《Hot Night With CEO》


 The Price of a Virgin

    ¡°Say Fahira!¡± Darian said, gazing intensely into the ck irises of the woman in front of him.


    ¡°Do whatever Mr. Darian wants from me!¡± Fahira replied softly, lifting her hands and tiptoeing, slowly moving towards the back of Darian¡¯s head. Summoning her courage, Fahira¡¯s hands encircled his neck.


    Darian¡¯s smile instantly widened, and without wasting any time, he began to unite their lips. Darian gently nibbled on Fahira¡¯s lips, the soft kiss demanding a response. Daringly, he bit Fahira¡¯s lip, seeking ess to explore further inside.


    ¡°Respond, darling!¡± Darian whispered amid their kisses.


    With closed eyes, Fahira started to reciprocate Darian¡¯s kiss, following her instincts as her heart raced. It was the first kiss she had ever given to her own boss. Fahira¡¯s hesitant and nervous kiss only fueled Darian¡¯s passion.


    Darian could feel Fahira¡¯s body rxing and responding to his touch. Although he had never taken a girl to his bed before, with Fahira, he managed to hide his nervousness. It would be embarrassing if Fahira found out that the man usually admired by women was still a virgin.


    Unconsciously, Fahira let out a soft moan that sounded extremely seductive to Darian¡¯s ears, making him explore every inch of her smooth body with his hands. Darian¡¯s kisses moved down to Fahira¡¯s slender neck, asionally leaving a mark of ownership. He then pulled away from her body for a moment, gazing at Fahira with a tender smile she had never seen before. Not the sharp, intimidating gaze he had at the office, but the gaze between a man and a mature woman.


    With a single touch of Darian¡¯s hand, the small strap on Fahira¡¯s shoulder slid down to the floor, leaving her topless. Fahira felt nervous again as Darian¡¯s hazel eyes scanned every inch of her body. Darian chuckled at the blush that appeared on Fahira¡¯s pretty face. Gently, Darian resumed kissing Fahira¡¯s lips while lifting her onto the bed. Not wanting to y for too long, Darian soon removed all of his clothes and continued by removing thest piece of cloth on Fahira¡¯s body.


    With full submission, Fahira closed her eyes tightly as Darian began to im her most precious possession. Darian felt a little awkward trying to unite their bodies as it wasn¡¯t as easy as he had imagined. Especially when he saw Fahira¡¯s pained expression, he felt hesitant. But due to his high ego, he had to seed that night. Darian didn¡¯t want to risk his pride in front of Fahira, who was merely his subordinate. Finally, with their breaths racing and covered in sweat, Darian fulfilled his desire.


    ¡°Where are you going? Remember, tonight you belong to me,¡± Darian warned when he saw Fahira about to get off the bed.


    ¡°I want to clean myself up, Sir,¡± Fahira replied with a trembling voice, holding back the pain in her core while wiping the tears that started to fall.


    ¡°We¡¯ll shower togetherter. I want to rest for a while before we do it again,¡±manded Darian, causing Fahira to shoot him a sharp, tearful gaze. How could Darian do that with pride while Fahira felt nothing but shame and disgust towards herself.


    ¡°Damn bastard!¡± Fahira cursed in her heart while wiping the tears streaming down her cheeks.


    ¡°I have told you to stop me. So don¡¯t me me if I want your body all night,¡± continued Darian as he pulled Fahira¡¯s body and covered both of their innocent bodies with a nket.


    Fahira chose to sleep with her back facing Darian, who hugged her tightly. Fahira bit the edge of the pillow to muffle the sound of her crying, enduring the pain stabbing her chest and shattering the self-esteem she had upheld. Fahira remained in the same position for a long time, until Darian fell asleep, and then slowly got up from the bed.


    Darian¡¯s eyes slowly opened as he realized the empty spot beside him. The corners of Darian¡¯s lips lifted into a thin smile when he heard the sound of the shower turning on. Of course, Fahira was cleaning herself up after their passionate encounter, whichsted for three rounds. Darian chose to pretend he was still asleep when Fahira came out of the bathroom wearing only a bathrobe. Unexpectedly, Fahira took out something from her bag ¨C a prayer rug and mukena (a veil worn during prayers). As Fahira solemnly performed her night prayer, Darian¡¯s eyes were open, carefully observing every movement.


    Darian closed his eyes again when Fahira finished cleaning her prayer equipment. Fahira changed her clothes in the bathroom and soon came out wearing a ck knee-length dress. Darian stretched his body and changed his position to face Fahira, who was sitting in front of the dressing table. Darian sat, leaning against the back of the bed, and let his bare chest be exposed.


    ¡°It¡¯s still very early, honey. I still want to have fun with you,¡± said Darian, immediately stopping Fahira¡¯s activities as she applied peach-colored lipstick to her lips. Fahira turned and looked at Darian with a hurt expression, while Darianughed and enjoyed Fahira¡¯s facial expressions, which made him want to relive their passionate night from before.


    ¡°Come on, Fahira! Wasn¡¯tst night really fun? In fact, you really enjoyed every sweet treat I gave you!¡± Darian¡¯s teasing intensified, and he pushed aside the nket that covered part of his body. Darian walked over to Fahira, after picking up his boxers scattered on the floor.


    ¡°Transfer whatever amount you want to your ount,¡± whispered Darian, now hugging Fahira from behind and nuzzling his head into Fahira¡¯s long neck, inhaling the soft scent from her body that still carried his fragrance fromst night.


    Fahira¡¯s body stiffened as Darian¡¯s affectionate touches resumed. Darian kissed Fahira¡¯s neck several times, seemingly never tiring, while Fahira swallowed hard, trying to muster the courage to politely reject Darian because she was still sane enough to think about her job-the job she had worked so hard to get two years ago.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Sorry, Mr. Darian, I was paid only to apany you for the night. So I hope you will allow me to go home now,¡± Fahira replied firmly as she looked into Darian¡¯s eyes through the mirror, forcibly releasing his hands that were holding her.


    ¡°And I hope that what happened between usst night is something you¡¯ll pretend never happened,¡± continued Fahira, turning her body to face Darian with an unreadable gaze. Darian grinned at Fahira¡¯s cold attitude, instead of getting angry, he wanted to tease her-the only woman he ever yed games with.


    ¡°Hahaha, you are very sweet, Fahira. I really like it! You are the only woman who dares to reject me! But it¡¯s okay because I¡¯m the first to touch and enjoy your body,¡± Darian replied, followed byughter.


    Feeling humiliation and tightness in his chest, Darian stood up from his seat, took his bag, and left the hotel room, deeply wounded. To him, she was just a woman with no pride left.


    ***


    Darian massaged his throbbing head with his fingertips, closing his eyes. His body leaned against the back of hisrge chair. The bright sun rays shone on his face and through therge ss in front of him. His emotions were in turmoil ever since he returned from the hotel where he spent the night with Fahira. He couldn¡¯t shut his eyes even for a moment. Darian couldn¡¯t describe the sudden feelings that sneaked into his heart. The feelings that were previously reserved for his mother were now starting to waver. He didn¡¯t know what was happening to him, but one thing was clear: he wanted to have Fahirapletely, just likest night.


    ¡°Shit!¡± he cursed when suddenly Fahira¡¯s image, wearing sexy lingerie with a seductive smile, danced in his mind.


    Elsewhere, Fahira stood frozen behind her boss¡¯s office door, her heart pounding. She wasn¡¯t prepared to face Darian after surrendering her purity willinglyst night.


    ¡°Is there something wrong, Han? Are you feeling sick?¡± David asked, standing by Fahira¡¯s side for a few minutes now, without her realizing it. Fahira was startled and dropped her agenda and papers to the floor.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Mr. David,¡± Fahira replied shortly, quickly picking up her scattered documents with David¡¯s help.


    ¡°I have something to discuss with Mr. Darian, but you can leave first,¡± David said with a smile, patting Fahira¡¯s shoulder gently. Fahira nodded and knocked on Darian¡¯s office door.


    ¡°Come in!¡± Darian¡¯s voice came from inside, and Fahira took a deep breath before opening the door and entering.


    Darian, sitting in his high-backed chair, smiled faintly as he looked at Fahira, who appeared different today. She was wearing a scarf wrapped around her neck, and he was sure that his kiss marks were scattered there. Remembering the sensual night, Darian suddenly felt hot and suffocated. He loosened his tie, which seemed to be choking him, and adjusted the room temperature with the remote.


    ¡°Okay, thank you, Fahira. Oh, please call David to meet me,¡± said Darian in his usual cool andposed manner.


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Darian. I¡¯ll inform Mr. David right away. Excuse me,¡± Fahira replied respectfully, then hurriedly left Darian¡¯s office.


    Once outside, Fahira went to her desk. She ced her agenda on it and stared nkly at her tputer screen, trying to calm her racing heart. Her legs felt weak, as if she were made of jelly, after leaving Darian¡¯s office.


    ¡°Be strong, Fahira,¡± she whispered, trying to soothe herself like the gentle breeze. Regardless, she had to maintain her job, even though her dignity had been tarnished. Regret filled her heart. She had exchanged her virginity for a sum of 100 million rupiahs. However, she also felt happiness, thinking of her brother Ariel. He would soon be healthy again, not needing to take medication every day. Fahira was happy that there was still hope. Hope for the only family she had.


    At 11 am, Fahira prepared herself to apany her boss for an important meeting with a client at a booked restaurant. She checked herself in a small mirror she took out from her desk drawer, retouching her makeup to conceal her pale face and cover the fresh tear tracks on her smooth cheeks. Her tears seemed endless since yesterday.


    ¡°Meeting time,¡± Fahira said to herself, mustering a natural smile in front of the mirror before putting everything back in ce. She had to be professional, forget everything that happened, and fix the consequences of her big mistake. Fahira resigned herself to the possibility that no man would ever want to marry her again. But that was fine; she believed that God had a better n for her.


    The meeting went smoothly. However, something irritated Darian¡¯s heart suddenly. Usually, he didn¡¯t care if his clients paid attention to his secretary, as it was not the first time they were enchanted by Fahira¡¯s charm. The charm he only realizedst night. His body felt hot and stifling. He loosened his tie, which seemed to be choking him. He increased the room temperature while trying to divert Mario Att, a 35-year-old CEO of Sagara Company, who kept looking at Fahira with evident interest. Mario¡¯s gaze was clear to Darian as a mature man. Mario was standing with his secretary, weing Darian with a friendly smile and a firm handshake.


    ¡°Thank you for your time and the opportunity, Mr. Mario. We need to meet another client now,¡± said Darian politely, rising from his seat and extending his hand to Mario.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, Mr. Darian. It¡¯s an honor for us to meet you in person,¡± replied Mario, standing up with his secretary, and shaking hands with Darian warmly.


    David, sitting in the driver¡¯s seat, nced at Darian and Fahira sitting side by side in the passenger seats through the rearview mirror. It was unusual for the atmosphere inside the car to be so tense and quiet. Darian seemed preupied with his Apple logo-adorned gadget, while Fahira gazed seriously out the window beside her. Although Darian was always cold towards everyone, this time the atmosphere felt more suffocating. Usually, light business conversations apanied their journey. But now, it waspletely silent. No music, no conversation. Only the faint sound of Darian¡¯s long sighs, which filled the narrow space between them a few times.


    David¡¯s intuition told him that Darian was under strong pressure from the powerful Mrs. Yasmin, who was urging him to get married. However, as far as David knew, his boss had never dated any woman. A few months ago, David identally overheard a heated argument between Darian and Yasmin during a dinner at the grand residence of the Putra family, where the topic of marriage was brought up. David was quite sure about what he heard, that Yasmin was going to arrange a marriage for Darian with the daughter of a business associate. And of course, Darian couldn¡¯t refuse because he hadn¡¯t fulfilled his promise to Yasmin.


    Darian had promised on his 30th birthday to bring a prospective daughter-inw for his mother. And in two months, that deadline would arrive. If Darian couldn¡¯t fulfill his promise, he would have to ept the woman chosen by his mother, whether he liked it or not.


    As usual, Fahira returned home using the services of Go-Jek. Mr. Damar, the Go-Jek driver she had been using for almost a year, was a middle-aged man who was very kind and courteous to her.


    Fahira sighed as she recalled the wise advice from her Go-Jek driver. Those pieces of advice were like bubbles constantly popping in her mind. They were real but intangible, even though her faith and principles had been tarnished, she was determined to improve herself and not repeat the same mistakes. From a distance, a tall, well-built man, about 180 cm tall, was observing Fahira from inside a car. Like every other day, he had to make sure that Fahira¡¯s regr Go-Jek driver arrived before he left.


    Soon, the Go-Jek driver named Damar arrived and handed Fahira a helmet. They seemed to have a brief conversation before Fahira sat in the backseat with Damar and they drove away, disappearing from his view.


    ¡°I will definitely keep my promise, Fahira, to take care of you and Ariel,¡± the man mumbled to himself as he drove away from the towering building of Putra Company.

 Restless

    Fahira handed a piece of money to Mang Damar after he dropped her off in front of the Mawar public housing building. Her steps were weary as she made her way to the stairs leading to her unit on the second floor. Her mind was exhausted from a long day at work, especially since she had been experiencing sleep disturbances sincest night. Thoughts of Darian caressing her body kept crossing her mind every time she closed her eyes.


    Creak. The door to her home opened, and Fahira entered, immediately approaching her younger brother, Ariel, who was engrossed in reading a book on the floor with the TV on.


    ¡°Fahira!¡± greeted Ariel as he shifted positions to sit up and closed his book.


    ¡°How are you feeling now?¡± Fahira asked, touching Ariel¡¯s forehead to check his body temperature. Last night, Ariel suddenly shivered with a temperature of 38¡ãC, and today he had to take another day off from school. Since being diagnosed with a heart condition, Ariel often had to miss school.


    ¡°I¡¯m feeling better. Oh, let me make you a drink,¡± Ariel said, getting up and heading towards the refrigerator.


    Fahira ced her bag on the table and stretched her legs. She took off her scarf and zer, cing them on herp. Shortly after, Ariel returned with a ss of cold tea and handed it to Fahira.


    ¡°Thank you, little brother,¡± Fahira said, reaching for the ss and taking a sip until it was empty.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for causing you trouble like this,¡± Ariel said sadly, looking at Fahira, who immediately smiled back at him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. Hurry up and get ready. We have an appointment with Dr. Gavin this afternoon. I calledst night, and we got the number three slot, so we mustn¡¯t bete,¡± Fahira continued, changing the subject.


    ¡°I promise, Fahira, I¡¯ll get better soon and graduate from school quickly so I can find a job and¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that right now. The most important thing is for you to focus on school and get well soon,¡± Fahira interrupted before Ariel could continue. She didn¡¯t want to see sadness and vulnerability in his eyes every time Ariel expressed his feelings.


    At 04:30, they arrived at the Medical Center where Dr. Gavin practiced. The handsome and young cardiologist had been Ariel¡¯s attending doctor since he was diagnosed with arrhythmia four months ago. From Dr. Gavin¡¯s exnation, arrhythmia is a heart rhythm disorder that indicates a disruption in the heart¡¯s electrical system, causing the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregrly. This condition urs due to disturbances in the electrical impulses that regte the heartbeat, leading to the heart not functioning properly.


    Dr. Gavin¡¯s observations indicated that the main cause of Ariel¡¯s condition was the heavy pressure and stress he had kept to himself for so long. And of course, Fahira knew the exact reason.


    Reluctantly, Fahira recounted the events that happened to her and Ariel three years ago to Dr. Gavin. She exined about their life in Surabaya when their parents were still alive and the ident that befell their family. Fahira¡¯s honesty made Dr. Gavin feel a sense of unease and sympathy.


    However, Fahira knew better than to divulge all the details since she herself never knew how she and Ariel ended up in Jakarta. Even the apartment where they lived seemed to have been prepared for the two of them. What¡¯s even stranger was that Fahira received a letter stating that she and Ariel had to stay there for an unspecified period for their safety. During the first month of living in that apartment, Fahira used the money included in a brown envelope under the letter to meet their needs until she found a job.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After consulting with Dr. Gavin, it was decided that Ariel would undergo a heart ation procedure, which had a permanent sess rate of 97%. Tomorrow, Ariel would be admitted for observation by the medical team before the operation. Knowing that Ariel would soon recover filled Fahira¡¯s heart with immense happiness. Her sacrifices would not be in vain.


    ***


    The next day¡­


    Darian had just taken off his coat and ced it on the back of hisrge chair when he noticed the sight of hot coffee mingling with the rays of sunlight filling his room. It was his secretary¡¯s signature coffee, which he enjoyed every morning. Darian let out a frustrated sigh as he once again found himself thinking of Fahira¡¯s sad face. The girl seemed to have mesmerized him, rendering Darian helpless with his own feelings. He shook his head to dispel the unfamiliar emotions that had been bothering him for the past few days, then opened hisptop. He needed to check the emails he hadn¡¯t had a chance to open yesterday.


    Darian reached for the phone on his desk and dialed the extension that connected him to Fahira¡¯s desk. As he waited for an answer, he absentmindedly toyed with the rim of his coffee cup with his fingertip.


    ¡°Unusual for Fahira not to be in my office by 9,¡± Darian muttered to himself as Fahira had not yet picked up his call.


    He ced the phone back on its receiver and grabbed the coffee that had been a target of his frustration. As the dark liquid warmed his throat, Darian suddenly realized that this coffee was not made by Fahira. He roughly ced the cup back, causing some of the liquid to spill onto the table.


    ¡°David,e to my office immediately!¡± A loud, high-pitched voice echoed before a folder was thrown far from Darian¡¯s desk.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, what¡¯s wrong, sir?¡± David asked, taken aback by the unusual state of his boss¡¯s office. It was a mess. Without waiting for any orders from Darian, David immediately picked up the scattered papers from the floor.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Fahira? Why isn¡¯t she here in my office at this hour? She¡¯s not picking up my calls either!¡± Darian¡¯s voice boomed, making David lower his head in response.


    It was unusual for Darian to be so angry like this. Normally, when Darian was in a bad mood, he would ask David to apany him to a nightclub. Darian would have fun with fellow young executives, apanied by alcohol and attractive women by their sides. However, strangely enough, every time Darian entered a nightclub, he always prohibited David from touching alcohol. He instructed David to take him away when he became unconscious due to alcohol. That meant Darian didn¡¯t want to end up in bed with unwanted women.


    ¡°Did Fahira not inform you, sir? She¡¯s noting to work because she¡¯s sick,¡± exined David, cing the neatly arranged documents on Darian¡¯s desk.


    ¡°Sick?¡± Darian murmured softly, causing David to be puzzled by the unexpected change in his boss¡¯s expression.


    ¡°Yes, sir. Fahira is sick. She told me this morning,¡± continued David, furrowing his brows as he noticed the change in Darian¡¯s facial expression.


    ¡°You should leave my office now, and today I don¡¯t want to be disturbed by anyone,¡± ordered Darian, making David quickly step out of Darian¡¯s office before bing the target of his boss¡¯s wrath.


    After his personal assistant left, Darian took out his cell phone from his coat pocket. He unlocked the screen and found several missed calls and text messages from Fahira, asking for permission to take a day off from work today.


    ***


    Two hours passed, and Darian was immersed in the stack of documents in front of him. He read and studied each one carefully before signing them. ¡°What¡¯s happening to me?¡± Darian murmured in frustration as the papers in front of him still couldn¡¯t drive his thoughts away from Fahira.


    Suddenly, his phone rang, interrupting Darian¡¯s reverie. Seeing his mother¡¯s name disyed, Darian answered immediately.


    ¡°Good morning, what¡¯s up, Mama dear?¡± Darian pretended to speak gently, still irritated with their conversation earlier in the morning.


    ¡°Good morning too. Meet Alea at the Japanese restaurant this afternoon. She¡¯ll be waiting there at 1 pm!¡± Yasmin ordered with a tone that Darian knew he couldn¡¯t argue with.


    ¡°Alright, Mommy dear!¡±


    ¡°Watch out if youe up with excuses again!¡± threatened Yasmin, which instantly elicited a sarcasticugh from Darian.


    ¡°Are you sure you won¡¯t be jealous if my love is shared with another woman?¡± Darian teased while trying to hold back hisughter, sessfully teasing his mother.


    ¡°Mommy is serious, Darian,¡± Yasmin said in a soft voice, sighing deeply.


    ¡°Alright, Mommy, I love you,¡± Darian chuckled, ending the call with a farewell greeting.


    At 12:30, Darian paused his work. He put on his coat and quickly headed for the exit, as his mother called again to remind him of his promise to meet a girl named Alea. David smiled and nodded as he followed Darian¡¯s steps toward the executives¡¯ special elevator.


    ¡°When will Jakarta ever be free from traffic? It¡¯s annoying!¡± Darianined as they got stuck in a long traffic jam.


    ¡°Hehehe, it wouldn¡¯t be Jakarta, Boss if it weren¡¯t for the traffic,¡± David replied casually.


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for the Madame Boss¡¯s orders, I wouldn¡¯t bother meeting that woman,¡± Darian continued, earning augh from David.


    ¡°The Madame¡¯s orders are yourmand, sir!¡± David replied, receiving a hard punch on his shoulder.


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right,¡± Darian agreed. ¡°Finding a wife that fits my criteria is challenging, huh, Vid?¡± he added, feeling frustrated.


    ¡°What are Mr. Darian¡¯s ideal woman criteria, may I ask?¡± David¡¯s question naturally provoked annoyance in Darian. The question sounded mocking to him.


    After being stuck in traffic for quite some time, the car they were in finally managed to break free from the gridlock. Darian nced at his wristwatch, which showed 13:25, indicating that he was alreadyte from the time set by his mother. However, Darian¡¯s gaze suddenly fixed on the woman who had been disturbing his mind since this morning. The woman was standing by the roadside, at the end of a zebra crossing, with pedestrians waiting to cross.


    ¡°Fahira,¡± Darian murmured soundlessly as he looked back when the car had passed Fahira¡¯s location. As the car was moving slowly, Darian still had a chance to see Fahira crossing the road while carrying a stic bag, heading towards the Medical Center hospital.


    ¡°Is there a problem, sir?¡± David asked, feeling puzzled as he noticed Darian continuously ncing behind.


    ¡°No, just keep driving!¡± Darian replied, quickly adjusting his sitting position.


    Darian couldn¡¯t shake off the image of Fahira from his mind. He wondered why she was heading to the hospital. Was she feeling unwell? He felt an internal struggle within himself, torn between his responsibilities and the inexplicable concern he had for Fahira.


    ¡°Sir, are you sure you¡¯re alright?¡± David asked again, this time with more concern in his voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, just a little distracted. Let¡¯s focus on the road,¡± Darian replied, trying to hide his unease. He knew he had to clear his mind and concentrate on the meeting with Alea, but Fahira¡¯s presence was still lingering in his thoughts.

 Fahira鈥檚 Hope

    ¡°Where did you get all that money, Fahira?¡± Ariel scrutinized Fahira sharply as she was arranging some items and food in the small cab next to Ariel¡¯s hospital bed.


    Fahira paused for a moment before sitting down on Ariel¡¯s bed, smiling softly. She held Ariel¡¯s hand, which was connected to an IV, and looked into his eyes. ¡°Listen me Ariel, this money was obtained in a proper way. You know Pak David, right? I borrowed the money from him, and I¡¯ll pay it back through monthly deductions from my sry,¡± Fahira exined. She had to lie, knowing that if Ariel found out the truth, he would refuse the money and choose to suffer for the rest of his life.


    ¡°I promise that after I recover, I¡¯ll help you with work, Fahira. Arif¡¯s parents asked me to privately tutor his little brother in math and science since he¡¯s still in middle school,¡± Ariel exined with his eyes shining brightly. He hoped to recover from his illness, so he wouldn¡¯t be a burden to Fahira anymore. He had seen Fahira working hard day and night to provide for both of them while they lived in this foreign city, a city known for its nightlife and mour, but hiding its true cruelty.


    ¡°It¡¯s up to you, Ariel. The most important thing is for you to recover quickly and stay focused on your studies. We can think about the tutoringter, okay?¡± Fahira replied, her eyes shining with happiness at seeing the spark of joy in Ariel¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, Fahira, if you have to work tomorrow, I¡¯ll be fine alone at the hospital. Ariel said he would apany me after school,¡± Ariel said, returning Fahira¡¯s hand squeeze.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already asked for two days off, so it¡¯s okay if Ariel wants toe here,¡± Fahira replied with gratitude in her heart for Ariel¡¯s kind friend.


    Fahira knew Ariel well. The teenager had beening to her house since they were in 10th grade, which meant they had been friends for almost two years.


    Shortly after, two nurses entered Ariel¡¯s hospital room to take him to the operating room. ¡°I love you, Fahira. Promise me you¡¯ll recover,¡± Fahira whispered, kissing the top of Ariel¡¯s head with tearful eyes.


    ¡°I promise, Fahira. I love you too, Fahira,¡± Ariel replied, looking into Fahira¡¯s eyes. With all his strength, he managed to smile before the nurses took him away.


    Fahira¡¯s body slumped weakly on the sofa as tears streamed down her cheeks. She clutched her chest tightly, trying to ease the suffocating feeling. After managing to calm her anxious heart, she wiped away the tears that kept flowing. ¡°Ariel will get better, Fahira,¡± she whispered to herself, pounding her chest to alleviate the tightness. Fahira got up from her seat and quickly followed the two nurses taking her brother. ording to the doctor¡¯s estimation, Ariel¡¯s surgery wouldst around 2-3 hours.


    At the Japanese restaurant, a woman with long brown hair was engrossed in her phone. Darian walked towards table number 7, as instructed by his mother.


    ¡°Excuse me, are you Miss Alea?¡± Darian greeted, trying to appear friendly, which was something he rarely did with anyone. He did it all for the sake of his only parent.


    The woman tensed up and looked up to see Darian standing in front of her. With a wide smile, she stood up to wee him and gestured for him to sit across from her.


    ¡°Let me introduce myself, I¡¯m Alea,¡± she said warmly, extending her hand towards Darian.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just get to the point, what does Miss want from me?¡± Darian replied bluntly, looking at Alea¡¯s outstretched hand. He sat down and nced at Alea, who was pulling back her hand.


    Rather than being annoyed by Darian¡¯s cold and distant demeanor, Alea became even more intrigued by the man in front of her. Darian was the only man who didn¡¯t seem interested in her. Most of the men she met would look at her with admiration for her beauty and allure.


    ¡°Aunt Yasmin must have told you who I am, right?¡± Alea replied with her sweetest smile.


    ¡°All I know is that I¡¯m not interested in you, and Mommy¡¯s n to set us up will definitely not happen!¡± Darian replied calmly but firmly.


    ¡°Really?¡± Alea challenged, bing more convinced that Darian was not just another wealthy man who only cared about his desires. Darian leaned back in his chair, looking at the woman who seemed to want to y with him.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Darian retorted with a hint of mockery, observing Alea¡¯s seductive appearance. Alea was mistaken if she thought she could tempt Darian with her physical perfection. For Darian, women like Alea were like venomous snakes.


    ¡°Come on, Darian, am I not attractive enough?¡± Alea replied with a teasing look that made Darian feel disgusted and nauseated.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but it seems you have the wrong perception of me, Miss.¡± Darian got up from his seat and gracefully left Alea.


    ¡°Darian Mahesa Putra,¡± Alea murmured with a smile as she reached for a cup of choco vani, sipping it slowly. She enjoyed the sight of Darian¡¯s strong back walking away from her view.


    Seeing his bossing out of the restaurant, David quickly got out of the car and opened the door for Darian. He got back in the car and drove back to Darian¡¯s office.


    ¡°Is there a problem, Boss?¡± David broke the silence because Darian hadn¡¯t said a word for the past 10 minutes.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, David. I don¡¯t like Mommy rying to set me up with that model named Alea,¡± Darian exined casually. Besides being his personal assistant, David was also his only friend.


    ¡°She¡¯s beautiful, Boss, looks like the actress Atiqah Hasihn hehehe,¡± chuckled David, looking at Darian who looked more disheveled than earlier in the morning.


    ¡°For you, then. I¡¯m not interested in her,¡± replied Darian, returning David¡¯s gaze with an inscrutable look.


    ¡°Unfortunately, I already have a woman in mind, Boss. Just tell me what type of woman you like, and I¡¯ll find candidates for you,¡± David added, earning a yful punch from Darian on his shoulder.


    ¡°Boss, are you really never been in a rtionship?¡± David asked again, feeling puzzled because he had never seen Darian dating anyone.


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of dating? I don¡¯t need women, my life is alreadyfortable without those annoying creatures called women.¡±


    David burst intoughter, shaking his head at his boss¡¯s way of thinking. For him, women were the most enjoyable creatures. What was the point of having so much wealth if not used? Even if Darian had a wife and many children, it wouldn¡¯t diminish his wealth.


    ¡°Keep it down, and tonight, apany me to the club,¡± Darian replied, ignoring David¡¯s teasing remarks that sounded annoying.


    Despite their formal boss-subordinate rtionship, Darian and David were close friends since high school. While Darian pursued his education in America, David pursued a military career. David came from an upper-middle-ss family, and bing a police officer had been his childhood dream. After Darian graduated from his college in America, he immediately contacted David to work for him.


