,¡± Mrs. Del replied, now pushing Gian¡¯s body towards the outside of the house.


    ¡°Mamma. Can you please exin?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have time,¡± his mother replied without intending to turn even the slightest bit.


    Altezza looked at his father, asking for an exnation, but his father was as cold as his mother.


    ¡°Padre?¡± Sir Benjamin raised his head from the tablet and looked at his only son.


    ¡°Your wife was taken to the hospital shortly after you left to see your ex-wife,¡± his father replied coldly, and Altezza felt his body go limp instantly.


    ¡°Which hospital?¡±


    ¡°The same hospital where your ex-wife is being treated,¡± his father replied again, then stood up and left him.


    Meanwhile, at the hospital.


    Adaline¡¯s POV


    Someone entered. I tried to sharpen my hearing. But who? Haven¡¯t everyone left? I asked everyone to leave earlier.


    I opened my eyes and saw the figure in front of me. He walked holding the IV pole. And he was wearing the same clothes as mine.


    ¡°Quite surprised to see you here,¡± he said with a mocking smile on his face. The woman was no longer pretending to be friendly as before.


    I press the button on the side of the bed, adjusting my position to half-sitting so I can clearly see her face.


    ¡°Are you feeling better?¡± I ask, genuinely curious. I nce at the bandage wrapped around her wrist, and reflexively wince in sympathy. The cut must have been painful. Judging by my reaction, she sneers mockingly.


    ¡°No need to pretend to care about me, Adaline,¡± she replies sharply.


    I simply smile. If she can respond like that, it means she¡¯s alright. At least I don¡¯t have to feel guilty.


    ¡°Now, what about you? Are you still holding onto your beliefs and refusing to let Altezza choose?¡± she asks again, trying to remind me of our previous conversation.


    I¡¯m not ready to answer her question yet because I have one for her too. ¡°Can I ask you something?¡±


    ¡°Just ask,¡± she replies curtly.


    ¡°Do you love Altezza so much that you¡¯re afraid of losing him?¡±


    Yes, I thought that might be the reason why this woman in front of me has challenged death not just once, but twice, because she loves Altezza so deeply and doesn¡¯t want to lose him.


    But it seems my guess is wrong. Because instead, the woman sneers and looks at me with disdain.


    ¡°Love is just nonsense, Adaline,¡± she says inly. ¡°As an adult woman, you should know that.¡±


    I try not to appear surprised. Okay, Jovanka doesn¡¯t really love Altezza. She¡¯s just obsessed and wants to have Altezza for herself. Now I just need Altezza¡¯s answer before I make any further decisions about our rtionship.


    ¡°So, are you still not going to let Altezza choose?¡± She also seems curious about my answer, repeating the same question.

 Part 95

    I nod. I look directly into her eyes to assure her that I¡¯m saying this sincerely. ¡°I¡¯ve already told you that I won¡¯t let Altezza choose. And I¡¯m still standing by my word.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t hold him back. You can keep my promise.¡±


    ¡°So you don¡¯t need to worry. If he truly loves you, he¡¯ll stay by your side.¡±


    ¡°Of course, he loves me. Do you still need proof for that?¡± She asks challengingly, reaching into her pocket. She hands me her phone. I know this probably won¡¯t be pleasant, but I still press the y button.


    I see the six-inch screen and I can confirm that the background in this video is part of the hospital roof.


    ¡°Say you love me. You can¡¯t live without me,¡± I hear Jovanka¡¯s voice clearly, despite the loud wind.


    ¡°Yes, Jovanka. I love you and I can¡¯t live without you,¡± Altezza answers. Even though I can¡¯t see him clearly, I can recognize the back of my own husband. The back I often see every morning.


    Tears well up in my eyes. My heart feels so painful. I can only bite the inside of my lip, hoping to hold back the pain in my heart for just a moment. Trying to keep these tears from flowing without permission.


    I hand the phone back to its owner. ¡°Congrattions,¡± I say sincerely. ¡°If my husband still loves his ex-wife, what can I do?¡± I say with a smile, trying to appear indifferent. She doesn¡¯t need to know how deeply her actions have hurt me.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± I hear her mocking reply. ¡°So now it¡¯s proven that he¡¯s crazy about me and afraid of losing me. So I hope you¡¯ll retreat gracefully.¡± I try to smile again.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry. I¡¯ll step back if that¡¯s what¡¯s needed. Now, could you leave? Because I¡¯m tired. I need to sleep.¡± I say. And the truth is just like that. Even though I¡¯m not sure if I can sleep or not after this.


    I watch the woman rise from her seat and leave me. Her gaze remains cynical and mocking. I ignore her scorn and choose to close my eyes because my body-or rather, my heart-feels so tired.


    Why does it feel like this? It shouldn¡¯t hurt this much if I don¡¯t have any feelings for Altezza. It shouldn¡¯t be like this if I just keep holding onto the contract we agreed upon from the beginning. It shouldn¡¯t hurt this much if only I didn¡¯t fall in love with my own husband.


    I close my eyes with the back of my hand free from the IV tube. ¡®Oh God, haven¡¯t I prayed to You every night to keep our marriage intact? To open my husband¡¯s heart so his love falls upon me? But why haven¡¯t You granted my prayer?¡¯


    I wipe my tears roughly. Alright. I just need to wait for Altezza¡¯s answer, right? Whatever Altezza sayster, I¡¯ll ept it. Whatever his answer is, that will determine the course of this story.


    ¡®Oh God, if what I hearter doesn¡¯t match what I want, then grant me strength, Your servant. I know that whatever Your decision is, it¡¯s the best. Strengthen this weak heart of mine, oh Lord. Amen.¡¯


    I don¡¯t know how long I dozed off. In minutes or hours. Because it feels like I just closed my eyes for a moment. But when I open them, I can see my mother, Mamma Del, Aunt Emma, and also my husband in front of me.


    ¡°Madam¡­¡± he calls softly.


    For God¡¯s sake, I¡¯ve missed his voice so much. My heart is pounding so hard, but my eyelids are filling with tears, especially when I see his grim and guilty face.


    I try to smile in response to his greeting. I know he¡¯s just as tired as I am, and I want to give him some peace. Because maybe this is thest thing I can do. His warm hand reaches out and gently holds mine, I turn my hand over just to return the grip. Who knows, this might be thest time we hold hands.


    ¡°How are you feeling?¡± he asks softly.


    Terrible. I answer in my mind. But of course, I don¡¯t want to add to his burden and say that. I love him too much to hurt him and let him know about my pain.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay. Our children are okay too,¡± I reply with as much strength in my voice as I can muster.


    I see my three beloved women leave the room. It seems they want to give us some privacy to talk.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± my husband says softly.


    I look at him puzzled. ¡°Sorry for what?¡± I ask softly.


    ¡°For everything,¡± he replies sadly. ¡°For all the mess that has happenedtely. It¡¯s all my fault,¡± he says with regret.


    I smile, squeezing his hand with thest of my strength. ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize. This is fate,¡± I answer sincerely. ¡°The scenario that God has written for us,¡± I continue.


    My husband looks stunned as he gazes at me. I just smile.


    ¡°How is Jovanka doing?¡± I prompt. There¡¯s no way I can tell my husband that the woman just came and said something unpleasant, right?


    ¡°Right now, she¡¯s starting to stabilize. Yesterday, she attempted suicide at the office by cutting her wrist. Andst night, she tried to jump from the building¡¯s roof,¡± my husband¡¯s voice sounds so mncholic. I really want to hug him. But I have to hold back.


    ¡°She needs psychiatric treatment, Madam. The doctor said, without treatment, there¡¯s a high chance she¡¯ll attempt suicide again. Or even harm herself. And it would be dangerous if she hurts someone else.¡±


    I simply nod my head. Even though I feel like everything my husband said isn¡¯t true. Jovanka does need psychiatric treatment, but not because she intends tomit suicide, but rather to rid herself of her obsession with Altezza. What that woman did in front of me clearly indicates that she is sane and is executing everything with a clear n. Jovanka just wants to toy with Altezza. She wants to make my husband feel guilty until he has no choice but to say ¡®yes¡¯ to her every demand. She ys her role so perfectly that even the experts can¡¯t distinguish between acting and reality. But I don¡¯t want to further burden my husband by voicing my thoughts.


    ¡°So what are you going to do now?¡± I ask, curious. Though deep down, I already have an inkling of what he¡¯ll say. But still, I want to hear it from him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he says softly. ¡°She doesn¡¯t have anyone here. She can¡¯t rely on anyone. No parents, no family to take care of her. While you still have your mother, Aunt Emma, and Mamma.¡± My husband¡¯s words make me want tough sadly. I tug at the corner of my mouth and smile, agreeing with whatever my husband decides.


    ¡°She needs help, and no one else can help her but me,¡± he continues, to which I respond with another nod. ¡°Would you be okay if I took care of her until she recovers?¡±


    I look into his eyes. There¡¯s a pleading look in them. I smile again.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°Would you leave her if I asked?¡± I want to ask him that in return, but I know I shouldn¡¯t burden him like that. Instead of expressing what¡¯s in my mind, I can only ask, ¡°Do you believe it¡¯s the best thing for her?¡± and I see him nod. ¡°If you believe it¡¯s the best for her, then do it. I won¡¯t object,¡± I reply, trying to sound strong.


    My husband smiles, looking pleased with what I¡¯ve just said. Little does he know that I¡¯m actually hurt by that decision. But seeing him glowing and optimistic, I can¡¯t help but smile along.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± he says, kissing the back of my hand. ¡°I know you¡¯ll understand my situation, Madam.¡±


    I stay silent. ¡®No, Al. I don¡¯t understand. I really don¡¯t want to understand. But this situation forces me to. As much as I understand my own worthlessness in your eyes.¡¯ My inner voice stings.


    ¡°Go on. Maybe she¡¯s waiting for you,¡± I softlymand. Not because I¡¯m willing to let him go, but because I can no longer hold back these tears. I don¡¯t want him to see them. I don¡¯t want him to see my vulnerable side.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°You just rx. I¡¯ll take good care of these babies. Go and take care of Jovanka until you feel you¡¯ve helped her enough,¡± Imand, still smiling.


    He smiles again and nods. He rises to his feet and kisses the top of my head. I try to bite my lip and keep smiling until he disappears behind the door.


    I thought I was strong, but I¡¯m not. Even before the door closes tightly, my tears burst forth uncontrobly.


    The three women I cherish appear and look at me sadly. I cry, sobbing in their embrace. ¡°Mother¡­¡± I reach out to my mother¡¯s body tightly, begging for her energy so I can endure.


    Mamma hugs me from behind. Her hands feel like they¡¯re stroking my arms, as if she¡¯s trying to send her positive energy to me.


    And my Auntie looks tearful in the corner of the bed while holding onto my foot.


    ¡®Oh God, I didn¡¯t think it would hurt this much. But it really does hurt. But for the sake of my children, I beg you to give me strength.¡¯


    I keep crying until my body feels limp. Even Stefanie is surprised to see me in such a state during her routine check-up visit. She must have seen my swollen eyes and red nose. But I still try to smile at her.


    Yes. At least I can still smile even though my heart is crying. Because I don¡¯t like to see the pitying nces people

 Part 96

    On the first day of Adaline¡¯s treatment, her room was so crowded. Emma, Violet, and Del faithfully waited for her. But when quitting time arrived, Gian, Antony, ire, Sir Benjamin, Duncan, and Tessa came to visit. Even Joanna, who had just returned from abroad, truly came bearing so many milk pies and pastries as Adaline had requested earlier.


    ¡°Finish them all. Not a single one should be left,¡± she said, cing her package on Adaline¡¯sp.


    Tessa protested loudly because Joanna didn¡¯t give her any souvenirs. So Joanna opened a package and gave Tessa one piece of milk pie.


    ¡°Just one, I don¡¯t want to see your saliva dripping,¡± she said mockingly. ¡°That¡¯s why ask your lover to buy you souvenirs. Aren¡¯t you ashamed to ask for souvenirs when your lover is very rich?¡± Joanna taunted Duncan. Duncan frowned, but the othersughed.


    They even had dinner in Adaline¡¯s room, although the nurse repeatedly reprimanded them for being too noisy. But what can you do? The atmosphere can¡¯t be calm when Tessa and Joanna are around. Especially this time, Gian tried hard to woo Joanna.


    By eight o¡¯clock, everyone chose to disperse. Except Joanna and Tessa. They insisted on apanying Adaline and said they wanted to reminisce.


    ¡°Adaline, are you okay?¡± Tessa started the conversation. Adaline, still sitting, looked at her friend.


    ¡°If you¡¯re asking if I¡¯m okay, the answer is no. I¡¯m not okay. But if you¡¯re asking if I¡¯m strong, I¡¯ll answer, yes. I¡¯m strong,¡± Adaline replied. Unconsciously, tears welled up in her eyes again.


    ¡°Adaline,¡± they both said simultaneously. They climbed onto the bed. Tessa on Adaline¡¯s side and Joanna near her feet.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to pity me. From the beginning, I already predicted all of this would happen. It¡¯s my fault for falling in love with the wrong person,¡± she whispered.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong, Ada. Everyone has the right to fall in love. And heartbreak is one of the risks we must endure,¡± Tessa replied wisely, and Adaline nodded.


    ¡°Not all love stories end happily. Although I always pray for us to end with a happy story,¡± Joanna replied. Once again, Adaline nodded.


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s just not the right time for her. And this is not over yet. You can still fight,¡± Tessa tried to make her optimistic.


    Adaline smiled. ¡°I haven¡¯t admitted defeat yet. Not until these babies are born.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I already say it to you, and to that woman?¡± Adaline felt unable to say her name.


    Tessa and Joanna now looked at her puzzled.


    ¡°I love him. I fell for him. And right now, I am letting him apany that woman. But I haven¡¯t given up.


    ¡°There¡¯s still time until these babies are born.


    ¡°I¡¯m still asking the Heart Owner to turn my husband¡¯s heart back to me.


    ¡°But if by the time these babies are born and he still hasn¡¯t made his choice. That¡¯s when I¡¯ll give up,¡± Adaline eximed with enthusiasm.


    Her two friends smiled. Each tightly grasped Adaline¡¯s hand. Adaline returned the smile and tightly grasped her friends¡¯ hands in return.


    Adaline did cry and feel down. Feeling unworthy of Altezza. Feeling her love wasn¡¯t deserving of Altezza. But her mother-inw¡¯s words made her change her mindset again.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    shback On


    After crying her heart out, Adaline finally fell asleep again. Then when she woke up, she saw her mother-inw sitting next to her bed with a book in her hand.


    Her mother and aunt were going downstairs for their monthly checkup, making Adaline feel guilty for forgetting her mother-inw¡¯s health.


    ¡°Thirsty?¡± her mother-inw asked. Adaline nodded. Mrs. Del handed her a bottle of mineral water with a straw attached. After quenching her thirst, Adaliney back down.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± her mother-inw said softly. Her hand gently stroked Adaline¡¯s head. ¡°You know I love you, right?¡±


    Adaline had heard it many times before. And she had nodded many times as well.


    ¡°I have failed once again to fulfill my promise. But this time, I swear, this will be myst failure. After this, I assure you he will never leave you.


    ¡°he just needs a strong push to realize. And this time, you need to help me. Will you?¡±


    ¡°Mamma?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you love Altezza?¡± the woman asked sadly.


    ¡°I love Altezza. I cherish him,¡± Adaline replied sincerely. Her mother-inw¡¯s face instantly lit up.


    ¡°And Altezza loves you too. he¡¯s aware of that. But he hasn¡¯t fully realized it and hasn¡¯t been able to express it.


    ¡°So please, don¡¯t give up on him. I want my child to be happy. And Altezza¡¯s happiness is you and your children,¡± she said, rubbing Adaline¡¯s belly.


    ¡°Give him time. Until you give birth. If by then he still denies his feelings, I will leave all decisions to you. But until that timees, you must follow everything I say. Agreed?¡±


    Adaline looked at her mother-inw puzzled. ¡°I¡¯ve said this to your mother, and she said she would follow whatever decision you make.¡± Adaline just nodded in agreement. She would follow the path her mother-inw gave her as long as it could make her attain Altezza¡¯s love. Perhaps this is the path that God has given her.


    shback off.


    Tessa and Joanna exchanged nces before turning their attention to Adaline. ¡°Are you sure?¡± they asked. Adaline simply nodded.


    ¡°Just pray. Hopefully what Mamam said is true. And hopefully everything ends happily.¡± Tessa and Joanna smiled and nodded, giving her their wholehearted support.


    The next day, after a visit from the doctor, Adaline was dered fit to go home. With the condition that she shouldn¡¯t tire herself out, shouldn¡¯t stress, and shouldn¡¯t neglect her nutrition and vitamin intake. Both her mother and mother-inw, along with her aunt, nodded in agreement with the doctor¡¯s advice.


    They went home with the chauffeur. Initially, Adaline wanted to visit Jovanka, but she changed her mind because she was afraid of feeling jealous.


    During midday after her return, Altezza also came home. Her face looked weary. She appeared visibly tired even though Adaline didn¡¯t know why. She smiled gently at Altezza, and Altezza, in turn, opened her arms, asking Adaline to step into her embrace.


    ¡°How are you?¡± Adaline asked.


    ¡°Fine,¡± Adaline replied. ¡°And you?¡±


    ¡°Fine,¡± she responded wearily.


    ¡°You look pale and tired. Is everything alright?¡± Altezza smiled thinly.


    ¡°If she always gets hysterical every time she sees me leaving, you consider that alright, then maybe I¡¯m alright.¡±


    Adaline felt sorry for her husband. She tilted her head up and cupped his face, stroking the area under his eyes with her thumbs.


    ¡°Anyway, you need to take care of yourself. Don¡¯t forget to eat. Don¡¯t forget to pray for everything to end soon,¡± Adaline said with a soft smile on her face.


    Altezza held both of Adaline¡¯s wrists and nodded. Adaline smiled at her husband¡¯spliance. Therefore, she tiptoed and kissed her husband¡¯s lips.


    Altezza was surprised by her wife¡¯s impulsive action. She returned the embrace and hugged her, despite being hindered by her wife¡¯s growing belly. She lowered her head and kissed her wife back with longing until they both gasped for breath.


    Afterward, they chuckled softly. Altezza gently pulled her wife. They sat on the bed, and Altezza positioned her wife on herp sideways. Adaline hugged her husband¡¯s neck and rested her head on his broad shoulder while Altezza gently rubbed her wife¡¯s belly.


    ¡°My good children. Take care of your mother if I¡¯m not around. Don¡¯t make your mother sick. I¡¯m sorry if I rarely spend time with you. Rarely apany your mama too.


    ¡°But I promise, after all of this is over, I will always be there for you,¡± she pledged firmly.


    Adaline was touched by her husband¡¯s words. She hugged her husband tighter as if not wanting to let go. She deeply breathed in her husband¡¯s scent and tried to remember it. Right now, Adaline missed him so much.     ¡°Do you have to leave again?¡± she asked, releasing their embrace.


    ¡°I told her I have to work. So I still have time until the end of the workday.¡±


    Adaline nodded. ¡°I¡¯m sleepy. Would you like to nap with me?¡±


    Altezza, who indeed felt tired, nodded. Adaline stood up and climbed onto the bed. Altezza followed her. Adaline turned her back to Altezza, asking him to hug her and their two babies at the same time. The man dly obliged.