    David often found himself confused by Darian¡¯s anti-women attitude. Everywhere else, men would be interested when they met beautiful and attractive women. But not Darian; he was different. Darian always imed that women were the most annoying andplicated creatures.


    ¡°Why are you grinning?¡± Darian snapped, annoyed by his friend¡¯s weird smile that suddenly appeared.


    ¡°Are you still normal, Darian? Nothing¡¯s twisted, right?¡± David probed further,ughing.


    ¡°Shit!¡± cursed Darian. ¡°Of course, I¡¯m normal! I¡¯ve even removed the seal,¡± Darian continued grumbling, causing David to suddenly m on the brakes.


    The sound of a honk and cursing immediately came from behind their car. Without paying attention to the noisymotion from behind, David quickly pulled the car over to the side of the road.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Are you sure? I don¡¯t know about it at all? I¡¯ve been with you for almost 24 hours. You must be dreaming!¡± David replied, surprised. He was torn between believing and not believing, but he knew Darian was serious at the moment.


    ¡°Are you my mother? Should I report to you every time I go on a date with a woman?¡± Darian snapped, irritated, and ordered David to drive the car again.


    David grinned suspiciously but immediately obeyed his boss, who seemed to be in a bad mood now. Throughout the journey, the cramped space was filled with silence between the two of them. Darian was once again troubled, thinking about Fahira¡¯s sad face, while David seemed focused on the busy streets ahead, with a smile on his face.


    ¡°Finally, my best friend is falling in love too. I¡¯ll investigate who the lucky woman is that has stolen Darian¡¯s heart,¡± David thought to himself as he nced at Darian, who was now staring out of the window.


    At the hospital, Fahira remained silent, covering her face with both hands. In her heart, she prayed endlessly for Ariel¡¯s heart surgery to go smoothly. Tears began to flow again. She finally decided to perform the Dhuhr prayer in the hospital¡¯s prayer room. It was the only ce where she could pour out her heart¡¯s sorrows and plead for her brother¡¯s safety as he fought for his life on the operating table.


    In her long prayer, suddenly a middle-aged woman sat next to Fahira. ¡°God will surely hear your prayers, dear,¡± she said, causing Fahira to open her tear-stained eyes. Fahira then wiped away the tears that had moistened her cheeks.


    ¡°Ameen,¡± Fahira replied briefly, smiling softly at the woman.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I have to excuse myself for a moment,¡± Fahira politely excused herself as she took off her prayer robe, folded it, and ced it back where it belonged.


    ¡°Just a moment!¡± The woman interjected and opened her bag, handing Fahira a business card. ¡°If you need anything, you can contact me through this number, dear,¡± she continued before Fahira expressed her thanks and epted the business card.


    Arriving at the waiting room for the operation, Fahira froze when she saw the door of the operating room open. She ran towards Dr. Gavin, who had juste out of the operating room with a nurse.


    ¡°Thank God the surgery went smoothly for Brother Ariel,¡± said Dr. Gavin, causing Fahira¡¯s body to tremble with her mouth wide open. She was speechless, but her heart couldn¡¯t stop expressing gratitude.


    ¡°In a moment, Brother Ariel will be transferred to the observation room first,¡± Dr. Gavin continued, looking at Fahira for a moment before leaving.


    ¡°Mom, Dad, Ariel will soon recover,¡± Fahira whispered in her heart as she copsed on the floor, tears streaming down her face. Unbeknownst to Fahira, a man was observing her with a mncholic gaze.

 Hold The Missing

    Fahira¡¯s smile widened as she remembered Ariel¡¯s improving condition after his heart surgery two days ago. Although he still needed hospital care for a few more days, he already looked energetic and healthy.


    ¡°Are you feeling better, Fahira? Mr. David said you were sick?¡± asked Mira with concern, standing in front of Fahira¡¯s cubicle.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Mira was one of Fahira¡¯s colleagues at the office who always treated her kindly. Fahira was friendly to everyone, so during her time at Putra Corporation, she never had enemies. Even her fellow secretaries to the directors could maintain good rtionships with her. However, due to thepany¡¯s policy that prohibited all employees from engaging in special rtionships, especially since Fahira was always with Mr. Darian, the top executive in thepany, no one dared to disturb her as they would risk being fired.


    ¡°Thank God, I¡¯m better, Mir. Thank you,¡± Fahira replied sincerely as she took off her zer and ced it on her chair.


    ¡°Here, this is for you! You must need lots of nutrition and vitamins since you haven¡¯t been in Big Boss¡¯s office for two days, and almost everyone here got scolded!¡± Mira said, handing a gift of food to Fahira.


    ¡°Thank you so much, Mir. But why did you bother doing this?¡± Fahira replied, looking at Mira with meaning in her eyes. The small attention touched her heart deeply, and Fahira once again felt grateful for being surrounded by good people.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, beautiful Fahira!¡± Mira said before heading back to her cubicle. However, just then, Darian and David arrived, and Fahira quickly signaled to Mira to prepare herself before gettingser-like res from their boss.


    With arrogance, Darian walked past Fahira and Mira, and all the employees stood and respectfully bowed their heads to him. Behind Darian, David smiled and returned greetings from the two women who were ignored by their boss.


    After making sure that Darian had entered his office, Mira quickly scurried back to her own cubicle. Fahira suppressed augh at Mira¡¯s antics, but she also felt scared at times due to Darian¡¯s cold demeanor. However, as long as Fahira did her job well, she didn¡¯t need to fear any human being. In her eyes, all creatures of God were equal; only their faith distinguished them.


    Unbeknownst to David, a faint smile appeared on Darian¡¯s lips after meeting Fahira. David left Darian¡¯s office after finishing their business and left all his tasks for the next two days to Fahira to review.


    ¡°Please check it again, Fahira. I¡¯ve done everything, and the soft files are on myputer,¡± David casually exined before returning to his desk, which was often empty. As Darian¡¯s personal assistant and bodyguard, David couldn¡¯t be considered an ordinary employee. His working hours were 24/7, and he had to be ready whenever Darian needed him. However, David often helped Fahira with her work whenever she was overwhelmed or unable toe to the office.


    As usual, Darian weed the warm sun, which seemed to shine brighter this morning. His heart warmed too, feeling an unfamiliar sensation called longing. He sat on his oversized chair and opened the slimptop screen in front of him. While waiting for theptop to load, he double-checked the documents he studied yesterday.


    The corners of his lips lifted as the aroma of coffee tickled his senses. He inhaled deeply, savoring every waft of warmth emitted from the freshly brewed coffee prepared by his secretary, who hadn¡¯t visited his office for two days. Darian perfectly opened the coffee cup lid, which had been slightly closed before. As per his request, every morning the genuine aroma of coffee should fill his room. So, every time she arrived in the morning, Fahira would head straight to the pantry, preparing hot coffee for Darian before upying her own desk.


    After sipping a few mouthfuls of coffee, Darian resumed his work. One hour passed, and Darian became engrossed in the documents he had neglected since yesterday. He felt unusually enthusiastic today. He was surprised by the sudden surge of energy that seemed to push him to aplish all his tasks quickly.


    Shortly after, a knocking sound interrupted Darian¡¯s busyness. Without diverting his attention from theptop screen in front of him, Darian allowed the person to enter. Fahira walked in, carrying several folders containing reports about thepany for the past month, as per Darian¡¯s request. At the end of each month, Darian would carefully review all the reports from the finance director and the personnel director before entering the next month.


    Suddenly, the distinctive scent of Fahira¡¯s vanice fragrance greeted Darian¡¯s sense of smell, causing him to inhale deeply and exhale slowly as he looked at Fahira cing the folders on his desk. Their close proximity made Darian lose his concentration.


    ¡°Fahira,¡± Darian called out, leaning back in his chair as he looked at Fahira.


    ¡°Yes, sir. Is there something you need, Mr. Darian?¡± Fahira replied, daring to meet Darian¡¯s gaze.


    Silence.


    Their two pairs of eyes unintentionally locked for a few seconds. Fahira¡¯s heart raced, receiving Darian¡¯s inscrutable gaze. She quickly lowered her head to break the contact and took a step back from Darian¡¯s desk. Darian cleared his throat as the atmosphere suddenly felt strange and tense.


    ¡°Tomorrow, don¡¯t wear this perfume again! I don¡¯t like its scent!¡± Darian blurted out, deviating from the topic he wanted to ask Fahira about-about the documents he had handed to David while Fahira was absent. Fahira stood there in shock, her mouth slightly open, hearing Darian¡¯s absurd remark. Without realizing it, she raised her arms one by one to smell her body scent, making sure she didn¡¯t have body odor. Of course, Fahira felt embarrassed and worried about her reputation as the secretary of the CEO of a bigpany; she had to always present herself attractively, and any mishap would ruin that image.


    ¡°Wonderful! And I¡¯ve been using this perfume for a long time, why is the Bossining just now?¡± Fahira murmured to herself, looking puzzled.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the scent, Fahira!¡± Darian snapped, finding Fahira¡¯s reaction amusing.


    ¡°Okay, Sir! Mmmm¡­ I¡¯ll buy a new perfume,¡± Fahira replied innocently, quickly lowering her raised hand.


    ¡°You better leave my office before I get a headache,¡± Darian said, surprising Fahira since he rarelymented on his employees¡¯ appearances. Fahira quickly regained her senses when she saw Darian¡¯s sharp gaze, and she immediately obeyed hismand to leave the room.


    ¡°Oh, and please make me a cup of coffee,¡± Darian added when Fahira was about to close the door. Fahira turned back with her eyebrows furrowed, wondering why Darian was asking her for coffee. She knew Darian usually only drank one cup of coffee a day. Darian was known for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regr exercise and martial arts training like kickboxing and muay thai, which David scheduled for him at least once a week.


    ¡°It¡¯s already finished,¡± Darian continued when he saw Fahira still holding the empty cup on his desk.


    ¡°Okay, fine, Sir,¡± Fahira replied, slightly stuttering, before quickly leaving Darian¡¯s office with the empty cup.


    Darian watched Fahira leave and mumbled, ¡°You¡¯re actually quite amusing, Fahira!¡±


    Instead of returning to his work, Darian found himself smiling to himself. He grabbed a small remote control from the drawer and pressed a button. The silver curtains in his office, which had always remained closed, slowly slid open, allowing some sunlight to enter and brighten up the room.


    As he looked outside the window at the bustling city below, Darian¡¯s thoughts kept returning to Fahira. He couldn¡¯t help but feel that something about her was different today. He tried to focus on the file he wanted to ask Fahira about, but his mind kept wandering to her gaze and her scent. It was unusual for Darian to be bothered by such things; he usually kept his emotions in check and maintained a professional demeanor.


    Fahira was his closest secretary, and she assisted him with many tasks throughout the day. Darian knew she was kind and friendly, but today, there was something about her that intrigued him. He couldn¡¯t put his finger on it, but he felt a sense of curiosity to know more about Fahira.


    After a while, Darian tried to refocus on his work, pulling out a file from the drawer. However, Fahira¡¯s image kept popping up in his mind, and he couldn¡¯t help but smile at the memory of her innocent and confused expression earlier.


    ¡°Hmm, why am I thinking about Fahira now?¡± Darian mumbled to himself, trying to shake off the strange feelings and concentrate on the stack of documents in front of him.


    But no matter how hard he tried to focus, Fahira¡¯s presence lingered in his thoughts. Meanwhile, outside the office, Fahira was busy with her work, trying not to dwell on the encounter with Darian.


    The day passed rtively quickly, and when it was time to leave, Fahira felt relieved. She tidied her desk and grabbed her jacket. Before leaving the office, she informed some of her colleagues about an important meeting they needed to prepare for the next day.


    But as Fahira was about to reach the exit, suddenly Darian appeared in front of her.


    The gap revealed Fahira¡¯s empty cubicle as the owner of the seat must be gone to the pantry to return her used coffee cup and, of course, to make another cup of coffee as per his request. From his position, Darian could freely gaze at Fahira¡¯s beautiful face whenever he wanted. Before long, Fahira returned with a tray containing a cup of coffee, Darian¡¯s order, and carefully ced it on the desk.


    Fahira quickly left before her heart started to beat abnormally every time she received Darian¡¯s unfamiliar gaze. Since that night, Fahira became quieter, while Darian¡¯s behavior seemed to have reversed. He now secretly observed Fahira.


    As Fahira stepped out of Darian¡¯s office, David arrived. With a puzzled look, he stopped Fahira and asked, ¡°Is it for the Boss?¡± Fahira nodded and continued on her way.


    And now, what Darian did was to observe Fahira¡¯s movements as she appeared focused on theputer screen in front of her. Through that small gap, Darian could clearly see various expressions on Fahira¡¯s face, ranging from seriousness, pouting, irritation, and asional smiles. The floral pattern on Fahira¡¯s blouse seemed to infect Darian¡¯s heart. The corners of Darian¡¯s lips lifted as he saw Fahira biting the end of her pen and blowing the bangs covering her forehead. The movement of Fahira¡¯s bangs going up and down made Darian chuckle. She had always maintained a simple appearance, with her straight hair usually tied in a ponytail, and her bangs hanging down.


    ¡°Hey Darian, remember, she¡¯s just an ordinary woman, not at your level, and she¡¯s willingly giving herself up just for money! She¡¯s just a money-grubbing woman only after your wealth!¡± Darian¡¯s conscience warned him, instantly erasing the smile from his lips.


    His hand clenched tightly, and he roughly grabbed the remote, shutting the curtains in his office tightly once again.

 Am I In Love?

    Darian stretched his stiff muscles by raising both hands and leaning back on the back of the chair. He closed his eyes to relieve the strain in his tired eyes after spending the day dealing with files andptop screens. Today, Darian intentionally cleared his meeting schedule to focus on checking the details of the reports from the finance director. Fahira had been going in and out of the young CEO¡¯s office all day, carrying out all hismands. Darian had almost finished three cups of coffee today. Even for lunch, he chose to eat in his office, ordering delivery from his favorite restaurant.


    Fahira started to worry when the time on her wristwatch showed three in the afternoon, and Darian seemed still engrossed in the stack of files before him. Fahira remained silent for a while until Darian¡¯s voice startled her.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter, Fahira? Are you still sick?¡± Darian asked, making Fahira¡¯s tongue feel tied.


    Darian stood up and faced the giant mirror in front of him, which showed the hustle and bustle of Jakarta city. His left hand sank into his pocket, while his right hand held a cup of coffee, which he sipped slowly. Darian deliberately avoided Fahira¡¯s gaze, which always reminded him of the hot night they had spent together. Meanwhile, Fahira gathered the courage to ask for permission to leave early. She really couldn¡¯t do overtime today because she had to go to the hospital urgently.


    ¡°Excuse me, Mr. Darian, may I leave early? I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t do overtime today,¡± Fahira said with a trembling voice. She looked at Darian¡¯s broad back, which remained still. Darian remained silent for a while before finally speaking.


    ¡°Go ahead!¡± Darian replied shortly without bothering to look at Fahira. Instead, he enjoyed the sunlight on the western horizon.


    ¡°Thank you, Sir.¡± Fahira quickly left Darian¡¯s office and hurriedly cleaned up her desk, bag, and turned off theputer before saying goodbye to Mira and Ray, her colleagues who were still focused on their work. During thest week of each month like this, all employees usually had to work overtime, including Fahira. However, due to certain circumstances, she had to prioritize Ariel¡¯s recovery, her younger brother.


    Fahira, who walked in a hurry, almost bumped into David, who had juste out of the bathroom.


    ¡°Sorry, Mr. David,¡± Fahira said while sping her hands in front of her chest with a stiff smile.


    ¡°Be careful on the way!¡± David replied casually, to which Fahira only nodded. David smiled and waved, then headed to Darian¡¯s office.


    ¡°Do you want to go home now, Boss? Or go straight to the gym for fitness?¡± David asked, now inside Darian¡¯s office. Today was Darian¡¯s fitness schedule.


    ¡°You go home; I want to go by myself,¡± Darian replied without enthusiasm.


    ¡°Okay, thank you for the bonus, Boss,¡± David replied casually but with a hint of curiosity. David was well aware of Darian¡¯s recent change of behavior, but he chose to stay silent. He would wait until Darian himself would talk about his problems. Despite being friends, David knew his ce and understood the boundaries of not interfering in Darian¡¯s private matters unless the man himself asked for it.


    As usual, Fahira went with Mang Damar, her regr motorcycle taxi driver, to Medical Center hospital. Ten minutester, Darian¡¯s car also left his skyscraper building. Unaware to Fahira, Darian¡¯s car was only two cars behind the motorcycle she was riding. Darian intentionally followed Fahira out of curiosity since two days ago when he saw her entering a hospital despite looking healthy and fine. Darian wouldn¡¯t stay silent if it turned out Fahira dared to lie for personal matters and leave her responsibilities behind.


    Shortly after Fahira entered the hospital, Darian was about to get out of his car. However, he immediately aborted the n when he saw someone he knew very well: Aunt Desi, his dad¡¯s cousin. Darian just remembered that her son was one of the doctors at that hospital. Darian quickly turned on his car¡¯s engine and left the hospital premises. He didn¡¯t want his aunt to get any suspicious thoughts, especially since he and his mom already had a personal family doctor who was always avable 24/7 if needed.


    ¡°Why did I follow that woman? I must have too much free time,¡± grumbled Darian when he realized he had just wasted his time. If Darian really wanted information about Fahira, he could simply order David to handle it, and everything would be sorted out in no time.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Darian¡¯s car sped freely towards the kickboxing training ce. He wanted to refresh his mind by releasing all his feelings. Feelings he couldn¡¯t define himself.


    The phone ringing interrupted Darian¡¯s thoughts. Without a doubt, he knew it was his mom, Yasmin, and he knew what they would talk about. Alea must haveined about Darian¡¯s rough attitude towards her the other day. He put on earphones in both ears, and when the call connected, Yasmin poured all her anger on her son. Calmly, Darian listened and only answered ¡°yes¡± to Yasmin without any interest in exining anything, as it would all be in vain. After Yasmin ended the call, Darian dialed someone else¡¯s number and pressed the call button.


    ¡°Come to the boxing training ce, I need a sparring partner!¡± Darian ordered David, who instantly received a harsh reprimand through his cell phone. Darian was sure David was on a date with one of his women, and Darian joyfully canceled their ns.


    Angry? Of course not. Darian burst intoughter when he sessfully provoked David¡¯s anger, just as he always did. Darian deliberately prevented David from nting seeds in random ces. Since high school, his best friend had been known as a yboy. So, every woman who liked Darian ended up in bed with David. David even casually told those women that Darian wasn¡¯t interested in the opposite sex and was gay. Was Darian angry this time? Of course not either. With David¡¯s confession, Darian was freed from flirtatious women who wanted to get close to him.


    David arrived while Darian was in the middle of sparring with the studio¡¯s trainer. Darian stopped his activity and smiled as he approached David, who was giving him an annoyed look. ¡°Go change! I need a sparring partner!¡± Darian said without feeling guilty.


    ¡°I was just about to have a different kind of duel in the bedroom if you hadn¡¯t interrupted. I need some release, not like you who always duel with punching bags!¡± David retorted angrily, then punched Darian¡¯s shoulder quite hard, causing him to take a step back. David immediately walked towards the changing room.


    Darian chuckled, which only made David even more irritated. Darian always disturbed his enjoyment. Despite being annoying, David remained loyal to his friend. One of the perks of having a cold and good friend like Darian was that David got whatever he wanted, including women. Darian was a workaholic, while David enjoyed thepany of women, which was quite enjoyable.


    ¡°You lose!¡± David dered as he saw Darian¡¯s annoying expression while waiting for him in the ring.


    David climbed into the ring with a sly smile, while Darian just looked at him expressionlessly with one eyebrow raised. The fierce fight between the two friends was about to begin. As per Darian¡¯s request, they didn¡¯t want anyone else interfering in their match. So, the trainer chose to leave them alone, as they always did. The employees at the studio were already used to the chaos that would unfold and had prepared medical equipment just in case, as Darian and David tended to spar as they pleased.


    The fight began. This time, Darian instructed David to make the first move. David¡¯s agile attacks were skillfully blocked by Darian. A powerful counter hit David¡¯s jaw, making him even more furious. However, David deliberately chose not to retaliate, only focusing on blocking Darian¡¯s relentless assaults.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you want to beat me up just to vent your frustration about Alea?¡± David said, breathing heavily as he tried to cope with Darian¡¯s relentless attacks.


    Unlike his usual self, Darian¡¯s mood was inplete disarray. Thest time David faced Darian¡¯s wrath like this was when his father passed away three years ago. Back then, David was severely beaten and even had to be hospitalized. David intentionally allowed Darian to unleash all his emotions. But this time, David was a bit puzzled. Could it be that Darian was so frustrated just because of a woman who resembled Atiqah Hasihn?


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you thetest Pajero Sport model if you manage to sabotage that arranged marriage n!¡± Darian offered with panting breaths, continuously attacking David with abination of jabs and crosses.


    David¡¯s smile widened as he continued to endure Darian¡¯s relentless attacks. Boom¡­ Darian once againnded a hard punch on David¡¯s left cheek, causing him to stagger back into the corner of the ring. Darian returned to the center of the ring, taunting David, underestimating his strength. As Darian¡¯s bodyguard, David should be better at sparring than him.


    ¡°I dly ept your challenge, Darian. When else would I get a free car just for sleeping with a woman, hahaha!¡± Conquering women was no difficult task for a yer like David.


    ¡°Fine, do whatever you want! Just keep that woman away from my life!¡± Darian retorted.


    They resumed their fight, but David still felt something odd about Darian¡¯s demeanor. Darian seemed preupied with something else, not about Alea or his mother Yasmin, but something more serious. Suddenly, a smile spread across David¡¯s face as he remembered their conversation from the other day. This time, David took the offensive, although Darian skillfully blocked all of David¡¯s attacks. When he saw an opportunity, David whispered, ¡°I wonder which woman managed to break your virginity seal, Darian,¡± while trying to stifle hisughter as he noticed Darian¡¯s sudden distraction. Boom¡­ David sessfully mmed Darian¡¯s body onto the ring. ¡°You lose!¡± David jeered,ughing loudly, while Darian stretched out his arms, trying to catch his breath.


    ¡°I¡¯ll find out who that woman is!¡± David continued and thenid down next to Darian in the same position.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch her!¡± Darian threatened firmly, which only piqued David¡¯s curiosity. Davidughed sarcastically, looking at Darian, who was still staring at the studio¡¯s ceiling.


    ¡°Finally, my friend is experiencing love,¡± David mumbled to himself, smiling triumphantly.

 Fahira Refuse

    The next day, Fahira asked for permission toe to the officete as she had to handle all the paperwork for Ariel¡¯s discharge from the hospital. The examination results from the previous night stated that Ariel was allowed to go home with outpatient treatment. Next week, he had toe back to the hospital for his first follow-up check-up, to ensure the sess andpatibility of the heart ation procedure. Many patients faced risks of ipatibility with the imnted devices, and Ariel needed close monitoring by Dr. Gavin until he fully recovered.


    After dealing with all the administrative tasks and picking up Ariel¡¯s medications, Fahira neatly packed Ariel¡¯s change of clothes into a bag while Ariel underwent his final health check-up with the nurse.


    ¡°Fahira, I¡¯ll be fine at home alone, right?¡± Ariel asked after the nurse examining him left the hospital room.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Ariel. Arif wille straight home after school. He already sent a WhatsApp message saying so,¡± Fahira reassured him while putting on a t-shirt and tidying his hair.


    ¡°As it happens, I¡¯m leaving too. Come on, I¡¯ll give you both a ride,¡± offered Dr. Gavin, who suddenly appeared at the door without their notice.


    Fahira immediately stood up from where she was crouching, cleaning the cupboard. ¡°No, Doctor, that¡¯s not necessary. We don¡¯t want to trouble you. I already booked a Grab for us to go home,¡± Fahira exined, inviting Dr. Gavin toe in.


    ¡°Let me,¡± Dr. Gavin insisted, lifting Ariel¡¯s bag of clothes from the bed.


    ¡°We can manage on our own,¡± Ariel politely declined Dr. Gavin¡¯s kind offer. He felt awkward with the doctor¡¯s generosity. During the four days in the hospital, Dr. Gavin visited Ariel outside of his working hours multiple times to ensure his well-being. At this time, Dr. Gavin should have gone home already, as Ariel knew he had an afternoon shift.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It¡¯s not right to refuse someone¡¯s kindness,¡± Gavin replied warmly with a genuine smile.


    Ariel looked at Fahira, seeking her approval, knowing that she wouldn¡¯t easily ept help from others.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t your sister going to the office soon?¡± Gavin interjected, disregarding Fahira¡¯s hesitant gaze.


    Reluctantly, they ended up epting Dr. Gavin¡¯s offer and went home together. During the ride, Dr. Gavin initiated conversations to fill the silence. Fahira, sitting in the passenger seat next to Gavin, responded briefly to his conversation.


    ¡°By the way, while we¡¯re outside the hospital, just call me Gavin, Fahira,¡± Gavin said, paying no attention to her hesitance.


    Ariel nced at Fahira, asking for her consent, as he knew his sister wouldn¡¯t easily ept kindness from others.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t your sister going to the office soon?¡± Gavin interjected, disregarding Fahira¡¯s hesitant gaze.


    Reluctantly, they ended up epting Dr. Gavin¡¯s offer and went home together. During the ride, Dr. Gavin initiated conversations to fill the silence. Fahira, sitting in the passenger seat next to Gavin, responded briefly to his conversation.


    ¡°Oh, and if we¡¯re outside the hospital, just call me Gavin, Fahira,¡± Gavin said, ignoring Fahira¡¯s hesitant gaze.


    ¡°Sure, Gavin. Thank you for the ride, and I apologize for having to rush to the office,¡± Fahira said and gestured to Ariel to get out of the car.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. Take care, Ariel.¡± Gavin replied, nodding at both of them and waving as he drove away from Rusun Mawar.


    ¡°Sorry, Mr. Darian, I¡­¡±


    ¡°Read my agenda for today!¡± Darian interrupted Fahira as she entered his office.


    Fahira lowered her head and trembled as she opened her agenda book with shaking hands. She could feel Darian¡¯s intense gaze on her, and it was as if she could hear her heart pounding loudly. Thankfully, Fahira didn¡¯t have a heart condition like Fahmi. Without even looking at Darian, Fahira could sense the anger he directed towards her.


    Her body trembled even more as Darian stood up and approached her. ¡°Lift your face, Fahira!¡± Darianmanded in a low but assertive tone.


    Slowly, Fahira raised her head. Thump¡­ Their eyes met and they fell silent for a moment. Fahira¡¯s heart rebelled, wanting to burst out of her chest as Darian¡¯s body got closer. Darian¡¯s head leaned towards the left side of Fahira¡¯s face, and his warm breath swept over her, making her face even paler.


    ¡°Apany me tonight!¡± Darian whispered, blowing gently into Fahira¡¯s ear, sending shivers down her spine.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Sir, I can¡¯t, I¡¯m sorry!¡± Fahira pleaded with a hurt expression, and her eyes immediately welled up. Her self-esteem was shattered into pieces, and she doubted she could ever forgive herself after letting hope arise. She was not a promiscuous woman who sold her body to any man who could pay for it. Fahira was not that kind of woman. But what happened was not Darian¡¯s fault; it was her own conscious and non-forced decision to surrender herself.


    Darian was taken aback by Fahira¡¯s wounded gaze. However, with his arrogance, he reached for Fahira¡¯s waist and sniffed her intoxicating scent. ¡°I¡¯ll give you anything you want, but¡­ Satisfy me tonight!¡± Darian said softly while Fahira remained silent, gripping her agenda book tightly, summoning the courage to refuse.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I advise you to prepare for the 11 am meeting,¡± Fahira replied, stepping away from Darian¡¯s strong embrace.


    Fahira quickly left Darian¡¯s office, holding back her almost-falling tears. She walked swiftly to the bathroom, entered one of the stalls, and turned on the faucet. Her body slumped weakly onto the toilet seat as tears streamed down her face. She pressed her chest hard, trying to suppress the pain that seemed to pierce her heart. Soon, she heard footsteps on the floor outside the stall, prompting Fahira to stifle her sobs. She bit her pen to prevent her crying from being heard by the person outside.


    Momentster, Mira emerged from the adjacent bathroom stall. She stood in front of the mirror for quite some time, fixing her makeup and appearance.


    ¡°Is there anyone here? I keep hearing the faucet running, but I don¡¯t see anyone,¡± Mira murmured to herself as she approached Fahira¡¯s stall.


    ¡°Hello, is there someone in there?¡± Mira knocked on the stall, and Fahira soon opened the door.


    ¡°Oh my God, Fahira, you scared me!¡± Mira eximed, patting her chest while catching her breath. But Mira fell silent when she saw Fahira¡¯s reddened eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m okay,¡± Fahira said, walking past Mira before she could bombard her with questions she couldn¡¯t answer honestly.


    In his office, Darian stood still in the same ce as before. How could Fahira dare to reject someone like Darian Mahesa Putra? The CEO and the top person at Putra Corporation. Darian took a deep breath, trying to contain his almost exploding emotions. He couldn¡¯t let personal matters ruin his image by destroying his own office.


    ¡°Wait for my revenge, Fahira! I will make you kneel at my feet!¡± Darian muttered, full of vengeance.


    Fahira quickly returned to her desk, ignoring the probing gazes of her colleagues, Mira and David, directed at her. The room with five employees was always busy with their respective tasks. There was no usual office banter or camaraderie when Darian was in his office.


    Just as Fahira managed to calm her breath and emotions, the mother of the owner of Putra Corporation arrived with her two bodyguards. The woman looked elegant and graceful in a long ck dress with a gold-colored essory hugging her slim waist. Everything she wore looked perfect on her tall and sexy figure. Her beauty seemed to defy time, even though she was in her fifties. As a former international model, she always appeared stunning and fashionable. This time, her blonde hair cascaded beautifully with a glimmering brown hue, perfectlyplementing her beautiful brown eyes, which were the same as Darian¡¯s.


    All the employees immediately stood up, bowing in respect. ¡°Fahira, is Darian in his office?¡± she asked Fahira politely.


    ¡°Yes, Mrs. Yasmin, please go ahead!¡± Fahira replied politely, walking over to open the door wide for Yasmin, while the two bodyguards stood waiting outside Darian¡¯s office.


    After Yasmin entered, Fahira returned to her desk. Darian, who was sipping his coffee, almost choked when he saw his mother standing there with her arms folded in front of her chest, her gaze sharp. Darian knew his mother must be angry because he didn¡¯t fulfill her request to live with her.


    ¡°Hello, My Queen!¡± Darian greeted, immediately approaching and hugging Yasmin tightly after kissing the back of her hand. Yasmin returned the embrace, gently stroking Darian¡¯s back.


    ¡°Don¡¯t sweet-talk me, young man! Your charms won¡¯t change Mommy¡¯s decision!¡± Yasmin released their hug and looked sternly at Darian.


    ¡°Your mother is getting old, are you willing to stress her out every day by being alone? Mama wants to witness your wedding day. Mama wants to spend her old age with her grandchildren, please, my dear!¡± Yasmin pleaded, then cupped Darian¡¯s face in her hands. With a loving gaze, Darian held Yasmin¡¯s hands from his face and kissed the palms that used to caress him.


    ¡°Alright, whatever Mommy wishes, I agree, but¡­¡± Darian suspended his sentence, waiting for Yasmin¡¯s reaction.


    ¡°But what, Darian?¡± Yasmin asked irritably, releasing her hands from her son¡¯s face and shifting to sit on the sofa.


    ¡°Give me time until my birthday. If I haven¡¯t brought a fianc¨¦e for you by then, it¡¯s up to you, and I willply, Mama!¡± Darian insisted, causing Yasmin¡¯s eyes to well up with tears. Darian reached for Yasmin¡¯s fingers and kissed them. Yasmin meant everything to Darian. He would do anything to make his only surviving parent happy. Darian was willing to sacrifice his own happiness for Yasmin¡¯s smile.


    ¡°Alright, I agree, my dear!¡± Yasmin replied, hugging Darian who sat beside her.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, Mommy wants to ask you something important. How has Fahira been as your secretary?¡± Yasmin said after releasing their embrace, smiling at Darian.


    ¡°Fahira?¡± Darian murmured, surprised that his mother would ask about Fahira. Since Darian took over thepany, Yasmin focused on the fashion division, which had been her world since she was a teenager. Moreover, Yasmin often sent her personal assistant to represent her inpany meetings every month, except for board of directors meetings.


    ¡°You must treat her well, Darian. Mommy needs to ensure that Fahira is doing fine here, as per yourte father¡¯s final wish before the ne crash that took his life,¡± Yasmin exined, instantly causing Darian¡¯s body to freeze in ce.

 Fahira鈥檚 Secret

    Darian copsed onto the sofa, his hands syed on the sides of the couch, and he rested his head with his eyes closed. The curiosity about Fahira overwhelmed him even more after his mother, Yasmin, conveyed thete Rusdi¡¯s message. Yasmin had never met Fahira, but a week before Rusdi passed away, he had left a message that if apany employee named Fahira Ramadhani ever appeared, Yasmin and Darian must take good care of her. Rusdi never exined who Fahira was, but fate took him away before he could reveal anything. Now, what puzzled Darian was that Yasmin herself had no knowledge of Fahira and was clueless about the connection between Fahira and Rusdi.


    ¡°What¡¯s the connection between Fahira and Papa, Ma?¡± Darian asked with deep curiosity.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Darian, but your Papa once said that Fahira is the daughter of someone who greatly contributed to hispany.¡±


    The conversation with Yasmin earlier in the afternoon kept echoing in his mind, adding to his growing sense of guilt. If Fahira¡¯s parents were instrumental in his father¡¯spany, was it right for him to repay it with insults and wounds he inflicted on the girl? The image of Fahira looking at him with wounded eyes earlier that morning tore at his heart.


    With a heavy heart, Darian rose from the sofa and walked into his room. The illuminated city lights weed him, showcasing the grandeur of his silver-white themed room. The furniture and interior design exuded a masculine vibe, reflecting the personality of the room¡¯s owner. Sreek¡­ The curtains opened wide, revealing the glittering Jakarta cityscape with its bustling nightlife.


    Darian stood there, savoring his solitude. He had always been alone, and solitude had be his truepanion. His father¡¯s dictatorial attitude had made him an introverted person. From elementary school to high school, Darian followed the path set by his father. No skipping school, climbing fences, watching movies in the cinema, or experiencing the beautiful hues of teenage love. All those beautiful stories of adolescence were absent from Darian¡¯s life, as if they were never part of his memories. All he knew was studying, non-stop. And now, at nearly 29 years old, Darian had never experienced love, let alone dating. To him, Yasmin was his one true love.


    Darian was not born into a broken home. His needs were always met, both materially and emotionally, and his parents¡¯ rtionship was always harmonious. However, there was one gap in his heart that left him feeling empty and frozen. Darian had never had the chance to be his true self. He was merely a puppet created to advance Putra Corporation. Two years after taking over Rusdi¡¯s position, thepany had seen significant growth. With his high intellect and supportive personality, Darian always seeded in attracting foreign investors to invest in hispany.


    Suddenly, a single teardrop rolled down Darian¡¯s cheek. It soon turned into a torrent of tears. ¡°I¡¯m tired, Dad!¡± Darian muttered as he roughly wiped the tears away with the back of his hand.


    Darian fell to his knees on the floor, his head bowed and his hands hanging limply by his side. He was exhausted from always having to appear perfect in front of everyone. He was just a regr human who needed someone to confide in. But until this moment, he hadn¡¯t found a single person he trusted enough to share all the secrets of his life, including David. So far, David had only been his shield.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you, Darian? You have everything. Wealth, position, fame, but why does this pain feel so overwhelming?¡± Darian continued his monologue as he got up from his position. He undressedpletely and tossed his clothes in any direction before stepping into the bathtub and turning on the water. He let the water fill the tub, submerging himself along with his deepest emotions.


    ¡°Why again, Darian? I¡¯m tired of seeing your messed-up face every time youe here,¡± Erick, Darian¡¯s friend and owner of J-Rock Night Club, shouted over the booming music and colorful lights.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know! Why does my life feel so monotonous? I¡¯m bored, Rick!¡± Darian replied as he reached for the ss of drink that Erick had poured for him.


    ¡°Come on, Darian! You only live once, enjoy it to the fullest!¡± Erick responded, clinking sses with Darian and taking a sip together.


    Erick waved at a seductive woman who had been eyeing his friend, Darian, for a long time. Erick didn¡¯t believe the rumors about Darian¡¯s supposed sexual preferences. In fact, he had never seen Darian with any woman or man except for David. If Erick suspected that David was Darian¡¯s gay partner, that was impossible because he knew David was a yer and had been his loyal customer for a long time.


    The woman, Nagita, approached and sat next to Darian. As usual, Darian remained indifferent to any woman who tried to get close to him. Nagita refilled Darian¡¯s drink, smiling provocatively, while Erick chose to greet his other customers.


    Nagita dared to touch Darian¡¯s stubbled chin with her finger. Darian remained impassive, simply sipping his drink every time Nagita poured it into his ss.


    Darian only hoped to alleviate the heavy burden in his heart at that moment.


    As Darian¡¯s consciousness began to fade, he tried to get up and leave before the thing he always avoided happened. However, as he stood up, he stumbled into Nagita¡¯s embrace. This time, Darian was heavily drunk, and David was nowhere to be found. Nagita immediately called Erick to ask for Darian¡¯s apartment address. After obtaining the address, Nagita took Darian outside the club and put him in her car. Nagita smiled, caressing Darian¡¯s face with interest. She had long been eyeing the handsome young executive and didn¡¯t want to waste the opportunity that hade her way.


    ¡°Get out, you slut!¡± Darian snapped, pushing Nagita¡¯s hand away from his face, showing thest remnants of his consciousness.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Darian felt his stomach churning, and he quickly got out of the car. He vomited until he felt weak, leaning against the car. Nagita, who wanted to help him, received a rough treatment instead. She almost fell if someone hadn¡¯t supported her.


    ¡°Are you alright, miss?¡± The girl asked kindly, then released her hands from Nagita¡¯s shoulders.


    ¡°Fahira!¡± Darian whispered, trying to focus his blurry vision.


    Without much ado, Fahira helped Darian back into the car after exining her rtionship with him to Nagita. Once Nagita went back inside the club, Fahira approached Mang Damar, her regr Go-Jek driver. Fahira asked Mang Damar to deliver some food to Ariel¡¯s house first, then pick her up to go to Darian¡¯s apartment.


    ¡°Alright, Miss, please be careful driving!¡± Mang Damar said worriedly as he looked at Darian in the car. Of course, Mang Damar knew that Darian was Fahira¡¯s boss at the office. He immediately left after Fahira sent Darian¡¯s apartment address through Google Maps.


    In her luxurious sports car, Fahira slowly navigated the empty streets. asionally, she nced at Darian, who was mumbling incoherently beside her. Fahira took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. She was sure that something heavy was burdening Darian¡¯s mind to the point that he got drunk like this. Fahira knew that Darian was always apanied by David whenever he visited nightclubs. She was also aware that Darian never wanted to be with the hostesses at the clubs they went to. All this information was provided by David himself, who was Darian¡¯s personal assistant. David oftenined to Fahira about Darian¡¯s strange behavior and how he never wanted to be with women. In the two years she had been Darian¡¯s secretary, Fahira had never seen him go on a date with any woman except for herself.


    ¡°Fahira, why did you reject me? Didn¡¯t you enjoy that night too?¡± Darian rambled as he walked unsteadily with Fahira¡¯s help. Fahira didn¡¯t respond to Darian¡¯s rambling; she was overwhelmed trying to support hisrge body to prevent him from falling. Hesitantly and with a pounding heart, Fahira reached into Darian¡¯s pants pocket to find the apartment key card. Meanwhile, Darian began to kiss Fahira¡¯s neck while sniffing the vani scent that he imed not to like.


    ¡°I really like your body scent, Fahira!¡± Darian said, which made Fahira nce sharply at him, then she guided him into the apartment.


    ¡°It¡¯s best if you rest now, Mr. Darian.¡± Fahira helped Darian lie down on the bed and took off his shoes.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go now,¡± Fahira excused herself, pulling the nket up to Darian¡¯s chest. Suddenly, Fahira fell onto Darian¡¯s body as he tightly grabbed her hand.


    ¡°Forgive me, Fahira!¡± Darian murmured, holding her tightly. Fahira struggled, trying to release herself from Darian¡¯s grip, which was bing tighter.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to forgive, Mr. Darian!¡± Fahira replied softly, even though she knew that Darian was not conscious due to the influence of alcohol. Fahira knew Darian well; he would never apologize to anyone.


    Strangely, after Fahira said that, Darian¡¯s hands fell limp to his side. Soft snores could be heard escaping his lips. Fahira looked at Darian¡¯s peaceful face as he fell asleep. He looked very handsome when he was silent like this, without his usual t or cold expression.


    Fahira shook her head, trying to dispel the thoughts that admired the man who had taken her innocence.


    Outside Darian¡¯s apartment building, Mang Damar was waiting anxiously for Fahira. ¡°Let¡¯s go home, Miss, it¡¯ste!¡± Mang Damar said as he handed Fahira her helmet, which she immediately put on. Fahira gazed at Darian¡¯s apartment building for a moment, feeling conflicted, before Mang Damar¡¯s motorcycle carried her away into the distance.

 Regret of Darian

    ¡°This is what you asked forst night,¡± David said as he ced a brown envelope containing the requested documents on Darian¡¯s desk. Last night, before going to the J-Rock night club, Darian instructed David to gather all the information about Fahira.


    ¡°I apologize in advance, sir, but couldn¡¯t you just ess Fahira¡¯s identity through the employee data?¡± David continued, momentarily stopping Darian¡¯s hand as he was about to open the brown envelope, and looked at David sharply.


    ¡°It¡¯s better if you leave, I want to be alone,¡± Darian said irritably, waving his hand to dismiss David from his office.


    Realizing Darian¡¯s restlessness, David chose to leave, although curiosity now lingered in his mind. From the information he gatheredst night, David suspected there was a special rtionship between the boss and his secretary. However, on the other hand, David knew Fahira¡¯s nature. Besides being physically beautiful, she was also a very kind person. She never caused any trouble with anyone. As far as David could see, their rtionship was just normal, the usual rtionship between a boss and his employee.


    David returned to his cubicle and absentmindedly yed with theputer mouse. His focus was solely on Fahira, who appeared focused on her work at herputer. Her slender fingers danced nimbly on the keyboard. She was so engrossed that she didn¡¯t even notice David had been observing her. David was still contemting and connecting the recent changes in Darian¡¯s behavior. But as for Fahira? David shook his head, as her behavior remained the same as usual.


    Thud! A stray pen hit David right on his forehead as he continued to gaze at Fahira. ¡°Focus on your work, will you!¡± Ray teased, causing David to stand up, ready to retaliate.


    ¡°Watch out!¡± David grumbled, throwing the pen back at Ray, who managed to catch it.


    ¡°By the way, David, you¡¯ve been staring at Fahira all this time. Sure, she¡¯s beautiful, who wouldn¡¯t admit that Fahira is beautiful and smart!¡± Ray praised enthusiastically. David got up, about to give Ray a lesson, but a voice stopped him.


    ¡°Stop being noisy!¡± Mira scolded, feeling annoyed by her two colleagues¡¯ antics.


    ¡°Just let them be, Sis. Indulging them only dys our work!¡± Fahira said with a smile, ncing at everyone before returning to her work.


    In his office, Darian remained silent, holding a piece of paper that contained something that deeply affected him. The information about Fahira turned out to be beyond his expectations.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Fahira Ramadhani was the daughter of Pramudya Abdih and Fatimah Az-Zahra. Her father was a renowned judge in the city of Surabaya. Fahira and her entire family were dered dead in a single ident. With trembling hands, Darian looked at each photo of Fahira¡¯s family when they were still together, and then a news article about the car ident they were involved in. The car crashed into a highway barrier, fell into a ravine, and exploded.


    Darian rubbed his face roughly as all the facts about Fahira were revealed before his eyes. He took a pause to prepare himself for the truth that he would discover next.


    Between doubt and curiosity, Darian opened another file. His heart seemed to stop beating when he read the evidence of bank transactions from his personal ount to Fahira¡¯s personal ount. With narrowed eyes, Darian continued to read the evidence of Fahira transferring 110 million rupiahs to the Medica Center hospital two days after they spent the night together. Darian stopped for a moment to calm the turmoil in his heart. He reached for a ss of water and quickly drank it before continuing to read.


    ¡°Nazriel Ramadhan!¡± he murmured and read all the detailed information about Ariel.


    Darian¡¯s body suddenly felt weak as he read the doctor¡¯s diagnosis of Ariel¡¯s illness and the heart ation surgery he had undergone. Repeatedly, Darian took deep breaths to calm himself. He felt extremely guilty and remorseful towards Fahira. How could he have been happy that night while Fahira was going through a struggle for her younger brother¡¯s life? Ariel was the only family Fahira had left.


    For a long time, Darian remained still, his eyes closed, enjoying the warm embrace of the morning sun. But this time, it felt different. He was angry at himself. The ringing of the phone on his desk, which had been echoing in the room, failed to disturb the stillness of his heart. Shortly after, a knock on the door forced Darian to open his eyes. He knew who was standing behind the door ¨C the woman he had wronged.


    ¡°Come in!¡± Darian said without diverting his gaze from the beautiful morning view of Jakarta.


    ¡°I apologize, sir, Miss Alea wants to meet with you!¡± Fahira said, looking at the back of the chair where Darian remained seated.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to meet anyone, tell David to handle that woman!¡± Darian replied, and Fahira immediatelyplied. Fahira could sense a different atmosphere around her boss, probably the effect of the alcohol fromst night. From the information Fahira had heard from David, the effects of alcohol could significantly affect a person¡¯s physical and mental condition. So, she assumed that Darian might be feeling unwell.


    ¡°Alright, sir!¡± Fahira replied before leaving.


    Darian closed his eyes again. He didn¡¯t want to avoid Fahira, but he didn¡¯t think he could bear to look into her eyes, which always revealed vulnerability ¨C something he had only just realized today.


    Outside the room, Alea was angrily berating Fahira after she conveyed Darian¡¯s message to David. Alea was furious that Darian tly refused to meet her. She was about to force her way into Darian¡¯s office, but David stopped her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss, it¡¯s better if you leave before I have to be rude to you!¡± David said firmly.


    ¡°Beware, all of you! I¡¯ll report this to Aunt Yasmin and get you all fired!¡± Alea threatened, which made David take action. He immediately dragged Alea out before their big boss got disturbed, and of course, David would be the one to face Darian¡¯s wrath if that happened.


    ¡°Fahira, do you feel that the boss has been acting differentlytely?¡± Mira whispered, standing beside Fahira.


    ¡°Well, hasn¡¯t the boss always been moody?¡± Fahira replied casually before returning to her seat.


    ¡°True, but¡­¡± Mira continued, but her sentence was left hanging when she noticed David¡¯s gaze. As for Ray, he didn¡¯t care about the women¡¯s conversation. He picked up the phone on his desk and dialed the pantry extension.


    ¡°Three coffees and two iced teas, as usual!¡± Ray ordered to the office boy through the phone.


    ¡°Good job!¡± praised Mira, giving Ray a thumbs up.


    ¡°It¡¯s perfect! A weapon to keep the boss awake when his mood strikes!¡± David added, then returned to his seat.


    Shortly after, an office boy arrived with a tray carrying Ray¡¯s order. However, before David could take a sip of his steaming coffee, his phone rang, showing the boss¡¯s name on the screen. Annoyed, he ced the coffee back on the table and answered Darian¡¯s call.


    ¡°Shit!¡± David whispered softly, still audible to the others. ¡°Now you¡¯ll see! Prepare for Boss¡¯s gentle wrath!¡± Ray mocked with a suppressedughter, while Susi, Mira, and Fahira just shook their heads. Among the four colleagues sharing the same office space, Susi was the most indifferent and quiet. She was a reserved girl but agile and detail-oriented when it came to work.


    ¡°Pray for my safety, guys!¡± David said as he walked towards Darian¡¯s office, while the others responded by raising their clenched fists in support.


    With a creak, the door opened, and David entered cautiously. ¡°Can I help you, sir?¡± he said, looking at the back of Darian¡¯s chair. Darian remained still, his gaze lost in the distance, fixated on therge ss window before him.


    ¡°Why is there no information about Fahira¡¯s parents? I asked forplete information yesterday, didn¡¯t I?¡± Darian replied in a soft but emphatic tone.


    ¡°I apologize, sir, but I couldn¡¯t ess information about Fahira¡¯s parents. It seems like someone deliberately hid or erased that information. Besides, I don¡¯t have the authority to delve into the ident involving Fahira¡¯s family, as it would vite thew. Some cases cannot be made public, and only certain people have the authority to reopen them,¡± David exined, causing Darian to turn his oversized chair.


    ¡°You reopen that case without Fahira¡¯s knowledge. I want that case thoroughly investigated!¡± Darian ordered firmly, as he sensed something unusual from the information David had gathered.


    ¡°Forgive me for being intrusive, but is there something serious, sir?¡± David inquired, growing curious about Darian¡¯s motive to reopen the investigation into Fahira¡¯s family ident three years ago.


    ¡°My mom conveyed thest message from my dad before the ne crash took his life. He asked us to take good care of Fahira. I don¡¯t know the rtionship between my dad and Fahira¡¯s parents. So, I hope to unravel all these mysteries quickly, David,¡± Darian exined firmly.


    ¡°Alright, sir. I will carry out your orders, Mr. Darian. Excuse me,¡± said David, quickly leaving Darian¡¯s office.


    Casually, David walked past his colleagues¡¯ desks. However, he took a moment to nce at Fahira. Now he knew the reason behind Darian¡¯s change in behavior during the past week. Was that woman the cause of Darian¡¯s change?

 Cold Man

    After intentionally arrivingte, Darian wanted to be alone with Fahira. Somehow, he felt a strong urge to meet her privately.


    Fahira, still at her cubicle, appeared restless as her boss, Darian, had note out of his office, even though her colleagues had already left the office.


    ¡°Fahira, I¡¯m leaving now, okay?¡± Mira said, waving to Fahira as she left.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving too, Fahira. Take care on your way back; Darian will be out soon!¡± Susi added, tapping Fahira¡¯s shoulder, which she responded with a smile.


    It wasn¡¯t the first time Fahira left the officete with Darian, but this time, it felt different. Especially after that night when Darian had been aggressive towards her. Fahira feared he might force her to serve him again, but she had decided that she wouldn¡¯t do it anymore, even if it meant risking her sessful career. She would try to find another job, as long as it was hl (permissible).


    Fahira typed a series of messages and sent them to Ariel¡¯s WhatsApp number, letting him know she would be homete. Fahira didn¡¯t want Ariel to worry about her beingte; she didn¡¯t even know when Darian would leave his office.


    Since morning, Darian had been in his office, and even during lunch, Fahira had ordered food from his favorite restaurant as per his request.


    At 4:30 pm, Fahira decided to knock on Darian¡¯s door to ask for permission to leave early. However, just as she was about to reach for the doorknob, the door suddenly opened, and Darian stood there with an expressionless face. Fahira felt nervous and quickly stepped aside, making way for Darian.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home!¡± Darian said as he passed Fahira without any furtherment.


    Confused, Fahira followed Darian¡¯s long strides hurriedly until they reached the front of the elevator. However, as Fahira was about to enter the regr employees¡¯ lift, Darian pulled her back, leading her into the executives¡¯ special elevator. ¡°Juste with me!¡± Darian said, leaving Fahira puzzled. Nevertheless, Fahira didn¡¯t refuse, as she felt scared to be alone in the elevator.


    Inside the lift, they stood side by side in silence. Fahira chose to keep her head down, while Darian stared straight ahead at the elevator doors. The corners of Darian¡¯s lips twitched, trying to suppress a smile as he enjoyed Fahira¡¯s nervousness through the lift¡¯s reflection. Fahira, on the other hand, was desperately trying to calm her racing heart. The masculine scent of Darian filling the confined space added to her unease.


    Slowly, Fahira gathered the courage to lift her gaze as the elevator neared the ground floor. Suddenly, Fahira was taken aback when she saw Darian¡¯s gentle eyes looking at her through the elevator¡¯s reflection-the same gaze she had seen that night they spent together. Fahira quickly averted her gaze just as the elevator doors opened.


    The security on duty immediately lowered his head in respect, opening the ss door that blocked Darian¡¯s path. Darian simply responded with a nod, without any words or smiles. As usual, he was stoic. Darian¡¯s smile was not only rare; it was something wonderful because it was a rarity, only reserved for those he chose.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, Pak Teguh, we¡¯re leaving,¡± Fahira greeted politely, walking behind Darian. A man named Pak Teguh responded with equal courtesy.


    ¡°Take care on your way back, Miss Fahira. Mang Damar has been waiting for you for quite some time,¡± Pak Teguh added, which Darian could still hear.


    ¡°Yes, Pak. Thank you!¡± Fahira replied and then walked towards the exit, while Darian remained silent in his parked car at the lobby. He started the car and drove ahead of Fahira, heading towards the only Gojek driver waiting there.


    Darian rolled down his car window halfway and chatted briefly with the Gojek driver. Fahira, seeing Mang Damar leaving, immediately ran after him, calling out to him. She was taken aback, breathing heavily, as she held her knees. Her feet were sore from running with 7 cm high heels.


    ¡°Let me take you home!¡± Darian offered, suddenly standing in front of her.


    ¡°Oh, what bad luck! Going home with Optimus Prime,¡± Fahira muttered to herself while looking at the shiny ck shoes in front of her.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Fahira stood up straight.


    ¡°Quickly, get in my car. It¡¯s an order!¡± Darian interrupted to prevent Fahira from making any excuses.


    Fahira nodded obediently and followed Darian into his luxurious car. She chose to look outside the window, enjoying the fading sunset obscured by dark shadows, while Darian focused on the busy streets ahead.


    ¡°Wait, where are we going? We should head home,¡± Fahira pointed east in panic as Darian turned his car in the opposite direction.


    ¡°I¡¯m hungry. Let¡¯s find some food first,¡± Darian replied nonchntly. However, inside, he was gleeful to see Fahira¡¯s surprised expression.


    ¡°But, Sir!¡± Fahira tried to refuse Darian¡¯s invitation to have a meal together.


    ¡°Come on, we¡¯ve arrived!¡± Darian said as he turned off the engine.


    Fahira resignedly followed Darian¡¯s steps into a luxurious Steak & Seafood Restaurant located in Thamrin, Central Jakarta. It was an expensive restaurant with exorbitant prices; the cheapest meal there cost 200 thousand rupiahs. It was Darian¡¯s favorite restaurant when meeting with clients.


    ¡°What would you like to eat? You choose, and as usual, I¡¯ll have the same,¡± Darian offered, handing Fahira the menu. With hesitation, Fahira epted the menu and tried to choose the same meal Darian usually ordered. However, she was silent for quite some time, going through the list of food prices in the restaurant. She was unsure which expensive dish to pick, as she felt 200 thousand rupiahs could be better spent on saving.


    ¡°Let me handle it,¡± Darian requested, taking the menu from Fahira¡¯s hand.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have three portions of tenderloin steak, two cranberry juices, and one club soda. Also, one portion of steak and a cranberry juice for takeout,¡± Darian instructed the female waitress in the blue uniform, who swiftly jotted down his order.


    ¡°Very well, Sir. Please wait a moment,¡± the waitress replied politely and left.


    ¡°Why is this person being so nice to me? It¡¯s not like him at all. Or maybe¡­¡± Fahira shook her head, remembering Darian¡¯s invitation yesterday to serve him again. However, suddenly, a faint smile formed on her lips as she recalled her younger sister¡¯s favorite movie, Transformers.


    More precisely, the man in front of her looked exactly like the character Optimus Prime; rigid, determined, expressionless, and, of course, without a smile. Fahira had seen Darian smile only a few times during her two years of being his secretary, and that was usually when he was with clients or his mother, Yasmin. Every time Darian smiled, his attractiveness multiplied several times. ording to Mira, ¡°Mr. Darian is exceptionally handsome.¡± Susi had a different opinion. The quiet girl could be quite blunt when talking about their boss. ¡°Mr. Darian is like the sun, dazzling, guys.¡±


    Ahem¡­ Darian¡¯s cough brought Fahira back to reality. She was startled, realizing she had been paying so much attention to the man in front of her. Blushing, she lowered her head to hide her embarrassment.


    ¡°Why do you always like to lower your face?¡± Darian said coldly, causing Fahira to lift her head again. Their eyes met. Fahira¡¯s heart fluttered as she received Darian¡¯s gentle gaze. Slowly, she returned the gaze, her hands intertwining under the table. Since their first meeting, she had acknowledged Darian¡¯s handsome and charismatic appearance, but seeing his gentle gaze now made her heart melt.


    ¡°Excuse me, Sir. I want to go home,¡± Fahira requested without breaking their eye contact.


    ¡°Of course, after we eat!¡± Darian replied shortly.


    Without any further conversation, they began eating. Only the clinking of forks and knives asionally colliding, creating a melodic symphony. Darian observed Fahira chewing her food without enthusiasm. Annoyed, he handed his te to Fahira, which contained steak cut into small pieces.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    ¡°Eat more, so your body won¡¯t be so skinny,¡± Darian said, instantly stopping Fahira from chewing the steak in her mouth, causing her to give him a sharp look.


    Of course, Fahira didn¡¯t like being told that her body was skinny by the stern man in front of her. In her opinion, her body was already in line with the ideal female standard; Mira and Susi often praised her body goal. Fahira didn¡¯t dress in a provocative manner like most employees and secretaries, but the term ¡°skinny¡± was truly hurtful.


    ¡°Have your meal or do you want to go to my apartment instead?¡± Darian casually offered, causing Fahira to choke.


    ¡°Easy, Fahira!¡± Darian handed his ss of cranberry juice to her, which she quickly epted and gulped down.