    Altezza made his left hand a pillow for Adaline, while his right hand gently rubbed Adaline¡¯s belly in circr motions. He felt a faint movement and was surprised by it.


    ¡°Did our baby just kick?¡± he asked, startled.


    Adaline nodded. ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    ¡°Not at all. It¡¯s actually pleasant.¡±


    ¡°Oh God, how amazing.¡±


    Altezza got up from his resting ce. He lifted Adaline¡¯s top without permission and kissed her warm, bulging belly.


    ¡°Hello, my darlings. Don¡¯t misbehave in Mama¡¯s belly, okay? I love you both.¡± And Altezza felt another kick right where he ced his hand. ¡°Are they responding to me?¡± Adaline smiled and nodded.


    ¡°They can already hear. That¡¯s what the doctor said,¡± Adaline replied, leaving Altezza amazed.


    He looked at his wife with a sense of guilt. He had been neglectful as a husband and a prospective father. He didn¡¯t even know the development of his own child. Oh God, forgive your servant, he prayed silently. I promise to try to be a better husband and father.


    Altezzay back down and pulled his wife into his embrace again. This time, theyy facing each other. ¡°Thank you for being patient,¡± he said, kissing Adaline¡¯s forehead. ¡°And thank you for carrying our sons and daughters. I only ask that you be a little more patient and willing to wait for me.¡±


    Adaline didn¡¯t give any response. She preferred to close her eyes and enjoy the warmth of her husband¡¯s embrace.

 Part 97

    Altezza returned to his parents¡¯ house with an unsettled feeling that had persisted since he woke up this morning. He kept thinking about his wife, but he couldn¡¯t reach her because Jovanka wouldn¡¯t let go of him.


    He had to wait for Jovanka to fall asleep so he could free himself and leave. Strangely, the house was quiet. Both of his parents were not there, and their housekeeper said they were out of town.


    Altezza also didn¡¯t see his mother-inw and his wife¡¯s aunt. Could they be somewhere else?


    Altezza then walked towards his room. When he opened the door, the room felt cold. Not as warm as yesterday when Altezza returned. Altezza smiled, recalling the moment when he hugged Adaline and felt their baby¡¯s kicks for the first time.


    If only this problem hadn¡¯t arisen. Altezza was sure he wouldn¡¯t bete to know about that important moment. But what can he do now? He couldn¡¯t turn back time, could he?


    Altezza sat on the bed and rubbed his chest. Why wouldn¡¯t this uneasiness go away?


    Adaline, Adaline, Adaline. That name repeatedly filled his head. He didn¡¯t want to think about something bad happening, but his mind couldn¡¯t shift.


    Altezza reached for his phone, then tried to call his wife¡¯s phone. The call went through, but faintly Altezza heard another ringing tone in the room. Did Adaline forget to bring her phone? He wondered, furrowing his brow.


    Altezza searched for the muffled sound¡¯s source. He stepped away from the bed and finally found the phone in the top drawer of Adaline¡¯s dressing table.


    Nothing seemed out of ce. The dressing table was still filled with Adaline¡¯s beauty products. But why did Altezza feel something was off?


    Right beneath the still ringing phone, Altezza found a folded white paper, and it made him increasingly ufortable.


    Altezza saw his name written in bold letters on the outside of the folded paper, and with a pounding heart, Altezza gathered the courage to read it.


    Dear Altezza,


    Firstly, I apologize if this writing is not neat. ^-^


    Al, if you are reading this letter, it means you are searching for my whereabouts. And I¡¯m sorry if I¡¯m not with you right now.


    I want to thank you for all your kindness towards me. My mother and my aunt. My gratitude towards you cannot be expressed in words. But one thing¡¯s for sure, I am grateful to have met you.


    I¡¯m sorry for expressing all of this through a letter. I just feel unable to say it directly to you because I¡¯m too ashamed. And my tongue always fails me.


    Al¡­ you once said that you wanted to fix our marital intentions. At that time, I said the same thing. And we both tried. But now I¡¯m desperate, so I chose to give up.


    I feel like you are indeed better off with her because her love for you is immense.


    I also told her that I wouldn¡¯t ask you to choose between us, and I kept my promise to her because you chose her first, even though I honestly admit that it hurts my heart.


    But what can I do? I can¡¯t keep holding on, and my heart can¡¯t keep lying.


    I don¡¯t want to burden you.


    When you said that she needed you more, I actually wanted to scream that I needed you too. But again, ites back to my promise that I don¡¯t want to make you suffer by having to choose.


    Maybe it¡¯s true what you said, that there are many people who will take care of me, while she is just one person. But honestly, no matter how many people care about me, I only want your attention.


    Al, I¡¯ve told you before not to ask me to do what I can¡¯t do. Not to ask me to give what I can¡¯t give. Because I¡¯ve given what I can to you without you asking.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    I have given you my heart without you asking. And I have also given you plenty of time and opportunities to make all our wishese true.


    And now you¡¯re asking me to be patient and wait. That¡¯s something I can¡¯t do. I can¡¯t give.


    I can¡¯t be patient waiting for you anymore.


    I¡¯m not an angel, I¡¯m not a good woman either. I¡¯m not patient.


    I know my limits. When I feel it¡¯s enough, then it¡¯s enough. I¡¯ve waited long enough for you and I¡¯ve felt patient enough. So now I choose to give up.


    You don¡¯t need to worry. As per our initial agreement, I will take care of the baby in my womb well. And I will make sure that after they are born, I will hand them both to you without demanding anything.


    I won¡¯t even ask for custody, or the right to see them. I assure you I won¡¯t even touch them until you allow it.


    Once again, I¡¯m sorry. Sorry for leaving without permission. Which I shouldn¡¯t have done as a wife.


    But from the moment you stepped out towards her apartment, I had already made up my mind to part ways with you.


    I can¡¯t file for divorce because of my pregnancy. But I¡¯ve kept our wedding ring in a box that I kept in the corner of the drawer where you found this letter.


    Thank you for all your kindness. You introduced me to Mamma and Padre. Because of this marriage, I finally feel like I haveplete parents again. Having siblings who love me, which I¡¯ve longed for. You¡¯ve given me happiness that I can¡¯t exchange for anything.


    Always take care of yourself. Be happy and don¡¯t overwork yourself.


    Sorry for all the mistakes I¡¯ve ever made.


    Regards,


    Adaline Scott.


    Altezza stared at the paper in his hand with disbelief. What does this mean? Is Adaline ying a joke on him? What kind of regards is this?


    He opened the drawer wider. And there were several jewelry boxes. Not just their wedding rings but all the jewelry Altezza had ever bought for Adaline, including their wedding gifts, neatly stored as his wife had written in the letter.


    All the debit and credit cards Altezza had made for his wife were lying there. Except for their marriage certificate, which was missing.


    Altezza searched the entire room. Scanning with his eyes. Looking for any more surprises that might be made for him.


    He opened the closet door roughly. Adaline¡¯s clothes were still there. Even the bags given by Altezza were still stored in the same position as before.


    He left the room and walked towards the room upied by his Aunt and Mother-inw. His knocks turned into rough bangs when there was no response from inside. Impatiently, he opened the door forcefully.


    The room was silent and cold.


    Altezza walked to the wardrobe, just like he did with his wardrobe. He opened it roughly and found it empty. Not a single thread left as if it had never been used before.


    He walked back. Half running out of the room and shouting the names of the household assistants and gardeners.


    ¡°Where is Mother, Aunt Emma, and Adaline?¡± He asked all his staff. They exchanged nces and shook their heads. ¡°Tell me where they are? When did they leave?¡± He asked more like a shout.

 Part 98

    ¡°They all left the house this morning, Sir,¡± one of the household staff answered. ¡°Mrs. Violet said they had been away from home for too long. They wanted to check on the house because they were afraid the house would be a spider¡¯s nest. That¡¯s what Mrs. Emma said, Sir,¡± he continued.


    Hurriedly, Altezza returned to his car. He drove his car quickly, regardless of whether he would be fined for speeding or notter. All he knew was that he had to get to Adaline¡¯s residence as soon as possible.


    Ten minutester, he arrived in front of a two-story house with low fences. The house was quiet, showing no signs of life. Even the iron gate was still securely locked.


    He tried calling his inws¡¯ names, but there was no answer. One of the neighbors, perhaps feeling disturbed by his approach, spoke up.


    ¡°Hey, aren¡¯t you Mrs. Scott¡¯s son-inw?¡± the woman asked, puzzled.


    ¡°Did my mother-inwe here?¡±


    The woman shook her head, her forehead furrowed, looking surprised. ¡°Hasn¡¯t Mrs. Scott been staying at her sister¡¯s house for the past few days?¡±


    Altezza didn¡¯t respond. He just muttered a thank you and left.


    Altezza went to his apartment, hoping the three women would be there. Once again, the result was nil. He even visited Antony¡¯s residence, but the result was still nil.


    Hisst option was to go to Coskun¡¯s office and meet his wife¡¯s best friend, Tessa.


    Tessa was surprised by Altezza¡¯s presence. Actually, not just Tessa. Almost all the employees who hadn¡¯t seen him for months were quite surprised by his arrival, especially because of his disheveled appearance but still handsome.


    ¡°Do you know where she is?¡± he asked without preamble. Tessa was taken aback and puzzled by his question. Especially the new employees she was training seemed stunned by Altezza¡¯s unkempt but still handsome appearance.


    ¡°Who, Sir?¡± Tessa asked, confused.


    ¡°Adaline. Who else?¡± Altezza replied sharply. Tessa shook her head.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Sir. She¡¯s your wife, and she lives with you. Why are you asking me?¡± Tessa replied sarcastically.


    Altezza growled, but he didn¡¯t say anything. He ran back to the elevator and pressed the button for Antony¡¯s floor.


    Antony wasn¡¯t in his office, neither was Duncan. He walked into Gian¡¯s office, and there he saw Duncan discussing something with his cousin. Both looked surprised by his arrival.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Brother? You look like a madman. Has that woman¡¯s madness infected you?¡± Gian asked with a mocking smile.


    ¡°Shut up! Tell me where you¡¯ve hidden Adaline?!¡± he snapped harshly. Duncan and Gian exchanged puzzled looks.


    ¡°Are you really going crazy? She¡¯s your wife, but you¡¯re asking me about her whereabouts as if she¡¯s my mistress?¡± Gianughed mockingly.


    Altezza walked quickly and grabbed his cousin¡¯s cor. ¡°Stop ying around because I¡¯m not ying!¡± he growled angrily. ¡°Tell me where you¡¯ve hidden her!¡±


    ¡°For God¡¯s sake, Al. You¡¯re going insane!¡± Gian pushed Altezza¡¯s hand away and shoved him back. ¡°How dare you use me of hiding your wife?!¡± he asked sharply. There was a sense of dislike, and Gian clearly felt insulted by his cousin¡¯s usation.


    ¡°I know you like her!¡± Altezza replied, losing his mind even more.


    ¡°I do like her! As a sister-inw!¡± Gian replied. ¡°I¡¯m not a viin or a crazy person who would do anything to get her. Are there no other women in this world besides Adaline?!¡± Gian snorted again.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    His voice still didn¡¯t soften. Fortunately, the room was soundproof. Otherwise, the employees might be crowding outside his door right now.


    Suddenly, the door to Gian¡¯s office opened, and Antony appeared with a confused look when he saw Altezza once again grabbing Gian¡¯s cor, his fist ready to strike.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?!¡± Antony eximed loudly. His eyes nced between Gian and Duncan before focusing on Altezza. ¡°What are you doing, Al? Youe here suddenly and want to hit your own cousin?¡± Antony snorted and looked at him incredulously.


    Gian chuckled, pushing Altezza¡¯s arm away again and pushing him back.


    ¡°He thinks I¡¯ve hidden his wife. I guess Jovanka¡¯s madness has infected him,¡± Gian continued casually. He didn¡¯t care even though he was in a dangerous position. His desire to mock Altezza and his foolishness was too great.


    ¡°He thinks I¡¯m so obsessed with his wife that I would do anything to separate them. What a foolish man!¡± he said again.


    Altezza tried not to grab him and chose to step back.


    ¡°We can talk it out, Al,¡± Antony said calmly.


    He closed Gian¡¯s office door tightly. Then he chose to sit on one of the single sofas in the room. The sofa reminded Altezza of Adaline. The sofa Adaline always chose to sit on whenever she entered Altezza¡¯s room before.


    Gian chose to sit on one of the long chairs. And Altezza chose to sit in front of him. That meant Antony became the mediator between the two of them. While Duncan just remained a silent witness, standing frozen in his original ce.


    ¡°I came home and found Adaline, her mother, and her aunt were not at home,¡± Altezza began to exin. ¡°Everyone said they went back to their home, but their house was also empty. I searched the apartment, and the apartment was also empty. I even looked for them at your and ire¡¯s ce, but they didn¡¯t go there. Adaline disappeared.¡±


    ¡°Are you sure she¡¯s disappeared?¡± Antony asked.


    ¡°She even left her phone and all her clothes at home. She just left after writing a letter to me.¡±


    ¡°That means she didn¡¯t disappear. She just chose to leave you. Have you talked to your parents?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re not at home. They¡¯re out of town. And I can¡¯t reach their phones,¡± Altezza replied weakly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know the issues in your marriage. And I don¡¯t need to know. What I know for sure is that Adaline did all this because she wanted to,¡± Antony assumed.


    Altezza looked sharply at his cousin. Instead of providing Altezza with reassurance, Antony seemed to pour oil on the fire. It only made Altezza, who heard it, more emotional.


    ¡°If you¡¯re sure she¡¯s really gone missing, you can report it to the police,¡± Altezza said, still staring at his cousin in disbelief.


    Antony rose from his seat, choosing to leave Gian¡¯s room.


    ¡°I¡¯ve told you before, warned you not to regret itter. Now I can¡¯t say anything more. I can only pray for Adaline¡¯s happiness wherever she is,¡± he said without turning his head even slightly towards Altezza.

 Part 99

    Altezza returned home feeling distressed. Antony clearly threw his hands up, openly stating he wouldn¡¯t help. Gian did the same. Even Tessa imed she truly didn¡¯t know Adaline¡¯s whereabouts. Meanwhile, Joanna, the woman, only stared at him with disgust when Altezza approached her residence.


    ¡°I thought you were a good man. But it turns out, you and that woman are just the same,¡± she replied coldly. She didn¡¯t even allow Altezza to enter her apartment. ¡°I don¡¯t know where she is. In case you forgot, both Adaline and her mother are orphans. So they have nowhere to go.¡±


    ¡°As for Aunt Emma, I don¡¯t know where she¡¯s from. We¡¯re not close enough to chat. But even if I knew where Adaline is right now, I have no obligation to tell you,¡± Joanna replied again. The woman stood casually at her apartment door with her arms folded in front of her chest.


    ¡°Please, Joan. Help me,¡± Altezza pleaded.


    ¡°For what? What¡¯s in it for me? Didn¡¯t I tell you before, asking you to make her happy? I told you that Adaline is not a patient and strong person. But you keep testing her patience.¡±


    ¡°Even I, just being a listener, can¡¯t bear the anger anymore. Let alone her.¡±


    ¡°Do you think she¡¯s a saint? Do you think she¡¯s a monk?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s just a regr human. You just have to pray that she changes her mind and chooses toe back to you,¡± Joanna returned to her apartment, leaving Altezza to wrestle with his own thoughts.


    Angry, Altezza punched the wall in front of him until his knuckles turned red.


    Where was everyone when he needed them?! He cursed inwardly.


    No. Altezza was wrong.


    Everyone was by his side when he needed them. They all warned him. But he was the one who disregarded everyone¡¯s warnings.


    He ignored all the threats from people. And most importantly, he disregarded his wife¡¯s feelings over the patience she showed. He was the one at fault.


    Joanna is right. Adaline is not a saint. Adaline is not patient. Adaline is just an ordinary human who Altezza has hurt time and time again.


    Why does he always demand understanding from his wife without understanding her needs himself?


    He¡¯s the one who constantly demands from his wife, unaware that she¡¯s already tired of giving. And he asks his wife to wait without giving her any rity about the time frame.


    Altezza growls in anger.


    He throws his car keys aside and returns to his room. He reads his wife¡¯s letter repeatedly, hoping that somehow there will be a clue about where she went. But her words never change. There¡¯s not a single hint in his mind about her destination.


    He never truly understood his wife. And he barely gave her any time. Suddenly, his conversation with Antony about Jovankaes back to him.


    ¡°You know she wille back to you, and she knows you¡¯ll always be there waiting for her. To me, you¡¯re like an entertainer who¡¯s always there if she wants you. If in the end, she doesn¡¯t choose you, then you have to make your own choice. At least as a man, we must have dignity.¡±


    All those words rey in his mind. They¡¯re the words Antony directed at him about his sacrifices for Jovanka in the past.


    Antony clearly knows the pain Altezza feels. And now the tables have turned. He¡¯s the one who selfishly reced Jovanka and put Adaline in her position.


    He believed that Adaline would always be there waiting for him. But he was wrong. Adaline is not as spineless as he is. She¡¯s more decisive than him.


    She¡¯s always there if Altezza wants her. Just like Altezza, who was always there for Jovanka before. Even Adaline was there for him in his worst moments.


    Namun, he never was there for his wife during her worst moments. Usually, it was Antony, Gian, and their family who had helped her first. What¡¯s the difference between him and Jovanka? They¡¯re both equally awful. A perfect match, he sneers.


    And in the end, Altezza is the one who made the choice to take care of Jovanka. What did he say before? Humanity? No. It¡¯s not humanity. It¡¯s more because of his cowardice.


    Because he¡¯s afraid that in the future, he¡¯ll be med if something happens to Jovanka. He¡¯s too much of a coward while his wife-his wife-has a braver attitude than him. She chose to leave.


    Damn it! Damn it! Damn it!


    Altezza roughly grabs his hair. He groans loudly and punches the mirror in front of him with the same hand until it shatters, leaving his hand wounded and bleeding.


    ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Altezza turns and sees his mother standing with a shocked expression at the door.


    ¡°Mamma..!¡± Altezza walks toward his mother, sitting on the floor as his mother approaches. He hugs his mother¡¯s legs, tears uncontrobly streaming down his face. ¡°Mamma.. Adaline disappeared.¡± He whispers amidst his sobs. ¡°Mamma.. where is Adaline?¡± Altezza looks up, gazing at his mother with wounded eyes.


    His mother returns his gaze with pity.


    ¡°I know you know where she is. Please, Mamma. Tell me.¡± He pleads.


    ¡°For what?¡± His mother responds softly. ¡°Why are you looking for her? Just let her go. She deserves to be happy.¡±


    ¡°Mamma!¡± Altezza releases his grip on his mother¡¯s legs. ¡°She¡¯s my wife¡­¡±


    A harsh sigh is heard. ¡°A wife you¡¯ve wasted? Just like you wasted yourself and your time on someone like Jovanka?


    ¡°Adaline deserves to be happy.


    ¡°If you can¡¯t make her happy, then let her make herself happy. Isn¡¯t all you want from her just the baby she¡¯s carrying?¡± His mother¡¯s question makes Altezza look up at her incredulously. ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t know about your agreement?


    ¡°I¡¯ve known from the beginning, Altezza. I just pretended not to know.¡±


    ¡°Just like I chose to pretend not to know about your marriage with that woman.¡± Once again, his mother¡¯s response leaves Altezza startled.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°I may not be a good mother. But I always try to be a good mother.