    ¡°What do you mean, Sir?¡± Fahira asked with a frown, looking at Darian with question marks in her eyes. Darian smiled while shrugging nonchntly.


    ¡°Come on, Fahira, I¡¯m just kidding! Or do you actually want that?¡± Darian teased, enjoying Fahira¡¯s irritated expression, which he found adorable.


    ¡°I¡¯d rather go home alone. Thank you for the treat, Mr. Darian!¡± Fahira said, annoyed, then stood up from her seat and grabbed her bag.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to owe anyone any favors, because you already helped me with that womanst night. If it weren¡¯t for you, I might have ended up in bed with her, and I didn¡¯t like that!¡± Darian exined, causing Fahira to turn around and look at him in surprise at his upfront statement.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that your pleasure, Mr. Darian?¡± Fahira replied sarcastically. Darian¡¯s demeanor turned cold, his jaw tensed from Fahira¡¯s mocking words. He realized that everyone would probably think the same way she did. A man who couldn¡¯t stay away from lust, even though in reality, Darian had only done it once, and that was with the woman in front of him.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know me well, Fahira!¡± Darian said coldly. Fahira was taken aback, looking at the wounded expression in his brown eyes.


    During the journey, neither of them initiated a conversation. They were preupied with their own thoughts. Darian with his wounded ego, and Fahira confused by Darian¡¯s peculiar behavior towards her. Fahira wasn¡¯t sure if Darian just wanted to express his gratitude, as he did earlier. The Darian she knew was not someone who easily said thank you or sorry to just anyone, especially to her, a regr secretary.

 Darian vs Gavin

    Upon arriving in front of the Rusun Mawar building, Fahira quickly got out of Darian¡¯s car after thanking him. Fahira let out a heavy sigh as the man in front of her remained unmoved, not bothering to respond to her gratitude. Just as Fahira was about to bow out of respect, Darian¡¯s car slowly drove away. Her smile disappeared instantly as she muttered, ¡°Optimus Prime, lucky he¡¯s handsome!¡±


    Fahira hurriedly climbed the stairs to her second-floor apartment. She wanted to catch the remaining time for Maghrib prayer. Of course, Fahira felt ufortable to ask Darian to stop at the mosque for prayer, especially since she had never seen Darian perform prayers, even though she knew he was a Muslim.


    Fahira was surprised when she went to put her shoes on the shoe rack at her terrace. A pair of white sneakers was neatly lined up there. She was sure they belonged to Ariel, who else would be with Ariel besides her friend Ariel herself. Fahira opened the door and greeted Ariel.


    ¡°Ariel, I¡¯m home,¡± Fahira greeted loudly, not knowing who was with her sister.


    ¡°Just a moment, Fahira, I haven¡¯t performed Maghrib prayer yet,¡± Ariel replied, and Fahira quickly went into her room after cing the food Darian had brought on the living room table without looking at who was with Ariel.


    Fahira came out of her room after praying and taking a shower. She was wearing a teddy bear-patterned dress with wet hair hanging loosely. She approached Ariel, who seemed serious, ying yStation with a friend.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Ariel, let¡¯s pause the game for a while. I brought food earlier. Let¡¯s eat before it gets cold!¡± Fahira said as she sat on the sofa.


    Thud. Fahira froze when the man next to Ariel turned to look at her. A fair-skinned man with wavy hair smiled gently at her. His doctor¡¯s white coat, which he usually wore, was not there. He was only wearing ck jeans paired with a contrasting blue t-shirt against his fair skin.


    ¡°Hi, just got home from work?¡± He greeted with a friendly smile, still holding the yStation controller. He ced the controller down and adjusted his sses restingfortably on his straight nose with his finger.


    ¡°Dr. Gavin? What are you doing here?¡± Fahira asked, still surprised and confused.


    ¡°Just wanted to check on Ariel¡¯s condition. He seems fine. I should be leaving now,¡± Gavin said politely as he stood up, but Fahira was still in shock.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Doctor. I¡¯m sorry my house is small and cramped. Let¡¯s talk in the living room!¡± Fahira continued, standing up and adjusting her long hair to look presentable.


    Fahira led Gavin to the living room. The atmosphere suddenly became awkward. However, Gavin tried to start a conversation. ¡°You workte, aren¡¯t you supposed to go home around 3?¡±


    ¡°I had to work overtime, Doctor. At the beginning of the month, there¡¯s always a lot of work that needs to be done as quickly as possible,¡± Fahira replied, preparing to make coffee for Gavin.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Gavin asked, causing Fahira to look at him.


    ¡°To make coffee for Dr. Gavin!¡± Fahira replied with a shy smile.


    ¡°No need, I already had coffee at the hospital. Just stay here with me!¡± Gavin said, surprising Fahira.


    Fahira sat back down with a stiff smile. Honestly, this was the first time Fahira had a male guest at her house. So far, only specific people, such as neighbors, Ariel, and Helen, had visited her home. And tonight, suddenly a young, handsome, and kind doctor was sitting in her living room, looking at her gently.


    ¡°Fahira, if we¡¯re outside the hospital, just call me Gavin.¡±


    ¡°Okay, um, Gavin!¡± Fahira replied, still looking awkward and stiff.


    ¡°Rx, Fahira. Why are you suddenly so quiet?¡± Gavin teased, amused by Fahira¡¯s awkwardness. He knew that she was usually active and would ask anything rted to her sister¡¯s health whenever she brought her to the hospital. From the way Fahira spoke, Gavin was sure she was an intelligent person.


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s okay. You cane here anytime you want,¡± Fahira replied, trying to swallow her saliva that suddenly felt stuck in her throat.


    ¡°Alright, I should go now, and you should rest and take care of your health!¡± Gavin said as he stood up from his seat.


    ¡°Yes, thank you, Gavin!¡± Fahira replied, speechless. It was the first time she felt noticed by a man who had managed to stir her heart.


    Fahira escorted Gavin to the terrace of her house. She stared at Gavin¡¯s broad shoulders until they disappeared behind the stairs. She couldn¡¯t believe that the handsome doctor had visited her house. She was still in a daze when a voice interrupted her thoughts. ¡°Aww, someone¡¯s being pursued by a handsome doctor!¡±


    ¡°You, go inside!¡± Fahira snapped, pushing Ariel inside before closing and locking the door.


    ***


    As usual, Fahira woke up at three in the morning to perform the night prayer and continued reading the Quran until the morning prayer. Fahira was aware that her sins might not be forgiven, but at least when she prostrated, a sense of peace filled her heart, as if God was embracing her affectionately.


    As on this night, she prayed a long prayer for herte parents, hoping that she, a weak servant, would still be worthy of meeting them one day. Fahira was grateful beyond measure because until this moment, she was still showered with God¡¯s blessings. Trials and tests that came her way were merely bridges for her to draw closer to Him. Fahira was sure that God loved her very much. These trials and tests were proof of God¡¯s love for His chosen servant. Everything would be beautiful in its time, and Fahira believed that happiness awaited her someday.


    After supplicating, Fahira tidied up her prayer mat and went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast for Ariel and herself. Usually, Fahira wouldn¡¯t allow Ariel to leave for school before finishing her breakfast. Although Ariel wasn¡¯t going to school today due to the recovery period after surgery, Fahira still prepared meals for breakfast and lunch. She didn¡¯t want Ariel to eat out frequently or buy unhealthy food outside, which could be harmful to her heart health.


    At 6:15, Fahira was ready to leave for work. ¡°Dear, take care at home, don¡¯t forget to eat, take your medicine, and rest. I¡¯m leaving for work now,¡± Fahira said as she prepared the things she needed to bring to work.


    ¡°Okay, Fahira, sweetheart. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m feeling better now. You don¡¯t need to worry. Oh, why don¡¯t you ride the motorcycle instead? I¡¯m not going to school!¡± Ariel replied, rxing on the living room sofa, ying with her phone.


    ¡°I have Mang Damar with me, dear. Besides, I don¡¯t feel like riding the motorcycle myself, it¡¯s too bothersome, especially when it gets stuck in traffic!¡± Fahira replied, approaching Ariel. She kissed Ariel¡¯s forehead affectionately, and Ariel held Fahira¡¯s hand and kissed the back of it.


    ¡°Take care, Fahira!¡±


    ¡°Okay. You take care at home too!¡±


    ¡°I will.¡±


    Upon arriving in front of the Rusun Mawar building, Fahira approached Mang Damar, who was ready with his motorcycle and his signature green jacket. However, suddenly a handsome bespectacled man approached them. Fahira could only gape in surprise as the man arrived again. Gavin intentionally picked up Fahira to go to work together. Aside from being on the same route to the hospital where he worked, Gavin genuinely wanted to get to know Fahira better.


    ¡°Doctor, you don¡¯t have to bother like this!¡± Fahira said, feeling shy as they were already in the car. The white Fortuner car glided on the road at a moderate speed.


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel bothered at all. In fact, I¡¯m happy to meet you again,¡± Gavin said, smiling at Fahira with a fleeting nce.


    ¡°Call me Gavin, Fahira!¡± Gavin insisted again.


    Fahira smiled at Gavin while scratching her non-itchy back of the head. ¡°What dream did I havest night? I woke up to such a beautiful sight this morning,¡± her heart echoed as her heartbeat started to be irregr.


    Unconsciously, light banter began breaking the silence between them. Being both friendly and sociable, Fahira and Gavin quickly engaged in a long conversation. Time flew by, and before they knew it, Gavin¡¯s car entered the parking lot of the Putra Corporation building. Just as Fahira stepped out of Gavin¡¯s car, Darian¡¯s car stopped right in front of the lobby. Darian¡¯s heart instantly boiled; the heat spread from his head to his feet as he saw Fahira smiling and waving at the man inside the car.


    ¡°We¡¯ve arrived, sir!¡± David¡¯s voice suddenly startled Darian, who was still motionless.


    Darian let out a long sigh and stepped out of the car. As usual, he passed by the employees without bothering to respond to their greetings, including Fahira¡¯s. ¡°Optimus Prime is so unpredictable. Yesterday he suddenly acted nicely, and now his dark mode is back,¡± Fahirained in her heart as she walked towards themon elevator with Helen, whom she happened to meet.


    A smile appeared on Fahira¡¯s beautiful face as she remembered Gavin¡¯s sweet gesture towards her. However, the smile quickly disappeared when a man in a ck suit stood in front of her. ¡°Come to my office now!¡± Darian ordered and walked away, entering his office.

 Jealous

    ¡°Why is the boss like a hungry tiger so early in the morning?¡± Mira whispered next to Fahira.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, Mira. I just got here!¡± Fahira replied irritably as she ced her bag on the table.


    ¡°That person is weird! Hurry up and get in before the handsome boss gets angry!¡± Mira continued and then returned to her cubicle.


    After taking off her zer and draping it over the back of the chair, Fahira entered Darian¡¯s room carrying her agenda book. It took 3 knocks on the door before a response was heard from inside. Fahira cautiously opened the door, entering a room that felt freezing, like being in the North Pole, and of course, there he was, the pr bear, standing in front of the giant mirror.


    ¡°Excuse me, is there anything I can help you with, Mr. Darian?¡± Fahira asked cautiously. She didn¡¯t want to spoil his happy mood, but seeing Darian¡¯s silence made her doubt if his good mood wouldst long, considering that just seeing his back already made Fahira¡¯s mood plummet to the deepest abyss.


    Darian turned around with his left hand sunk into his pants pocket. He walked towards Fahira with his usual intimidating stare. Though Fahira was already immune to Darian¡¯s terrifying gaze, this time it was different. Fahira didn¡¯t feel like she had done anything wrong.


    ¡°Who was the man that came with you earlier?¡± Darian asked coldly, causing Fahira¡¯s mouth to open wide with raised eyebrows.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry, sir?¡± Fahira was taken aback and stammered in her response. Since when did her boss involve himself in his employee¡¯s personal matters?


    Fahira became even more confused as Darian¡¯s sharp gaze started to soften. His pair of brown irises now radiated a gentle look that Fahira couldn¡¯t interpret. Fahira was stunned when their eyes met. Her heart raced, and an inner rm reminded her to snap out of it. She almost got lost and dragged into the brown depths of his eyes.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like you being close to strange men!¡± Darian replied as he moved closer to Fahira.


    ¡°He¡¯s not a stranger, sir. He¡¯s my friend!¡± Fahira replied, taking a step back to create some distance between them.


    ¡°Starting today, you¡¯llmute to and from work with me!¡±


    ¡°But, sir¡­¡± Fahira protested as she wasn¡¯t pleased with Darian interfering in her personal matters.


    Suddenly, Fahira¡¯s body felt warmth. She was engulfed in Darian¡¯s tight embrace. Fahira fell silent, almost frozen in ce. She closed her eyes as a masculine aroma filled her senses, taking her to a subconscious state.


    Their heartbeats seemed to synchronize, both getting lost in the moment, until a knock on the door brought them back to reality. Fahira quickly untangled herself from Darian¡¯s embrace, but he held onto her tightly. ¡°Only I, as a man, have the right to possess you, Fahira,¡± Darian whispered as he kissed the top of her head before releasing her from his grip.


    ¡°Come in!¡± Darian said loudly to someone behind the door.


    David entered with an unreadable expression, puzzled by the contrasting sight of Darian¡¯s cheerful face and Fahira¡¯s blushing face.


    ¡°Excuse me,¡± Fahira said with her head lowered, then quickly left the room.


    At her desk, Fahira remained silent for quite some time, holding her pounding chest. She swore she would have had a heart attack if David hadn¡¯t knocked on the door earlier. She took a piece of paper and fanned her face, which still felt hot. The wooden partition that only half-covered their desks allowed her to see her co-workers clearly. Mira and Susi looked at Fahira curiously, scratching their heads even though they weren¡¯t itchy, exchanging nces, then turning their attention to the clearly functioning AC. Imagine, with two air conditioners of 2 horsepower each, in a room upied by only 5 employees, it was undoubtedly chilly in a hot city like Jakarta.


    ¡°Ahem¡­ Fahira!¡± Mira whispered. Fahira turned, realizing that her two colleagues were staring at her with curiosity. Fahira forced a stiff smile and stopped fanning her face.


    ¡°What happened to your boss? Are you okay?¡± Mira asked, apanied by Susi¡¯s serious expression, both eagerly waiting for Fahira¡¯s answer.


    ¡°What if they knew the boss hugged me?¡± Fahira mumbled to herself. She was unsure how to answer Mira and Susi¡¯s inquisitive questions.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, you guys. Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s just about Miss Alea,¡± Fahira lied because she had to. Fahira could never reveal her secret with Darian. It would be a disgrace that would haunt her future.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Mira and Susi responded simultaneously, seeming disinterested as they turned back to theirputers.


    Not long after, David left Darian¡¯s room without greeting anyone. He was preupied with his thoughts, trying to make sense of Darian¡¯s strange behavior. ¡°Could it be that Darian is in love with Fahira? It seems impossible for a simple girl like Fahira to be willing to have a rtionship with her boss. Fahira is not the type to chase after material things.¡± David tried to synchronize his logic and feelings.


    David shook his head, trying to dispel his negative thoughts about Fahira. Once he arrived at the parking area, he immediately got into his boss¡¯s car. He needed to meet Delon, the secret agent he had worked with in many cases. It turned out Delon was in Jakarta. Until now, the secret agent had never stayed in one ce. He only stayed temporarily to carry out a mission and then moved to another location for the next mission.


    The car driven by David quickly headed to where Delon was waiting for him. It only took 15 minutes for the two military-educated friends to meet. They hugged each other andughed to express their relief before discussing the purpose of their meeting. Finally, David exined his intention to investigate the ident that happened to Fahira¡¯s family three years ago.


    ¡°Coincidentally, I just finished a task in Yogyakarta. Now it¡¯s just the clean-up phase,¡± Delon exined as he lit a cigarette.


    ¡°Good,¡± David replied shortly. He noticed that his friend looked different now. Delon appeared younger than him, and even the tattoos on his body had increased since theyst met.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡± Delon asked, raising an eyebrow as he exhaled the cigarette smoke he had inhaled.


    ¡°You just look younger!¡± David chuckled.


    ¡°Two years of hanging out with college students will do that. Hahaha¡­ Besides, there¡¯s no girl waiting for me to propose now,¡± Delon exined with augh.


    Hahaha, David¡¯sughter was as loud as Delon¡¯s. For him, it was amusing to hear his friend talk about proposing to a girl. Even at his mature age, David had never considered getting into a serious rtionship with a woman, let alone marriage.


    ¡°So, I¡¯ll finish this investigation as soon as possible!¡± Delon continued nonchntly, teasing David with hisughter.


    ¡°It¡¯s better if tonight we have some fun as usual!¡± David suggested, and Delon readily agreed.


    David handed over copies of the documents he had submitted to Darian. It contained theplete identity and family photos of Fahira, along with all the information he had gathered.


    ***This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Fahira tidied up her desk before leaving, just like her other colleagues. Today, Fahira was going home on time, with no additional work or overtime. She was about to leave the room with Mira and Susi, but a baritone voice interrupted their steps. Simultaneously, they turned to the source of the voice and saluted.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you this morning to go home with me?¡± Darian said without beating around the bush, ignoring the surprised expressions of the two employees next to Fahira.


    Mira, who quickly realized the situation, nudged Susi¡¯s arm and excused themselves. ¡°We better leave now!¡± she said, hurrying out of the room, leaving Fahira and Darian alone. Fahira red at Darian, which only made him smile thinly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Darian took Fahira¡¯s hand and led her out, heading to the special elevator forpany executives. The other employees who saw them chose to ignore the situation and leave before they could be affected.


    ¡°Let me go, sir! I can go home by myself!¡± Fahira retorted sarcastically, brushing Darian¡¯s hand off her arm. She was puzzled by Darian¡¯s unpredictable behavior. He was friendly yesterday evening, moody at night, and even worse this morning. The gentle treatment from Darian now only confused Fahira more about his personality, almost making her emotionally affected.


    ¡°Either youe with me, or I¡¯ll carry you!¡± Darian threatened, making Fahira gulp audibly. Like a buffalo with a ring through its nose, Fahira had no choice but to ept Darian¡¯s unreasonable behavior.


    Inside the elevator, Darian stood facing Fahira, hands buried in his pants pocket, leaning against the elevator wall. He thoroughly enjoyed seeing Fahira¡¯s annoyed and uneasy expression, finding it amusing, while Fahira chose to look down and y with her phone.


    An unexpected situation unfolded in front of thepany¡¯s lobby. Not far from them, Gavin was standing next to his car, waiting for Fahira. Gavin walked towards Darian and Fahira. The three of them attracted the attention of the employees leaving the office. David, who had just stopped his boss¡¯s car right in front of the lobby, quickly stepped out of the vehicle.


    ¡°Dr. Gavin!¡± Fahira muttered, instantly making Darian¡¯s heart boil. He truly disliked the way Gavin looked at Fahira.


    Gavin smiled at Fahira and then greeted Darian, extending his hand. ¡°How are you, Mr. Darian? It¡¯s been a while since west met!¡± Gavin greeted warmly.


    ¡°Fine. What do you want here?¡± Darian replied coldly while epting Gavin¡¯s handshake.


    ¡°I want to pick up Fahira, as my responsibility since I dropped her off earlier,¡± Gavin exined with his friendly smile.


    ¡°Fahira is going home with me!¡± Darian retorted, not wanting to lose.


    ¡°Mr. Darian and Dr. Gavin know each other?¡± Fahira interrupted, feeling curious.


    ¡°Darian is my cousin,¡± Gavin answered, still wearing his poker face and maintaining his cold demeanor.


    The female employees stopped in their tracks, not wanting to miss the chance to see the two handsome men before them. Sensing the atmosphere bing ufortable, Fahira signaled David for help. However, David only shook his head slightly, as he knew well the rtionship between the two men currently facing each other.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯d rather go home by myself,¡± Fahira said and quickly left because choosing either of them would lead to trouble.


    Fahira walked quickly, ignoring Gavin¡¯s calls. ¡°Alhamdulih,¡± Fahira murmured when she saw a taxi and waved her hand. She immediately got into the taxi without intending to look back even for a moment.

 Darian Favorite Aroma

    ¡°Damn! What kind of dream did I havest night to end up in a situation like this? And Darian¡¯s face was so scary when he looked at Dr. Gavin earlier!¡± Fahira muttered to herself, recalling the recent events.


    ¡°Proud, huh? Fahira¡¯s being fought over by two handsome guys!¡± another part of her mind chimed in.


    ¡°Nonsense! Fahira is in big trouble. What if that Mean Boss fires her? She¡¯ll be unemployed!¡± another side of her mind joined the internal debate.


    ¡°Darian is handsome, wealthy, and a CEO, while Dr. Gavin is handsome, seemingly wealthy, a charming and kind doctor, something Darian doesn¡¯t have!¡± her inner self insisted.


    ¡°Stop!¡± Fahira said, interrupting the inner debate and smacking her own cheek to snap out of it.


    ¡°Miss, are you okay?¡± the taxi driver asked, who had been observing Fahira from the rearview mirror. Fahira had been shaking her head and smacking her cheek repeatedly.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s okay, Sir. Rusun Mawar, please!¡± Fahira replied spontaneously, trying to hide her embarrassment.


    ¡°Alright, Miss!¡± the taxi driver chuckled, understanding the internal struggle his passenger was going through. He had already asked for her destination when she first got in the taxi.


    ¡°By the way, it looks like you were having an argument with your boyfriend, huh? Don¡¯t worry too much, Miss. If he really loves you, he¡¯ll look for youter!¡± the taxi driver continued, being a bit intrusive.


    Fahira was taken aback. It seemed like today was a day of revtions. She had already been stressed by her boss¡¯s unpredictable behavior, followed by Dr. Ariel, the heart specialist, suddenly showing up at her home and office. Now, she was stuck in a taxi with a nosy and presumptuous driver.


    Fahira felt like everything was falling apart. The road was congested, and the taxi was stuck in a long traffic jam. The unsolicited advice from the driver only made her mood worse.


    When Fahira finally arrived home, she quickly freshened up, performed her afternoon prayer, and prepared dinner for herself and Ariel. She intentionally turned off her phone to avoid any unwanted interruptions. While in the taxi, her phone had been continuously ringing. Without even checking the caller ID, she turned off the phonepletely.


    ¡°Mbak Fahira, Dr. Gavin called to apologize for going to your office without permission,¡± Ariel exined as he helped Fahira with the cooking.


    Fahira felt a pang of jealousy. The thing she had been trying to push out of her mind was now brought back by Ariel. Ignoring Ariel¡¯s words, Fahira continued with her cooking. For dinner, she prepared a simple dish that always reminded her of her parents ¨C Javanese cuisine, with fried tempeh and catfish, served with fresh vegetables.


    As Fahira fried the catfish, Ariel prepared the terasi chili sauce.


    ¡°Dr. Gavin seems to have a crush on you,¡± Ariel said again. ¡°He¡¯s handsome, kind, and charming, like an actor. What¡¯s his name? Yes, Nadine Candradrawinata¡¯s husband, that guy!¡±


    ¡°Dimas Anggara!¡± Fahira replied shortly, cing the dishes on the table.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Mbak Fahira! You should just date Dr. Gavin,¡± Ariel urged, further annoying Fahira.


    ¡°Enough, Ariel. Let¡¯s just eat; I¡¯m hungry!¡± Fahira cut him off while serving rice onto her te.


    Ignoring Ariel¡¯s inquisitive gaze, Fahira enjoyed her meal until nothing was left. For now, she didn¡¯t want to think about anything else except Ariel¡¯s recovery and her job. She didn¡¯t want to fall in love because she knew she would be disappointed. No man would ept a woman like her, she thought. She wasn¡¯t ready to face the possibility of her future partner questioning her purity. Fahira preferred to remain single, just as she had been doing.


    Fahira was determined to avoid both Darian and Gavin before it was toote. She didn¡¯t want to create any problems between the two cousins. Fahira wasn¡¯t too confident that she was the center of their attention, but she knew the way they looked at her. She wanted to protect her heart from falling in love, be it Darian¡¯s cold attitude, which almost drowned her, or Gavin¡¯s sweet and gentle nature, which alwaysforted her.


    Feeling restless, Fahira finally reached for her phone on the nightstand and turned it on. She worried that there might be important messages waiting for her to respond to. As soon as the inte connection was established, her phone was flooded with missed calls and messages ¨C 100 messages from 12 different chats and 32 missed calls.


    She stared at her phone screen for a while, torn between opening the messages or ignoring them altogether. Fahira sighed deeply as she saw that all the missed calls were from Gavin. Not a single call from Darian. ¡°Optimus Prime, typical,¡± she murmured, unconsciously changing Darian¡¯s contact name from ¡°Mean Boss¡± to ¡°Optimus Prime.¡±


    With a smile, Fahira opened Darian¡¯s WhatsApp profile picture, which only showed a stern back dressed in a ck suit. A simple ck and white picture with a ssic vibe. Darian never posted WhatsApp stories about his daily activities, only absurd pictures that probably represented his feelings.


    ¡°Good night,¡± Fahira whispered, putting her phone back on the nightstand. She curled up in her nket, preparing herself for the mysteries of the next day. Fahira was certain that everything would be different, and it wouldn¡¯t be okay.


    ***


    The next morning, Fahira left for work with Mang Damar, her regr ride-hailing driver. Earlier in the morning, she replied to Gavin¡¯s message, apologizing for yesterday¡¯s incident and asking him not toe to her office again.


    As Fahira entered thepany building, she received strange looks from everyone, especially from her female coworkers. She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, trying to calm the turmoil in her chest. Fahira had to be prepared for whatever would happen today.


    She smiled warmly at all the employees as usual, waiting for the elevator doors to open, which seemed to take forever. She wanted to get to her desk as soon as possible and immerse herself in her work ¨C that was the only remedy for all the problems that had just started. If she had a choice, she would have disappeared right then because she couldn¡¯t bear everyone¡¯s curious stares.


    Eventually, Fahira reluctantly chose to use the emergency stairs. ¡°It¡¯s good for exercise,¡± she grumbled as she climbed the stairs to the second floor. She stopped and sat on one of the steps, catching her breath and massaging her tired calves.


    ¡°Why did I take the emergency stairs? I didn¡¯t cause any trouble. Why did I tire myself like this? And my office is on the 34th floor. My legs might break!¡± Fahira had a monologue of regret.


    With renewed confidence, Fahira continued up the stairs and headed towards the employee elevator. ¡°Thepany needs more elevator units!¡± she grumbled as she saw all four elevators packed with employees. This was why Fahira always arrived early, as she didn¡¯t like to queue for the elevator to get to her office. She began to feel anxious when she looked at the clock on her wrist, which already showed 7:25. ¡°Hopefully, the Boss hasn¡¯t arrived yet. Amen!¡± Fahira silently prayed.


    As soon as Fahira arrived at the office with her usual cup of coffee ¨C the obligatory morning coffee for the Boss ¨C she noticed Mira and Susi¡¯s demanding looks. Fahira could only resign herself to the situation. ¡°The Boss hasn¡¯t arrived yet, right?¡± she asked, only to receive headshakes from her two colleagues. She went into Darian¡¯s office to leave the coffee as usual.


    ¡°Thank you!¡± she heard a voice she recognizeding from behind her. Fahira¡¯s body froze instantly, and her heart raced.


    ¡°Damn it, Fahira!¡± her mind cursed as she closed her eyes and turned her body to face Darian.


    ¡°Good morning, Mr. Darian!¡± Fahira greeted, trying to maintain herposure and silently praying to avoid the Boss¡¯s wrath.


    Darian looked at Fahira with an unreadable grin as he rolled up his shirt sleeves. Fahira was mesmerized by the sight of the incredibly handsome Darian, as if he were a Greek god incarnate. Her world seemed to stop for a moment.


    Darian slowly approached Fahira. ¡°Did you just finish running a marathon?¡± Darian asked, tucking a strand of Fahira¡¯s hair behind her ear that had escaped her tie.


    ¡°What?¡± Fahira replied, startled when she realized how close they were now.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°For how long are you going to stand here? Go back to your desk!¡± Darian ordered, amand Fahira immediately obeyed.


    ¡°Sorry, uh, right, Sir!¡± Fahira replied, quickly leaving Darian¡¯s office with a blushing face. She couldn¡¯t believe she was captivated by Optimus Prime like that.


    Fahira walked awkwardly like a robot until a loud voice snapped her back to reality.


    ¡°Fahira,e on! Snap out of it!¡± Mira yelled, who apparently was still waiting at her cubicle.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you guys? You¡¯re so annoying! You said Optimus Prime hadn¡¯t arrived yet? Well, he¡¯s in there!¡± Fahira retorted, annoyed. Silence followed. Mira and Susi exchanged puzzled looks, not understanding Fahira¡¯s words.


    ¡°I meant a pr bear!¡± she continued, adding to their confusion.


    ¡°Oh my God, you mean Darian, right?¡± Fahira rified.


    ¡°See, my brain short-circuited!¡± Fahira grumbled, pushing Mira and Susi back to their workstations.