    ¡°All this time I let you be with that woman patiently only so you could realize it by yourself.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to disturb your happiness, and I hoped that one day your eyes would open wide to everything.


    ¡°But you never realized it. Until your aunt took action two years ago.¡± Altezza furrows his brow.


    ¡°Do you think the contract signed two years ago by that woman just appeared out of nowhere?


    ¡°No, Al!


    ¡°Clearly Brianna was involved in it.


    ¡°She made that woman choose between you and her job. And she chose her job. But you still didn¡¯te to your senses and happily waited for her.


    ¡°And once again Brianna snapped her fingers and made a contract that made that woman unable to refuse it again.


    ¡°In the end, I could breathe a sigh of relief because that woman chose her job, and you finally came to your senses and chose to leave her.¡± Altezza stares at his mother in silence.


    ¡°We care about you. Your aunt does too. To her, you¡¯re like her own child, even though she never said it directly. But she loves you just as much as she loves Antony.


    ¡°Just like me, loving you and Antony.


    ¡°We mothers don¡¯t want our children to be hurt. Not even a bit. But we know the boundaries of when we should interfere or not. And we feel it¡¯s the right time to act.


    ¡°And indeed, our actions bore fruit.


    ¡°Although once again, I feel ashamed because you trapped a woman who needed your help, paid her to carry your child.


    ¡°Do you think you can trade that child?!


    ¡°But after seeing Adaline, I actually don¡¯t want to let her go. I fell in love with her at first sight. I want her to be my daughter no matter what.¡±


    ¡°Even if I have to hurt you, I don¡¯t care. For Adaline¡¯s sake, I¡¯m willing to do anything. Even though I hope you change your heart and can fall in love with her.


    ¡°But you¡¯re too stupid!¡± Del looks at her son coldly.


    ¡°You think too much of yourself. Your ego. And that woman. A woman who isn¡¯t even better than a pile of rotten meat.


    ¡°I never even liked her.


    ¡°What kind of woman makes her own mother a maid and her father nothing more than a gardener?¡±


    Altezza stares at his mother in disbelief. ¡°You don¡¯t know, do you? But I do.


    ¡°Her family, whom you said were off the ind, was just a figment of her imagination. From the beginning, her family has always been with her.


    ¡°Her mother is nothing but the maid you pay every month to clean the house, wash the clothes, and cook delicious meals for her own daughter.


    ¡°And her father is the man you pay to fix every damage, to clean the yard and the swimming pool that his daughter uses.


    ¡°And her sister? She¡¯s the woman who has been a servant to her own sister all this time.


    ¡°That woman never even appreciated her own family. Never loved them as she should have. And you expect love from a woman like that?


    ¡°Wanting a child from a woman who even disregards the heaven at her mother¡¯s feet?


    ¡°What will your child be? A babysitter¡¯s child?


    ¡°And meanwhile, you ignore a woman who¡¯s even willing to pawn herself for a mother who didn¡¯t even carry and give birth to her?


    ¡°Testing her patience. Hurting her repeatedly. Asking her to wait and be patient?


    ¡°Even though she willingly did it, I couldn¡¯t bear to see it!¡± Her mother¡¯s shout echoes in the room.


    ¡°I know the pain of waiting.¡± Her mother says softly. Tears are clearly streaming down her aged face. ¡°And you know that too. So why make someone else feel the heartache we once felt?¡± She asks Altezza, who is still frozen.


    Del leaves Altezza to ponder her words about Jovanka¡¯s parents, redirecting the conversation back to Adaline.


    ¡°Mom¡­¡±


    ¡°Let her go. Let her find happiness in her own way.


    ¡°You want your child? She will give it to you after those two children are born.¡± Del starts to leave her son.


    ¡°Mom¡­!¡±


    ¡°Go to that woman. The woman who even made you use your own mother of cruelty.


    ¡°Go to her. Woo her. Keep her. And hold onto that woman by your side. I swear I won¡¯t interfere in your lives.


    ¡°And if you feel all this is unfair to her. And if you want all her wealth to be hers again. Then ask your aunt, Brianna, for it. Because she¡¯s the one who controls that woman¡¯s life.


    ¡°Although I hope she does something more despicable than that.¡± Del truly leaves Altezza alone. She ignores her husband who stands motionless in front of their son¡¯s door.


    Altezza sits in his ce as his father enters and takes his mother¡¯s ce.


    ¡°Al?¡± The man calls softly.


    Altezza raises his head. He looks at his father with pleading eyes.


    ¡°How could you make the same mistakes I did, son?¡± His father asks with pain. ¡°I am proud of you and your intelligence. But it seems my foolish and cowardly attitude has rubbed off on you.¡±


    ¡°Padre?¡±


    Benjamin sits on the bed and gently wipes his face. ¡°Do you know why your mother is treating you like this? Why she¡¯s so cruel to her own child and instead defends your wife?¡± Altezza shakes his head. ¡°Let me tell you the reason.¡±

 Part 100

    ¡°Let me tell you a story that happened forty years ago,¡± Altezza said quietly, listening.


    ¡°I came to America at your uncle¡¯s request. Arthur had already set foot in this country.


    ¡°Your uncle fled because he didn¡¯t want to be arranged in marriage by ourte father. And because he couldn¡¯t return to Italy, he asked me toe and bring all the wealth he had been saving. He did it to start a business so he could live here with your aunt, Brianna.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that Arthur¡¯s cancelled engagement would force me to take his ce. But I thought, I would ept the engagement because I didn¡¯t have someone I loved as much as your uncle loved your aunt.


    ¡°But before getting married, I thought I¡¯d spend my bachelor days having fun first.


    ¡°Then, someone invited me to go somewhere. A ce where I could hire women for a certain period of time. The man said I could practice being a great husband in bed before spending time being the husband of your grandfather¡¯s chosen woman.


    ¡°At that time, I was still in my twenties. Not an excuse, just that I felt it was time for me to enjoy my youth.


    ¡°In the ce my friend showed me, I met your mother. A beautiful girl with a captivating smile. She was only fifteen years old back then. Still very young, still very innocent. And I, I was captivated by her at first sight.


    ¡°My time was clearly different from yours. In my time, girls were allowed to marry at a very young age and even, your mother¡¯s friends were already married at a younger age.


    ¡°I tried to approach your mother, but my conscience tried not to do it because I couldn¡¯t bear her very young age.


    ¡°Until she faced difficulties, searching for money for her sick father¡¯s operation. And her uncle sold her to me. And heartlessly, I bought her.¡±


    ¡°Initially, I did it out of humaneness, but in reality, my libido said otherwise. I cruelly made her my contractual wife and provided the money she needed. Just like what you did to Adaline. Though for different reasons.


    ¡°I was happy. As time passed, I began to love her. Del and her innocence and kindness. And at that moment, I convinced myself to live with her, to make her happy, even though our intentions weren¡¯t good at first.


    ¡°Then your grandfather found out about this. He was already embarrassed by your uncle¡¯s departure, and he didn¡¯t want to be embarrassed twice by me.


    ¡°He took me-more urately, kidnapped me-and took me back to Italy. And at that time, I didn¡¯t know what he did to your mother.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°I left without knowing how your mother was. Without saying goodbye. Without giving her a promise that I would return.


    ¡°Quietly, I tried to ask Brianna for help so she could search and find your mother. But she didn¡¯t seed.


    ¡°Even Arthur¡¯s connections couldn¡¯t help. Your mother disappeared without a trace.


    ¡°What I found out afterward was, when I left, your mother lost her father. She, disappointed, eventually sold off all of her father¡¯s remaining estate and left her vige just like that.


    ¡°She wasn¡¯t even sixteen years old at the time.


    ¡°In the end, I rebelled and rejected the marriage arranged by your grandfather. I worked hard, leaving your grandfather¡¯s residence so I wouldn¡¯t be bound to him anymore.


    ¡°I took the path your uncle took, working day and night to be wealthy so I could hire people to find your mother.


    ¡°I seeded in returning to America, expanding my business here with your uncle¡¯s help. He was the only one who supported me through all my despair. Apologizing repeatedly for not being able to help me find your mother.


    ¡°And after five years passed, I finally reunited with your mother. After searching for her all this time, I found her not far from my reach.¡±


    ¡°She hid behind my own shadow. Working hard to meet her own needs. Turns out, your mother went back to school after I left. She even continued her education to a higher level.


    ¡°Del, your mother. The woman who unintentionally made me fall in love. The cheerful girl who opened my heart. The beautiful girl who couldn¡¯t make me turn to another woman, has changed.


    ¡°When I confidently believed that she was still waiting for me, your mother no longer wanted me. She was hurt because of me. She was already heartbroken because of my departure.


    ¡°And worse, I left her while she was pregnant with our child. When she was carrying your sibling. A baby she couldn¡¯t give birth to because of the mental burden she carried.


    ¡°Yes. Your mother miscarried because of being too stressed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you feel my guilt? Even kneeling in front of her doesn¡¯t feel enough to redeem all the mistakes I¡¯ve made.


    ¡°It took a lot of time and effort for me to persuade her. Begging her in every possible way. Asking her toe back. Until finally, she softened. She agreed to marry me again.


    ¡°We lived happily even without your grandfather¡¯s blessing. We were fortunate because I had a sister-inw like Brianna and a brother like Arthur who always supported me.


    ¡°Just as Antony always does to you.


    ¡°Then tragedy struck again. Your grandfather came and disrupted our marriage again. He tried to separate us. Luckily, I managed to hold on, and Arthur stood by my side to fight his dictatorship.


    ¡°I fell as far as I could because of your grandfather. He bankrupted me to test Del¡¯s loyalty.


    ¡°And do you know what your mother did? She even willingly worked as a servant in your grandfather¡¯s house just so he wouldn¡¯t hurt your Padre anymore.


    ¡°I was heartbroken. My sins against your mother were too great to be forgiven. I even often wanted to give up. But I couldn¡¯t live without your Mama.


    ¡°Until finally, your grandfather softened. He returned all the rights that should have been mine.¡±


    ¡°But once again, I found myself at the crossroads between heaven and hell. Your Mama gave birth to you. But her life was almost lost. Just like what happened to Brianna. She gave birth and experienced bleeding. Shey there weak even though blood transfusions had reced her lost blood.


    ¡°I never even wanted to see you. ming you for what happened to your Mama. To the woman I love.


    ¡°But God had different ns. He returned your Mama to me. And after that, I promised, whatever your mother asked for, I would grant it. Except a child.


    ¡°Your Padre didn¡¯t want to give you a sibling because I didn¡¯t want your Mama to struggle with death for a second time. All the suffering I caused her was enough.


    ¡°And now, history seems to repeat itself. Your Mama sees Adaline as a reflection of herself in the past. That¡¯s why she loves Adaline so much. She cares for her feelings. Because your Mama once was in the same position as Adaline.


    ¡°I admit it. They have simr traits. Adaline might even be stronger than your Mama.


    ¡°Her firmness. Her resilience. Her patience. Adaline is more than your Mama. I never heard her sulking. Never heard herining. She always gave everything she had even though she had nothing for herself.


    ¡°She gave all her time to you without asking for any in return. She always gave you her best smile, without telling you about her difficulties and pains. And she gave you all her love without asking you to reciprocate it.


    ¡°But instead, you asked her to be patient and wait after all the sacrifices she¡¯s made. I can¡¯t me you. I can¡¯t me Adaline either. But I also can¡¯t help you.


    ¡°I was hurt when you yelled at your Mama just because of your former spouse in the past. You don¡¯t know how worried your Mama was about you.¡±


    ¡°Every night, she always thinks about how to make you realize your mistakes. In her prayers, she always asks for your happiness.


    ¡°But you use her of doing despicable things to that woman.


    ¡°Your Mama doesn¡¯t know anything, Son. It was your Aunt and Antony who arranged everything.


    ¡°As your Mama said, Brianna loves you like her own child. And Antony cares for you like his own sibling.


    ¡°Your Aunt and Antony are the ones who, for the past seven years, have been helping that woman progress and develop. They brought that woman to their agency and boosted her name. Hoping that she would realize the extent of your sacrifices, your support for her.


    ¡°But your Aunt got tired in the end too. Because that woman never looked at you and appreciated you as a husband. That¡¯s why she went to such extremes.


    ¡°Don¡¯t me her, your Mama, or Antony. Because they¡¯ve given you every chance.


    ¡°She gave you time to realize. So did that woman. But neither of you found rity. Your aunt¡¯s anger towards that woman is even greater than your Mama¡¯s.¡±


    Mr. Benjamin felt that he had provided enough exnation to his son. He rose from his seat.


    ¡°Your Mama and your Aunt won¡¯t help you this time, Son. They¡¯ll just sit quietly. Watching you struggle.


    ¡°And even though I want to help you, I can¡¯t. I swore to do anything your Mama asked. And I stick to my word. Even if it means I have to let you suffer here.¡±


    Benjamin left Altezza alone in his thoughts.

 Part 101

    Altezza slumped dejectedly. He leaned his back against the edge of the bed, hugged his knees, and rested his forehead between them. His chest felt tight, his tears unstoppable now. Never in his life had he felt such pain. Even when Jovanka left him and chose her career over him, Altezza didn¡¯t feel as miserable as this. They were both abandoned, but why did this feeling now hurt so much? Guilt dominated his thoughts, while longing squeezed his chest. The image of Adaline¡¯s smile filled his mind¡¯s eye. Just yesterday he felt his wife¡¯s belly and felt the movement of their twin babies. And now he couldn¡¯t see any of them anymore.


    His phone kept vibrating, Jovanka¡¯s name disyed on the screen. Altezza didn¡¯t know how many times she had tried to reach him. He didn¡¯t want to know. That woman had ruined everything. She had shattered everything until Altezza felt there was nothing left for him.


    Was Jovanka¡¯s love for him as she imed?


    Then what kind of love did she have for him, who even denied Altezza¡¯s happiness? As Antony said, his happiness with Jovanka in the past was only superficial happiness. She never cared for him. She only demanded from him. Never gave anything back to him.


    But Adaline? She was always there for him. Adaline let Altezza reach his happiness and so firmly let him go when she felt that Altezza¡¯s happiness was not with her. No matter howplicated Altezza¡¯s problems were, his Adaline always stretched out her arms and embraced him. No matter how sad he felt, she always showed her smile. No matter how jealous she was, his Adaline could always hold back her anger.


    Adaline, Adaline, Adaline.


    Altezza roughly grabbed his hair. How could he be so stupid to waste a woman as perfect as Adaline? A woman whose smile was soothing. Whoseughter was missed. Whose embrace was so calming. Where else could Altezza look for his wife? Who else could Altezza ask? Altezza groaned in frustration.


    Once again, his phone vibrated. Altezza nced at it, and Jovanka¡¯s name appeared on the slim screen again. Altezza grabbed his phone harshly, immediately turned it off with the power button, and threw it onto the bed. He wouldn¡¯t care about that woman anymore. He no longer cared about what that woman would do to him. His only desire now was to find Adaline and make sure she and their unborn child returned to his embrace.


    Altezza rose from his seat. Suddenly, he felt a new surge of determination. However, Altezza had to find Adaline and apologize to her. Even if he had to beg and kneel before her, as long as Adaline was willing toe back to him. Imagining the absence of that woman in the rest of his life somehow tortured him. Imagining growing old alone, he was truly frightened.


    Half-running, Altezza grabbed his car keys and left his parents¡¯ residence.


    Elsewhere,


    Jovanka looked at her phone. She had tried to call Altezza several times, but the man still didn¡¯t answer her calls. She was annoyed. She was angry, and in her anger, she threw her phone as an outlet until the slim device fell to the floor, irreparably shattered.


    In the corner of the room, Cindy just watched. Feeling sorry for the expensive, shattered device. Jovanka and her fiery temper left Cindy speechless.


    ¡°Where is Evans?¡± Jovanka suddenly asked coldly, startling Cindy. ¡°Where is that bastard?! Why hasn¡¯t he shown up?!¡± Her question turned into a shout.


    ¡°Joe, Evans isn¡¯ting back. If you¡¯ve forgotten, you¡¯ve already driven him away.¡±


    Jovanka red angrily, approached, and grabbed Cindy¡¯s hair tightly. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Y-You drove him away before, Sister,¡± Cindy whispered through her pain. Tears fell from the young girl¡¯s eyes. Jovanka suddenly released her grip on Cindy¡¯s hair and shoved her to the floor.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you ever call me sister! I refuse to have a poor family like yours!¡± Jovanka shouted angrily. Her eyes widened and reddened with anger. ¡°And I don¡¯t care. Call Evans here! Now!¡± She yelled again.


    Cindy tried to tidy her hair and stood up. Whether she liked it or not, she had to call Evans toe back. If not, Jovanka would be even crazier. At least Evans could help Jovanka feel a little calmer. The man had something that could control her.


    At Altezza¡¯s ce,


    Altezza was exhausted. Since morning until now, nearing midnight, he had been wandering around Manhattan, searching for where Adaline might be. He had visited several ces, but none of them provided the news Altezza needed.


    Once again, Altezza groaned in frustration. Especially when he returned to his parents¡¯ residence and received no response from his mother. The woman who had given birth to him just stared at him nkly without expression. She seemed reluctant to engage in small talk, making Altezza feel like he was all alone in this world.


    Del didn¡¯tck love for her son. What mother doesn¡¯t love her child? Especially considering the struggle she went through to give birth to Altezza. She just wanted Altezza to try even harder.


    Del wanted to know how strong Altezza could endure. How strong her son could fight. When would he admit defeat and surrender?


    Del swore she wouldn¡¯t say anything until her son begged and pleaded with her. Cruel? Call it what you will. But she did all of this not out of hatred for her son or a desire for revenge for his past rough behavior. Instead, it was because Del wanted Altezza to find his true happiness.


    Someone will appreciate what they have if they feel the difficulty in obtaining it. They will realize something is valuable when they recall the sacrifices they made to attain it.


    Altezzay on his bed. He reached out to the side where his wife usually slept. It felt cold. Empty. As empty as his feelings.


    Lying on his side, Altezza closed his eyes and imagined Adaline¡¯s presence there. He knew Adaline often had trouble sleeping every night. He just cherished the moments when his wife looked at him. He felt her face with his fingers. He traced it slowly and affectionately.


    Sometimes his wife would kiss his face, and Altezza would pretend to be asleep just to feel that tenderness a little longer. Because he knew if he opened his eyes, his wife wouldn¡¯t do it; Adaline was very shy.


    Although Adaline could be aggressive at times, more often than not, his wife was shy.


    Whenever his wife had trouble sleeping, Altezza would simply hold her and gently stroke her back. He kissed her head even though his eyes remained closed.


    Oh God. He truly missed those moments.


    Altezza stifled his cries into the pillow he clutched tightly. His body curled up like a fetus in the womb. Imagining his wife only made his heart ache more.


    ¡°Adaline, where are you? Do you miss me now like I miss you?


    How are our children? How many movements did they make today? Did they hurt you? Do they miss me?


    What if they don¡¯t recognize me when they¡¯re born because they never heard me speak to them?


    These thoughts continued to fill Altezza¡¯s mind until he finally fell asleep.


    At Adaline¡¯s ceText ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Adaline felt a gentle stroke on the back of her head. ¡°Are you okay, Honey?¡± Adaline looked at her mother and smiled. ¡°Are you really sure about your choice?¡± Once again, Adaline nodded in response.


    ¡°Mama, if I cut my hair short, would I still look pretty?¡± She asked enthusiastically.


    Violet Scott warmly smiled in response to her daughter¡¯s question. ¡°Of course. Whether your hair is long or short, in my eyes, you will always look beautiful. And actually, cutting your hair short is a good idea because, ording to most pregnant women, as your belly grows, it¡¯s said to be more prone to feeling hot.¡±


    Adaline smiled and nodded enthusiastically. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve heard that too. It¡¯s also said to be inconvenient because eventually, our hair will start falling out.¡±


    Violet nodded. ¡°So when do you want to cut your hair?¡±


    ¡°Later, if someone invites me out, I¡¯ll also ask to be taken to the salon,¡± Adaline replied.


    Violet nodded again. Her presence now was solely to make her daughter forget her sadness and, as much as possible, make her happy. Whatever the future holds, every human being must strive hard. Praying and surrendering are the remaining tasks they have to do.


    ¡°Who wants to get a haircut?¡± Emma¡¯s voice was heard.


    ¡°I do. I want to cut my hair short,¡± Adaline answered, always with a smile on her face.


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t. If you cut your hair short, then the affection for you will also be short,¡± Emmamanded. Adaline furrowed her brow in confusion.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± Adaline asked, puzzled.


    ¡°The affectionate strokes. If your hair is long, when someone strokes it, the affection bes longer. Like this.¡± The middle-aged woman approached and stroked Adaline¡¯s hair. ¡°Sweeeeeet.¡± She elongated the word as long as Adaline¡¯s hair. ¡°But if your hair is short, the affection will only be ¡®sweet¡¯.¡± She said with a short and brief tone. Adaline squinted while Emmaughed.


    ¡°What nonsense is that? There¡¯s no such thing. If he loves me, then he loves me, regardless of the length of my hair,¡± Adaline pouted. Emmaughed again.


    ¡°Alright, you two, when you¡¯re together, it¡¯s like mice looking for attention. I¡¯m going to make brownies. Do you want to help?¡± Violet invited Adaline.


    ¡°Mom, shouldn¡¯t the correct phrase be ¡®cats and mice¡¯? Why did you say ¡®mice and mice¡¯?¡± Adaline pointed out.


    ¡°It¡¯s up to me. It¡¯s my mouth that¡¯s speaking, not yours. Do you want to help me make the cake?¡± She asked again, receiving a nod from Adaline.


    Adaline smiled. ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll help.¡± She got up. ¡°Please add lots of whipped cream in the topping. And for the chocteyer, make ityered.¡± She requested yfully.


    ¡°So is your mom making brownies oryered cake?¡± Emma asked again. Adaline just pouted.


    ¡°You know you¡¯re not supposed to eat too many sweets, Honey,¡± her mother reprimanded.


    ¡°Oh,e on, Mom. Just this once, okay?¡±


    ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll allow it this time, but don¡¯t do it too often,¡± her mother replied, and they bothughed as they walked towards the kitchen, leaving Emma shaking her head.


    If Altezza thought Adaline was hiding far from him, then the man was mistaken. Because in fact, Adaline was still in his shadow. Not far, but not close either.

 Part 102

    Jovanka was searching for Altezza. She visited the hotel owned by the man¡¯s family. However, her presence was vehemently rejected by the owner of the hotel himself. Who else but Sir Benjamin Quirino.


    The elderly man approached her after themotion she caused in the hotel lobby. Not wanting to deal with the police, the former father-inw of Jovanka finally came down and met Jovanka face-to-face.


    ¡°What are you doing in my ce?¡± He asked coldly. Benjamin Quirino was someone who always yielded to his wife¡¯s desires. But when it came to matters outside his family, he was a firm and often cold man.


    Now, the man, still standing tall at sixty-two, was staring at Jovanka with a cynical look. If only this gaze were directed at his business associates, it wouldn¡¯t be the gaze they desired. But this time, he was facing Jovanka, a woman he considered to have lost her sanity. So, she wouldn¡¯t be disturbed at all.


    ¡°Padre¡­¡± Jovanka uttered pleadingly.


    ¡°Who are you calling Padre?¡± The man asked again in a t tone.


    ¡°Padre, however, I am also your son¡¯s wife,¡± the woman said loudly, intentionally drawing attention.


    ¡°I know. You¡¯ve made that announcement to everyone. Isn¡¯t the whole country aware that a supermodel like you is ¡®iming¡¯ to be my descendant¡¯s wife?¡± Benjamin retorted sarcastically. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t give you the right to call me ¡®Father,¡¯ just as you don¡¯t have the right toe here and disrupt my business, Miss.¡±


    ¡°Padre¡­¡±


    ¡°And let me emphasize once again. To you, and to everyone listening here. This is the first andst time I¡¯ll speak, and you must pay attention because I don¡¯t want this to happen a second time,¡± Sir Benjamin eximed with a booming voice, capturing the attention of all his employees. ¡°I, Benjamin Quirino, have only married my son, Altezza Quirino, once. To a woman named Adaline Scott, who is currently carrying my grandchild.


    ¡°So if in the future, there¡¯s a woman iming to be my son¡¯s wife, other than the one I mentioned earlier, then all of you, immediately eject her and don¡¯t let her set foot in this ce again.


    ¡°All of you, take a good look at this woman¡¯s face. Put her on the cklist of all my hotels. Spread the word to all branches of my hotels, including cottages and all my entertainmentpanies.


    ¡°Tell them not to let her be a guest. Not even stepping foot on mynd is allowed. If anyone vites this, pack your belongings immediately,¡± he ordered sternly. Jovanka paled in front of him, while Benjamin appeared unshaken. ¡°Are you all hearing me?¡± He asked again.


    ¡°Yes, Sir!¡± His employees replied in unison.


    ¡°What are you waiting for? Eject her from here!¡± Hemanded, then turned back towards the elevator.


    Jovanka screamed. She thrashed around, angry and shouting. She vehemently resisted when the security guards forcibly escorted her out of the hotel lobby.


    Her feet kicked. Her mouth spewed curses. Her behavior was far from graceful as she had portrayed on the screen all this time.


    The employees and newly arrived guests whispered with their eyes and fingers pointing towards her.


    The tall security guards urged her into her car and politely asked her to leave, though their tone was chilly.


    ¡°Watch out! I won¡¯t stay silent!¡± She threatened, then quickly stepped on the gas pedal and drove away.


    The woman did the same thing at Altezza¡¯s private office. She threatened the receptionist that she would mess up Altezza¡¯s office if the woman kept saying that Altezza was not there.


    Fearing, the receptionist eventually called security. But before security could get to her, Jovanka had already run up to the second floor and started looking for Altezza.


    The mesmerized onlookers didn¡¯t realize that the supermodel was actually causing a scene there.


    She kept calling out Altezza¡¯s name as she walked. ¡°Excuse me, Miss. But Sir Altezza hasn¡¯t been to work for the past four days,¡± Altezza¡¯s secretary replied. Jovanka red at her. She ignored the secretary and continued to advance towards Altezza¡¯s room and forced it open. Altezza wasn¡¯t there. She walked into the bathroom in the room. And still, no sign of him.


    Security arrived at the door. ¡°Please leave, Miss. You¡¯re causing a disturbance here,¡± one of the tall guards said.


    ¡°Call me Mrs. Quirino. I am your boss¡¯s wife!¡± She ordered harshly.


    Instead of obeying, the two security guards approached and once again forcibly dragged Jovanka out of Altezza¡¯s room.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? How dare you treat your boss¡¯s wife like this. I¡¯ll report this to Altezza so you get fired!¡± She continued shouting relentlessly until the security guards escorted her back to her car.


    ¡°Damn! Damn! Damn!¡± Jovanka pounded on her steering wheel.


    Where is he? She wondered. Could he be at Coskun? Jovanka thought hard. Yes. Coskun is the ce I could look for. I¡¯ll go there and bring Altezza back. How dare he disappear like this and I can¡¯t even reach him.


    Jovanka sped her car towards Coskun Company. And exactly twenty minutester, she was in its parking lot.


    Jovanka fixed her makeup, ran her hands through her hair, and straightened her clothes. The sleeves of her outfit looked wrinkled from the grip of the security guards. And she had to admit that her arms were sore as a result.


    But the pain was nothing. Once she got Altezza back, she would get rid of those people. The people who didn¡¯t respect her at all.


    Jovanka walked in, ignoring the receptionist, and headed straight for the employee elevator to the floor where Altezza used to work. The doors opened. The hustle and bustle on the executive floor froze as soon as they saw her. Jovanka smiled proudly. They knew her, of course. Who didn¡¯t know Jovanka Lawrence?


    But Jovanka was mistaken if she thought the looks they gave her were looks of admiration. They were clearly shocked because just moments ago, their superiors had announced to put her on the cklist of the office guests.


    Someone called the security office as Jovanka strolled casually towards Antony¡¯s office. Antony nced up from his meeting with Gian and Duncan as his office door was forcibly opened, and Jovanka barged in despite his secretary¡¯s attempt to stop her.


    ¡°Sir¡­¡± his secretary¡¯s face paled with fear. Antony raised an eyebrow for a moment then nodded, signaling for his secretary to return to her desk.Content provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Well, well, well, Brother. It seems we have a distinguished guest. Or Miss, are you looking for me again?¡± Gian asked, looking at Jovanka with a mocking smile on his face.


    Jovanka casually chose to sit on the single sofa across from Antony, looking at the three men in front of her in turn.


    ¡°I¡¯m looking for my husband,¡± she said calmly.


    Antony raised an eyebrow again. He adjusted his sses and leaned back in his chair, crossing his right leg over his left. His elbow rested on the armrest of the chair, while his index finger stroked his lower lip slowly and his right hand tapped the armrest on the other side.


    ¡°Husband?¡± Antony asked tly and coldly. His eyes narrowed sharply. ¡°Do you have a husband with the surname Quirino?¡± Antony asked again.

 Part 103

    ¡°Don¡¯t pretend not to know, Antony,¡± Jovanka snapped. She was fed up with her cousin Altezza¡¯s pretense. ¡°You were a witness at our wedding.¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­ is that so? When was that?¡± He frowned, pretending to think. ¡°Because as far as I remember, just a few months ago, I was a witness at my cousin¡¯s wedding. Which one of my cousins did you marry? Him?¡± He pointed his thumb at Gian, who was sitting on the long sofa on his right.


    ¡°Antony. I¡¯m not joking. And your jokes are not funny!¡± Jovanka yelled.


    ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m joking?¡± Antony looked at Gian and Duncan alternately. Both men shook their heads. ¡°So, Gian. Is this woman your wife?¡±


    ¡°Antony!¡± Jovanka stood up with rising anger. Her fists clenched. ¡°My husband is Altezza Quirino!¡±


    ¡°Ahh¡­ Altezza.¡± Antony looked at Jovanka. Still with his casual attitude. ¡°So he¡¯s your husband?¡± Jovanka gritted her teeth. Antony pped his hands. ¡°Oh, right. I forgot. Six years ago, I was there and witnessed your wedding.¡± Antony said again. Jovanka sat back down. She couldn¡¯t read the man¡¯s mind.


    ¡°Where is he?¡±


    ¡°Who? Altezza? Didn¡¯t you just say you¡¯re his wife? Why are you asking me? You¡¯re not even living together.¡± He replied tly.


    ¡°Antony, I know you¡¯re hiding him.¡±


    ¡°Gian, Duncan. Can you help thisdy find Altezza? Who knows, maybe I forgot to keep him in my desk drawer or perhaps Altezza is in my bedside nightstand.¡± Antony said to the two men beside him.


    Gian and Duncan coughed to hold backughter. Meanwhile, Jovanka looked at him cynically.


    ¡°Why? You said I¡¯m hiding him. He surely isn¡¯t too big for me to hide in my desk drawer, right?¡± Antony replied. ¡°Or maybe he¡¯s slipped between my credit cards?¡±


    ¡°Stop joking, Antony! I¡¯m not in the mood for games!¡± She snapped again.


    ¡°Joe-Joe. Am I really that funny that you call me joking? And not just once you¡¯ve said it.¡± Antony gently rebuked. ¡°Alright. This time I¡¯m serious.¡±


    Antony tapped both sides of the armrest of his chair. Leaning towards Jovanka, his eyes locked onto hers.


    ¡°I. Am. Not. Hiding. Anyone.¡± He emphasized each word.


    ¡°Altezza is an adult who can make his own choices. He¡¯s not a child I can order around as I please. Maybe when he was a teenager, I could still control him. But now he¡¯s not a vtile teenager anymore. So he has his own mind.


    ¡°And it seems like now he doesn¡¯t want to have any rtionship with you anymore. That¡¯s why you¡¯re bothering to look for him here. When you don¡¯t need to go through this trouble if you just realize your position.¡±


    Jovanka looked at him with a murderous gaze.


    ¡°And let me tell you. Altezza is tall and big. So how could I hide him in my pocket? Sometimes you do sound strange,¡± he said with a smirk.


    ¡°So, now you know that the man you consider your husband isn¡¯t here, right?¡± Antony nced at the security guards who had been sitting behind Jovanka the whole time without her realizing.


    ¡°And because I¡¯m still a gentleman. I will still give you options. Leave this office with dignity, or my employees will drag you out disrespectfully?¡± Antony nodded his head towards the two security guards behind Jovanka.


    Jovanka stood up with her mouth agape, shocked by the presence of the two sturdy men she hadn¡¯t noticed before.


    She rose from her seat with remnants of her grace, straightening her clothes unnecessarily, then walked out of Antony¡¯s office with her chin held high.


    One of the security guards closed Antony¡¯s office door, and afterward, Gian burst intoughter.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°Do you remember the cartoons we used to watch when we were kids? Pink Panther? When he bes thin? I imagined Altezza bing as thin as that when you said to look for him in the drawers and nightstand.¡± Heughed uproariously.


    Meanwhile, Duncan tried to cover hisughter more elegantly. Antony still stared at the closed door with a troubled expression. Jovanka wouldn¡¯t give up easily. He could see that in her eyes.


    Jovanka got back into her car with a rage that made her want to scream. And she did scream inside the car while messing up her hair.


    It took her quite some time until she could finally calm down and regte her breathing. Jovanka smoothed out her hair again and drove her car away from Coskun Company. There was only one ce left for her to go, butpared to the three ces she had visited before, this ce would be harder to prate due to its tight security.


    As the afternoon turned into evening, Jovanka still parked her car ten meters away from the Quirino residence. She could only stare at the door and hope that someone woulde out because she knew she wouldn¡¯t be able to get in there, as the security guards stationed there would promptly kick her out.


    Jovanka couldn¡¯t breach the high iron gate equipped with cameras like she had done at Altezza¡¯s office earlier. She also couldn¡¯t hire someone to enter in her ce because the Quirino family clearly wouldn¡¯t ept just anyone.


    The only option left was to either find a way in or wait for someone toe out. And it seemed like waiting for a servant toe out was the easiest option now. She had to find someone she could entice with money. A young servant would undoubtedly be easier to persuade.


    Jovanka waited impatiently, so by four in the afternoon, she finally saw a young servant, not much older than her assistant, walking. And luckily, the woman was walking toward where Jovanka had parked her car.


    Jovanka rolled down her car window and smiled as the woman approached. ¡°Jo-Jovanka Lawrence?¡± The girl seemed wide-eyed at the sight of her. Her hands covered her mouth in surprise. Jovanka smiled. A new victim right in front of her.


    ¡°Can we introduce ourselves?¡± she asked, extending her hand. The girl wiped her hand roughly before shaking Jovanka¡¯s hand.


    ¡°I¡¯m Rima.¡±


    ¡°Rima. How long have you been working with Mrs. Del?¡±


    ¡°Not long. Less than a year,¡± she answered innocently.


    ¡°If I may ask, how much is your monthly sry? Because I have a job for you. And I¡¯m willing to pay you three times your sry.¡± The girl mentioned a figure that was quite surprising for a housemaid¡¯s sry. ¡°Alright. I¡¯ll pay three times that. As long as you¡¯re willing to do what I ask.¡± The girl nodded enthusiastically. And Jovanka gave her the instructions.

 Part 104

    Altezza¡¯s Point of View


    I blink, rubbing my throbbing temples. Lack of sleep and appetite leave my body feeling weak. I nce at my phone, which I had previously tossed carelessly, and try to turn it back on. Dozens of missed calls and messages flood in. They alle from different numbers, but I know they¡¯re all from Jovanka. And I choose to continue ignoring them.


    The clock reads five-twenty. There¡¯s still plenty of time before dinner. I decide to scroll through social media again, hoping Adaline has posted something that could give me a clue to her whereabouts. Though it¡¯s a slim hope because Adaline isn¡¯t one to post every little thing on social media. But it seems luck is on my side.


    And indeed, she has uploaded something. A photo of brownies topped with whipped cream and strawberries. It seems Adaline is currently fond of sweet treats, especially chocte. Unconsciously, I find myself smiling. As has be my habit over the past two days, I¡¯ve been seeing my wife¡¯s face on her social media. A face that¡¯s quite rare because she hardly ever posts pictures of herself.


    The few photos on her social media consist only of food and the ces she visits. She only posts pictures of herself if there¡¯s someone else apanying her. If not family, then there will be pictures of her with her friends.


    Adaline. Where are you, darling? Don¡¯t you miss me?


    I see the only photo of Adaline alone. It¡¯s taken in a cafe with so much food in front of her. The photo tag reads, ¡°got treated by the twins, they said it should be uploaded for promotion. Thanks to ire & dwin¡­ may your cafe be a hit¡­¡± The cafe¡¯s name, founded by her cousin¡¯s wife, is also mentioned there.


    Adaline appeared in the photo, shylyughing with chopsticks in her right hand and a bowl of food in her left. Unconsciously, I found myself smiling too. It¡¯s always like that. Adaline¡¯s smile is infectious and warms my heart.


    I heard amotion outside the room, indicating someone was visiting. I walked out, disregarding my disheveled appearance that clearly showed I had just woken up.


    Gian looked at me with wide eyes. Antony was already seated, his tie loose and his jacket draped over the back of the long sofa. Meanwhile, Mamma was sipping her evening tea.


    ¡°Good evening, Brother. Looks like I don¡¯t need to ask how you¡¯ve been,¡± Gian greeted mockingly in Italian. I didn¡¯t respond. ¡°You really look a mess, Brother. Are you heartbroken?¡± he continued, still mocking. Again. I ignored him and chose to enter the kitchen. ¡°Oh, by the way, Aunty. I have an interesting story today.¡± I nced at Gian, and he was also smiling meaningfully at me.


    ¡°A young woman came to our office while Antony, Duncan, and I were having a meeting,¡± Gian said. Hearing the word ¡®woman,¡¯ I hoped he was talking about Adaline. My wife. ¡°I was surprised to see her because earlier Antony had warned all employees to keep her out.¡±


    Realizing the woman being talked about wasn¡¯t Adaline, I chose to close my ears and ignore whatever he wanted to tell. ¡°She came and asked where Antony was hiding Altezza. And you know what Antony¡¯s response was?


    ¡°He asked me and Duncan to look for Altezza among the drawers and bedside tables. Antony thought Altezza was some small object that could fit into a jacket pocket,¡± Gianughed.