    Inside his office, Darian could only smile amusedly after Fahira left, murmuring to himself, ¡°I like vanice.¡±

 Darian鈥檚 New Hobby

    Putra Corporation, also known as Putra Property, is one of the Indonesian propertypanies listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange. Not only that, Putra Corporation also has subsidiarypanies in major cities in Indonesia.


    Putra Corporation has long-term investments inmercial buildings, hotels, and resorts, and is involved in property development and leasing in Indonesia, Singapore, and Mysia. And once again, Setiadi Property will build real estate in the Kuningan area of South Jakarta.


    This afternoon, Darian, along with his team consisting of David, Ray, Fahira, Susi, and Mira, is discussing the maturity of the development concept that will be built in the real estate in the Kuningan area of South Jakarta, as per Darian¡¯s request, before the meeting with the directors tomorrow morning.


    ¡°In my opinion, if we build affordable housing for the middle-to-lower-ss, with public facilities like a beautiful yground for children and sports facilities, the residents will feelfortable. They won¡¯t have to go far from their homes and waste time in traffic jams,¡± Fahira exined, adding to Mira¡¯s exnation.


    ¡°What do you think, Sir?¡± Ray asked, agreeing with Fahira¡¯s opinion.


    Silence. Everyone turned to Darian, who remained motionless, following their gaze. Fahira, who realized she was now the center of attention, cleared her throat loudly to snap Darian out of his trance, as he was still gazing at her beautiful face. Fahira was puzzled by Darian¡¯s increasingly ambiguous behavior. Could it be that her boss was possessed by an evil spirit haunting his office, or was he experiencing a brain concussion from a hard blow to his head? Fahira didn¡¯t want to think about it. Her brain couldn¡¯tprehend Darian¡¯s way of thinking. What was clear was that since that hot night, Darian¡¯s personality seemed to change.


    ¡°Sir! Mr. Darian,¡± called David, who still couldn¡¯t snap Darian out of Fahira¡¯s charm.


    ¡°Sir!¡± David whispered, nudging Darian¡¯s leg.


    ¡°Oh, yes, I agree!¡± Darian responded, finallying to his senses. He quickly nced at the concept that Fahira had just exined, which was still disyed on the projector screen.


    Darian didn¡¯t care about the questioning looks from his four employees. To him, nothing was more blissful than gazing at the beautiful face that now filled his heart and mind. Everyone in the room exchanged nces, not daring to speak up as Darian appeared serious, re-reading the documents in front of him. It was unusual for Darian to act like this during a meeting; he was always focused on work. And one more thing, he never smiled. But this time, Darian smiled several times, albeit subtly. The eerie face that usually adorned him now looked serene.


    After the internal meeting in Darian¡¯s office was over, they immediately tidied up all the documents and said their goodbyes before leaving. Fahira, who was closest to the door, quickly moved and headed for the exit before her boss could embarrass her again. The door creaked open as her name was called out.


    ¡°Fahira!¡± Darian called without looking at the person bearing the name who was desperately trying to maintain aposed expression.


    ¡°Oh my,¡± Fahira sighed, turning her body back with a pounding heart. She felt she couldn¡¯t handle the horror-filled gazes of her colleagues who were all staring at her, demanding an exnation.


    ¡°Please reprint the documents you just presented.¡± A sigh of relief escaped Fahira¡¯s lips. ¡°Sure, Sir!¡± Fahira replied shortly, opening the door and leaving, feeling relieved.


    The next day, the directors¡¯ meeting was held in a conference room on the 20th floor of thepany building. Fahira and Darian were ready with their presentation materials. They both entered five minutes before the meeting started. The chairman¡¯s seat, located at the front end of the room, was waiting for thepany¡¯srgest shareholder. Darian owned 65% of the shares, while the rest belonged to other investors.


    The meeting was attended by the finance director, human resources director, marketing director, and HRD. The meeting began, and Darian exined the n to build a building in the real estate located in Kuningan, South Jakarta. Everyone listened and took notes of Darian¡¯s exnations. After Darian sat back in his seat, the discussion began. Yulia, the 32-year-old marketing director, was the first to speak. She was always the most active during management meetings. In addition to being beautiful and smart, Yulia was known for being a disciplined and stern leader. Furthermore, it was widely known among the employees that Yulia had been interested in Darian for a long time. She always took every opportunity to meet with him and sought his attention during meetings. Unfortunately, Darian never noticed her feelings in the slightest.


    After the meeting ended, Darian and Fahira returned to the 34th floor to go back to their respective offices. Inside the elevator, Fahira, who had been annoyed by Darian¡¯s behavior since yesterday, gathered her courage to start a conversation. ¡°Sir, may I ask something?¡±


    ¡°Of course, go ahead!¡± Darian replied calmly, his expression t as he avoided looking at Fahira, who was standing beside him.


    Fahira felt annoyed by the man¡¯s annoying expression, and she instantly abandoned her intention. If she had superhero abilities, she would have thrown the man next to her far away to the Arctic, where he could live with pr bears, which would be the most suitable ce for him. ¡°Sorry, not now, maybe next time,¡± Fahira continued, biting her inner lip in frustration and confusion. But suddenly, her mind was disturbed by negative thoughts. What if they both got trapped inside the elevator?


    ¡°Why?¡± Darian asked, as if he could read Fahira¡¯s mind. With a smirk, Darian shifted his position to face Fahira. Fahira fell silent, feeling more anxious. Darian stared sharply at Fahira, moving closer. ¡°What do you want to say?¡± Darian asked again. His eyes locked onto Fahira¡¯s deep ck irises, and she could feel the fear in those beautiful almond-shaped eyes. Fahira took a step back, and a faint smile appeared on Darian¡¯s face as he sessfully made Fahira shudder. Darian seemed like a hungry bear finding its prey. His steps kept pushing Fahira until her body hit the elevator wall. Darian¡¯s left hand still remained in his left pants pocket, while his right hand was raised, cornering Fahira in the corner of the elevator.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing, Sir!¡± Fahira replied, daring herself with a trembling voice. She lifted the folder she was holding to cover her face, closing her eyes, but quickly, the man in front of her grabbed the folder and dropped it.


    Fahira opened her eyes slowly as she felt Darian¡¯s warm breath sweeping across her face. ¡°Hahahaha¡­ You¡¯re so adorable, Fahira!¡± Darian¡¯sughter broke out after he blew on Fahira¡¯s blushing face.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare kidnap me and lock me up in your apartment!¡± Fahira¡¯s heart screamed as she struggled to keep her bnce. Her legs suddenly felt like jelly. She could even hear her own heartbeat.


    Fahira was still frozen while hugging the folder she had picked up when a voice brought her back to reality. ¡°Fahira, what are you doing there?¡± David asked, who seemed to have been standing in front of the elevator for who knows how long.


    ¡°Oh, Mr. David, sorry, I urgently needed to go to the bathroom, sorry, I¡¯ll go first,¡± Fahira replied with a stiff smile and quickly followed the direction Darian had disappeared to.


    David looked at Fahira¡¯s back as she walked away, and the elevator door closed slowly. Fix, it seemed like there was some problem with Fahira and her boss¡¯s personalities.


    True enough, Fahira went straight to the restroom. ¡°Fahira, please snap out of it! Don¡¯t get affected, don¡¯t get affected. The boss just wants to use your body to warm his bed!¡± Fahira¡¯s mind echoed, washing her face repeatedly with water to regain her sanity and freshness.


    When Fahira returned to her desk, she was shocked to find her three colleagues waiting for her. Putting on a forced smile, Fahira approached them.


    ¡°Sit down!¡± Mira ordered, patting Fahira¡¯s shoulder to make her sit in her chair.


    ¡°Boss¡­¡± Fahira muttered, pointing to Darian¡¯s office, which Ray immediately responded to. ¡°The boss went out with David.¡±


    Still maintaining her forced smile, Fahira grabbed a few tissues from her desk to dry her face.


    ¡°Honestly, Fahira, what kind of rtionship do you have with the boss?¡± Susi, who had been impatient, bombarded her with questions that had been lingering in her mind for the past few days.


    ¡°Okay, fine.¡± Fahira took a deep breath and exhaled slowly to calm herself. She scrutinized the faces of her three colleagues surrounding her with horror-filled gazes. It felt like she was sitting on the witness stand, waiting for the death sentence.


    ¡°Honestly, I don¡¯t know either. Suddenly, the boss started acting weirdly towards me, even though I¡¯ve been his secretary for a long time. If he likes me, why didn¡¯t he do anything before?¡± Fahira honestly stated, causing her three colleagues to ponder deeply and agreeing with Fahira¡¯s statement. Their expressions showed that Fahira¡¯s statement was true.


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, just take advantage of the opportunity. Make the boss fall in love with you,¡± Ray suggested, giving Fahira encouragement.


    ¡°Although I¡¯m jealous, I agree with Ray¡¯s suggestion. I noticed the boss has been smiling a lot, and most importantly, he stopped getting angry. Remember yesterday when we were in his office? See how the boss looked at you? His subtle smile almost made my heart jump out of my chest because of his charm. If I were you, Fahira, I would have melted!¡± Mira chimed in, causing Fahira¡¯s jaw to nearly drop, listening to their crazy statements. Mira¡¯s hand reached out and pinched Fahira¡¯s cheek yfully, teasing her.


    ¡°I agree too!¡± Susi shouted at the same time that Darian and David entered. Everyone immediately dispersed and returned to their desks.


    Darian smiled gently as he secretly nced at Fahira while passing by her desk, but everyone noticed it, confirming their arguments.


    Inside his office, Darian could only smile to himself, remembering the various expressions of his secretary just now. ¡°It seems like I have a new hobby now, apart from punching punching bags, a new hobby that is more challenging and enjoyable.¡±This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .

 From The Promise

    ¡°I don¡¯t know what falling in love feels like.¡± Darian asked David seriously, as they were having a conversation before leaving the office. David paused and scrutinized Darian¡¯s face, suppressing augh.


    ¡°Why? Are you falling in love? Who¡¯s the lucky girl that captured the heart of my perpetually single friend?¡± David teased, pretending not to know, although he was sure Fahira was the girl who had managed to make his friend fall in love.


    ¡°Why would I bother asking someone like you? Damn, why did I even bring up the topic of singlehood?¡± Darian grumbled before taking a seat in his chair.


    ¡°Well then, I¡¯m not really sure how to exin it, because I tend to throw around the word ¡®love¡¯ to every girl that catches my interest. For me, women are enchanting creatures who can make me float on air!¡± David exined nonchntly.


    ¡°So it¡¯s my fault for asking someone like you, an asshole who can¡¯t think beyond his pants!¡± Darian retorted, annoyed, causing David to burst intoughter.


    ¡°Now you know, so ording to you, what is falling in love like?¡± David asked, pretending to act clueless. He wanted to test Darian¡¯s sensitivity towards Fahira.


    ¡°Love is Sex!¡± David continued to defend his argument.


    ¡°But that¡¯s why I regret it now. However, what I feel now is different. Just looking at her face makes me happy, and now I just want to make up for all my mistakes to her!¡± Darian said, which only made David find him amusing.


    Hahaha, David burst intoughter again. Darian could only look annoyed as his friendughed to his heart¡¯s content. Instead of finding a solution, he only felt more frustrated. This time, David was reallyughing at his friend, who seemed to be blinded by love. However, David¡¯sughter suddenly died down as he remembered Fahira. There was no way such a gentle, kind, and religious girl would engage in a sexual rtionship before marriage. His brain started working extra hard, recalling the information he had obtained about Fahira under Darian¡¯s orders. ¡°Damn!¡± David cursed inwardly when he remembered that he hadn¡¯t read the information about Fahira in detail at that time. He had only focused on fulfilling Darian¡¯s request.


    Darian¡¯s eyebrows furrowed as he noticed the drastic change in David¡¯s expression. He felt that his friend was hiding something.


    ¡°Have you really broken the seal, Darian? Is it the same girl who made you fall in love?¡± David inquired, making Darian flinch and be flustered.


    ¡°It¡¯s useless talking to you. Just go from my office!¡± Darian dismissed him, making David more convinced that the girl Darian was talking about was Fahira.


    Before David could leave, Fahira knocked on the door, and David opened it for her. Fahira entered after greeting David politely, while David stepped out of the room, trying to connect his previous conversation with Darian with the information he had obtained.


    ¡°Sorry, Mr. Darian, may I leave early today?¡± Fahira asked politely.


    Darian didn¡¯t pay much attention, and instead, he got up from his chair to approach Fahira, gazing at her intensely. ¡°Are you nning to go on a date with Gavin?¡± Darian guessed carelessly. He suddenly remembered that today was Saturday.


    ¡°What do you mean, Mr. Darian? Even if I were to go on a date with Dr. Gavin, it¡¯s none of your business, right?¡± Fahira responded, irritated. She no longer cared if she had to leave thepany this afternoon. Her self-respect had been trampled upon by Darian¡¯s arrogant attitude.


    ¡°I already told you that no man is allowed to approach you, Fahira!¡± Darian grinned as he approached Fahira, grabbing her waist and locking their gazes.


    ¡°Mr. Darian, you have no right over me!¡± Fahira challenged firmly. She stared back defiantly at Darian, no longer willing to tolerate the man¡¯s selfish behavior.


    ¡°Answer my question, do you like Gavin?¡± Darian asked sarcastically.


    ¡°This has nothing to do with Dr. Gavin. I asked for permission to leave early because I have to take my sister for a medical check-up!¡± Fahira replied with teary eyes.


    Darian slowly released his grip on Fahira¡¯s back and slumped. His sharp gaze instantly softened, reced by regret for hurting Fahira¡¯s feelings again.


    ¡°I apologize, Fahira,¡± Darian whispered, pulling her into his embrace. Fahira¡¯s body tensed, trying to free herself from Darian¡¯s hold. ¡°Just let it be like this, Fahira, just for a moment,¡± Darian pleaded softly. He inhaled Fahira¡¯s scent deeply, finding himself bing addicted to it.


    Resigned, Fahira simply epted her fate. There was no point in resisting; Darian¡¯s body remained motionless even though she exerted all her strength. Warmth spread through her veins as Darian¡¯s embrace reminded her of her father. Her first love. The only man who had always protected and cared for her, giving her a sense offort. Fahira found herself reminiscing about the memories with her father. Without her realizing it, her hands lifted and reciprocated Darian¡¯s embrace. She savored each beat of her heart as it synchronized with the heartbeat of the man holding her close.


    Klek. The door opened slowly. David, who was about to remind Darian of his fitness schedule, fell silent. He stood frozen as he saw Darian and Fahira hugging. David took a deep breath and closed the door without making a sound, giving them their space and time. He returned to his desk and took his bag, following his three colleagues who had already headed towards the elevator. Before leaving, he left a message for Darian.


    David:


    ¡°Darian, sorry, I can¡¯t join the fitness session. I have an urgent matter to attend to.¡±


    After ensuring that the message was marked with two grey checkmarks, David turned off his phone.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    The intimate moment between Darian and Fahira was interrupted as Fahira¡¯s phone rang. ¡°Ma¡¯am, excuse me,¡± Fahira apologized. Reluctantly, she separated from Darian¡¯s embrace and answered the call.


    ¡°Hello, yes, Fahira here. I see, one moment, please.¡± Fahira spoke with Ariel on the other end of the line. She wanted to leave, but she couldn¡¯t go past the room¡¯s owner who was blocking her way. ¡°Please, God, help me escape from this creepy person!¡± Fahira¡¯s heart raced as she tried to calm herself. She felt trapped and unable to move. Her lips wanted to reject all of Darian¡¯s sweet gestures, but her heart seemed to be enjoying them.


    Darian smiled, gazing at Fahira¡¯s back as he approached her. ¡°Trust me, Fahira. I have never yed with my feelings. I have never known how to love someone, except for loving my mother. But with you, I feel something different. I don¡¯t know what this feeling is, but I know I really want you,¡± Darian whispered, cing his hands on Fahira¡¯s waist. Fahira¡¯s body froze with her heart pounding, especially when she felt Darian¡¯s warm breath on the back of her head.


    ¡°I need to leave, sir!¡± Fahira forcefully removed Darian¡¯s hands from her waist. Darian¡¯s jaw clenched with his fists tightly closed. He realized that gaining Fahira¡¯s trust after everything that happened would not be easy.


    ¡°Excuse me, sir. I want to rify again. If you need a woman to warm your bed, you are gravely mistaken if you¡¯re asking me. I am not a prostitute like you might think. Ever since-umm,¡± Fahira¡¯s string of words was drowned when Darian¡¯s lips forcefully met hers.


    Struggling with all her might, Fahira pushed Darian away as he deepened the kiss. His right hand pressed the back of Fahira¡¯s head, while his left hand held her waist. Tears streamed down Fahira¡¯s cheeks, but Darian continued until he stopped, looking into Fahira¡¯s teary eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Fahira. I didn¡¯t mean that. I¡¯m serious!¡± Darian confessed, wiping Fahira¡¯s tears gently with his fingertip.


    ¡°I must go, sir!¡± Fahira replied shortly, pushing Darian¡¯s hands away from her face.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, a thousand times sorry, I will earn your trust, Fahira. I promise! I¡¯ll only do it after we¡¯re officially married, I swear!¡± Darian pleaded, joining their foreheads together.


    ¡°Sorry, sir, I really need to leave!¡± Fahira responded curtly, sidestepping Darian and making her way towards the door.


    ¡°I¡¯ll walk you out!¡± Darian offered, grabbing his car keys and jacket.


    During the drive, neither of them said a word. Fahira focused on the passing traffic through the window, while Darian repeatedly nced at Fahira and sighed heavily.


    When they stopped at a red light, Darian reached for Fahira¡¯s hand and held her fingers tightly. Feeling no resistance from the woman beside him, Darian brought her hand to his lips and kissed it repeatedly. Fahira remained still with feelings she couldn¡¯t define. Her heart warmed by Darian¡¯s sweet gestures, but her other side was still firmly rejecting them.


    Without looking at Darian and saying thank you, Fahira intended to leave the car. However, a hand reached out and grabbed her arm. ¡°I¡¯ll prove it, Fahira. I¡¯ll make you believe. I promise!¡± Darian said, gazing at Fahira¡¯s saddened face.


    ¡°Thank you for the ride, sir!¡± Fahira replied shortly before freeing her arm from Darian¡¯s grip and stepping out of the car.


    Darian pounded on the steering wheel several times to calm himself down. He promised he wouldn¡¯t let Fahira go. In any way possible, he had to make her his.

 Uninvited Guests

    Before heading to the hospital, Fahira and Ariel had a brief argument because Ariel wanted to bring his motorcycle to save time and expenses, while Fahira insisted on her decision. Fahira would not allow Ariel to ride his motorcycle until he was dered fully recovered by Dr. Gavin. Fahira didn¡¯t want to take any risks that could jeopardize her brother¡¯s recovery.


    Throughout the journey, Ariel carefully observed Fahira, who seemed restless. Ariel was sure something was bothering his sister. Fahira remained silent and looked outside the window.


    ¡°Sis, is there something bothering you?¡± Ariel finally dared to ask, reaching for Fahira¡¯s hand and holding it. Ariel felt like he had been a burden to Fahira all this time.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing, little brother. I¡¯m just tired,¡± Fahira replied, smiling while squeezing Ariel¡¯s hand in return.


    ¡°Why have you never dated, sis? You¡¯re beautiful, smart, and kind. Don¡¯t close yourself off too much. I¡¯m sure there are many guys out there who like you, but you just don¡¯t notice,¡± Ariel expressed his curiosity. As far as Ariel knew, his sister had never been close to any man.


    Gavin¡¯s presence had motivated Ariel to bridge the gap between them. He simply wanted to see Fahira happy with someone who truly loved her. And Ariel could clearly see that Gavin had feelings for his sister for a long time. Since Ariel was diagnosed with arrhythmia, Gavin often asked about Fahira whenever there was an opportunity, especially after Ariel¡¯s heart surgery. Gavin would frequently send messages to make sure Fahira got home on time from work.


    ¡°Sis, you don¡¯t need a boyfriend, but you need a gentleman who directly proposes marriage to you,¡± Fahira said, smiling.


    After reassuring Ariel with thoseforting words, Fahira resumed looking outside the window. Her heart felt heavy, apanying a cluster of raindrops that followed the taxi carrying her. Of course, it was just a dream, an unrealized dream that shattered even before it began. What could she be proud of as a woman who was no longer pure like herself? Hoping for a good man to propose marriage was like chasing a mirage.


    Fahira took a deep sigh, recalling Darian¡¯s behavior towards her. There was no way Darian could fall in love with a simple girl like her. She couldn¡¯t deny that she had been thinking about Darian all the time. However, Fahira tried to suppress the feelings that were beginning to stir in her heart. Darian¡¯s apologies and promises made her uneasy. Could Darian truly love her, or was it just to atone for his sins?


    Gradually, the taxi they were in entered the Medika Center hospitalpound. After paying the fare, they headed to the hospital¡¯s lobby to get the patient queue number Fahira had reserved earlier over the phone. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Fahira invited Ariel after receiving the patient queue number and went to Dr. Gavin¡¯s practice room.


    After waiting for one patient to leave, Fahira and Ariel were called to enter the blue and white room. The ¡®Dr. Gavin Permana, Sp. JP¡¯ name tag on his desk clearly indicated the profession of the handsome bespectacled doctor who was currently examining Ariel seriously. This afternoon, Dr. Gavin looked different, dressed in a more casual and rxed manner. He wore a navy blue cored t-shirt without a tie, paired with ck jeans. He left his white coat hanging on the back of the chair. Fahira couldn¡¯t help but notice all of these details while Dr. Gavin repeatedly asked his assistant to prepare the equipment.


    ¡°Thank God, Ariel is healthy,¡± Gavin said, taking a seat again.


    ¡°Alhamdulih,¡± Fahira replied with teary eyes. She caressed Ariel¡¯s head, who was now sitting next to her, affectionately.


    ¡°But Ariel still needs to take the medication until it¡¯s finished, and if there are anyints, you can contact me directly ore to the hospital,¡± Gavin continued, writing down some prescriptions for Ariel.


    ¡°Miss Fahira,¡± Gavin paused, raising his face to look at Fahira. ¡°Ariel must consume nutritious and bnced food. Avoid high-cholesterol and saturated fat foods. No strenuous activities for now, alright!¡± Gavin added with a smile.


    ¡°Can I go back to school, Doc?¡± Ariel asked because he was getting bored after two weeks of doing nothing at home.


    ¡°Of course, but for the time being, please refrain from participating in basketball extracurricrs and riding your motorcycle!¡± Gavin replied, a request that Ariel immediately agreed to. Ariel had told Gavin that he used to be the captain of the basketball team at his school before his heart condition affected his health and body.


    ¡°Alright, Doc. I promise to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, then. Thank you so much. Now, we¡¯ll take our leave!¡± Fahira said as she reached for the prescription on the table.


    ¡°I¡¯ll walk you home; Ariel happens to be myst patient today!¡± Gavin took the prescription from Fahira¡¯s hand. He had intentionally scheduled only three patients this evening just to have a chance to meet Fahira.


    ¡°Mbak Dita, please take care of everything. I¡¯m leaving now!¡± Gavin instructed his assistant.


    ¡°Sure, Doctor!¡± Dita replied, tidying up the medical equipment that had just been used and returning it to its ce.


    ¡°But, Doc, we can go home by ourselves!¡± Fahira tried to decline, but Ariel intervened with a meaningful smile. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Sis. Our homes are in the same direction. Besides, it¡¯s Sunday night, and there¡¯s usually heavy traffic at this hour,¡± Ariel assured Fahira.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Gavin invited, leading the way, followed by Fahira and Ariel.


    ¡°We can go home by ourselves!¡± Fahira whispered, holding Ariel¡¯s arm tightly as she red at her suddenly annoying brother.


    ¡°Doctor, are you sure it won¡¯t be a bother?¡± Ariel asked, trying to reassure Fahira, who seemed a bit sulky.


    ¡°Of course not! I¡¯ll be happy to apany you!¡± Gavin responded, switching to walking beside Fahira while looking at her gently.


    Ariel, who could read the meaning behind Gavin¡¯s gaze at Fahira, quickly came up with an idea to give them some time alone.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, sis, I need to use the restroom!¡± Ariel excused himself after they arrived at the hospital pharmacy waiting area to collect the prescribed medication.


    ¡°Don¡¯t take too long, little brother!¡± Fahira replied in annoyance because she knew Ariel intentionally left them alone. And it seemed like the universe was supporting Ariel¡¯s n as heavy rain suddenly poured down. While waiting for the prescription and the rain to ease, they talked. The awkwardness Fahira had felt earlier was beginning to fade away. In Fahira¡¯s opinion, Gavin was a pleasant, friendly, and polite man. It was evident from how he responded to the greetings of nurses and hospital staff who happened to pass by, although Fahira knew that some of those nurses were looking at her with inquisitive eyes.


    Ariel intentionally lingered in another chair far from Fahira and Gavin, waiting for Fahira¡¯s phone to ring before he rejoined them.


    Finally, Gavin relented when Fahira insisted on going home. However, halfway there, Gavin stopped his car at a simple eatery.


    ¡°Why are we stopping here, Doc?¡± Fahira asked, looking at Ariel to signal him to decline Gavin¡¯s invitation. But instead of helping Fahira, Ariel pretended not to understand.


    ¡°Come on, join me for dinner, then I¡¯ll take you home afterward!¡± Gavin replied, wrapping his arm around Fahira, which made her close her eyes and hold her breath, feeling his masculine scent enveloping her. Unlike Darian¡¯s sexy and provocative scent, Gavin¡¯s scent was more calming, with hints of citrus and woody notes.


    Click. The sound of Fahira unbuckling her seatbelt made her able to breathe again. Ariel, who had been observing the interaction between his sister and her doctor, couldn¡¯t help but suppress a mischievous smile.


    Darian, on the other hand, found himself at the muay thai studio. It was a ce for him to release his frustrations and emotions whenever he faced problems. Apart from Fahira¡¯s rejection, his bodyguard and friend, whom he usually sparred with, were unreachable at the moment. As a result, the punching bag became the target of his anger. After feeling somewhat relieved, Darian changed into fresh clothes and headed to where his heart was trapped.


    Darian remained silent in his car, gazing at the Mawar Apartment building. An hour passed before he finally decided to see Fahira, even though he knew he would probably face rejection again. Just as he opened his car door, a white Fortuner that he recognized stopped not far from his parked car. His jaw tightened, his fists clenched when he saw three people getting out of the car. Darian¡¯s anger red as he saw Fahira giving a wide smile and waving at Gavin, a smile he had never received from her.


    Blinded by jealousy, Darian quickly started his car¡¯s engine and left the ce. He could barely contain his urge to attack Gavin, who was his own cousin.


    Darian arrived in front of a two-story building with colorful lights, the J-Rock Night Club. Loud DJ music dominated every corner. Darian chose a seat in front of the bartender and ordered his favorite drink. Erick, who noticed his friend¡¯s arrival, approached Darian.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you again?¡± Erick said, patting Darian¡¯s shoulder before sitting beside him. Darian merely gave Erick a cynical look before continuing to sip his drink.


    Erick let out a deep sigh, observing Darian¡¯s disheveled appearance while pondering many things. He had been friends with Darian for a long time, but when it came to personal matters, Darian was very closed off, never expressing his feelings, not even when he was drunk. Finally, Erick decided to apany Darian and kept refilling his ss until Darian seemed satisfied.


    ¡°I¡¯ll head back now, alright?¡± Darian excused himself, getting up from his seat. He stumbled a bit because he was quite drunk.


    Nagita approached to help Darian, but Erick quickly stopped her. ¡°It¡¯s better if you leave, Git. His mood is not good right now,¡± Erick warned her as he helped Darian to stand. Erick grabbed his phone from his pants pocket and called David.


    ¡°Damn!¡± Erick cursed because David¡¯s phone was turned off.


    ¡°It¡¯s strange that the damn bodyguard can¡¯t be reached!¡± grumbled Erick as he put his phone back into his pocket.


    ¡°I¡¯ll manage on my own. You can go!¡± Darian let go of Erick¡¯s hand and walked towards the exit with a wobbly gait. Erick, feeling worried, followed Darian until they reached his car. Darian was still sitting in the driver¡¯s seat, with his legs hanging outside


    , when he grabbed a bottle of mineral water and poured it over his face.


    Erick¡¯s smile widened as he witnessed his friend¡¯s behavior, then he went back inside the club, feeling relieved that Darian would make it home safely.


    Fahira, who had fallen asleep in her bed, was disturbed by a series of knocks on her door. Fahira grabbed her phone from the nightstand and nced at the clock, which showed 2:00 AM. Instantly, she was wide awake. Her drowsiness vanished, reced by fear.


    ¡°Who could be visiting at this hour?¡± Fahira mumbled as she got up from the bed. She noticed that Ariel¡¯s room door was still locked. Maybe due to the effects of the medication, Ariel didn¡¯t hear the knocks.


    Fahira tried to think positively. Who would be knocking on her door at this hour? Perhaps it was a colleague from work or a neighbor who had to visit during the break time.


    Click, click. It took two turns for the door lock to fully open. While reciting a prayer, Fahira opened the door. Her body froze when she saw the man who had upied her thoughts standing there.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Fahira!¡±

 With You

    Darian approached Fahira, who was still in a daze.