    ¡°And if only you had seen the woman¡¯s reaction. Ah, it¡¯s a pity I was too mesmerized to remember to take her picture,¡± hemented again.


    ¡°That disrespectful woman even caused amotion at my hotel,¡± my father¡¯s voice chimed in.


    I nced at my father, who had apparently returned earlier than my two cousins. Perhaps because I was too deep in slumber, I hadn¡¯t realized he was back.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯ve put her on the hotel¡¯s cklist,¡± he continued.


    ¡°Wow, Uncle, you¡¯re the best,¡± Gian praised, pping his hands. A bright smile adorned his face.


    I really didn¡¯t want to hear any more stories about that woman. I had even blocked her name from my phone. Turns out, she had lost her mind. After not getting any response from any of the numbers she used, she caused chaos elsewhere just to find me. Truly insane.


    I chose to retreat back to my room. Soaking in hot water just to rx my body. This exhaustion wouldn¡¯t dissipate. I soaked for half an hour, and my body felt refreshed.


    I emerged from my room after finishing my evening prayers. But my house seemed deserted.


    ¡°Where is everyone?¡± I asked the household assistant, who resided in the back pavilion of the house.


    ¡°Mr. and Mrs. Quirino have an invitation. Sir Antony and Sir Gian have been home since earlier,¡± she replied. I nodded. ¡°Would you like dinner?¡± Again, I nodded. After dinner, I returned to my room. My head felt heavy again, and my stomach felt so sore.


    Iy down my body. It seems my stomach ailment has red up again, no wonder considering my recent erratic eating and resting patterns. Cold sweat starts to fill my forehead. I search for the medicine I usually keep in one of the bathroom cabs, chew it, and choose to go back to sleep. Hoping that when I wake upter, I¡¯ll feel better.


    ***


    It¡¯s the weekend. Yet, this weekend feels so quiet. Mamma and Padre are nowhere to be seen, and I don¡¯t know where they are. And considering they¡¯re giving me the silent treatment, I dare not contact them.


    I choose to have breakfast alone. Today, I will start searching for Adaline again. And I hope to receive good news.


    Out of curiosity, I open my social media ount again. Seeing Adaline¡¯s face boosts my spirits even more.


    Why am I so foolish? Wasting my precious time all this while. Why do I only realize now that I¡¯ve never truly spent my time with Adaline? Not even for a simple date.


    I regret it. For all the time I¡¯ve wasted. Spending too much time on never-ending work, to the point where I neglect the times for Adaline¡¯s prenatal check-ups and let her go with Mamma or her mother instead.


    Never making her happy by taking her out, even just for a meal or shopping for our baby¡¯s needs, something I should have done considering I wanted to fix this marriage.


    I¡¯ve been too foolish. I¡¯ve treated Adaline as I treated Jovanka.


    Yes, with Jovanka, we never went on dates or had dinner outside. It was all clear because she didn¡¯t want our rtionship to be public. And unconsciously, I did the same thing. Yet it¡¯s clear, Adaline and Jovanka are different. They¡¯re like water and fire. Earth and sky.


    I can only sigh deeply. Regret is pointless. Unless I manage to find Adaline, apologize, and make things right.


    I swear, if I find her and I¡¯m given the chance to be with her again, I won¡¯t treat her like I treated Jovanka.


    Somehow, I suddenly want to see my niece¡¯s ount. And something surprises me.


    @_via. Doesn¡¯t this cake look beautiful? Oops, but this isn¡¯t my creation, it¡¯s Aunt @Adawithline¡¯s. My body will be expanding soon. My dreams of bing a model seem to be given to @miss. Abby instead.


    The post is apanied by a photo of the beautiful cake that Altezza saw yesterday. via, Abigail, and Adaline? Are they in the same ce?


    I furrow my brow. That means¡­


    I remember my parents¡¯ words from some time ago. Aunt Brianna. Why did I forget that name just like that?


    My heart feels ted. I quickly grab my wallet and car keys, rushing to the garage.


    Why didn¡¯t I think before that Aunt Brianna might be hiding Adaline? Of course, Antony¡¯s mother would help Mamma too. After all she¡¯s done all this time, she wouldn¡¯t do things halfway. I¡¯m truly stupid. Extremely stupid.


    I half-run to my car. Yelling at security to open the gate quickly. I can¡¯t wait to see my wife and our future children.


    Adaline, darling. Wait for me. Even if I have to beg you, I¡¯ll do it willingly as long as youe back to me.


    I speed up my car with impatience, entering the toll road heading towards Kansas. I nce at the rearview mirror and see a familiar car following closely behind me. What is she doing? How does she know where I¡¯m going? How can she be following me?


    I can¡¯t be mistaken about that car because I bought it for her. And of course, I know its license te very well.


    But I don¡¯t want to dwell on that right now. What I want right now is to find my wife.


    I press the gas pedal harder, pushing the vehicle to its maximum limit. Until I feel something hit the rear of my car. I nce back at my side mirror, and the front of her car is so close to the rear of mine. Jovanka seems to want to y with me.


    I press the gas pedal even harder. My car speeds up to a hundred kilometers per hour. Luckily, the road is empty even though it¡¯s the weekend. But she doesn¡¯t want to give up. She matches the speed of my car.


    We continue topete in speed until I feel her deliberately bumping into my car again.


    I try to stay focused even though my car is swerving slightly. I can¡¯t. I can¡¯t give up.


    She¡¯s trying to harm both of us. And I refuse to lose. I keep driving my car fast until she swerves towards me, and I lose controlpletely. I jerk the steering wheel to the left and hit the brakes simultaneously.


    The screeching sound of tires can even be heard in my ears until I hear them burst from the pressure and friction on the asphalt. My car flips. I feel my body spinning. My head hits quite hard.


    I feel the spine to an end. The throbbing in my head bes more painful. My ears are ringing. My carnds somewhere. The road is above my head. The seatbelt restraining me doesn¡¯t really hold my body weight. The airbag in front of me only makes it difficult for me to breathe. I struggle to move.


    I faintly smell a pungent odor. Warmth flows through some parts of my body. Not to mention the throbbing pain starting in several ces. My vision is even starting to blur. My sight feels dazzled, as if several lights are shining towards me.


    Adaline, it seems we can¡¯t meet right now.

 Part 105

    Adaline felt a surge of pain in her chest.


    ¡°Altezza?¡±


    The name echoed in her mind.


    ¡°Sweetheart, are you okay?¡± her mother asked, worried. Her forehead creased as she looked at her daughter¡¯s expression.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Mom,¡± she replied, hoping her smile would reassure her mother. ¡°I¡¯m okay.¡± She repeated. Physically, she was fine, more than fine. But her heart wasn¡¯t.


    ¡°Are you sure? Your face looks pale.¡± Her mother stared at her intensely. Adaline nced at her mother, pinched and patted her cheeks to bring some color back.


    ¡°It¡¯s because of my anemia, Mom. So it¡¯s normal for my face to look pale. Pregnant women usually look pale too,¡± she joked. Her mother still looked at her with an unbelieving gaze.


    Their attention shifted when someone urgently pressed the doorbell. Mother and daughter exchanged nces.


    ¡°Let me get it.¡± Her mother replied. Adaline nodded.


    Gian appeared at the door with a pale face. His expression was panicked, and his appearance was disheveled.


    ¡°Gian. Come in.¡± Her mother invited, opening the way for Gian to enter the house, but he shook his head.


    His eyes searched inside the house. ¡°Aunt. Is Adaline here? I need to take her away,¡± he said urgently.


    Violet Scott frowned, sensing something wrong with Gian¡¯s demeanor this time. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Violet asked with a worried expression.


    Gian ran his hand through his hair. ¡°Altezza. She had an ident on her way here,¡± he replied, still in a panic.


    Adaline, who happened to be nearby, heard it. Instantly, she felt her body weaken. Her hand grasped the wall for support. ¡°Al¡­¡± She whispered. Gian quickly walked over, swiftly wrapping his arms around Adaline.


    ¡°Ada, you have to stay strong. We don¡¯t know how she¡¯s doing,¡± he said, then quickly he assisted Adaline in walking out of the house and into the car.


    Gian indeed didn¡¯t know Altezza¡¯s actual condition. Their family was gathered when they suddenly received a call from the police saying that Altezza had an ident on the highway while traveling to Kansas.


    Everyone was clearly shocked to hear it. Because no one expected Altezza toe to Kansas. Usually, if he wasing, he would always contact his family members first to make sure who was in Kansas because he was afraid they were traveling. But this time he came without notice.


    Gian had also contacted Altezza¡¯s parents, and now both of them were on their way to Kansas. Meanwhile, Antony and ire were already at the hospital to take care of Altezza.


    Gian himself was initially unsure whether he should take Adaline to the hospital or not. But he just wanted to be cautious. Preparing for the worst-case scenario even though he didn¡¯t want it.


    The car sped towards the hospital where Altezza was being treated. Everyone fell silent. No questions or statements were made. Adaline was still in her mother¡¯s embrace, crying incessantly, calling out Altezza¡¯s name. Whispering every mistake and apologizing to him.


    Upon arriving at the hospital parking lot, they went straight to the reception area and inquired about the ident victim. The receptionist gave them directions to the surgery waiting area. Antony was leaning against the wall beside the operating room door. Meanwhile, Arthur Quirino and ire were hugging Brianna, trying tofort her from her tears.


    ¡°How is she?¡± Gian asked anyone who could answer. The four of them looked up. ire and Brianna simply walked over to Adaline and hugged her.


    ¡°She¡¯s in surgery. The doctor said there¡¯s bleeding in her head. Some parts of her body are fractured due to the severe impact. And her right leg is also broken,¡± Adaline copsed instantly onto the floor. Her tears fell again. There were no sobs, just suppressed cries that sounded even more painful.


    ¡°Ada, you have to stay calm. Pray,¡± her mothermanded. She embraced her daughter, stroking her head and back while continuously seeking forgiveness.


    Adaline turned to her mother. ¡°Mom¡­¡± she whispered softly. Her hand reached out, asking her mother to hug her. ¡°Why, Mom? Why like this? Why does it have to be like this?¡± She murmured all those questions in her mother¡¯s embrace before her consciousness faded away.


    Gian and Antony moved quickly to support her body. Gian managed to lift Adaline¡¯s body. Now they walked towards the Emergency Department, asking whoever was on duty to check Adaline¡¯s condition.


    A young doctor approached them to examine her. ¡°Is her husband present?¡± He asked, looking at the group of people who were difficult to remove from the Emergency Department. They all froze. ¡°If her husband isn¡¯t here, please leave this area,¡± the doctor patiently ordered.


    ¡°Her husband is in the operating room, Doctor,¡± Gian replied on behalf of his family. The doctor seemed momentarily surprised before returning to a neutral demeanor.


    ¡°In that case, one of you should wait for him,¡± he ordered again.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do it,¡± ire volunteered.


    ire asked Gian to take Mother Violet out of the Emergency Department. Meanwhile, Antony led his parents out.


    ¡°I¡¯ll call you when she wakes up,¡± she said to her husband. Antony nodded, though his face still showed worry.


    The doctor examined Adaline, and ire exined her health condition that she knew of. Afterward, the doctor focused on ire and spoke formally. ¡°The patient is only in shock. Let her rest for a while. If her condition remains weak, we will proceed with further treatmentter. For now, I¡¯ll just give her some vitamins.¡± ire simply nodded in response.


    After the doctor left, she chose to sit by Adaline¡¯s bedside. Her hand tightly held Adaline¡¯s cold hand, hoping that by doing so, she could channel her strength to her friend.


    ¡°Be patient, Darling. Right now, you¡¯re being tested by God. I pray that Altezza will be okay,¡± her prayer was sincere.


    An hourter, Adaline woke up coinciding with the arrival of Del and Benjamin. Del looked hysterical, especially seeing Adaline¡¯s weakened state. Her fear grew.


    ¡°Sweetheart, are you okay?¡± Del took over ire¡¯s position waiting for Adaline.


    ¡°Mamma¡­¡± Adaline reached out her hand, asking the woman to hug her. Her feelings were so fragile, she cried again in her mother-inw¡¯s embrace. ¡°Mamma.. Altezza, he.. Mamma¡­¡± she whispered.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°Forgive me. Everything happened because of me. If only I didn¡¯t go, maybe Altezza wouldn¡¯t be like this,¡± she said amidst her sobs.


    ¡°No, Darling. None of this is your fault. You¡¯re not to me. You didn¡¯t do anything wrong. Whether you or Altezza. Neither of you did anything wrong. You both were just fighting for what you should fight for.


    ¡°You just calm down. Altezza is a strong man. I believe he will endure. He will endure for you and for your children.


    ¡°Trust me. Just pray for Altezza. That¡¯s what he needs right now. Not tears. Not excessive sadness,¡± her mother-inw said with a calmer tone. Adaline just nodded.


    Delid Adaline¡¯s body back down. ¡°Rest. You have to stay calm, and remember the babies in your womb.


    ¡°If Altezza wakes up and finds out something happened to you, he¡¯ll be angry and me me. Do you want him to scold me again?¡± Adaline shook her head. ¡°Then go to sleep. I¡¯ll wake you upter,¡± Adaline tried to close her eyes again.

 Part 106

    Altezza opened his eyes, but he quickly covered them with one hand. The dazzling light hurt his eyes. Altezza squinted, trying to adjust his vision and figure out where he was now. As far as he remembered, he had just had an ident, but strangely what he saw now was not the ceiling of a hospital or the view of a treatment room, butrge branches and dense foliage.


    Altezza sat up. He was quite surprised because he didn¡¯t feel the pain he should feel. He looked at his body and felt fine. But why was he there? Why was he in this vast green field? Why was he lying under a shady tree before?


    Altezza turned and was quite surprised to see someone he knew sitting next to him and even smiling at him. ¡°Sir?¡± he asked, surprised.


    How long had they not met? If Altezza remembered correctly, thest time he saw that man was about eight years ago. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Altezza asked again.


    The man stared back at Altezza in surprise. ¡°I should be asking you the same. Why are you here?¡± The man who always gave advice to Altezza seemed to smile.


    ¡°I also don¡¯t know why I¡¯m here.¡± Altezza scratched his neck, looking embarrassed.


    ¡°You¡¯re already old but your behavior is still like a child,¡± the man teased.


    ¡°And how about you? How did you end up here?¡± Altezza asked again.


    The middle-aged man smiled again. His eyes scanned around. Observing the lush green field and distant hills.


    ¡°A ce like this is my daughter¡¯s favorite ce,¡± the man said. There was immense fondness reflected on his face. He rose from his seat and started walking, Altezza walked alongside him.


    ¡°Your daughter?¡± Altezza nodded.


    Altezza remembered the figure of a high school girl with a petite body adorned with colorful braces. The petite girl whom he always teased because her body resembled more like a middle schooler than a high schooler.


    ¡°Aline?¡± The old man nodded again. ¡°How is she now? She must be married by now. Didn¡¯t she say she wanted to marry young?¡± The old man smiled again.


    ¡°Yes, she¡¯s married. Not long ago. Unfortunately, I wasn¡¯t there to witness it. But I¡¯m happy to see who she chose as her husband.


    ¡°Her husband is a very good man and loves my daughter very much.¡± Altezza could only nod. Sharing in the joy of the middle-aged man. ¡°And what about you? How about the woman you often admired? Did you win her over?¡± Altezza scratched his neck again. He was quite surprised because the man knew about it even though as far as Altezza remembered, he had never told the man.


    ¡°I thought at first I seeded. But it turns out I worshiped the wrong person.


    ¡°I closed my ears to the warnings of the people around me. Although I realized it before it was toote, there¡¯s still a lingering feeling in my heart.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. Not everything we see is reality. We only see what we want to see. We only hear what we want to hear.


    ¡°I¡¯ve always rejected every piece of advice given to me. I always closed my eyes. I always thought they were too involved in my affairs. When in fact, I was the one who was too foolish.¡±


    The man smiled and gently patted Altezza¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to me yourself. They love you. They want what¡¯s best for you. But we as humans, often we¡¯re clouded by ego. We¡¯re too confident in ourselves. We¡¯re too swayed by the temptations of the devil.


    ¡°That¡¯s because we¡¯re human, not angels. We¡¯re not always right. No human is ever always right. We¡¯re not angels.


    ¡°But we¡¯re also not demons who are always wrong. We have feelings. We have desires. And often when we fall in love, we feel that we are the ones who are right.


    ¡°We feel that the one we love is the most perfect person. Our hearts are closed because of the overwhelming love.


    ¡°But be grateful because now you¡¯re aware.¡±


    Altezza nodded. ¡°I¡¯m very grateful. Grateful for having a family like mine. Grateful for being matched with a woman who loves me so much. Grateful for finally realizing my feelings of love.


    ¡°Although I¡¯m not sure if I can still express these feelings.¡±


    Once again, the old man smiled. ¡°It¡¯s not toote. God still provides you a path. He still gives you time to fix everything.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you listen to those voices? The voices of those who love you? They¡¯re calling you toe back.¡± He said, and suddenly Altezza heard echoes in his mind.


    ¡°Come back, dear.¡± That was his mother¡¯s voice. Altezza was sure of it. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I couldn¡¯t be a good mother to you. Come back.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Come back, son. Come back to all of us. For Adaline and your children. We¡¯re all waiting for you.¡± That was his father¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you wake up too? Are you really intending to leave Adaline and leave her to me? If you truly intend to do so, don¡¯t be angry with me. Don¡¯t haunt me if someday she bes my wife and her children be mine.¡± Gian¡¯s voice made Altezza smile.


    ¡°How long will you sleep, Brother? Don¡¯t you miss your wife? She said your child has started kicking harder than before. Don¡¯t you want to try to touch him? Don¡¯t you feel sorry for her?¡± Altezza heard Antony¡¯s voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s all because of me. If only I hadn¡¯t started all this. That woman wouldn¡¯t have gone crazy. Wake up, Darling. Don¡¯t you feel sorry for your wife and children? Don¡¯t you feel sorry for your parents?


    ¡°Wake up and help me punish that woman. I¡¯m waiting for you.¡± That was Aunt Brianna¡¯s voice.


    But where was the voice I longed for? Where was my wife¡¯s voice? Where is my Adaline? Does that woman not miss me? Does that woman no longer want me?


    Altezza looked at the man beside him. The man still smiled at him.


    ¡°Among all people, there¡¯s no one who¡¯s eagerly waiting for you to wake up other than her.


    ¡°She¡¯s not good with words. But she¡¯s the most sensitive person.


    ¡°Later, when you return to her embrace, I hope you won¡¯t waste it anymore.


    ¡°Please take care of her for me. Give her the love I couldn¡¯t give when I was still here.


    ¡°Take care of her, don¡¯t hurt her anymore. She¡¯s the gem in my heart. My only daughter. A daughter I never imagined I could have.¡±


    ¡°Sir¡­.¡± The man smiled back at him before disappearing.


    ¡°Al¡­¡± A voice called out his name.


    Altezza scanned his surroundings. Looking for the figure he longed for. But there was no one there except himself and the silence.


    ¡°Altezza¡­ I¡¯m sorry.¡± Altezza raised his right hand. Suddenly, the hand felt warm. ¡°Forgive all my mistakes.


    ¡°You can be angry. You can scold me. But please, wake up.


    ¡°I¡¯m scared.


    ¡°I¡¯m scared of giving birth alone.


    ¡°Will you really not allow me to touch them?


    ¡°Haven¡¯t I told you that I will only touch them with your permission? And they will be born soon. Are you really that angry at me?


    ¡°Wake up, Al. I haven¡¯t even had the chance to tell you how much I love you. And I don¡¯t even know how you feel about me.


    ¡°If what Mom said is true, if you really love me, I beg you, wake up, apany me. Don¡¯t let me give birth to our baby alone¡­¡±Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    The voice slowly faded away, making Altezza feel tortured.


    His heart was in so much pain, he felt so hurt. Yet, he was the one who had hurt the hearts of those who loved him. He was the one who had wasted the love that everyone had given him.


    Adaline¡­


    Altezza also wanted to return. He also wanted to see the woman he loved again. He hadn¡¯t apologized. He hadn¡¯t expressed his love.


    Didn¡¯t he promise to kneel as long as the woman returned to him? But why now, once again, he ended up hurting the woman instead.


    Why did he make the woman cry?


    Altezza fell to his knees. Crying as hard as he could. He was alone in a vast ce that he didn¡¯t even know where it was.


    God. I know that I have wasted so much goodness. So many opportunities. Can I ask for one more chance to fix everything? Can you bring me back? Can I bargain? Can I ask? Can you allow me to return to the embrace of the woman I love?


    And somehow, Altezza felt someone pulling his heart so intensely.

 Part 107

    Adaline sat motionless in her ce. Her husband¡¯s body trembled violently, then convulsed momentarily. All the screens next to the man red loudly.


    Adaline could only stare at her husband with an empty gaze. Someone wrapped their arms around her shoulders, pulling her back just as the paramedics arrived.


    ¡°We¡¯re leaving, Honey,¡± said Del¡¯s voice. Adaline turned her head and shook it, but Del kept urging her to go.


    ¡°Mamma¡­ Altezza¡­ he¡­¡± she pointed to her husband. Mrs. Del only nodded and continued to escort her out of the ICU room.


    Her mother-inw settled Adaline into a long chair in the hallway. Adaline sat in silence. Themanding screams echoed only in her head. She twisted her hands, praying silently, hoping that God would return the man she loved.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time Altezza had an attack. But it was always frightening for her whenever it happened.


    Three months. Altezza had been in aa for three months. Although the doctors said he showed progress, the man still didn¡¯t open his eyes.


    ¡°There was no error in the procedure. The operation went smoothly. Within twenty-four hours, he should have woken up,¡± said the doctor who performed the surgery on Altezza¡¯s head. And that happened eighty-three days ago.


    Altezza suffered a severe head injury. He even had to undergo surgery due to bleeding in his head. The right side of his body was the most affected. His right leg was broken, as was his pelvis bone. The doctor said it was because of the severe impact he experienced before the airbag restrained his body.


    And twenty-four hours after the operation. The man still hadn¡¯t awakened from his slumber. And the doctor dered that her husband was in aa.


    Coma.


    One word that made Adaline¡¯s world feel shattered because of it. She felt like she lost her footing.


    She didn¡¯t cry then; she just sat there silently, staring at her husband. Wondering to whom, exactly. Why did this have to happen to him? To them? Could Adaline offer herself to switch ces with her husband? Because honestly, she couldn¡¯t bear to see him like this.


    Her days felt heavy since hearing that verdict. Adaline felt like she lost her spirit. Her spirit vanished along with her husband¡¯s sleep.


    Adaline only held on for the babies in her womb. She hardly spoke.


    They transferred Altezza to the hospital in Manhattan, and Adaline just went along. She had no will. She had no passion left. She just wanted her husband to wake up. That¡¯s all.


    She became a permanent resident of the hospital. Being by her husband¡¯s side silently. There were no words she could say. She could only sit there, holding her husband¡¯s hand. Kissing him.


    The doctor even provided a patient bed just for her, specifically for her. Just so she could rest beside her husband.


    Altezza¡¯s family was often there, waiting for him. asionally, they talked to her. Invited Altezza to talk. Telling him about anything they experienced while they were out there. Even Gian often made silly stories to make Adalineugh, but Adaline could only smile half-heartedly.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    The woman truly lost her spirit. Everyone began to worry about her. They feared Adaline might copse at any moment. They prayed incessantly for Altezza to wake up soon.


    During his first attack, Adaline fainted too. The woman passed out because her physical condition was also weak due tock of rest.


    So it was with the second attack.


    The doctor said Altezza¡¯s condition was fine, but not Adaline¡¯s. Her condition was not fine.


    Her face always looked pale, her body growing thinner. The bags under her eyes appeared darker andrger, making her look like someone suffering from starvation. Adaline lost her cheerfulness, she lost her resilience. The Adaline of old seemed to vanish.


    ¡°Try to speak. Maybe all this time he¡¯s been waiting for you to call his name.¡± Stefanie stood behind her and gently squeezed Adaline¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Say everything you want to say to him. Let him hear all your grievances. Make him feel guilty. Ask him toe back to you to redeem all his wrongdoings,¡± she continued persuading.


    At that moment, a month had passed since Altezza was deredatose, and Adaline only nodded in response. When they were alone, Adaline did what Stefanie suggested. She began to talk to Altezza. Discussing everything she wanted to talk about.


    She murmured about her boredom during their time in the hospital. Talking about the nurses who always praised Altezza, which always irritated Adaline.


    She also talked about her pregnancy. Discussing their developments. Talking about how they moved. Adaline also discussed Gian and Joanna¡¯s rtionship development. Informing him that Duncan would postpone his marriage to Tessa until Altezza woke up because Duncan wanted Altezza to finance their wedding.


    Trivial matters always became her topic of conversation. She mentioned all the names she knew. Except for that woman¡¯s name.


    Adaline had never hated anyone as much as she hated Jovanka.


    That woman, her greed and madness had put Altezza where he was now. Adaline would never forgive that woman. Even if something happened to Altezza, she swore that she would take the action she most wanted against that woman with her own hands.


    Adaline wouldn¡¯t kill her. Her death would only make things easier. She¡¯d prefer to hurt that woman in her own way.


    She would make that woman disabled for life, so that every time she felt pain, she would remember Adaline and Altezza. The mistakes that woman had made against them. And Adaline made sure she would do it if anything happened to her husband.


    Altezza had stabilized again. But the doctors still hadn¡¯t moved him from the ICU.


    Adaline re-entered after putting on special clothing. She reached for her husband¡¯s hand, now looking thin.


    ¡°Al¡­¡± she called softly.


    ¡°Al¡­ forgive me.¡± Adaline lifted her husband¡¯s hand with both of hers. She kissed the back of his hand tightly before cing his palm on her cheek.


    ¡°Forgive all my mistakes,¡± she said. Tears fell down her cheeks.


    Adaline kept crying. She couldn¡¯t speak anymore. Oh God, is there a chance for your servant to apologize?


    Can You give me a chance to fix everything?


    Can I ask You to wake him up soon?


    I beg you. Return him to me. Return him to us. Her prayer in her heart. Then Adaline fell asleep sitting next to her husband with her hand still tightly gripping his.

 Part 108

    Adaline felt kicks in her stomach. She groaned softly. Her eyes opened, and she could see the hospital ceiling in front of her.


    Wasn¡¯t she in the ICU earlier? Since when was she moved to the regr ward?


    Adaline nced at the bed next to her. It was clear she had returned to the regr room she had been in. But her husband¡¯s bed, which was usually upied, was empty.


    Adaline closed her eyes with her arm. She felt the IV needle in her left hand. It seemed she had passed out again, something that had happened frequentlytely.


    Adaline heard her room door open, but she didn¡¯t want to turn or see anyone who came in.


    Footsteps and the sound of wheels approached her bed.


    ¡°Madam¡­¡±


    That voice? It sounded hoarse, but Adaline knew it so well. The voice she had longed to hear. Unwanted tears fell again. How could she daydream at a time like this¡­


    ¡°Madam, do you really not want to see me again?¡±


    The tone of that voice? It sounded sad yet also joyful at the same time.


    ¡°Are you teasing me because I can¡¯t stand?¡±


    Adaline finally lifted her arms and turned to the source of the voice. Her husband was there. Sitting on a wheelchair, looking at her.


    ¡°Al¡­?¡± Adaline stared at him in disbelief. Her vision blurred by tears. ¡°Al¡­?¡± she repeated, unsure. Adaline saw her husband nodding.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me. Don¡¯t say you¡¯ve forgotten your husband¡¯s face, Madam.¡± Adaline cried in hisughter.


    Her husband had returned. Indeed. That was her husband¡¯s voice. His face.


    Adaline rose from her lying position. Ignoring her husband¡¯s advice to be careful. Ignoring the pinches from the IV needle in her hand.


    She got off the bed and approached him.


    Instead of hugging her husband and releasing her longing, Adaline hit him to vent her anger.


    ¡°Why did you do this to me!


    ¡°Why did you do all this to me?!


    ¡°Why?!


    ¡°Are you so eager to take revenge on me?!


    ¡°Even though I only left you for a few days, but you tormented me for months! Why are you so cruel to me?!¡± The woman copsed on the floor along with her uncontroble tears.


    Altezza got off his wheelchair. Trying to reach his wife and embrace her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Please forgive me.¡± He said, kissing his wife¡¯s head. ¡°It wasn¡¯t my intention to sleep for too long. I even begged God to wake me up soon. But I have no power.¡± Altezza¡¯s words choked. Tears streamed down his cheeks just as intensely.


    ¡°I have sinned. I haven¡¯t even apologized to you and our children. I intended to kneel before you if we met again.


    ¡°I would ask you toe back to me no matter what.


    ¡°But now the doctors forbid me from kneeling. I even have difficulty standing.¡± The man said with a hint of humor in hisst sentence.


    Adaline finally realized their position sitting on the floor. ¡°Al¡­ your legs still haven¡¯t healed,¡± she said, with a worried tone.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± he replied, tightening his embrace around Adaline. ¡°Will you forgive me? Will youe back to me?¡±


    Adaline looked at her husband, her eyes brimming with tears.


    ¡°I promise. This time I swear that I will take care of you and our children properly.


    ¡°I promise I won¡¯t hurt you again.


    ¡°My heart felt so much pain when you left me. I realized that I ampletely in love with you. I fell in love with the mother of my children.¡± Altezza stated firmly.


    ¡°But¡­¡± Adaline spoke hesitantly.


    ¡°No ¡®buts¡¯. You have toe back to me, whether you like it or not. I won¡¯t ept refusal. If necessary, I will make a lifelong contract so that you remain my wife.¡±


    ¡°Then, what about my contract as a surrogate mother?¡±


    ¡°No surrogate mother contract. You¡¯re not a surrogate mother. Who came up with that term? I¡¯ll kill that person!¡± Altezza threatened.


    Adaline smiled at her husband.


    ¡°You¡¯re not a surrogate mother. You¡¯re Altezza Quirino¡¯s wife. The woman I love. The mother of my children. The daughter-inw of Mamma and Padre. Do you understand?¡± Adaline nodded her head.


    ¡°But I¡¯m not ready toe back to you yet.¡±


    Altezza released his embrace and looked at his wife with wide eyes. ¡°Madam¡­¡±


    ¡°You have to promise me.¡±


    ¡°What promise?¡±


    ¡°Promise me that you will never look at another woman no matter what condition I¡¯m in in the future. Whether I be nagging, old, or fat. No matter how ugly I may be, you must never look at another woman.¡± Altezza smiled and nodded.


    ¡°I promise. I won¡¯t look at another woman. Twice,¡± her husband said jokingly. Adaline frowned in annoyance. ¡°Darling, if I look at a beautiful woman once, that¡¯s called a bonus. If I look at the same woman for the second time, then it¡¯s a crime.¡± Adaline hit her husband¡¯s arm again. ¡°Darling, that hurts. Are you resorting to violence against me??¡± Her husband eximed. Adaline bit her lower lip, feeling guilty.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­¡± she murmured.


    ¡°I forgive you. Because I love you,¡± her husband teased. ¡°So will you forgive me too?¡± Adaline shook her head again. ¡°Why not?¡± Altezza was surprised again.


    ¡°You have to promise one more thing.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You have to say that you love me every day.¡±This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Darling, that¡¯s not difficult. Even if necessary, every minute, every hour, every time I see you, I will say that I love you, I cherish you, and I don¡¯t want to lose you. How about it? Will youe back to me?¡±


    ¡°Mmm¡­¡±


    ¡°Enough, what¡¯s the point of going back to him? There¡¯s no benefit in living with him,¡± Gian¡¯s remark made Adaline realize they weren¡¯t alone. In fact, her cousin had been standing there since earlier, witnessing the drama between the couple.


    Adaline felt ashamed. She nced to the other side of the room. Violet, Emma, Benjamin, Del, and Brianna were seated on the sofa, their eyes fixed on them. Meanwhile, ire, Antony, and Sir Arthur were standing, also watching them.


    Adaline blushed with embarrassment. Oh God. They both became the spectacle of the entire family. But Altezza showed no signs of embarrassment at all. He even smiled sweetly at her.


    ¡°What about it, Madam? What¡¯s your answer?¡±


    Adaline covered her face with her hands. ¡°Al¡­¡± she mumbled with her voice muffled by her hands. ¡°I¡¯m ashamed¡­¡±


    Altezza scooted closer again and embraced his wife. ¡°Don¡¯t be ashamed. Let them witness all the promises I¡¯ve made. Let them be the ones to reprimand me if I make mistakes. Will you forgive me ande back to me?¡± Altezza held Adaline¡¯s arms, wanting to see her face.


    Adaline smiled and nodded. Then quickly buried her face in her husband¡¯s chest.


    Everyone expressed gratitude simultaneously. Gian smirked, though deep down he also felt thankful and prayed for their happiness.

 Part 109

    Altezza is indeed conscious, but that doesn¡¯t mean she can go home freely. Her broken bones have indeed improved during hera period, but she still needs intensive care. Because her body didn¡¯t move for three months, some parts of her body became swollen and stiff. So, Altezza has to undergo regr therapy.


    The wound on her head has also dried up. Although the doctor stated that Altezza would definitely have side effects due to the surgery.


    Meanwhile, after Altezza regained consciousness, the legal process began. During the ident, it turns out that Altezza wasn¡¯t the only victim. Two other cars were also hit in the incident. So, the total ident involved four cars and nine victims, although it didn¡¯t result in any fatalities. However, among the nine people, Altezza suffered the most severe injuries, while the others only suffered minor injuries.


    Adaline has never wanted to know the cause of the ident. And her family has never discussed it in front of her to protect her and the baby she¡¯s carrying. So that Adaline wouldn¡¯t have any other worries that would endanger herself and her baby. Just seeing Altezza¡¯s condition is enough to make people worry about her.


    But now she finally knows, and she indeed needs to know why her husband had the ident. Whether it was purely an ident or intentional. And everything finally unfolded when the police came and asked for statements.


    Jovanka is the main suspect in the ident. The woman has been proven to have been tailing Altezza and deliberately nudged the car she was driving. In fact, the woman almost escaped if she hadn¡¯t been blocked by another car. Or another possibility is that after seeing Altezza¡¯s condition, the woman was about to crash herself.


    ¡°If only I were there, I could imagine a scene from a Fast and Furious movie. Just imagine I¡¯m Paul Walker,¡± Gianmented in his usual style.


    ¡°And you would end tragically,¡± Antonymented tly.


    ¡°But how could he know? Is he some kind of stalker?¡± Gian looked at Altezza. The man was now leaning on his wife and rubbing her belly.


    ¡°I think Aunty has found the culprit,¡± Antonymented again, Altezza looked at his cousin with a furrowed brow. ¡°An informant who provided information about you,¡± he continued, responding to Altezza¡¯s confusion.


    ¡°But who?¡± Altezza was quite surprised to hear this. Because his mother had never recruited people randomly.


    ¡°She¡¯s the daughter of the old maid. She doesn¡¯t work in the house, but she just happened to be at home when you happened to leave. And the day before that, Jovanka happened to meet her when she had just left the house,¡± Antony exined.


    ¡°She¡¯s already been made a key witness. And she might be made a suspectter on, considering what she has caused.¡±


    ¡°What about Jovanka?¡± Altezza wanted to know. Not because of his concern for the woman. But more out of fear that the woman would cause even more danger to them. Especially to Adaline.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°There¡¯s no definite process yet because we¡¯re still gathering evidence. Plus, we¡¯re waiting for you to wake up to be a proper witness. Because for now, she insists that it was just an ident.


    ¡°But that woman is now under house arrest. For now, she just has to report every day.¡±


    ¡°We have to be careful. I don¡¯t know what madness she might do next.


    ¡°She dares toe to the office to look for me. She even dares to attack me openly. I don¡¯t want anything to happen to Adaline and our unborn child,¡± Altezza said cautiously.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t there anything else we can do? Like setting a trap for her to admit all her mistakes and eventually get the police to arrest her?


    ¡°We could record it through CCTV, then invite her and let her confess all her faults herself,¡± Gian suggested.


    ¡°You watch too much TV. Do you really think trapping someone is that easy? If you¡¯re not good at talking, you might end up trapped by their cleverness instead. Clearly, she¡¯s a cunning woman,¡± Altezzamented cynically.


    ¡°If only you had realized from the beginning that she was cunning. Surely, you wouldn¡¯t have fallen into her deception. It¡¯s a shame you only knew the truth when it was already toote,¡± Gian retorted, equally cynical.


    He turned to look at Adaline. ¡°Adaline, are you sure you want to get back with her? Don¡¯t regret itter on. I¡¯m still avable, you know,¡± Gian teased with a flirtatious expression directed at Adaline.


    Altezza grabbed a tissue box from the nightstand and threw it, luckily Gian was quick and skillfully caught it.


    ¡°I thought you had no strength. But turns out you¡¯re strong,¡± he mocked as he ced the tissue box back in its ce. ¡°See, he¡¯s strong, which means all this time he¡¯s just been pretending. He¡¯s only acting weak to get your attention. I told you I¡¯m better than him. I¡¯m more handsome. I¡¯m younger. Even though I¡¯m not richer, at least I didn¡¯t hurt you,¡± Gian taunted again, listing all of Altezza¡¯s shorings.


    ¡°Damn you! Why don¡¯t you be the object of her obsession instead?¡± Altezza red at him cynically.


    ¡°Me? It¡¯s clearly impossible for me to be the object of her obsession. Because I wasn¡¯t the first one to fall in love with her. And I¡¯m not a foolish lover of a beautiful butt. I¡¯m just an ordinary man who would like an ordinary woman who looks ordinary but has an extraordinary heart,¡± he replied at length. Altezza snorted.


    ¡°What about beauty?¡± Antony teased.


    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s number two.¡±


    ¡°Number two?¡± Adaline, Altezza, and Antony asked simultaneously.


    ¡°Yes, number two. First, find a wife who shares your faith. Second, find one who¡¯s stunningly beautiful, to improve the lineage. But even if she¡¯s not beautiful, there¡¯s plenty of time and money for stic surgery.


    ¡°Third, look at her lineage, it doesn¡¯t mean she has to be of noble descent. Nor does she have to be from a family of officials. But find a woman who¡¯s well-educated by her parents.


    ¡°Lastly, look at her wealth. If she¡¯s rich, that¡¯s luck. And if she¡¯s not wealthy, we¡¯ll be rich together,¡± Gian quipped in the style of a TV preacher.