    ¡°I can¡¯t live without you, Fahira!¡± Darian¡¯s hand lifted to caress Fahira¡¯s cheek with a loving gaze. Fahira returned his gaze with teary eyes, unsure of how to respond as she herself was confused about her feelings.


    ¡°You are the only woman in my heart, the only one I¡¯ve ever touched, Fahira. I¡¯m not the man you think I am. I apologize for all the pain I¡¯ve caused you!¡± Darian said with a fading intensity. Fahira was taken aback. This was the same Darian she knew, cold, arrogant, and aloof, now appearing vulnerable and hurt.


    ¡°Mr. Dari¡­¡± Suddenly, Darian¡¯s body copsed into Fahira¡¯s arms. She struggled to support his weight and ended up sitting down.


    With all her strength, Fahira tried to free herself from Darian¡¯s body, attempting to drag him inside the house, but to no avail. Hisrge frame wouldn¡¯t budge. Eventually, she made her way to Ariel¡¯s room and knocked on the door.


    ¡°Ariel, please help me!¡± Fahira called softly, knocking on the door. Soon, the handsome teenager with messy hair opened the door, his hand covering a yawn.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on, sis? It¡¯s still nighttime!¡± Ariel protested before cing his hands on Fahira¡¯s shoulders. His eyes widened when he followed Fahira¡¯s pointing finger, leading to the front door where someoney sprawled face down.


    ¡°Oh my God, who is that, sis?¡± Ariel asked anxiously, hugging Fahira¡¯s shoulders as they slowly made their way into the living room. He was on high alert.


    ¡°He¡¯s our boss from the office. I have no idea how he ended up here,¡± Fahira replied, relief evident in her voice.


    ¡°I thought he was a thief!¡± Ariel quipped, retracting his hands from Fahira¡¯s shoulders. He knelt down to check on Darian.


    ¡°Oh my God, he¡¯s drunk!¡± Ariel eximed, covering his nose as he caught a whiff of alcohol from Darian¡¯s body.


    ¡°Help me get him into your room. You can sleep in my room or on the couch in front of the TV!¡± Fahira said, reaching for Darian¡¯s arm to help him stand up.


    ¡°Here, let me handle it, sis!¡± Ariel said and immediately hoisted Darian¡¯srge frame onto his shoulder.


    ¡°Is he a man or a bear? He¡¯s so big!¡± Ariel grumbled as he struggled to keep his bnce with Fahira¡¯s assistance.


    ¡°Lock the door!¡± Fahira instructed after they managed toy Darian on Ariel¡¯s bed.


    ¡°Sis!¡±


    ¡°Just rest, and I¡¯ll take care of Mr. Darian!¡± Fahira interrupted Ariel, not wanting him to ask too many questions. She didn¡¯t want any inquiries leading to their rtionship for now.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Without saying another word, Ariel followed Fahira¡¯smand and locked the door before lying back down on the floor. In the dim light, Ariel watched Fahira diligently taking care of Darian. She went outside to get some warm water from the thermos and brought a small towel. From where Ariel was, he saw Fahira carefully removing Darian¡¯s jacket and shoes and gently wiping his face with the warm water.


    ¡°What is it about this man that has been troubling sistely?¡± Ariel wondered to himself, pretending to close his eyes when Fahira nced at him from a distance.


    After cleaning Darian¡¯s body as best as she could, Fahira gazed at his peaceful sleeping face. His breaths were steady, and he emitted soft snores from his slightly parted lips. He looked even more handsome while asleep, with none of the cold and aloof demeanor she encountered at the office every day. Fahira sat on the chair beside Ariel¡¯s bed, staring intensely at Darian¡¯s face. She let out a long sigh before finally getting up and returning to her own room. Once again, she looked at Darian with uncertain feelings before closing the door.


    In her room, Fahira remained awake, gazing at the ceiling. Her hands pressed against her chest, feeling the remnants of her racing heartbeat whenever she was near the man with brown eyes. Fahira wasn¡¯t sure if she had fallen in love with Darian. It felt like an owl yearning for the moon, an unattainable desire. The social divide between them seemed as vast as the sky and earth. Her love would only be a fragile thread hanging over an abyss. Fahira had to navigate that thin thread to reach her destination. But she realized she had no choice but to fall into that abyss.


    Now all Fahira could do was mess up her bed. Turning to the right. Turning to the left. Even lying face down, Fahira still couldn¡¯t close her eyes. Her mind and heart seemed to be left behind in Ariel¡¯s room with the man with brown eyes.


    ¡°Better wake up and pray, then cook!¡± Fahira grumbled as she got up from her bed. She sat at the edge of the bed for a few minutes to gather her strength in case Darian suddenly woke up. She searched for her hair tie among the scattered pillows and cushions. ¡°Finally found it!¡± she eximed in frustration as she gathered her messy hair and tied it up.


    As usual, Fahira went about her morning activities. After performing the night prayer, reciting the Quran, and the dawn prayer, Fahira headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. She nced at Ariel¡¯s closed bedroom door as she walked to the kitchen. Of course, it was still early in the morning, and it was Darian¡¯s rest time. Fahira smiled when she saw that her younger brother Ariel was still sound asleep.


    ¡°Always sleeping on your stomach!¡± Fahira scolded, as she had grown tired of reminding Ariel about his bad sleeping habit.


    She opened the refrigerator to check the avable ingredients she could cook for now. It was Sunday, which meant it was time for Fahira to buy groceries for theing week. She always made time to buy essentials like rice, fresh fish, vegetables, and fruits from the traditional market for the whole week. Going to work every morning meant she couldn¡¯t catch the vegetable vendors passing by at 6 a. m., except for kitchen spices that sometimes were missed in her shopping list. Besides, Ariel had school, so by 6 a. m., all the household chores were usually done.


    While Fahira was busy in the kitchen, Ariel performed the dawn prayer and freshened up. Fortunately, the ironed clothes were still on the table near the television because Fahira hadn¡¯t had time to put them away in the closet.


    ¡°Ariel, have your breakfast!¡± Fahira called out while setting the food on the table.


    ¡°Just a sec, sis, the game is getting interesting!¡± Ariel replied, still focused on his mobile game.


    ¡°You¡¯re ying games so early in the morning!¡± Fahira scolded and approached Ariel, forcibly taking his phone from his hands.


    ¡°Aww, sis, it¡¯s not fun!¡± Ariel protested but followed Fahira to the dining table.


    Ariel just nced at his closed bedroom door while pulling the chair and sitting down.


    ¡°Hasn¡¯t he woken up yet?¡± Ariel whispered. Fahira, who was pouring rice onto Ariel¡¯s te, could only shrug nonchntly.


    In Ariel¡¯s room, Darian was disturbed by the sunlight peeking through the window. The re hit his handsome face, causing his brown eyes to open forcibly. He raised his hand to massage his throbbing head, and his eyelids closed again, then slowly reopened. He found himself in a bright blue room, quite different from the gray ceiling of his own room.


    ¡°Where am I?¡± he murmured softly as he woke up with a still weak body. He scanned the unfamiliar room¡¯s contents. His eyes widened as he touched his clothes. ¡°Thank goodness, they¡¯re still here!¡± Ending up in bed with a promiscuous woman was his worst fear. For him, they were dirty women who carried deadly diseases called AIDS, and Darian had always avoided them.


    Darian sat on the edge of the single-sized bed that seemed almost too small for hisrge frame. His legs dangled to the floor as he gazed at his pair of shoes lying in the corner and the leather jacket hanging behind the door. Darian lowered his head, cupping his face with his hands. He tried to rey his memories from the previous day in his mind.


    ¡°Damn!¡± he cursed when he recalled hisst known location. J-Rocks Night Club was hisst stop before meeting Fahira. ¡°Fahira must hate me even more now!¡± Darian regretted, running his hand through his hair to alleviate the headache. He felt embarrassed to meet Fahira in such a state. Worse, he was in her house.


    Ariel devoured his food quickly. ¡°Sis, I¡¯m going out with Arif, is that okay?¡± Ariel asked, using puppy eyes to get permission from his super-protective sister.


    ¡°Yo¡­¡±


    ¡°Assmuikum!¡± Fahira¡¯s greeting was interrupted by a voice from the front door.


    ¡°Ah, there¡¯s Arif!¡± Ariel said, pointing at Arif who had just entered


    the house. Ariel had left the door open earlier and had asked Arif to pick him up. Besides being bored at home, he intended to give Fahira and the unfamiliar man some space. Darian¡¯s negative impression of himst night didn¡¯t immediately make Ariel think badly of him; he trusted Fahirapletely.


    Click. The sound of the door opening instantly interrupted their conversation. The three pairs of eyes shifted to the mixed-race man with a disheveled appearance. ¡°Excuse me, may I use your bathroom?¡± Darian stood at the doorway.


    ¡°Sis, we¡¯ll go now, okay?¡± Ariel said, taking Fahira¡¯s hand and kissing the back of it.


    ¡°Uh, wait!¡± Fahira was confused about which question to answer first.


    ¡°Assmuikum!¡± Ariel greeted while pulling Arif¡¯s other hand, who was still confused with so many question marks when Ariel dragged him away.


    Fahira smiled awkwardly and walked out of the room first, with Darian following. ¡°It¡¯s just down this way,¡± Fahira said nervously. There was another bathroom located in the kitchen area, but Fahira was afraid that Darian might see the mess Ariel had created by cing dirty clothes everywhere.


    ¡°Sorry!¡± Both Fahira and Darian said simultaneously, making the atmosphere suddenly awkward.


    Fahira smiled awkwardly and walked ahead, with Darian following. ¡°It¡¯s just this way,¡± Fahira said nervously. There was another bathroom located in the kitchen area, but Fahira was afraid that Darian might see the mess Ariel had created by cing dirty clothes everywhere.


    ¡°Sorry!¡± Both Fahira and Darian said simultaneously, making the atmosphere suddenly awkward.


    Fahira blushed and walked out of the room, holding her chest, which had started to misbehave again.

 Date

    Darian¡¯s smile widened as he breathed in the scent of roses in Fahira¡¯s room. His brown irises scanned every corner of the small room,parable to the luxurious bathroom in his own apartment. While waiting for Fahira to fetch his change of clothes, Darian explored every nook of Fahira¡¯s room. It was small, but for some reason, Darian wanted to linger there. He paused in front of Fahira¡¯s dressing table, which held her simple makeup tools. Not as extensive as his mother¡¯s collection. He read the brand names on each cosmetic product used by Fahira.


    ¡°Her taste is good!¡± he murmured, recognizing some expensive and well-known brands, although their prices were still standard for Darian. He was used to seeing his mother¡¯s collection of expensive makeup items. As an international model, his mother was always hunting for makeup and branded fashion items. Especially now, she also managed E-Fashion Galeries, a subsidiary of Putra Corporation specializing in fashion development.


    His eyesnded on a small heart-shaped ss bottle with a tiny pump at the top. ¡°I¡¯m going crazy!¡± Darian¡¯s inner voice echoed as his hand picked up the perfume bottle and he slowly inhaled its fragrance. Vanice, the scent that had be his weakness.


    ¡°Pak Da¡­¡± Fahira¡¯s voice suddenly choked in her throat as she saw Darian¡¯s body covered only by a white towel.


    Darian turned around after cing the perfume he had just smelled. Fahira stood frozen in ce, her lips agape as she saw Darian¡¯s bare chest, water droplets falling from his wet hair tracing the box-shaped contours of his chest. Darian took slow steps toward Fahira, unwilling to break their eye contact.


    ¡°How long have you been standing there?¡± Darian whispered, now standing in front of Fahira, holding her bag in his hand.


    ¡°Or do you want to see me get dressed?¡± he added, making Fahira snap out of her trance.


    ¡°Um¡­ um¡­ sorry, Pak!¡± Fahira stammered, a red blush spreading from her cheeks to her fair neck as she quickly left the room, mming the door shut.


    ¡°You¡¯re getting cuter, Fahira!¡± Darian chuckled after seeing Fahira¡¯s flushed face.


    Darian exited the room, appearing casual. Brownish-milk colored jeans matched with a corless ck T-shirt. Fahira was momentarily stunned by this rxed appearance, which she had never seen before. There were no luxurious suits, no pricey branded watches, nor the stern, expressionless face like Optimus Prime. Fahira quickly regained herposure and ced a cup of coffee on the dining table for Darian. The chair creaked as Darian sat down, facing Fahira, who looked slightly embarrassed.


    ¡°Fahira¡­¡±


    ¡°Sir¡­¡±


    Both of them ended up speaking at the same time, causing another awkward silence.


    Before sipping the still-steaming coffee, Darian first inhaled its aroma. It was the most delicious coffee scent he had ever experienced in his life.


    ¡°You should have breakfast before leaving! I¡¯m sorry I cooked something simple. If you don¡¯t like it, I can order delivery for you,¡± Fahira said, looking at Darian with a neutral expression. She was trying hard to hide her nervousness.


    ¡°Are you sending me away, Fahira? What if I want to stay?¡± Darian teased, with a smile on his lips. Honestly, Fahira looked very cute and beautiful without makeup and wearing a knee-length dresspared to when she was in her office attire.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to send you away, but I have to go for my weekly shopping. I can¡¯t leave a guest alone at home,¡± Fahira replied honestly.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll apany you shopping!¡± Darian retorted shortly, causing Fahira to shake her head repeatedly.


    ¡°No need, Sir. I usually go shopping with Ariel, my younger brother. He¡¯ll be back soon,¡± Fahira continued, firmly refusing Darian¡¯s offer.


    ¡°We better have breakfast and get going!¡± Darian interjected, then handed his te to Fahira.


    Fahira decided not to debate further with her undefeated boss, and she served the rice while asking Darian to choose his own side dishes. Seeing Darian eating with gusto made Fahira feel relieved. Without much appetite, she mechanically fed herself. Her mind was racing, trying to find a way to get the pr bear in front of her out of her house as soon as possible.


    ¡°Maybe this is what it feels like to have a wife: someone who cooks, prepares clothes, and especially someone to apany you to bed,¡± Darian honestlymented without paying attention to Fahira¡¯s surprised expression.


    ¡°Well then, Mr. Darian, why don¡¯t you just marry Ms. Alicia?¡± Fahira retorted spontaneously, which immediately made Darian chuckle.


    ¡°I want to marry the girl in front of me,¡± Darian replied with a meaningful smile as he gazed at Fahira.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Uhuk uhuk uhuk. Fahira instantly choked on her food. Her eyes welled up due to the spicy dish she had eaten.


    ¡°Be careful!¡± Darian panicked, rushing from his seat to Fahira¡¯s side. He held out a ss of water to her lips while gently patting her back.


    After Fahira calmed down, Darian sat beside her. He grabbed a tissue and wiped away her tears and the remaining water from her lips. Fahira was left speechless by Darian¡¯s warm actions.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious about what I saidst night, Fahira!¡± Darian said as he took both of Fahira¡¯s hands and held them. His brown eyes stared into Fahira¡¯s deep ck irises. Fahira remained silent, returning Darian¡¯s intense gaze, trying to find any hint of deception.


    ¡°I really mean it. I¡¯ll introduce you to my mother soon!¡± Darian continued. His left hand reached out to tuck a strand of hair behind Fahira¡¯s ear and gently caressed her earlobe.


    ¡°Don¡¯t say you¡¯ll reject me!¡± Darian¡¯s index finger stopped Fahira¡¯s lips just as she was about to speak.


    ¡°I know I¡¯m not the man of your dreams. I¡¯m not a devout Muslim, I¡¯vemitted many sins and indulged in vices. But allow me to learn to be the imam of your world and the hereafter. I¡¯ll strive to be worthy of making you happy for the rest of my life. This is not to atone for my sins, Fahira, but because I¡­¡± Darian¡¯s words were heartfelt. However, as he tried to say the word ¡°love,¡± his tongue felt tied.


    Fahira remained silent, waiting for Darian to express his love, which never seemed toe. ¡°Is it really that hard for Mr. Darian to say ¡®I love you¡¯?¡± Fahirained internally, feeling disappointed. The romantic moment that had just bloomed suddenly wilted.


    Her heartbeats, which had been pounding due to Darian¡¯s sweet gestures, calmed down on their own. A faint smile appeared on Fahira¡¯s lips as an idea suddenly popped into her head. ¡°What did Mr. Darian sayst night?¡± Fahira asked, putting on her innocent face.


    ¡°Last night?¡± Darian repeated, releasing Fahira¡¯s hands and scratching the back of his head. Although Darian remembered everything he saidst night, he suddenly felt unsure, given his condition after getting heavily drunk. He was even confused when he woke up in Ariel¡¯s unfamiliar room.


    ¡°I¡¯ll change my clothes first, Sir!¡± Fahira said, getting up from her seat after tidying up their breakfast. Darian was lost in thought, trying to recall hisst conscious moments fromst night. Did he say anything that hurt Fahira, as he always did?


    Not long after, Fahira returned from her room, dressed in three-quarter culottes and a pink short-sleeved T-shirt. She let her long hair flow beautifully. Darian was mesmerized, watching Fahira as she wore a crossbody bag across her body. ¡°Is Mr. Darian going to apany me shopping or head home, whatever you prefer!¡± Fahira said nonchntly, reaching for her motorcycle keys and jacket.


    ¡°Oh yes. Let¡¯s go!¡± Darian snapped out of his thoughts and moved towards Ariel¡¯s room to get his car keys and wallet.


    ¡°Ride this one, Sir!¡± Fahira showed him the motorcycle key, purposely hoping to discourage Darian froming along for the shopping. Fahira was convinced that a wealthy, spoiled child like Darian would not be willing to endure the heat and crowd of the traditional market, with its dirt, odors, and congestion caused by the vendors and shoppers.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Darian replied shortly with an ambiguous smile, then took the motorcycle key from Fahira¡¯s hand. Darian went outside with Fahira following behind. In her heart, Fahira cursed her futile efforts to resist Darian, who always managed to conquer her easily.


    ¡°Alright, hop on!¡± Darian said after putting a helmet on Fahira¡¯s head. Reluctantly, Fahira climbed onto the back of the motorcycle where Darian was already seated.


    ¡°Are you sure, Mr. Darian? Can you handle a scooter?¡± Fahira doubted, as she knew that Darian had always preferred his luxurious car.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry! With me, you¡¯ll be safe. I¡¯ll take good care of you,¡± Darian said with a chuckle, while Fahira found his words amusing. The pr bear could freeze his interlocutors but he could also speak sweetly.


    The motorcycle moved slowly. Darian deliberately didn¡¯t speed up so he could spend more time with Fahira. ¡°Hold on tight, my dear!¡± Darian said as he took Fahira¡¯s hands, which then wrapped around his waist.


    Fahira froze as she digested Darian¡¯s endearment. ¡°I think I need to see an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist. Why does my ear have a problem since yesterday?¡± Fahira grumbled to herself as she shook her head. Darian, who was observing Fahira through the rearview mirror, could only suppress a grin.

 Captured

    Di the parking lot of the market, many people were already staring at them. ¡°Are you sure you want to enter the market, Mr. Darian?¡± Fahira asked hesitantly, looking at Darian as he removed his helmet.


    ¡°Why not?¡± Darian replied, following Fahira¡¯s gaze as it wandered around.


    ¡°Maybe they think we¡¯re filming a soap opera!¡± Darianughed, holding Fahira¡¯s hand as they entered the market. Fahira was surprised by Darian¡¯s rxed attitude, as he didn¡¯t seem bothered or disgusted by the slightly muddy streets left from the previous night¡¯s rain.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Fahira¡¯s thoughts were spot-on. All eyes were on Darian. He stood out like a candle amidst a swarm of small winged creatures called moths. Those small creatures always flocked to the light when it rained. It was a favorite activity for her and Ariel when they were kids. They used to turn off all the lights in the house and light candles ced in a basin of water. The adorable winged creatures would then gather around the candles.


    Now, all the women, both buyers and sellers, who met them looked at Darian with knowing smiles. Meanwhile, the man with brown eyes was only focused on her. Fahira sighed resignedly, feeling she was more suitable to be Darian¡¯s assistant rather than his lover. In the market, Darian stood out with his well-maintained fair skin, which was not exactly white but more towards a light tan. Yet, that was its own allure that couldn¡¯t be denied by women who loved handsome men like Fahira. Not to mention his huggable chest and the strong muscles formed from regr exercise. Currently, Darian was like a ma in a sea of creatures called women.


    ¡°Is this your future husband, Miss Fahira? He¡¯s so handsome! Where did you find someone like him?¡± asked the regr meat seller, whom Fahira always bought from.


    ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am, he¡¯s my future husband. Please pray that everything goes well,¡± Darian replied kindly, paying no attention to Fahira¡¯s annoyed expression due to his offhand response.


    ¡°He hasn¡¯t even proposed yet, and he¡¯s already iming to be the future husband!¡± Fahira protested inwardly.


    ¡°How much, ma¡¯am?¡± Fahira quickly ended the conversation before the man beside her announced their fake rtionship to everyone.


    Fahira didn¡¯t feel they had a special rtionship other than boss and secretary. Even though Darian had expressed his feelings, Fahira hadn¡¯t heard him say ¡°I love you¡± directly.


    After buying meat, chicken, and fresh fish, Fahira moved on to the vegetable stalls. Just like the other vendors, it was bustling here. ¡°Oh God, there¡¯s a foreigner here. Let¡¯s take a selfie! I want to show off to my ex-boyfriend!¡± someone around 21 years old said to Darian. Darian looked at Fahira, asking for her approval, but Fahira just ignored the girl and moved to another stall.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss, my future wife is the jealous type, she might get angry if she finds out!¡± Darian replied, approaching Fahira and putting his arm around her shoulder.


    ¡°Stingy!¡± the girl retorted, giving Fahira a sharp look before leaving.


    Finally, after a long drama, Darian and Fahira ended up at a cart selling cendol (a traditional Indonesian drink) by the roadside to refresh themselves. ¡°Are you sure, Mr. Darian, that you want to drink here with me? Or do you want it to go, so we can drink it at hometer?¡± Fahira asked hesitantly. ¡°Oh God, a sultan¡¯s child drinking cendol by the roadside in the scorching sun. Isn¡¯t he afraid of melting in that handsome body of his!¡± Fahira thought, blushing as she watched Darian calmly gulp down the cendol despite the heat of the sun. But Fahira¡¯s concerns were pointless, as Darian simply enjoyed the cendol, asking for a refill from the vendor.


    ¡°What¡¯s this, Miss Fahira? It¡¯s so refreshing! Come on, try it!¡± Darian said, not paying attention to Fahira¡¯s question as he handed her cendol that was still untouched on the table.


    ¡°Cendol, Sir! A traditional drink from the countryside,¡± Fahira replied, making Darian¡¯s eyebrows furrow. Clearly, Darian was clueless about the Javanesenguage.


    ¡°Sen-dol!¡± Darian pronounced it awkwardly, which sounded very amusing to Fahira¡¯s ears. Instantly, she burst intoughter when she saw Darian repeatedly mispronounce the word ¡°cendol.¡± Darian was taken aback by Fahira¡¯s naturalughter, something he had never seen before. Sensing Darian¡¯s strange gaze, Fahira quickly stifled herughter and pretended to be indifferent while stirring her cendol.


    ¡°Yourugh is beautiful!¡± Darian whispered, leaning closer to Fahira¡¯s ear.


    ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡± Fahira replied annoyed, moving her face away from Darian¡¯s, her cheeks flushed.


    Unbeknownst to them, two teenage boys were observing their intimacy. Ariel and Ariel were not far from them. ¡°Mi, is that foreigner Ms. Fahiraya¡¯s boyfriend?¡± curious, Ariel asked, to which Ariel responded with a shrug.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Ariel said, getting up from his seat to pay for their drinks. Ariel¡¯s intuition seemed correct. That man was the one who had been troubling her sistertely. Before leaving, Ariel nced back at Darian and Fahira¡¯s intimacy. If she could choose a future brother-inw, Ariel would support Fahira being with Dr. Gavin, who was undoubtedly kind and friendly. Moreover, the young doctor was always gentle with Fahira, and Ariel couldn¡¯t find any negative traits in him.


    ¡°Fahira, I¡¯ll pick you up for work tomorrow, okay?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s already afternoon; let¡¯s just head back!¡± Fahira interjected, uninterested in responding to Darian¡¯s offer. She got up from her seat and paid for their drinks.


    Darian was already on the motorcycle with numerous shopping bags. Fahira looked back at Darian, who looked cute. With his long legs, her small moped looked like a children¡¯s toy electric bike that could be rented at a park near her house.


    ¡°Please, Fahira, stop smiling like that. I might be tempted to take you to the registrar¡¯s office right now!¡± Darian grumbled because every time he saw Fahira¡¯s smiling lips, his heart would beat abnormally.


    ¡°Hold on!¡± Darian said, reaching for Fahira¡¯s hand to wrap around his waist.


    All the way, there was no more conversation. Fahira, seated behind Darian, unconsciously rested her head on his back, inhaling his masculine scent. Darian¡¯s smile widened as his left hand held Fahira¡¯s hand, and they finally arrived at Fahira¡¯s house.


    ¡°Fahira, we¡¯re here. Did you fall asleep?¡± Darian said as he stopped the motorcycle, but Fahira was still motionless behind him.


    ¡°Oh, we¡¯re here already!¡± Fahira said,ing to her senses and quickly getting off the motorcycle.


    Both of them carried the shopping bags and went up the stairs to the second floor. Fahira exchanged polite greetings with the neighbors they passed several times. Fahira pretended not to notice the inquisitive looks of the people as she walked in front of Darian.


    Once inside, Fahira immediately organized the groceries that needed to go into the refrigerator. She put each type of fish into separate stic bags before cing them in the freezer. For vegetables and fruits, she grouped them together and neatly arranged them in the bottompartment of the fridge. As for the spices, she wrapped them in paper to keep them fresh. Meanwhile, Darian went into the bedroom to check his phone. He had been so preupied with Fahira that he had forgotten about his phone sincest night.


    Darian checked his phone battery, which was at 15%. It was enough to read all the messages and missed calls. On the screen were messages from David, his mom, and Alea. He decided to read David¡¯s messages first. Darian couldn¡¯t help but chuckle as he read David¡¯s dozens of concerned messages sincest night. Erick had contacted David after Darian left the J-Rocks Night Clubpletely drunk. When David¡¯s phone was back on, he called and checked Darian¡¯s apartment, only to find it empty. David¡¯sst message managed to elicit augh from Darian.


    David:


    ¡°Darian, you¡¯re not kidnapped, are you?¡±


    ¡°I swear if you don¡¯t give me any news until tomorrow morning, I¡¯ll report it to your mom and the police!¡±


    Stillughing, Darian replied with a series of messages to his friend.


    Darian:


    ¡°You know, David, I¡¯m being kidnapped by a beautiful girl! I feel like staying here forever. I don¡¯t mind being kidnapped for the rest of my life!¡±


    ¡°Oh, and take care of Alea. I don¡¯t want her to bother my life again!¡±


    David:


    ¡°Oh, damn! I¡¯m here, worrying like a mother looking for her lost child, and you¡¯re having fun there!¡±


    After replying to David¡¯s messages, Darian turned off his phone. He didn¡¯t want to waste this precious time with the girl he admired. He went out of the room to find Fahira, but she was in her own room. Darian decided to sit on the sofa and turned on the 20-inch LED TV. It was smallpared to the TV at his home. The gentle breeze that came through the window seemed to lull Darian to sleep gradually. After a while, Ariel came in. The 18-year-old teenager saw Darian sound asleep on the sofa with the TV still on and went to find his sister.


    Fahira came out of her room after showering, feeling refreshed. Her parents had instilled in her the habit of maintaining cleanliness since she was a child. Especially since she had been in a crowded ce like the market. Once Fahira got home, she immediately organized the groceries and cleaned herself.


    ¡°Back already, Sis?¡± Ariel asked, and his sister¡¯s sudden appearance made him jump in surprise.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, did I startle you, Ariel?¡± Fahira panicked and quickly approached Ariel, touching his chest. Fahira was worried about Ariel¡¯s heart condition.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Sis. Is that guy still here?¡± Ariel said, not happy with the lingering gaze still directed at the sleeping Darian.


    ¡°He¡¯s still tired. He apanied me shopping, and then he fell asleep,¡± Fahira exined with a smile. She knew Ariel wasn¡¯tfortable with Darian¡¯s presence, especially afterst night when Darian showed up drunk.


    ¡°Let¡¯s pray, shall we? I¡¯ve already performed ablution; you wait in my room,¡± Fahira suggested, pushing Ariel into his room.


    Ariel went out of his room wearing a sarong, a t-shirt, and holding a peci (a traditional Muslim cap). He would perform ablution first and then join Fahira in her room. However, just as Ariel and Fahira were about to start praying, a voice interrupted Ariel¡¯s takbir. ¡°May I join the prayer?¡±


    Ariel and Fahira exchanged nces before Fahira took the initiative to answer, ¡°Of course, please!¡± Ariel moved back, and Fahira moved to the back as well, setting up the prayer mat for him. Before starting the prayer, Darian nced at Fahira and Ariel briefly before facing the qi (the direction of prayer) and wiping the wet hair from his ablution. Fahira and Ariel faintly heard Darian¡¯s fluent prayer intention (niat st).


    Thump. Fahira was stunned with a pounding heart. ¡°Was this man in front of her the one who would be her future husband?¡±

 Conspiracy

    Footsteps Darian¡¯s shoes echoed on the shiny floor as he made his way back to his apartment, reluctantly leaving behind the long drama he had created to spend more time with Fahira. If only Fahira hadn¡¯t sulked and insisted he leave, he would have refused to part with the girl who now upied all his attention.


    Tick. The sound of Darian¡¯s apartment key opening the door was heard. He ced his shoes in their designated spot and headed to the fridge. Pouring cold mineral water into a ss, he sipped it slowly. Before he closed the fridge, his eyes were drawn to two bottles of alcoholic drinks that were usually avable there. Darian seemed to be contemting something. He took out his phone from his pants pocket and searched for someone¡¯s contact.


    Darian:


    ¡°I have something for you. I¡¯m waiting for you at my apartment now!¡±


    He typed the message before his phone died due to low battery.


    While waiting for his friend to arrive, Darian entered his room and took off all his clothes, heading to the bathroom. Darian stood under the running shower, letting the water merge with every pore of his body. After neglecting his duties as a Muslim for so long, Darian felt something different after praying together with Fahira¡¯s family earlier. An indescribable feeling seemed to fill the void in his soul. The feeling that had been missing seemed to have found its way back.


    Darian wrapped a towel around his waist after turning off the shower, then turned on the tap to perform ablution. He spent a considerable amount of time reciting the appropriate supplications for each step of ablution, from rinsing his mouth to washing his feet. Darian didn¡¯t even realize that he still knew all the prayers by heart.


    Darian opened the walk-in closet to find a sarong, a traditional long-sleeved shirt, a prayer mat. He had ced them at the farthest corner of the closet, a door he rarely opened. He sat there for a moment, holding all the prayer items in his arms. He hadpletely forgotten when thest time he performed his prayers was. Slowly but surely, Darian dressed in the traditional clothing, his heart beating fast. He stared at himself in the mirror, examining his new appearance. A sense of shame washed over him. Darian¡¯s hands trembled as heid the prayer mat on the floor.


    He stood there for quite some time, facing the qi, silently reciting the intention for the afternoon prayer in his heart.


    The sound of the takbir echoed in Darian¡¯s luxurious bedroom.


    Darian was so focused in his prayers and devotion that he didn¡¯t realize tears streaming down his face. He immersed himself in prayer for about ten minutes, reciting the shahada, sending blessings upon the Prophet, glorifying God, and reciting remembrances, all while self-reflecting. He acknowledged all the sins and transgressions he hadmitted throughout his life.


    ¡°Forgive me, O Ah!¡± Darian pleaded, trying to entreat the One who turns the hearts of humans to open the doors of forgiveness for him. His tears flowed freely, blending with his lengthy supplications.


    Ding. The sound of the doorbell interrupted Darian¡¯s concentration. ¡°It must be David!¡± he murmured while undressing and folding the clothes, leaving only his boxers on. Walking towards the front door, Darian put on a casual t-shirt.


    ¡°You missed me, huh?¡± David teased, following Darian¡¯s footsteps towards the mini bar.


    ¡°I have something for all of you!¡± Darian said, taking one world-ss alcoholic drink bottle after another and cing them on the table.


    ¡°Are you sure, Darian?¡± David couldn¡¯t believe his eyes, getting such expensive drinks that he couldn¡¯t afford even in a year¡¯s sry. David¡¯s eyes sparkled as he read the famous brands printed on each bottle Darian presented to him.


    Darian then went to the fridge and took out two more bottles. ¡°Just take all of them!¡± Darian left the remaining drinks there.


    ¡°Are you not crazy anymore? You¡¯re still my wicked friend, right?¡± David inquired, not wanting to take his eyes off the bottles in front of him.


    ¡°I¡¯m actually sane now, that¡¯s why I¡¯m getting rid of all of this!¡± Darian replied calmly, pulling a chair to sit beside David.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re doing this just for a woman?¡± David prodded, looking at Darian with a sharp gaze.


    ¡°I¡¯m doing this for myself,¡± Darian answered, indifferent to David¡¯s changing expressions.


    David¡¯s hand reached out to touch Darian¡¯s forehead. ¡°Normal!¡± David mumbled after checking Darian¡¯s body temperature. He was bing more and more puzzled by his friend¡¯s behavior.


    ¡°Maybe you¡¯re possessed by the spirit of this apartment?¡± David scratched his head, pretending it was itchy, and looked around the room.


    ¡°There¡¯s no dumb spirit here! It¡¯s the devil!¡± Darian replied calmly.


    ¡°Where is the devil, so I can make him drunk. He¡¯ll be delighted to get such expensive drinks!¡± David teased, opening one of the cold bottles that Darian had just taken from the fridge. He poured half a ss and sipped it slowly, enjoying the sensation of the expensive drink with his eyes closed. It wasn¡¯t the first time Darian had given him such drinks, but having this much personally made David¡¯s heart leap.


    ¡°And there¡¯s the devil sitting in front of me!¡± Darian chuckled softly.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re calling me a devil? Where¡¯s the handsome devil like me?¡± David teased. ¡°By the way, if I¡¯m a devil, then what are you? The devil¡¯s friend. So, devil to devil, we shouldn¡¯t insult each other!¡± David continued with a heartyugh.


    Darian was clearly defeated by David¡¯s words, and he waved his hand in front of David¡¯s face.


    ¡°Go away, take all of these with you!¡± Darian dismissed David, then began cing the bottles of alcohol into a box neatly.


    ¡°Who¡¯s the woman who kidnapped you yesterday? Come on, introduce me to this super girl who managed to make my wicked friend change?¡± David kept on asking, curious about the girl who could transform one of Darian¡¯s bad habits. David¡¯s hands were resting on his chin, watching Darian carefully as he packed the drinks.


    Uninterested in responding to David¡¯s continuous questions, Darian promptly ushered him out of the apartment. How could Darian share with David that the girl was Fahira? What¡¯s worse, Darian¡¯s love had not yet been reciprocated. He didn¡¯t want to pressure Fahira to give an answer right away about his invitation to introduce her as his girlfriend to his mother. He wanted everything to unfold naturally.


    Darian realized that Fahira still had doubts about his feelings. She needed proof of his sincerity.


    ***


    ¡°Do you have a special rtionship with that foreign guy?¡± Ariel interrupted Fahira while she was mopping the floor.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°His name is Mr. Darian,¡± Fahira replied firmly with annoyance. She knew exactly what was on Ariel¡¯s mind, especially after he had shown his disapproval of Darian earlier.


    ¡°You should be polite to someone older, Dek, especially since Mr. Darian is your boss at the office!¡± Fahira exined while continuing her task.


    ¡°Why not Dr. Gavin, Fahira? He¡¯s more polite, gentle, and attentive to you!¡± Ariel honestly said, making Fahira sigh deeply as she stared back at Ariel.


    ¡°Listen me, there¡¯s nothing romantic between Mr. Darian, Dr. Gavin, and me. We¡¯re just friends!¡± Fahira exined, interrupting Ariel before he could say more.


    ¡°Now go take a shower; you¡¯re stalling!¡± Fahira didn¡¯t want to argue with Ariel, as she was still uncertain about her own feelings.


    Withzy steps, Ariel went to his room. He really didn¡¯t like the idea of Fahira choosing Darian over Gavin. In his opinion, Gavin was more suitable to be with his sister.


    ***


    This morning, Ariel was finally going back to school after almost three weeks of being absent due to illness. He was excited to be back in the school atmosphere, especially to see his teachers and friends again. Walking side by side down the stairs with Fahira, Ariel spotted Gavin¡¯s white Fortuner approaching them. Ariel didn¡¯t waste the golden opportunity to bring them closer together. He greeted Gavin politely and approached Damar, Fahira¡¯s ride-hailing driver, who was waiting on his motorbike right in front of Gavin¡¯s parked car.


    ¡°Damar, you go ahead; Fahira will go with her boyfriend!¡± Ariel whispered, causing Damar to smile significantly while ncing between Fahira and Gavin before leaving after saying goodbye to Fahira. Fahira just stood there in shock, realizing Ariel¡¯s little conspiracy with the ride-hailing driver.


    ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you?¡± Fahira scolded Ariel with irritation.


    ¡°Ariel, let¡¯s go!¡± Ariel called out, opening his helmet visor to say goodbye to Fahira and Gavin.


    ¡°Come with me, Fahira!¡± Gavin invited her with a gentle smile, and Fahira could only respond with a stiff smile, feeling ttered by the sweet gesture of the bespectacled man.


    ¡°I hope I¡¯m not being a bother, Doctor,¡± Fahira said, feeling a bit embarrassed.


    ¡°Ariel, you go first, Fahira!¡± Ariel intervened, holding Fahira¡¯s hand and kissing it before kissing her cheek as well and saying goodbye. Suddenly, Ariel¡¯s eyes widened in surprise as he saw a luxury jeep from a distance entering the apartmentplex.


    ¡°Fahira, hurry up, you¡¯ll bete! Take care of Fahira, Doctor!¡± Ariel said, pushing Fahira into Gavin¡¯s car before closing the door. Gavin smiled significantly at Ariel before circling his car to take the driver¡¯s seat.


    ¡°Yes! I did it!¡± Ariel cheered in his heart as he mounted his motorbike. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± he shouted with a sense of victory after making sure that Gavin¡¯s car had left.

 Prestige

    Darian was annoyed because he waste to pick up Fahira to go to the office together. Although Fahira didn¡¯t confirm his invitation yesterday, her silence made Darian believe that she agreed. For reasons unknown to him, Darian had trouble sleepingst night, feeling restless about many things. It wasn¡¯t just about Fahira, but also about his personal life. Many things had gone to waste in his almost 29 years of life. He had material wealth and poprity in his hands, but he had no provisions for the afterlife.


    Feeling insecure, his once high self-confidence now sank to the deepest corner of his heart. He even felt unworthy of standing next to Fahira, a kind-hearted and pious girl whose life he had ruined.


    Darian¡¯s car stopped not far from Gavin¡¯s white Fortuner as he watched Fahira step out of the car with a smile and chat for a while before waving to the person still inside the car. Normally, Darian would have been furious to see Fahira with her cousin. This time, however, he could only let out a long sigh as a feeling of suffocation gripped his chest. It was as if his lungs were blocked, leaving him breathless, as he realized that Gavin was more deserving of Fahira¡¯s affection than he was. His cousin had the opposite traits of him ¨C caring, gentle, polite, and well-educated. They had grown up together, with just a two-year age difference, like siblings. Despite Darian¡¯s quiet and reserved nature, Gavin never distanced himself from him. On the contrary, Gavin always tried to get Darian to y with him.


    Before leaving for the United States for his studies, Darian spent time with Gavin and their family almost every weekend. Back then, Gavin was still in high school while Darian pursued his education in America. Despite the distance, Gavin never forgot about Darian. At least once a week, he contacted Darian via WhatsApp or video call, always asking about Darian¡¯s well-being during his time in America.


    After finishing his bachelor¡¯s degree, Darian often returned to Indonesia during summer vacations to visit his parents. But he couldn¡¯t spend much time with Gavin. His cousin was pursuing a medical degree in Bandung. It was then that Darian realized the value of Gavin¡¯s care and concern for him. However, his pride prevented him from making any effort to improve his rtionship with Gavin.


    And now, Darian found himselfpeting with Gavin for Fahira¡¯s heart. The girl whose purity he had taken away. Now, he was torn between giving up and fighting for her love.


    ¡°I have to fight to win Fahira¡¯s love!¡± Darian muttered, watching Gavin¡¯s car as it left thepany premises. He promised topete with Gavin in a supportive manner. If Fahira didn¡¯t love him, he would let her go and ept her decision to be with his cousin.


    Darian stepped out of the car and handed the keys to the security guard who was responsible for parking the vehicles at thepany¡¯s basecamp, as usual. He walked through the giant ss doors that opened for him with his signature expression. The employees respectfully greeted their CEO as he entered the private lift.


    David, already seated at his desk with theputer turned on, appeared serious with his phone. Ray, who had just arrived, was surprised because it was umon for David to be early. ¡°You¡¯re already here? Is the boss inside?¡± Ray asked curiously, putting down his bag and taking a seat.


    ¡°The boss is weird! He didn¡¯t want me to follow him yesterday and insisted on driving his own car everywhere!¡± David honestly replied. ¡°Besides, I get to have a little fun this way!¡± he chuckled while ncing at Fahira, who was bringing a cup of coffee to Darian¡¯s office.


    ¡°Stop being stale! I want to work now. Get going, pal!¡± Ray said loudly, causing Mira to smile, while Susi remained indifferent as always.


    As Fahira entered Darian¡¯s office, David suddenly became alert. He opened an email he had sent to Darian a few weeks ago and started reading it carefully, until he reached a report on a bank ount mutation for Fahira. A sum of 100 million rupiahs was transferred to Fahira¡¯s personal bank ount under Darian¡¯s name. David paused for a moment, ncing at Fahira, who had just sat at her desk. His mind began to whirl, and various spections fought for space in his head.


    David continued to examine the information before him. His breath caught when he saw arger sum of money, 110 million rupiahs, being transferred to Medika Center Hospital with the patient¡¯s name listed as Nazriel Ramadhan. David may not have known Ariel well, but they had met several times when the young man picked Fahira up from work.


    Now David had the answers to his long-standing curiosity. Fahira was the girl who had changed his friend¡¯s life for the better. The man with a mundane life now looked more enthusiastic about living. Although it started from a wrong path, David was certain they were destined to be together. He quickly deleted all the information about Fahira, not wanting anyone to potentially interfere in their love life.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°David,e to my office!¡± Darian¡¯s voice suddenly startled David, who was still engrossed in the processing of deleted files. David quickly stood up and assumed a ready position.


    ¡°Sure, Boss!¡±


    As usual, Darian just nodded in response to the greetings of all the employees as he entered his office, followed by David.


    Fahira has entered and exited Darian¡¯s office more than three times, preparing for a meeting with potential foreign investors. She can only surrender without daring to protest against Darian¡¯s careless act of identally spilling coffee on important documents, which means Fahira has to print them again. She had already prepared all the files on Saturday so she could rx a bit on Monday, but now she has to redo her work.


    Fahira is a bit puzzled by Darian¡¯s strange behavior today. Her boss is quieter and more contemtive, while yesterday, after spending a beautiful day with Darian, she had tried hard to hide her feelings upon entering the office. However, he seemed indifferent as if nothing had happened.


    Standing in front of Darian¡¯s desk, Fahira waits for him to double-check the files before the meeting with the foreign investors.


    ¡°Fahira, can we start everything from scratch?¡± Darian says, diverting his attention from the files in front of him and looking at Fahira with an unreadable gaze.


    Fahira is taken aback and returns Darian¡¯s intense gaze. ¡°To forget the bad things that happened between us and start over. No hatred, coercion, or regrets,¡± Darian continues, cing his pen on the files he was reading. He stands up and approaches Fahira without breaking eye contact.


    ¡°What do you mean, Mr. Darian?¡± Fahira responds, not understanding the direction of Darian¡¯s conversation.


    ¡°To be honest, I¡¯m confused about what I¡¯m feeling right now.¡± Darian picks up Fahira¡¯s agenda book and ces it on the desk. He takes Fahira¡¯s hands and holds them.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious about what I saidst night. I want to introduce you to my mother as my future wife. Will you, Fahira Ramadhan?¡± Darian¡¯s words make Fahira¡¯s heart race.


    ¡°Is this a proposal or a marriage proposal?¡± Fahira protests, blushing.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want us to date because I don¡¯t want to date. I want us to get married right away!¡± Darian lets go of their hands and takes out a ck velvet box.


    ¡°Will you marry me, Fahira Ramadhan?¡±


    Fahira freezes in ce, her eyes welling up with tears. Unsure if she should believe what is happening.


    ¡°Please pinch my hand, Mr. Darian. It seems like I¡¯m hallucinating!¡± Fahira says hesitantly.


    ¡°This is real, Fahira!¡± Darian says, frustrated, as he yfully pinches Fahira¡¯s nose.


    ¡°So, you must be drunk, Mr. Darian. Otherwise, you¡¯re the one who¡¯s suffering from amnesia!¡± Fahira blurts out a silly statement.


    ¡°I should wash my face to wake up from this dream!¡± Fahira tries to leave, but Darian reaches for her hands again.


    ¡°Please, Fahira, I¡¯m serious!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m confused, Mr. Darian! As far as I know, the order for people in love is to get to know each other first, then propose, date, and only then get engaged. Besides, who proposes to a girl without saying ¡®I love you¡¯?¡± This time, Fahira teases Darian, who looks embarrassed.


    Darian bursts intoughter. The girl in front of him bes even more adorable as time goes by. For him, love doesn¡¯t always need to be spoken.


    The tense and romantic atmosphere instantly turns chaotic. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, whether you like it or not, you have to ept this!¡± Darian takes out a diamond ring from the velvet box and ces it on Fahira¡¯s ring finger.


    Fahira protests and tries to remove the ring, but Darian pulls her into a tight embrace.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. David, the meeting with the investors will start in 10 minutes.¡± David suddenly appears at the door.


    They quickly break the embrace. ¡°Thank you, David,¡± Darian says nervously, straightening his suit, while Fahira can only lower her head, hiding her blushing cheeks as she removes the ring from her finger and puts it in her zer pocket.

 Uncertain Feelings

    ¡°David, please leave us!¡± said Darian as they stood in front of thepany¡¯s lobby after finishing a meeting with foreign investors from Singapore.


    David, who was in the driver¡¯s seat, lowered his head and quickly stepped out of the car. He could feel the tense atmosphere during the journey back to the office. It was all his fault for entering Darian¡¯s office at the wrong time, just when Darian and Fahira were having a serious conversation. Fahira knew the reason behind Darian¡¯s drastic mood change. She was certain that he was upset because she had taken off the diamond ring he had given her earlier. Fahira didn¡¯t want to draw attention by wearing such a precious ring. She wasn¡¯t ready for her coworkers to know about their rtionship before they received Darian¡¯s mother¡¯s blessing.


    Feeling frustrated with Darian¡¯s unpredictable behavior, Fahira was about to get out of the car with David, but Darian quickly locked the car doors and instructed Fahira to move to the front seat. The luxurious ck car slowly left thepany premises.


    ¡°Where are we going, Sir?¡± asked Fahira, receiving no response. Darian remained still, gazing straight ahead at the road.


    For nearly three hours, he had been suppressing his emotions because Fahira had taken off the ring he believed she had feelings for him too. Fortunately, during the meeting, Darian managed to control his emotions and sessfully secured a business contract with the foreign investor. Darian was puzzled by the woman beside him. While many women were lining up and eager to marry him, Fahira was the one who refused without hesitation.


    ¡°There¡¯s still a lot of work I need to do today, Sir!¡± Fahira interjected again, failing to break the icy atmosphere in the confined space. Darian suddenly became mute and deaf. Fahira felt as if she was stranded in the North Pole with its icy king.


    ¡°Alright, I apologize!¡± Fahira said with annoyance, looking at Darian. The car suddenly braked and stopped on the side of the highway.


    ¡°Apologize for what?¡± Darian looked at Fahira with a cynical expression.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know! I¡¯m just amazed at how you can be angry one minute and nice like a fickle teenager the next,¡± Fahira honestly stated, further frustrating Darian.


    ¡°What part of what I said this morning wasn¡¯t clear, Fahira? Are you really that stupid or just pretending to be?¡± Darian snapped while messing up his hair and loosening his tie, feeling choked.


    Rather than being afraid, Fahira held back a amused smile at seeing Optimus Prime, who usually only appeared stoic and cold, now acting silly over a ring.


    ¡°Okay, fine, I¡¯ll ask again!¡± Darian sighed deeply and exhaled slowly three times to control the emotions that were about to explode. This time, Fahira couldn¡¯t hold back herughter. She burst outughing, covering her mouth with her hand, while Darian could only look at her with irritation. The anger that had been building up gradually subsided just by seeing Fahira¡¯sughter. Darian never understood why Fahira could effortlessly consume his entire being, even with herughter that melted his icy heart.


    Realizing that Darian was just staring at her nkly, Fahira quickly suppressed the remainingughter and returned Darian¡¯s unreadable gaze. The sharp,ser-like gaze had now turned into a gentle, loving look.


    ¡°Okay, I apologize, Sir, about this!¡± Fahira took out the diamond ring Darian gave her earlier that morning from her zer pocket and ced it in Darian¡¯s hand. She then held both of Darian¡¯s hands in hers and looked into his deep, ck eyes, trying to fathom his innermost feelings and convincing herself that her love wasn¡¯t unrequited.


    ¡°Does that mean you ept my love?¡± Darian said eagerly. He held Fahira¡¯s hands and locked his intense ck gaze with hers, attempting to delve into her deepest feelings and reassure himself that his love wasn¡¯t unreturned.


    Fahira shook her head gently and said, ¡°No,¡± pausing for a moment as she reluctantly broke their eye contact, relishing the change in Darian¡¯s handsome face. ¡°Until Mr. Darian says ¡®I love you¡¯ first!¡± Fahira continued, and a sigh of relief escaped from Darian¡¯s lips instantly.


    ¡°Should it be said again? You just did it!¡± Darian¡¯s hand slipped from Fahira¡¯s grasp as he scratched the back of his head, even though it wasn¡¯t itchy. Fahira¡¯s smile lit up her face as she nodded.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Darian replied briefly, then reached for Fahira¡¯s hands again, holding them tightly as his heart raced. The atmosphere felt tense and thrilling for both of them, and even the sounds of passing cars and honking horns couldn¡¯t disrupt the romance of the two lovebirds lost in their affection.


    ¡°Fahira!¡±


    ¡°Hmmmmm!¡±


    Darian¡¯s lips remained firmly sealed. The word ¡°love¡± still hadn¡¯t escaped his mouth. Only his eyes gazed intently at Fahira.


    ¡°Forget it! Let¡¯s go back to the office, Sir; our lunch break is almost over!¡± Fahira said in frustration, as nearly 30 minutes had passed without the sacred word leaving Darian¡¯s lips. She forcefully released her grip from Darian¡¯s hand and turned to face the road again.


    ¡°Fahira, I love you!¡± Darian quickly said.


    ¡°What does that mean, Sir? I don¡¯t understand!¡± Fahira yfully teased Darian, pretending not to know. It seemed that teasing Darian only required such a lighthearted approach.


    ¡°What now!¡± Darian muttered softly with a strange expression. There was no way both of them didn¡¯t understand the meaning of those three words.


    ¡°Forget it! Let¡¯s turn on the car and go back to the office!¡± Fahira invited, enjoying Darian¡¯s puzzled expression. It was a good opportunity for Fahira to yfully tease Darian in return for his cold behavior all this time.


    ¡°I¡­ I love you!¡± Darian said, which immediately made Fahira turn her gaze towards him.


    ¡°What, Sir?¡± Fahira teased again.


    ¡°This woman is something else. Beautiful but feisty!¡± Darian grumbled inwardly, then started the car¡¯s engine.


    ¡°On Saturday afternoon, I¡¯ll pick you up at your house; we¡¯ll go meet Mama!¡± Darian continued without much enthusiasm to repeat his words, while Fahira could only smile victoriously. Finally, Optimus Prime had dered his love for her.


    ¡°Bring this with you because it¡¯s yours!¡± Darian reached for Fahira¡¯s hand and ced the ring back into her grasp. Fahira looked at Darian and smiled.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start everything from scratch, so whatever happened in the past, I hope it won¡¯t affect us!¡± Darian reached for Fahira¡¯s hand, which still held the ring, and kissed it.


    That evening, Darian reluctantly allowed Fahira to leave with Gavin. Fahira promised to exin her rtionship with Darian to Gavin. In Fahira¡¯s eyes, Gavin was a good man, and she didn¡¯t want to hurt the doctor who had saved her brother¡¯s life.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Fahira!¡± Gavin stopped her as Fahira was about to get out of his car.


    ¡°Yes, Gavin? What is it?¡± Fahira said, holding the car door before sitting back down. Gavin looked at Fahira with an indescribable expression.


    ¡°I want to talk seriously for a moment!¡± Gavin said, releasing his seat belt and looking at Fahira.


    ¡°I like you!¡± That short sentence seemed to momentarily stop Fahira¡¯s heartbeats before they resumed loudly. Fahira froze; she had just nned to tell Gavin about her rtionship with Darian, but now he was confessing his feelings to her.


    ¡°You must be mistaken!¡± Fahira forced the words out with difficulty. Her tongue felt dry, making it hard to reject him. How could she break the heart of a man who had been so good to her and Ariel?


    ¡°No, I¡¯ve liked you for a long time. I¡¯ve even told my mother about you; she wants to meet you!¡± Gavin honestly admitted, causing Fahira¡¯s face to turn pale. She had to shatter the hopes of the man in front of her before anything even began.


    If only Gavin had confessed his feelings before Fahira got involved with Darian, perhaps she would have fallen for him, as it wasn¡¯t difficult for a charming and charismatic doctor like Gavin to win a woman¡¯s heart, especially Fahira, who had never experienced true love.


    Gavin reached for both of Fahira¡¯s hands, gazing intently into her deep, dark eyes. He saw his own reflection in those beautiful orbs.


    ¡°Take your time to think, and I¡¯ll wait as long as you need!¡± Gavin continued when he noticed her hesitation.


    ¡°Gavin, I¡¯m sorry, but I can¡¯t!¡± Those words came out trembling.


    ¡°It¡¯s because of Darian, right?¡± Gavin replied, forcing a smile. Fahira remained silent, repeatedly swallowing her saliva with difficulty. Her heart had just been filled with the sweetness of Darian¡¯s affection, and on the same day, she had to shatter another man¡¯s heart.


    ¡°Mr. Darian proposed to me!¡± Fahira said with difficulty.


    ¡°I¡¯m grateful, finally Mr. Darian found his chosen one. You¡¯re lucky, Fahira,¡± Gavin said sincerely, trying to calm his agitated heart.


    Gavin tried to maintain a calm expression on his face. After all, he had to be happy for his cousin.


    ¡°Congrattions to you both, and don¡¯t forget to invite me to your engagement, okay?¡± Gavin said, still keeping a genuine smile.


    ¡°Thank you, Gavin, for understanding. We can still be friends!¡± Fahira offered, still gazing intently at the man in front of her. She knew Gavin was disappointed, but he was skilled at hiding it.


    ¡°Of course. I¡¯ll be there for you, Fahira!¡± Gavin reconnected his seat belt as Fahira got out of his car. With a smile still on his face, Gavin waved goodbye to Fahira, who was standing by the side of his car. As the car window closed, Gavin¡¯s smile faded away. His heart hardened as he struggled to hold back his disappointment.


    ¡°I love you, Fahira. I truly love you!¡±

 Spies1

    The change in Darian¡¯s behavior over the past few days had not gone unnoticed by the other employees. The boss, who used to never smile, was now seen smiling several times. Mira, Susi, and Ray were gossiping about Darian¡¯s unusual behavior. When they asked Fahira about it, she responded calmly.


    ¡°David, you must know why the boss suddenly changed. Tell us!¡± Ray pouted as he approached David, who seemed focused on hisputer screen.


    ¡°Hmmmmmm!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re pretending to be quiet!¡± Ray annoyedly pushed David¡¯s shoulder when he didn¡¯t get a response.


    ¡°Do you really want to know?¡± David smirked and looked in Fahira¡¯s direction. Fahira appeared tense, waiting to see what David would say, as he was the only witness who knew about Fahira and Darian¡¯s rtionship.


    ¡°Hmmmm, tell us!¡± Mira urged, and Susi and Ray joined in, bombarding David with questions about their boss¡¯s sudden changes.


    ¡°Fahira, you know, right?¡± David probed, causing Fahira¡¯s face to pale. She smiled awkwardly, trying to hide everything.


    ¡°Wh-what?¡± Fahira stuttered nervously.


    Fahira felt embarrassed as the three pairs of eyes stared at her with horror. They seemed to be putting together all the events of the past three days, trying to find something odd.


    ¡°You must know, Fahira. You¡¯re the boss¡¯s secretary, and three days ago, you went out to have lunch with him!¡± Mira probed, moving closer to Fahira¡¯s desk.


    ¡°Exactly, just like what Mira said. Or maybe¡­¡± Susi pointed her index finger at Fahira¡¯s face.


    ¡°Come on, Fahira, just be honest. Did Mr. Darian have lunch with you, or did he have lunch with another woman? Maybe that pretty model, Mrs. Bn?¡± Ray chimed in, equally excited as the others.


    ¡°Ih, Ray, you know Bn too! Maybe you¡¯re following her on Instagram as well?¡± Susi teased with a smile.


    David, from his own desk, observed them, resting his chin on his hands. Sooner orter, Darian and Fahira¡¯s rtionship would be exposed.


    ¡°I¡­ I certainly don¡¯t know about Mr. Darian¡¯s personal matters,¡± Fahira replied nervously, while David chuckled, enjoying Fahira¡¯s changing expressions. She was clearly desperate to hide everything.