    This time, Adaline threw chocte snacks from her nightstand at him. ¡°Why, Ada? That¡¯s a fact. If you don¡¯t believe it, you can ask the neighbor next door,¡± Gian nodded towards Antony. ¡°He¡¯s the one who gave that sermon back when I was young,¡± Antony replied cunningly.


    ¡°Enough, I¡¯m tired of seeing you. Can¡¯t you just leave? Don¡¯t you have anything else to do besidesing here and bothering me?¡± Altezza asked, not pleased.


    ¡°I came here to visit Adaline, not you. Just trying to persuade her to change her mind. I still keep the door of my heart open for her. It would be a shame if you end up wasting her. So, Ada. It¡¯s better if you choose me over Altezza,¡± he coaxed, making Adalineugh.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, don¡¯t be tempted by his words. His talk is just empty talk. There¡¯s no substance to it,¡± Altezza tried to persuade his wife. He didn¡¯t want her to fall for Gian¡¯s charm so easily.

 Part 110

    ¡°I¡¯m still better than him, Ada. I won¡¯t hurt you. I also won¡¯t leave you waiting while I¡¯m in aa. Because I never wanted to be in aa. Not like him who left you waiting for so long with the excuse of being in aa,¡± Gian replied again.


    ¡°Damn you! Come on, Brother, quickly take him home. If possible, send him straight back to Italy to his parents,¡± pleaded Altezza, looking pitiful.


    Antony sighed. He pped his thighs and stood up. ¡°I need him, Al. I need a right-hand man since you took Duncan. Come on, Gian, get up.¡± He ordered softly. Gianplied.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Altezza replied as Antony was willing to fulfill his request.


    ¡°We¡¯re going home, Ada,¡± Antony replied, acknowledged by Adaline¡¯s nod. ¡°But if you¡¯re indeed tempted by Gian¡¯s words, just contact me. I¡¯ll willingly help you file for divorce from your husband,¡± he replied tly.


    Altezza gaped at him while Gian cheered happily. ¡°Yes!¡± He shouted.


    ¡°Damn you both! Get out of here! Never show up here again!¡± Altezza yelled loudly. Antony and Gian left the room while Adalineughed at all three of them. ¡°Darling, don¡¯t be tempted by Gian¡¯s sweet talk, okay?


    ¡°He may be younger, but he¡¯s not more handsome than me. And he¡¯s not richer either. And don¡¯t forget he¡¯s also less experienced than me.¡±


    ¡°Experienced?¡± Adaline furrowed her brow.


    Altezza smiled and nodded. ¡°Yes. He¡¯s less experienced than me. Remember, I¡¯m better at making babies. While he¡¯s not.¡± Adaline hit Altezza¡¯s arm in response.


    How could he have such lewd thoughts at a time like this? Altezza held her hand and kissed it.


    ¡°I have indeed been at fault. Not just once but many times. And I truly apologize for that. Even though I don¡¯t know how to make up for my mistakes.


    ¡°I can only try to make you happy. I can only give you all my love.


    ¡°I can¡¯t promise happiness forever. Because there will surely be more obstacles ahead of us. But I will always do my best to preserve this love, this feeling. Our marriage and our children,¡± he said seriously. Adaline nodded.


    ¡°Al, marriage isn¡¯t just the responsibility of one person. Marriage isn¡¯t just about two individuals.


    ¡°It¡¯s not just about the husband, not just about the wife. But there¡¯s also the family that we need to consider and protect their feelings.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I prefer if wepromise more often. For everything important, let¡¯s not keep anything hidden.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want any misunderstandings in the future. Adaline will try to always express what she feels. Adaline will try to be more open, not keep everything to herself. Because I know you¡¯re not someone who can read minds.


    ¡°But you also do the same thing in return.¡± Altezza nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s forget the past.¡± Once again, they both nodded.


    ¡°So, you won¡¯t be tempted by Gian, right?¡± Her husband asked again, rewarded with a yful pinch from Adaline. Altezza groaned, but then he hugged his wife¡¯s shoulder and kissed her temple. ¡°I love you, mydy.¡±


    ¡°I love you too, Sir.¡±


    Their case was still ongoing. The police were still searching for solid evidence to be able to apprehend Jovanka. And they faced quite a challenge because there was no tangible evidence they could obtain as Jovanka had never made any explicit threats to them. All the messages that woman sent to Adaline didn¡¯t contain any threats at all. And Altezza was deeply shocked by this revtion. He didn¡¯t know that all this time Jovanka had also been hurting his wife.


    Altezza requested to go home and receive outpatient treatment rather than staying in the hospital. His muscles hadn¡¯t fully recovered. Moreover, Altezza, who was used to exercising regrly, had to abruptly stop all activities, which had a greater effect on his physical health.


    Gian¡¯s visits to their home often left the man shouting in frustration. How could he not, when every time Gian came, he would whisper with his wife, and when he asked what they were talking about, Gian¡¯s answers always made him want to throttle the man. ¡°I¡¯m just trying to persuade your wife to change her mind and end up marrying me.¡± Or, ¡°I¡¯m still trying to make her realize that you¡¯re not the right husband for her.¡±


    And at one point, he came with a happy face, hugging Adaline tightly and making Altezza furious. Especially when he casually kissed Adaline¡¯s cheek. If only he could run at that moment. He would grab Gian by the cor and m him to the floor right then and there.


    ¡°Sweetheart, wash your face with seven types of earth. I¡¯ll ask Ash to bring you water from seven wells and seven types of flowers,¡± hemanded Adaline, who responded only with a shake of her head.


    ¡°What do you think I am?¡± Gian shouted.


    ¡°Remember, my wife is off-limits to you.¡±


    Gian sneered. He disregarded Altezza and chose to embrace Adaline¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Just ignore that old, pathetic man, mydy,¡± he said loudly, intending to provoke Altezza. He even nced at Altezza on purpose as he lovingly kissed Adaline¡¯s hair.


    Unlike Gian, Antony had a different approach. While Gian openly flirted with Altezza, Antony did it differently. He had his own way of teasing Altezza, even without changing his serious expression.


    ¡°What about your birth n?¡± ire asked one day.


    ¡°Not sure,¡± Adaline replied.


    She had been asked to undergo a caesarean process by Stefanie and her mother-inw. But Adaline was still contemting it because she hoped to have a natural birth.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget. If one of them is a boy, he¡¯ll be my son,¡± Antony stated. Altezza, who was undergoing outpatient therapy at the time, immediately stopped in his tracks.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Altezza asked sharply.


    Antony shrugged. ¡°You said you wanted a child like via. So if the child she¡¯s carrying is a boy, he¡¯ll be my son. It just so happens that via also wants a little brother, right, honey?¡± He asked ire, who nodded.


    ¡°That¡¯s not fair. Just ask your wife. Why do you have to take my child?¡± Altezza argued.


    ¡°I already asked her. But it¡¯ll be a while before we get him. It¡¯ll take a few more months until he¡¯s born. Isn¡¯t that right, honey?¡± ire nodded again.


    ¡°So, you¡¯re pregnant?¡± Adaline asked, and ire nodded. ¡°Alhamdulih¡­¡± she said, full of gratitude. ¡°Congrattions!¡± Adaline grabbed her hand and squeezed it. ¡°You¡¯re going to have a child from your wife, yet you¡¯re still asking for mine?¡±


    ¡°Who asked for your child?¡± Adkshan looked at Altezza expressionlessly.


    ¡°You just told my wife that if our child is a boy, you¡¯ll consider him your own,¡± Altezza half-shouted. The man had even started walking closer.


    Antony nced between Altezza, ire, and Adaline. ¡°I did say I¡¯d consider him my own, but I never asked for the child from you, did I, Ada?¡± he asked Adaline. Adaline nodded.


    ¡°You see,¡± he said mockingly. ¡°What a foolish man. Why would I ask for your child when I can have my own?


    ¡°It¡¯s hard to fix his stupidity. I hope you¡¯ll be patient. But if you¡¯re not patient, Gian says he¡¯s still waiting for you,¡± he said, winking at Adaline. This was the second time Adaline got that mischievous look from him.


    Altezza groaned and tugged at his own hair. What was wrong with the men in his family? They were truly insane!C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org

 Part 111

    Everyone was running towards the front room. Objects flew, hitting the walls and crashing into pieces. Ceramic and ss shards scattered on the floor. Along with it, the sounds of screams and curses echoed. It was deafening to everyone witnessing it.


    Yes, Jovanka was raging in her residence. She looked at her assistant with a sharp gaze while Evans stood silently with his nk expression.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Cindy nced between Evans and Jovanka. The middle-aged couple behind her were holding hands in worry and fear simultaneously. ¡°Evans?¡± Cindy looked at Evans again, seeking an answer.


    Evans carefully navigated through the ss shards and picked up the papers Jovanka had crumpled in anger. It was a police summons addressed to Jovanka. Not only that, but Cindy also noticed several swollen credit card bills, penalty invoices from the agency¡¯sw firm, all addressed to Jovanka Lawrence.


    Cindy looked at Evans, and Evans returned the gaze. ¡°I told you to stop. But you never cared.¡± He reminded her. ¡°You kept supporting her in whatever she wanted to do. And now, we¡¯re left with nothing.


    ¡°You can¡¯t get your sister¡¯s wealth, and she can¡¯t return to the industry that made her name because Mrs. Quirino has cklisted her from the entertainment world.C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°And this house. It will be the only asset left to cover all the losses she has caused.¡±


    Cindy looked at Jovanka, who was now wailing while clutching her hair. Her eyes seemed unfocused. In just a short time, her body looked very different from the Jovanka of the past. She appeared haggard and unkempt. Far from the words beautiful and elegant.


    ¡°How could this happen?¡± Cindy red sharply at Evans. The innocent face she had shown to everyone else looked distinctly different in front of Evans.


    ¡°You¡¯re still asking me? You¡¯re the one who orchestrated all of this. You manipted her mind into taking all those contracts. You¡¯re the one who persuaded her to take thest two contracts that she didn¡¯t even want anymore.


    ¡°What did you tell her? So she could gain recognition from the Quirino family? All the nonsense you put into her head only made you both miserable in the end.¡± Evans scoffed again. His eyes narrowed as he nced at the two parents standing behind Cindy.


    ¡°Look at what you¡¯ve done to her now. Look at what you¡¯ve done to her! There¡¯s nothing left for you to take from her anymore. And clearly, I won¡¯t be responsible for her.¡±


    Evans reached for his bag on the chair and turned his body around. ¡°I¡¯m done with all of you. I¡¯m done with Jovanka. You deal with all the remaining mess you¡¯ve created. Because I¡¯m done with your greediness and your family.¡±


    Evans walked away towards the door and mmed it shut.


    ¡°Cindy¡­¡± Her mother whispered. The old woman let go of her husband¡¯s hand and approached her daughter. But what she received was a harsh treatment.


    ¡°Stop it, Mom. I don¡¯t want to hear any of your lectures right now!¡± Cindy said sharply. She looked at her mother with anger.


    ¡°Sweetheart, you have to stop.¡± Her mother pleaded. ¡°Have pity on Jovanka.¡±


    Cindy turned around and looked at her mother with a furious gaze. ¡°Pity? So Mom has more pity for that adopted child than me?!¡± She asked sharply. Both of them froze, their faces paling and shaking their heads simultaneously.


    ¡°No, honey, it¡¯s not like that. You know we love you very much. But Jovanka¡­¡± Her mother tried to persuade.


    ¡°Why her? Because she¡¯s prettier than me, so you adore her more? Because she can give you money, so you love her more?! You¡¯re just greedy parents!¡± She yelled loudly.


    ¡°Cindy¡­¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± She shouted again. ¡°What¡¯s wrong if I ask her topensate for all the affection she received from you by giving me wealth?¡± She asked with hystericalughter.


    ¡°She has a good body she can sell. So what¡¯s wrong with using all of that for our benefit? It¡¯s not just me who benefits here. Altezza can get her body. She can achieve her dream of bing famous. And I can get her wealth.¡±


    ¡°But not like this, dear.¡± This time her father spoke up, and Cindy looked at him with a murderous gaze.


    ¡°Not like this? Then how? Working hard all day just for measly money? Why should I do something difficult when I can do something easy? And did you think I haven¡¯t been working hard all this time?! I have been working hard! I became her servant! I became her doormat! I did whatever she ordered me to, even cleaning up her mess! I worked hard for it. So don¡¯t think I¡¯m just taking advantage.¡± She replied.


    She looked at Jovanka, who was still sitting, ruffling her hair and mumbling incoherently.


    ¡°It¡¯s not my fault if she¡¯s truly in love with Altezza. She¡¯s the one too foolish to be enchanted by that man¡¯s charm. Even though I asked her not to y with hearts. And she didn¡¯t heed mymand.


    ¡°But yes, it¡¯s hard to resist Altezza¡¯s charm. I might even be tempted if I weren¡¯t so smart.¡± Cindyughed mockingly. ¡°And yes, I¡¯m too smart. So this isn¡¯t over yet.¡± Cindy walked towards Jovanka. ¡°Joe.¡± She called softly. The woman jumped in surprise.


    ¡°Cindy¡­ where is Altezza? You said you would bring him back to me! You said you would get him back for me. Where is he?¡± She asked repeatedly.


    ¡°Where is he, Cindy?! Where¡¯s my Altezza?!¡± This time she screamed. Her hands gripped Cindy¡¯s arms tightly. Her long nails digging into Cindy¡¯s bare skin.


    ¡°You will get him. We will get him. We just need to remove the obstacles. Once the obstacle is gone, then Altezza wille back to you. I¡¯m sure of it.¡± Cindy whispered persuasively.


    Jovanka looked at her incredulously.


    ¡°Why? Don¡¯t you believe me?¡± She asked with a sad expression. ¡°After all I¡¯ve done for you, and now you don¡¯t believe me?¡±


    Jovanka still stared at her intensely. ¡°No-no. I believe you.¡± She reassured Cindy.


    Cindy smiled triumphantly. ¡°Of course, you have to believe me. Only we will take care of you. Only we will love you. Isn¡¯t that how it¡¯s been all this time?¡± Jovanka nodded obediently.


    ¡°Very good, Joe. Now get up and get dressed. You wouldn¡¯t want to look bad in Altezza¡¯s eyes, would you?¡± Once again, Jovanka nodded her head. Cindy helped her stand up. ¡°Clean everything up, Ma. I want everything to be neat when we return.¡±


    Cindy escorted Jovanka upstairs. She found clothes for her and even did her makeup to make her look beautiful.


    ¡°Remember, Joe. You don¡¯t like it when I call you Sister. And you will rage in front of anyone if I call you that.¡± She whispered in Jovanka¡¯s ear. Jovanka nodded again. ¡°And don¡¯t forget. However you can, you have to get rid of that obstacle. You know who he is, right?¡± Jovanka nodded once more.


    ¡°You¡¯re indeed smart, Joe. Now let¡¯s go and remove that obstacle so you can be back with Altezza.¡±

 Part 112

    Adaline apanied Altezza back to the hospital for his therapy session. Three times a week, they spent two hours together, even though all Adaline did was watch. After the therapy, Gian woulde and apany them to take Adaline for her prenatal exercises. Altezza never liked it; he always felt jealous whenever Gian took his ce as Adaline¡¯spanion. But what could he do? His body still wasn¡¯t healthy enough to assist. He just hoped that when Adaline gave birth, he would be the one by her side, not Gian.


    As for Adaline¡¯s pregnancy, she was now at 36 weeks, with three to four weeks left until delivery. Stefanie continued to persuade her wife to opt for a cesarean section during delivery, but Adaline remained firm in her decision to have a normal birth, despite knowing the condition of her body.


    But whatever happened in the future, he only hoped that Adaline would give birth safely. As well as their two babies.


    Was it just his imagination, or were they being followed since leaving the hospital? Altezza nced at the mirror to confirm his suspicion, but he found nothing suspicious. He tried to ignore his feelings, but he continued to observe his surroundings.


    Adaline mentioned that she wanted to eat Sundanese cuisine after their exercise session. Altezza and Gian dlyplied. The car drove on, and they entered an Italian restaurant that Adaline had chosen beforehand.


    Adaline had been much better since Altezza woke up from hisa. Her weight had drastically increased, and the bags under her eyes had disappeared, although Altezza knew Adaline still struggled to sleep at night. Her appetite had also increased, just like now.


    She ate eagerly, even though Altezza had asked her to eat slowly, she ignored him.


    They finished their meal. The driver returned to prepare the car while Gian excused himself to the restroom. Altezza paid for their food at the cashier, and Adaline chose to browse around, and that¡¯s when it all happened. So fast that Altezza thought it was just a shadow.


    Someone approached Adaline quickly and stabbed her in the abdomen. Altezza¡¯s eyes widened, frozen in ce, as did Gian. Adaline groaned in pain, clutching her stomach, while the woman who stabbed herughed gleefully.


    ¡°Finally, I got rid of the obstacle,¡± she said with a sinisterugh.


    Realizing his wife¡¯s condition, Altezza ran instantly, as did Gian. They both reached Adaline, who staggered backward, clutching her stomach.


    Altezza reached for his wife¡¯s back and hugged her. Adaline looked pale, panicked, and frightened.


    ¡°Al¡­ Our baby¡­¡± she whispered softly amidst the pain she felt.


    ¡°Darling, calm down. Everything will be fine. You and our baby will be fine,¡± Altezza reassured, his heart pounding heavily, feeling truly scared. He removed his shirt and pressed on his wife¡¯s stomach.


    Quickly, Altezza lifted Adaline¡¯s body and carried her out of the restaurant just as Gian brought their car to the front door and helped Altezza carefully put Adaline into the car. After that, he drove the car very quickly to the nearest hospital.


    The journey felt so long. Adaline began to babble incoherently. Blood continued to flow from the left side of her abdomen.


    ¡°Al¡­ Our baby¡­¡± she said between her shortened breaths. ¡°Save¡­ our baby¡­ Al¡­¡± she pleaded softly. Tears streamed down their eyes. Even Gian asionally rubbed his cheeks harshly.


    ¡°You will both be saved. You and our baby will be saved,¡± Altezza said, more to reassure himself. ¡°Don¡¯t leave me, darling. You promised you wouldn¡¯t leave me,¡± Altezza begged as he cried in front of his wife.


    Satu tangannya still tightly held Adaline while the other pressed on her abdomen, which continued to bleed. Altezza kissed his wife¡¯s head, forehead, and cheeks, murmuring prayers, begging her to hold on.


    They arrived at the Emergency Room. Several doctors and nurses immediately took Adaline from his arms. They examined her, attached various cables to her body, applied something, and checked on the condition of the baby. Everything seemed blurry to Altezza.


    Someone tapped his shoulder. ¡°Sign this. Adaline needs surgery as soon as possible.¡± Gian handed him a square board containing a deration letter. Altezza looked at the doctor in front of him.


    ¡°How is my wife? She will survive, right? Save my wife, doctor! I beg you!¡± He pleaded.


    ¡°We will do our best, Sir. As soon as you sign this document, we will proceed with your wife¡¯s treatment,¡± the doctor replied.


    Gian tapped his shoulder again. ¡°Hurry up, Altezza. The longer you hesitate, the longer they will dy taking action.¡± Altezza quickly signed his name.


    ¡°Please, save them,¡± he pleaded again, his voice trembling.


    ¡°We will do our utmost. Please help with your prayers,¡± the doctormanded before walking away.


    Altezza escorted Adaline to the operating room door. If possible, he wanted to continue apanying her. He didn¡¯t want to let go of his wife¡¯s hand so easily.


    Gian held him back. ¡°Calm down, Altezza. If you¡¯re like this, you¡¯ll only dy Adaline¡¯s treatment.¡±


    Gian pulled Altezza¡¯s body away. Altezza wailed. His body copsed instantly. His mind returned to the incident that had just urred moments ago.


    ¡°Where is that woman?!¡± He stood up, wiping his tears and ring at Gian with murderous intent. ¡°Tell me where she is?!¡± He growled. He grabbed Gian¡¯s shirt and held it tightly. ¡°Tell me you¡¯ve asked someone to catch her?!¡± He hissed sharply. Gian was still trying to calm his cousin down.


    ¡°Calm down, Al. You have to calm down for Adaline and your children.¡±


    ¡°How can I calm down if that woman has tried to kill my wife and children!¡± He shouted harshly. ¡°Tell me where she is so I can kill her with my own hands!¡±


    ¡°Altezza! The police have apprehended her. Please calm down. You¡¯re not fully recovered yet. Please, Al. For Adaline,¡± Gian tried to use his mantra.


    ¡°Adaline¡­¡± The man weakened and finally fell to the floor. Gian helped him, guiding him to sit on the long chair in the hallway.


    ¡°Calm down. Don¡¯t you remember what the doctor said? We need to help by praying for her safety,¡± he said, trying to reassure.


    Altezza bowed his head. His tears flowed freely again. ¡°I swear, I¡¯ll kill her if anything bad happens to Adaline and my children,¡± he swore.


    Seconds ticked by. Minutes turned into hours, which felt like an eternity for Altezza. He didn¡¯t even notice his parents, uncle, and aunt, Violet and Emma, Antony and ire who came in turn.


    They didn¡¯t approach him, knowing that Altezza needed time alone.


    Even Duncan and Tessa stood there. Joanna still wore her house clothes, standing with a pale and tense face. They prayed together for the three lives in the operating room.Text ? owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    The door opened. A nurse came in with two cleaned baby trolleys, both sleepingfortably. ¡°One boy. And one girl,¡± the nurse announced.


    ¡°How is my wife?¡± Altezza asked without even looking at his two precious babies.


    ¡°She¡¯s still undergoing treatment,¡± the nurse replied.


    ¡°Altezza¡­¡± His mother gently tapped his shoulder, asking him to calm down.


    Altezza turned and finally looked down at his two babies. Seeing them one by one with tears streaming down his face.


    ¡°Pray for your Mama, my darlings,¡± he said, cing the babies back into their respective boxes.


    The nurses seemed to be running around somehow. Altezza heard shouts just as the door to the operating room closed.

 Part 113

    Is this some sorta karma?


    Altezza gazed at his sleeping wife, deeply asleep. The doctor managed to save her. Save their baby.


    After experiencing a heart attack and losing a lot of blood, his wife could finally return to them. Even though his wife is now dered in aa, just like himself.


    Oh God. Is this my payback for all my past mistakes?


    Why are You like this to me?


    ¡°Wake up, Darling. Please wake up quickly. Don¡¯t you have pity on our two children? I haven¡¯t even been able to give them names yet.¡± Altezza whispered to his wife¡¯s hand.


    That hand was so small and weak. The hand that had been holding his all this time. The hand that had always touched him gently. Regardless of what Altezza had ever done to her.


    Altezza reluctantly rose from his seat. ¡°I¡¯ll be right back, hurry and wake up.¡± Altezza kissed his wife¡¯s forehead. He bid farewell to his mother and mother-inw before leaving the hospital.


    He still limped, his leg condition worsening as he carried Adaline back then, but Altezza paid it no mind. When the doctor ordered him to use crutches as walking aids, Altezza refused. He wouldn¡¯t return to being disabled just because he didn¡¯t use a walking aid.


    Altezza got into the taxi he had hailed. He gave an address to the driver and asked him to drive quickly.


    The car drove in silence. Until about twenty minutester, Altezza was already in front of a two-story building with ivory-yellow paint and a police logo at the top of the building.


    Duncan and Antony were already there waiting for him. ¡°How¡¯s it going?¡±


    Antony shook his head. ¡°Something¡¯s wrong, Al.¡± Altezza looked at his cousin and his assistant in confusion. ¡°You can conclude it if you see it firsthand.¡± Altezza furrowed his brow even more. But he followed along as Antony led him to a room the size of two by two meters with an iron door.


    The woman who used to be his wife was sitting hugging her knees in the corner of that small room. Her eyes seemed unfocused, and her lips kept murmuring unclearly. Her body swayed back and forth, and asionally she bit her fingernails.


    ¡°What happened to her?¡± Altezza looked at Antony, confused.


    ¡°She never wanted to talk to anyone. She only called out your name. I think she¡¯s starting to lose her mind a bit, Al,¡± Antony said, causing Altezza to stare at Antony.


    ¡°Are you sure she¡¯s losing her mind? Or is she actually pretending to be crazy?¡± Altezza replied sarcastically.


    ¡°I know you really hate her right now, Altezza. But this time, I¡¯m sure she¡¯s not acting. Try approaching her and ask her nicely,¡± Antony suggested. Altezza still looked at Antony with disbelief. But at least, he would try.


    Altezza gripped the cell door tightly. ¡°Jovanka?¡± Altezza called her. The woman continued to shake her head. ¡°Jovanka, look at me.¡±


    ¡°Altezza..? Altezza.. is that you?¡± The woman asked uncertainly. Her head turned, searching for the sound.


    ¡°Jovanka, it¡¯s me. Will you talk to me?¡± Altezza was so surprised when the woman moved so quickly towards him. Her hands grabbed Altezza¡¯s hands clutching the bars. Her eyes looked at Altezza with adoration. He could see there was so much different about her. Her gaze, her face, everything seemed different.


    ¡°Altezza, you¡¯ve reallye back to me, haven¡¯t you?¡± The woman asked while holding Altezza¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°Cindy said you woulde back to me if I managed to get rid of that obstacle,¡± she continued quickly.


    ¡°Cindy? Obstacle? What do you mean?¡± Altezza asked back, puzzled.


    ¡°Yes, Cindy. You know her. My assistant. She said I should be angry if she calls me sister in front of anyone else.


    ¡°She said she would help me bring you back.


    ¡°She said you woulde back if I removed the barrier between us. You still love me, right? She said that woman has stolen you from me. You will trulye back to me, won¡¯t you?¡±


    Altezza remained silent. He wouldn¡¯t make any promises to the woman in front of him. Even though now he was starting to believe that she really was not in her right mind, as Antony had said.


    Altezza walked back, leaving the woman behind. Meanwhile, the woman kept calling out his name. Her hand reached out from behind the bars, trying to reach Altezza. But Altezza ignored her. The pity he felt for the woman had disappeared.


    ¡°Find Evans. And also the woman named Cindy. I think one of them is the reason Jovanka ended up like this,¡± Altezza sat down on the long brown-painted wooden chair wearily. He rubbed his knees, which were starting to ache.


    Antony made a call, as did Duncan.


    An hourter, they were on their way to Evans¡¯ ce. The man was wearing a short-sleeved shirt and boxer shorts. He weed them casually as if he had no worries at all.


    ¡°I knew you¡¯d finallye,¡± he said tly. Evans gestured for his guests to sit. He himself sat down without intending to offer drinks, even just as a formality. ¡°What do you want to know?¡± he asked directly.


    ¡°What really happened to Jovanka? You¡¯ve been with her for the past few years. Even when I wasn¡¯t around, you spent more time with her,¡± Altezza said, getting straight to the point.


    Evans looked at Altezza. ¡°Let me start from the beginning,¡± he replied. His gaze was fixed on Altezza.


    ¡°I met Jovanka when she joined the agency. She was a kind and friendly girl who loved her family very much,¡± Altezza nodded. Because that was the Jovanka he knew. ¡°Until about four years ago, her sister Cindy showed up.


    ¡°At first, I thought their rtionship was fine. And honestly, I¡¯ll admit that I loved that woman. That¡¯s why I never suspected her.


    ¡°Jovanka funded all of that girl¡¯s needs. Until a few months ago when shepleted her education in psychology. But I waste to realize something was wrong with that woman.


    ¡°Jovanka¡¯s change happened because of Cindy¡¯s presence. I eventually found out that Jovanka was just an adopted child in her family. She was an orphan found by that family when she was young. And the couple who worked at the house you provided turned out to be Jovanka¡¯s adoptive parents.


    ¡°Jovanka loved them as if they were her own parents. She treated them very well. I don¡¯t know how they ended up being servants and gardeners while Jovanka could give them anything.


    ¡°Turns out, I finally realized it was all a facade. They didn¡¯t want anyone else interfering with how they were exploiting Jovanka.


    ¡°And when Jovanka started having frequent hysterical episodes, I thought it was because she was exhausted from her hectic schedule. So every time she had a fit, I gave her sedatives. I did everything as per the doctor¡¯s advice.


    ¡°But I was wrong.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t realize why suddenly Cindy, who graduated from a prestigious university, chose to be Jovanka¡¯s assistant instead of working independently. And I waste to realize that the girl was using hypnotherapy to control Jovanka.¡±


    Altezza, Antony, and Duncan were stunned. ¡°I truly feel guilty,¡± Evans said. ¡°Jovanka never wanted to sign the work contract that came to her two years ago. She did it after being incited by Cindy.


    ¡°That woman constantly brainwashed Jovanka. And I realized it when Jovanka had a fit upon hearing about your engagement. She forgot that you had already broken up with her. And Cindy wasn¡¯t with us at that time, because whenever she was there, Jovanka was always under control.


    ¡°Jovanka¡¯s mind was shattered. Her memory fragmented. And without Cindy¡¯s knowledge, I sought consultation.¡±


    The doctor performed hypnotherapy again, and everything was revealed. But it was toote. Jovanka couldn¡¯t differentiate between reality and Cindy¡¯s maniptions anymore.This is property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°When we came back here, Jovanka wasn¡¯t herself anymore. She couldn¡¯t distinguish between her own desires and Cindy¡¯s obsessions. Cindy was so eager to get rich. She used Jovanka as a money-making tool.


    ¡°I warned her. Warned them both. But it didn¡¯t work.


    ¡°I gave up, especially after Mrs. Brianna severed all ties.


    ¡°Cindy went berserk. She used Jovanka again to try to get you back, and she failed. She tried again by hurting Adaline.¡±


    Altezza frowned in confusion. Evans¡¯s exnation was beyond belief. Then the man continued.


    ¡°She made Jovanka seem like she wanted tomit suicide on the rooftop. And she recorded it secretly. I knew when she just returned from Adaline¡¯s room.


    ¡°I wanted to tell everything to Adaline, but you came that morning. I confined her until I heard she was missing.


    ¡°I wanted to expose her, but again I waste because I had to plead with some authorities to grant dispensation for Jovanka. Until I found out she was trying to kill you.


    ¡°I wanted to get her medical help, Al. But Cindy stopped me. I had no power. Because even if I contacted the mental hospital, she wasn¡¯t under my guardianship. I couldn¡¯t do anything.¡±


    Evans truly felt remorseful. He felt like a terrible friend. So did Altezza. Because all this time, he had neglected the woman he once loved. He hadn¡¯t realized that there were reasons behind every change in his ex-wife¡¯s behavior.


    ¡°We have to find Cindy. She¡¯s the main suspect in this case,¡± he finally replied.


    Time seemed to slow down for them. Altezza reported Cindy and her parents to the police on charges of human trafficking, maniption, and being the mastermind behind all the crimes against Altezza and Adaline.


    Amazingly, within a matter of hours, they managed to apprehend Cindy and her family as they were about to embark on an inter-ind journey to Kalimantan by watercraft, with the police intercepting them.


    Cleverly, Cindy denied everything. She refused to admit to any of the usations leveled against her, continuing to feign innocence and iming that Jovanka had been the one treating her harshly all along. She even mentioned names of individuals whom she believed could testify in her favor. However, her mother¡¯s testimony shattered all her alibis.


    They also managed to secure other witnesses. Several parents of Cindy¡¯s malpractice victims also reported her, leading to her eventual punishment.


    Cindy went into hysterics, ming her parents for their inability to be proper parents and provide her with happiness.


    Meanwhile, they took Jovanka to a rehabilitation center, hoping that under proper care, she could regain her former self. Because despite her wrongdoing, Altezza knew that Jovanka wasn¡¯t entirely to me.


    And Adaline?


    It¡¯s been five days since she remained unconscious.


    Altezza sat faithfully by her side. Their two babies had returned home with their grandmother and nanny. So far, they had been calling the babies ¡°Teteh¡± and ¡°Dede¡± because the baby girl was born before the baby boy.


    Altezza hadn¡¯t given them names yet. He wanted his wife to wake up first and name them.


    He remained optimistic that his wife would wake up. No matter how long it took, he would wait.


    ¡°Darling, don¡¯t you miss me? Don¡¯t you miss our children? They miss you,¡± Altezza continued to kiss the back of his wife¡¯s hand. His angel.

 Part 114 – End

    Adaline¡¯s POV:


    ¡°Dad?¡± I saw my dad sitting on a bench in the park not far from our old rental house.


    Dad smiled, patting the empty space next to him, and reluctantly, I walked over and sat down.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± I asked, ncing at our old house. The house we left when I entered middle school. The house filled with beautiful memories where I grew up.


    ¡°Do you forget? Back when we were moving, you cried incessantly. Saying to us how much you liked our old house.¡±


    I smiled and nodded. I did cry a lot back then, begging my parents not to move from there.


    I didn¡¯t want to make new friends because I had a hard time socializing. But Dad said everything would be okay. In fact, if we moved, I would be even happier.


    Dad said I needed to learn to be more sociable because life is more beautiful with many friends.


    ¡°Why are we here?¡± I asked, confused.


    My dad smiled. His face looked so fresh, cheerful, and of course, handsome.


    ¡°Just a reminder that we once had a past,¡± my dad said casually. ¡°Do you remember what I said back then?¡±


    I furrowed my brow. There were too many proverbs Dad told me. I couldn¡¯t remember them all.


    ¡°We¡¯re here today because the past shapes us.


    We¡¯re strong because in the past, we faced tough trials.


    We¡¯re happy because we once suffered.


    But don¡¯t let the past be a reason to hate. Don¡¯t let others¡¯ mistakes against you be a reason to resent.


    No matter how big someone¡¯s mistake is. Even though it¡¯s hard to forgive, try to forget.


    Try to understand them before judging them. Because everyone has a reason for all the mistakes they make.¡¯ Do you remember?¡± Dad asked again. I nodded.


    Those were the words my dad said to me when I found out who I really was. That I wasn¡¯t my parents¡¯ biological daughter.


    Dad asked me not to harbor ill thoughts about why I was in an orphanage. No one knew if my biological parents were still alive or not. But even if they were gone, Dad said I shouldn¡¯t hold any grudges against them.


    Because if they hadn¡¯t left me, I wouldn¡¯t have met my current Mom and Dad.


    ¡°Forget all the wrongs others have done to you. ept it, because once you feel sincere, you won¡¯t feel hurt. Do you understand?¡± I nodded. ¡°I entrust your mother to you. I know you love her very much. Be a good daughter to your mother.


    ¡°And don¡¯t forget, your inws are your parents too. Respect and love them as you love both of us.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content.


    ¡°Be a good wife, remember how you should respect and care for your husband¡¯s feelings. Be a good mother to my grandchildren. Send my regards to them.


    ¡°Come back. Return to those waiting for you there. We¡¯ll meet again in a ce that God has prepared for us.¡± I nodded and hugged my dad tightly.


    ¡°Darling, open your eyes.¡± I heard Altezza¡¯s voice calling me.


    Dad let go of the hug and smiled at me. He then stood up and walked away. The light gradually faded him from my view as I remained seated, trying to hear that faint voice.


    ¡°Adaline Quirino, the mother of my children. Wake up, Darling. I miss you.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to break your promise and leave me again. I truly won¡¯t let you go.¡± I smiled upon hearing it. Even in my dreams, my husband refuses to give up.


    I felt everything turn dark. My body felt cold, yet my hands felt warm and wet.


    ¡°Darling, are you listening to me?¡± The voice sounded so real. So close to my ear.


    ¡°Mrs. Adaline Quirino. Please. Stop scaring me. You can seek revenge on me in other ways.


    ¡°But please, open your eyes first.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to see our children? Even until now, I haven¡¯t dared to touch them. I haven¡¯t even given them names.¡±


    Children? Did I manage to give birth to them? I felt a throbbing pain in my stomach. It seemed that I did indeed give birth to them. Although not in the way I wanted.


    I wanted to open my eyes. But I felt like I wanted to hear my husband¡¯s words a little longer.


    Once again, I felt his lips kissing the back of my hand. A ticklish sensation coursed through me. It seemed like my husband forgot to shave his beard again. I tried to suppress my giggles.


    ¡°I¡¯m waiting for you. They¡¯re waiting for you,¡± he said sadly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care how long you¡¯ll be asleep. Because as long as that happens, I won¡¯t give them names. Just let them be called Teteh and Dede.


    ¡°I won¡¯t change their names. Not until you wake up. So if you love them, wake up soon.¡±


    ¡°Do you love me too?¡± I asked, still with my eyes closed.


    I heard the man fall silent. It seemed like he couldn¡¯t believe he heard my voice. I couldn¡¯t believe it either because it didn¡¯t sound like my voice due to the hoarseness. My throat felt really sore.


    ¡°Darling, did you just speak?¡± the man asked, unsure.


    I could hear the chair legs squeak as if pushed back. I could also feel his grip on my hand tighten.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am¡­?¡± he called again, trying to convince himself. ¡°Adaline, if you wake up, you have to open your eyes!¡± hemanded softly.


    I knew he was feeling tense. I could feel it.


    ¡°I¡¯m thirsty,¡± I said as I slowly opened my eyes.


    My husband looked so disheveled, just as I had suspected earlier. He hadn¡¯t even shaved his beard and let it grow wild. His eye bags were so dark, and his eyes looked sunken. His hair was also messy, not as neat as usual.


    ¡°Oh God, thank you, thank you, God,¡± he praised loudly in his ears. He hugged me. So tight that it felt hard for me to breathe.


    ¡°Al¡­¡± I called out. ¡°Can¡¯t breathe,¡± I protested weakly.


    He released his embrace. He cupped my face with both hands. His eyes stared at me with awe.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± he said with every kiss he nted on me. ¡°Thank you foring back.¡±


    He kissed my forehead, both cheeks, nose, and lips. I could only smile at his actions.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re thirsty,¡± he then searched for a bottle of mineral water ced at the bottom of the nightstand. He broke the seal and inserted a straw into it. ¡°Have a little, Darling. You still need to fast,¡± hemanded, to which I only nodded. He ced the bottle back on the nightstand.


    ¡°I¡¯m so happy. So, so, so happy. I love you. So, so, so much,¡± he kissed both of my hands again. The back and the palms before kissing my face again.


    Our journey is not over yet¡­


    There are still many stories that we will go through ahead. But with a newfound belief, I believe we can make this marriage a happy one.


    Always forgiving andpromising is a principle I must hold onto. Even though there will inevitably be misunderstandings, arguments ahead, as long as we can resolve them with open minds.


    I believe happiness will be our end.


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