    ¡°Ahem.¡± The familiar voice came from behind. Their hairs stood on end. ¡°This is the office, not a ce for gossip!¡± the voice continued loudly. They quickly scurried back to their cubicles, not daring to look at the owner of the voice.


    ¡°Fahira,e to my office now!¡± Darianmanded firmly but with a gentle gaze before he returned to his room. He had to go outside because his phone call hadn¡¯t received a response from Fahira.


    ¡°Alright, Sir!¡± Fahira replied shortly, feeling grateful inside as Darian had saved her just in time. If Darian had been a littlete, she would have been forced to tell the truth to her colleagues. She couldn¡¯t lie to friends who felt like family.


    Fahira got up from her chair, carrying her agenda book with a pen tucked at the edge. The three pairs of eyes exchanged nces, each with their own thoughts, while David, who clearly knew everything, smiled and continued with his work. Since Darian and Fahira started dating, he jokingly called it ¡°BTS¡± or ¡°Boss Captivated by the Secretary,¡± a term he coined out of his frustration as he had to handle all the piled-up work. Although David¡¯s official job description was Darian¡¯s personal assistant, now he had less time with Darian. His additional role as a bodyguard also decreased, as Darian preferred driving himself and not being disturbed by anyone when he was with Fahira.


    Like yesterday afternoon, Darian only wanted Fahira to apany him for fitness, and David was free from duties. Jealous? Of course, David felt a bit left out by Fahira¡¯s presence by Darian¡¯s side. It felt like he had lost his best friend. On the other hand, David was also happy to see his friend smile more often. His obsession with work had shifted to Fahira. She had be the center of Darian¡¯s attention.


    ¡°What¡¯s up, Sir?¡± Fahira said politely.


    Darian smiled and patted the empty spot on the sofa beside him. Fahira sat down slowly. ¡°I really miss you!¡± Darian whispered softly while looking tenderly at Fahira. She blushed, her cheeks bing rosy and endearing in Darian¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°I want to take you somewhere. Are you up for it?¡± Darian said, reaching for Fahira¡¯s right hand and ying with her fingers. He intertwined them between his.


    ¡°Where to?¡± Fahira asked.


    ¡°You¡¯ll find out soon enough,¡± Darian replied briefly.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t want to go home toote again. Poor Ariel, he was upset with me yesterday because I came homete,¡± Fahira exined, hoping Darian would make sure to take her home on time.


    ¡°What time does Ariel usuallye home from school?¡± Darian asked, continuing to y with Fahira¡¯s fingers. His dark eyes remained focused on her beautiful face.


    ¡°He usuallyes home in about an hour. He used toe home in the afternoon when he was still healthy and the captain of his school¡¯s basketball team,¡± Fahira continued, her expression turning mncholic as she remembered how enthusiastic Ariel was when he talked about his team winning several tournaments at the district level. Basketball was Ariel¡¯s favorite sport. But then Ariel had to stop for the past seven months and fight to recover from the heart condition that had affected his body. Although Ariel¡¯s body had gradually recovered after the heart surgery, he was still prohibited from engaging in any strenuous activities.


    Darian hugged Fahira tightly. His lips were sealed shut every time Fahira talked about Ariel. It felt like reminding him of his biggest sin. Every time he thought about it, it brought up the guilt that was now intertwined with their love.


    ¡°Want to have lunch outside?¡± Darian offered, loosening his embrace. Fahira shook her head slowly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have lunch with the others, okay? They¡¯re starting to suspect our rtionship,¡± Fahira requested, and Darian couldn¡¯t possibly refuse her.


    ¡°Why does it matter if they find out about us? I was actually nning to announce our rtionship to everyone,¡± Darian said casually.


    ¡°No, Darian. Not until your mother gives her approval!¡± Once again, Fahira brought up the issue of approval. Darian was certain that his mother would ept their rtionship. Even Yasmin herself had told him to bring a prospective spouse before her birthday. Moreover, histe father, Rusdi, had entrusted him to take care of Fahira.


    Reluctantly, Darian gave in and asked David to join him for lunch in his office. Darian looked like he was enjoying his meal while David focused more on watching Darian. His instincts told him that something wasn¡¯t right. David feared that Darian and Fahira¡¯s rtionship wouldn¡¯t go smoothly. There would be many obstacles that would test their love. And he still hadn¡¯t received any results from Delon¡¯s investigation. David worried about the moment when all the facts were revealed. Their rtionship would have to end.


    ***


    Mrs. Mahesa


    ¡°David, you must know that Darian is getting close to a girl?¡±


    David fell silent as he read the text message from Yasmin, Darian¡¯s mother. What he had feared seemed to being true. He knew very well the criteria for a prospective daughter-inw that Mrs. Mahesa had. Fahira, a simple girl from an ordinary family, wouldn¡¯t be considered worthy to be showcased in front of business partners or fellow models with international status.


    David knew the Mahesa Putra family very well. They were a cold-blooded family, always extending a helping hand to those in need. However, they were also very private when it came to personal matters and the family¡¯s honor.


    For a long time, David stared at his blinking phone screen. Mrs. Mahesa¡¯s name was disyed there, which meant he had to convince her to believe in Fahira. As Darian¡¯s personal assistant, he also had no right to disclose his boss¡¯s personal matters without permission. But on the other hand, Mrs. Mahesa was also the owner of Putra Corporation. David weighed his options carefully while looking at Fahira. As he gazed at her, his heart softened. She had just started experiencing happiness, and now she was being tested again.


    Fahira¡¯s position would be the most disadvantageous. The worst-case scenario was that Mrs. Mahesa would dismiss Fahira in a disgraceful manner. Where would she find another job, especially in Jakarta where she was only with her brother, Ariel?


    David


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mrs. Mahesa, but I don¡¯t know anything about that.¡±


    Mrs. Mahesa


    ¡°Last Saturday night, Darian promised me that he would introduce a girl to me as his future wife.¡±


    David remained silent, looking at the slim screen in his hands.


    Mrs. Mahesa


    ¡°Very well, I¡¯ll find out for myself.¡±


    David


    ¡°I apologize, Mrs. Mahesa. Once I have information about the girl, I will contact you immediately.¡±Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    David chose to stay silent. Perhaps he should prepare for all the risks that woulde. He tried to think positively.


    ***


    In the evening, Darian and Fahira went home together at the end of office hours. Several employees were still moving around when Darian and Fahira walked out of the special elevator. Ray, who happened to be nearby, was shocked to see Fahira getting into the luxurious car belonging to the boss. A faint smile appeared on Darian¡¯s usually cold face as he took the driver¡¯s seat.


    Ray quickly took a picture of Darian¡¯s car as evidence to show David, Mira, and Susi tomorrow.


    Not far from them, a mysterious man who had been observing Fahira smiled from inside his car. ¡°I hope Darian can take over my duty of protecting you, Fahira, and soon my mission will be over.¡±

 Sister in Low VS Younger Cousin

    The night, Darian apanied Fahira home and had dinner together. At the same time, he tried to approach Ariel, who still openly rejected his presence. Even though Ariel didn¡¯t protest, Darian understood how ufortable Ariel felt about his rtionship with Fahira. Darianpletely understood it, knowing that he had made a negative impression on their first meeting. He couldn¡¯t bear to imagine what would happen if Ariel found out that their rtionship began with a grave sin. The teenager might even attack him if he knew that Darian was the one responsible for ruining Fahira¡¯s future. Ariel might also think that Darian¡¯s feelings for Fahira were merely a way to atone for his sins, but the truth was that Darian truly loved Fahira with all his heart.


    When they arrived at Fahira¡¯s home, they saw Ariel sleeping soundly with the television still on. Fahira allowed Darian to sit on the living room sofa near Ariel while she went into her room to change clothes. Before doing so, she gently took the TV remote from Ariel¡¯s hand and handed it to Darian.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be right back, I need to change,¡± Fahira said with a smile. Darian nodded and turned his attention to the television, trying to find a news channel.


    In a few moments, Fahira came out wearing her house clothes, a pink baby doll dress with a teddy bear pattern. Darian was mesmerized by the contours of Fahira¡¯s body that were clearly visible in front of him. ¡°Astaghfiruh,¡± he muttered to himself repeatedly, taking a deep breath.


    ¡°Darian, you should take a shower first! I¡¯ll cook, what do you want to eat?¡± Fahira said as she approached the sofa where Darian was sitting.


    ¡°Whatever you cook, I¡¯ll like it!¡± Darian grinned and winked. He stood up, messed up Fahira¡¯s hair yfully, and went into her room to freshen up.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Fahira replied shortly before heading to the kitchen. This was the second time Darian had dinner at Fahira¡¯s home. Besides Fahira feeling morefortable eating at home than outside, she also wanted to try to melt Ariel¡¯s heart, who was still ignoring her.


    Ariel was furious when Fahira was upfront about epting Darian¡¯s proposal. The teenager refused and insisted on choosing Dr. Gavin, his sister¡¯s boyfriend, instead. But Fahira understood Ariel¡¯s disappointment in her decision to ept Darian, so when Darian expressed his desire to get to know Ariel better, Fahira fully supported him.


    That evening, Fahira cooked rendang and Ariel¡¯s favorite spinach dish. Not only was it quick and easy to serve, but it was also Ariel¡¯s favorite meal. While the rendang was simmering, Fahira poured the cooked spinach into a bowl and ced it on the dining table. She then proceeded to peel mangoes and jicama. Suddenly, a hand wrapped around her waist. Darian¡¯s masculine scent overwhelmed Fahira¡¯s senses, and she closed her eyes, savoring his sweet gesture. She tried to calm herself down as she was beginning to feel conflicted. The day when Darian would introduce her to Yasmin, Darian¡¯s only surviving parent, was getting closer. Fahira was afraid that the rejection she had imagined all along might be a reality.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do that, Darian. I¡¯m all sweaty and sticky. I haven¡¯t showered yet!¡± Fahira squirmed to get Darian¡¯s hands off her.


    ¡°I like it!¡± Darian replied, sniffing Fahira¡¯s scent deeply. He couldn¡¯t bear not to touch her even for a moment.


    ¡°Release me, Darian. What if Ariel sees us? He might beat you up!¡± Fahira warned, still trying to free herself from Darian¡¯s grasp.


    ¡°For you, I¡¯ll do anything, Honey.¡± Darian took Fahira¡¯s hand that was holding his jaw and kissed it. ¡°Look at this!¡± Darian pointed to Fahira¡¯s palm, which had turned yellow from peeling mangoes.


    ¡°Oh God, forgive me!¡± Fahira immediately washed and dried her hands, then grabbed a tissue from the dining table and wiped Darian¡¯s face. His deep brown eyes continued to focus on the beautiful face in front of him.


    ¡°Cough cough, you¡¯re inviting me to pray, but you¡¯re dating instead!¡± Ariel cleared his throat as he saw Fahira and Darian¡¯s affectionate moment. He felt like dragging Darian out of the house, but when he saw Darian¡¯s athletic build, Ariel shuddered in fear. Even in just a T-shirt, Darian¡¯s muscr body was evident, and Ariel felt like a single punch from him could break his head.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, would you like to join me in Muay Thai training tonight? It¡¯s fun, you know! And we can go out afterward!¡± Darian offered, drying his hands with the tissue.


    Ariel just shrugged nonchntly and walked toward Fahira¡¯s room. In truth, Ariel had been interested in learning Muay Thai, a martial art from the Land of the White Elephant, but he was too embarrassed to just say yes.


    Realizing that Ariel didn¡¯t reject or ept his offer, a smile spread across Darian¡¯s lips. He was sure that Ariel was actually interested in joining him.


    For the third time, Darian performed the group prayer with Fahira and Ariel. His heart felt calm every time he was with them, as if he had found a family he had never experienced before in his life. Despite the small size of the house, being with Fahira and her brother made Darian feel spacious, a stark contrast to his luxurious apartment that always apanied him with solitude and silence. Even at his parents¡¯ home, the atmosphere was always quiet, as everyone was upied with their own affairs.


    As the prayer time approached, they continued their remembrance of God for a little longer until it was time for the Isha¡¯ prayer, and they prayed together in congregation.


    ¡°After this, Fahira, will you apany me for Muay Thai practice? Ariel, you can join too!¡± Darian¡¯s words broke the silence in the dining area.


    Fahira looked at Ariel, waiting for her brother¡¯s reaction. However, Ariel seemed indifferent, engrossed in enjoying his food with a nk expression.


    ¡°Do you want to go, Ariel? You used to be really keen on learning martial arts,¡± Fahira asked hesitantly, gazing at Ariel with a pleading look.


    ¡°It¡¯s up to you, Fahira. Besides, I¡¯m notfortable with you going out alone with him,¡± Ariel replied without diverting his attention from the food he was about to put into his mouth.


    ¡°Address him as ¡®Darian,¡¯ Ariel! He has a name!¡± Fahira gently scolded, feeling irritated by Ariel¡¯s childish behaviortely.


    Darian held Fahira¡¯s hand and said, ¡°Never mind, Love, we¡¯ll go together after dinner.¡±


    Ariel snorted in annoyance, looking at Darian with a cynical expression. He felt like Fahira no longer prioritized him, her own brother, since she met this foreign guy named Darian just a few days ago. Choosing to remain silent, Ariel finished his meal without showing any interest in Fahira¡¯s words.


    Ariel was mesmerized as he entered the Sasana Muay Thai studio. There were quite a lot of people training there, and the athletic men seemed enthusiastic and fully enjoying their practice. Unconsciously, Ariel walked towards the person who caught his attention the most ¨C the only woman training in the studio full of men.


    ¡°She¡¯s cool!¡± he praised in his heart.


    ¡°We¡¯ll stay here, and let Darian change his clothes first,¡± Fahira¡¯s pat on his shoulder instantly stopped Ariel in his tracks.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Ariel replied briefly and sat beside Fahira, his focus still on the girl who was training with the coach at the far end of the studio.


    Shortly after, Darian returned in his training gear and approached the coach. Following the coach¡¯s instructions, Darian did some light stretching, starting from his head, shoulders, arms, and down to his legs. Warm-up exercises were essential to loosen the muscles and avoid injuries during the energy-draining Muay Thai practice.


    Ariel¡¯s attention was now drawn to someone he didn¡¯t particrly like. In his eyes, the guy looked really cool. Darian seemed to excel in every move, even mastering them effortlessly. Fahira, who was also observing Darian, felt herself falling in love again with the brown-eyed man.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you bored waiting?¡± Darian asked after finishing his 60-minute training session. He stood there, wiping the sweat off his body with a small towel.


    ¡°No, not at all,¡± Fahira replied, somewhat stuttering. She was too engrossed in admiring the perfection of God¡¯s creation that was right in front of her. Fahira felt incredibly lucky to be the first woman to upy Darian¡¯s heart. Meanwhile, Ariel seemed more interested in the girl who had caught his attention since they entered the Muay Thai studio.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Ariel, Honey?¡± Darian switched to sit next to Fahira and received a bottle of mineral water from her. He opened it and quickly finished the drink.


    ¡°There!¡± Fahira pointed with her index finger at Ariel, who was engrossed in a conversation with a girl who appeared to be around the same age.


    ¡°Let them be for now; they seem to know each other,¡± Darianmented while cing the empty bottle next to him and removing the ankle wraps and hand wraps.


    ¡°Yeah, maybe they¡¯re schoolmates,¡± Fahira added.


    Realizing that Darian and Fahira were observing them from a distance, Ariel quickly invited the girl who had caught his attention since they entered the Muay Thai studio to meet Darian and Fahira.


    ¡°Let me introduce you, this is Fahira and Bang Darian.¡± Ariel introduced them. Darian smiled upon hearing the term ¡®Darian¡¯ from the lips of his girlfriend¡¯s younger brother.


    ¡°I¡¯m Rania, Ariel¡¯s junior at school,¡± the friendly girl replied, looking a bit shy. She extended her hand to shake Fahira and Darian¡¯s hands and then kissed the back of their hands in turn.


    Fahira examined the girl before her. Earlier, she noticed the only woman participating in the training at the studio. The girl named Rania had appeared fierce when attacking the coach, but now she looked gentle and polite.


    ¡°How about we all go home together?¡± Darian offered after they chatted for a while.


    ¡°Thank you for the offer, but my brother ising to pick me up. Normally, we train together, but he¡¯s super busy now,¡± the girl replied politely while shing a smile.


    ¡°Brother,¡± Darian repeated softly as he recognized the familiar face before him. He remained silent, trying to remember the girl¡¯s face.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go change my clothes first, excuse me,¡± Rania bid her farewell and walked towards the changing room.


    ¡°Who¡¯s she, Ariel?¡± Fahira teased, nudging Ariel¡¯s arm while he continued to look in the direction where Rania left.


    ¡°She¡¯s my junior at school,¡± Ariel replied, then sat next to Fahira as Darian went to change his clothes.


    ¡°Yes, I know. She mentioned that she¡¯s your junior. Fahira,¡­¡± Fahira paused, giving a teasing look.


    ¡°What is it, Sis!¡± Ariel replied irritably, getting up from his seat. He began to observe the people still training in the studio.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    An unexpected encounter took ce in the studio¡¯s parking area. Rania ran towards a white Fortuner car that Darian was very familiar with. A bespectacled man standing next to the car yfully ruffled the young girl¡¯s hair.


    ¡°Brother Darian,¡± she muttered and then hugged Rania tightly as she approached the three of them, who still looked puzzled.


    ¡°Oh my God, it¡¯s Darian! Why am I so excited?¡± Rania eximed and hugged Darian tightly.


    Gavin chuckled and exined, ¡°He¡¯s busy with his studies and work, and he forgot about his little sister.¡± Gavin understood that Darian didn¡¯t recognize Rania as his sister. They hadst met five years ago when Rania was in fifth grade. Darian always avoided family gatherings, so he hadn¡¯t seen Rania in a long time. Gavin and Rania were eleven years apart.


    ¡°Forgive me, Rania,¡± Darian said softly as he returned Rania¡¯s embrace. Although Gavin felt a bit awkward, he was warmed by Darian¡¯s gentle treatment of his sister.


    ¡°We¡¯ll head back now, Darian,¡± Gavin excused himself and shook hands with Darian. Gavin greeted Ariel and then looked at Fahira for a moment with an unreadable expression. Darian immediately put his arm around Fahira and said, ¡°Take care on the way, okay?¡± Gavinughed at Darian¡¯s possessive behavior towards Fahira and then got into the car, leaving the Muay Thai studio with a heart that felt shattered into pieces.

 Only You

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Honey?¡± Darian asked as he gently caressed Fahira¡¯s cheek. As usual, Darian would pick up Fahira to go to the office together.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing, I¡¯m just nervous about the event tonight!¡± Fahira replied, holding Darian¡¯s hand that was still touching her cheek.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry! Everything will be fine.¡± Darian held Fahira¡¯s hand and kissed it. The car glided from Fahira¡¯s house onto the main road. During the journey, Fahira remained mostly silent, as she had been anxious sincest night. In truth, Fahira had felt ufortable ever since Darian personally proposed to her. The rtionship between her and the boss was now known by their co-workers. While the colleagues in her division had no issues with it, the reaction was different among other colleagues. Fahira had felt their cynical and contemptuous gazes since two days ago when Darian openly showed his feelings and attention in public.


    This morning was even worse. Darian opened the car door for Fahira during the rush hour when the employees were arriving for work. The passing employees stopped in their tracks just to see who the lucky woman wasing with their big boss.


    ¡°Come on!¡± Darian extended his hand to Fahira, who was still hesitating in her seat.


    ¡°Honey!¡± Darian called softly. Fahira looked at him with pleading eyes and shook her head. She was not prepared for the stares of everyone now directed at them. The security guard who was in charge of parking Darian¡¯s car stood waiting beside him.


    ¡°Or should I carry you?¡± Darian leaned forward, whispering.


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t want that!¡± Fahira quickly refused and epted Darian¡¯s hand to step out of the car.


    ¡°That¡¯s my sweetie!¡± Darian chuckled and held Fahira¡¯s hand as they headed to a private elevator, ignoring the stares of all the employees. Fahira could only lower her head in embarrassment. But while they were still waiting for the elevator to open, Darian felt annoyed and stared back at the employees who were also waiting for the lift. Instantly, they all scrambled to get into the elevator, their heads lowered. They could only pray that their boss didn¡¯t recognize their faces and fire them on the spot.


    ¡°Darian, please don¡¯t do that! I¡¯m embarrassed, and now everyone¡¯s acting weird when they meet me,¡± Fahira protested when they were already inside the elevator.


    ¡°Tell me who¡¯s making you ufortable. If they know you¡¯re my future wife, they should respect you as they respect me!¡± Darian said, annoyed, while looking at his girlfriend¡¯s pale face.


    Darian took a deep breath and exhaled sharply. ¡°Listen, Fahira, no matter what happens, I promise to marry you!¡± Darian said firmly, then ced his hand on Fahira¡¯s slim waist. ¡°I love you, Fahira!¡± His brown eyes looked into Fahira¡¯s ck eyes with full confidence. Darian understood what was troubling his beloved.


    ¡°I believe you!¡± Fahira replied shortly, then pulled away from Darian¡¯s touch, breaking their eye contact.


    Darian and Fahira walked side by side. Darian¡¯s steps momentarily stopped as he leaned on Fahira¡¯s desk, looking at his lover as she put her bag down and took off her zer before sitting in her chair. Darian seemed like he didn¡¯t want to be away from her, even for a second. Fahira¡¯s smile widened as she returned Darian¡¯s gaze, and her fingers pointed to her wristwatch.


    The four of Fahira¡¯s colleagues dared to nce briefly, then pretended to be busy with theirputers. Darian chuckled and entered his office, immediately turning on hisptop. He sat in silence for a while, staring nkly at the t screen disying thepany¡¯s revenue and profit graphs for thest three months. To be honest, Darian also felt anxious about the dinner with his mother tonight.


    ¡°Focus, focus!¡± Darian murmured and started using the mouse. He immersed himself in his work when a knock on the door was heard. Fahira came in with a cup of her signature coffee blend, as usual.


    ¡°Thank you, Fahira!¡± Darian said after she ced the cup of coffee on his desk, not taking his eyes off the thin screen in front of him. Fahira left and returned to her desk.


    ¡°Be careful, alright!¡± Fahira felt irritated inside because she felt ignored by Darian.


    In his room, Darian chuckled as he saw Fahira¡¯s annoyed expression through the gap in his office curtains. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Sayang, even if I nce at your beautiful face for just a moment, my concentration that I¡¯ve been building up all this time will immediately break!¡± Darian grumbled as he reached for his phone, which was lying beside hisptop, and typed a few lines.


    After writing the magical message, Darian focused on his work again. Meanwhile, Fahira looked at her phone, seeing the name disyed on the screen. Fahira tried not to care and checked Darian¡¯s schedule for Monday. ¡°Should I open it?¡± Fahira¡¯s internal debate began when her phone started blinking again.


    ¡°Are you sure, Fahira? Don¡¯t you want to read a message from Optimus Prime? You might regret itter.¡±


    ¡°Stupid!¡± Fahira turned the screen of her phone away and opened the file she had to work on that day. However, she couldn¡¯t deny that she was curious about the content of Darian¡¯s message. The North Pole guy was no longer as cold as before. Now, he was always warm and sweet. Too sweet, in fact.


    Eventually, Fahira picked up her phone, swiped her lock screen pattern, and opened Darian¡¯s message.


    Optimus Prime


    ¡°You¡¯re my one and only love.¡±


    Fahira put her phone back down and looked at Darian¡¯s room with a radiant smile. With just a simple romantic message, Darian had managed to make Fahira¡¯s heart bloom with happiness.


    ¡°When will we get treated?¡± David interjected in the midst of their busy work. David was tired of sitting in front of hisputer when he used to go out of the office with Darian.


    ¡°Ah, good idea!¡± Ray chimed in, stretching his stiff muscles. ¡°It¡¯s almost lunchtime, anyway,¡± he continued, looking at Fahira, who seemed focused on her work.


    ¡°Fahira, did you hear what David and Ray said?¡± Mira finally spoke up.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    ¡°Up to you guys, I¡¯m in!¡± Fahira casually replied, still focused on her task.


    ¡°Nice, but¡­ Fahira needs to excuse herself first!¡± Susi interjected, pointing to Darian¡¯s room. She didn¡¯t want to get into trouble because, as far as she knew, Fahira always had lunch with Darian in his office.


    ¡°Easy!¡± Fahira replied shortly, still focused on her work.


    ¡°Cie, now you¡¯re the boss¡¯s guardian!¡± Mira teased, earning herself a pencil thrown by Fahira.


    Lunchtime finally arrived. Fahira tidied up her desk a little before asking Darian for permission to go with her colleagues.


    In his office, Darian was on a phone call with his mother. Leaning against the desk, he gazed out of the window as the scorching sun moved to its noon position. Unaware of Fahira¡¯s presence, he continued his serious conversation with Yasmin.


    ¡°¡­..¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mom, don¡¯t worry, Darian will keep his promise!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°Darian is sure you¡¯ll like her. She¡¯s a good and smart girl, Mom!¡±


    ¡°¡­¡­¡±


    ¡°See you, my first love!¡±


    After ending the call, Darian turned around and was surprised by Fahira¡¯s presence. He hadn¡¯t realized when his girlfriend had entered.


    ¡°Honey!¡± Darian put his phone on the table and approached Fahira. He embraced her tightly to soothe his longing. Darian never expected that falling in love could make him feel so crazy. Even though he and Fahira hadn¡¯t been apart today, Darian felt like he missed her as if they hadn¡¯t seen each other for a long time.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have lunch with my friends, okay? What do you want to eat so I can get it for you?¡± Fahira asked yfully. ¡°Rendang, maybe,¡± Darian replied briefly. Ever since being with Fahira, he also liked everything that she liked.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Fahira tried to untangle herself from the hug, but Darian tightened it even more.


    ¡°Promise me you¡¯ll never think of leaving me, because I will never let you go, Fahira!¡± Darian said, closing his eyes and inhaling the familiar vanice scent that was unique to Fahira. He didn¡¯t know why he felt more anxious after receiving the call from his mother. After tonight, everything would feel different. Tonight would be the decisive moment for their rtionship.


    ¡°I will never leave unless you ask me to,¡± Fahira replied, getting lost in the romantic atmosphere. The ringing of her phone in her hand forced them to release their embrace.


    ¡°Okay, be careful. Oh, by the way, if you need me, I¡¯ll be in my room!¡± Darian said, with both hands still resting on Fahira¡¯s shoulders. Fahira smiled, showing her agreement by forming the letter ¡®O¡¯ with her fingers.


    Darian¡¯s smile remained on his face as he inhaled the lingering scent of Fahira¡¯s body. He then entered his private room located behind the bookshelf. The room was quite spacious with minimalist furniture toplement it. It was his private space for rest and prayer.


    As Fahira brought lunch for Darian, she noticed that he wasn¡¯t in his office. Hesitant and worried, Fahira opened the hidden door behind the wardrobe that had slid open. Instantly, Fahira was mesmerized by the all-white and luxurious room. She felt the chill, thinking she was in a refrigerator.


    ¡°Really, this guy really likes to be in a cold room like this,¡± Fahira grumbled as she felt like she was inside a fridge.


    ¡°Are you here?¡± David¡¯s voice sounded from the direction of the bathroom. Darian appeared fresh and sexy with wet hair after taking a shower. He was only wearing pants with a thin undershirt that highlighted his well-built chest.


    ¡°Now I really want to be hugged,¡± Fahira mumbled in her heart before David¡¯s voice brought her back to reality.


    ¡°Wanna pray together?¡± Darian offered, putting on his shirt again. Fahira was still engrossed in cursing herself in her heart.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already prayed, Darian!¡± Fahira exined with a hint of hesitation, then smiled.


    ¡°Okay, you can just sit there, I¡¯ll pray first!¡± Darian replied, then immediately started praying.


    Fahira sat on the edge of the bed, scanning the whole room. Her fingers gently stroked the bed, which felt soft andfortable. Wanting to feel howfortable Darian¡¯s bed was, Fahiray down and was lulled by the gentle breeze from the AC. The cold airforted her until she dozed off, lying on her side at the edge of the bed. However, she was almost awake all night, thinking about the dinner event tonight. Fahira was captivated by thefort that seemed to embrace her body.


    ¡°Honey!¡± Darian called as he stood up. He smiled when he saw Fahira already asleep. Darian crouched beside Fahira and gazed at her beautiful face. He brushed away the hair that obstructed his view, then moved to the sofa. He opened the lunchbox Fahira brought him and devoured it while admiring her pretty face.


    ¡°You¡¯re my everything, Honey!¡±

 Rest

    A hoarse moaning sound could be heard from the girl, curled up under the thick nket on Darian¡¯s bed. Her half-open eyes caught sight of a familiar man staring silently at her. The man smiled and got up from his seat, approaching Fahira, who looked bewildered and embarrassed. Fahira just realized that she had fallen asleep on her boss¡¯s bed without a care. She quickly uncovered the nket and got up, but before her feet touched the floor, Darian squatted down, looking at her tenderly.


    ¡°Sorry, Mr. Darian, I overslept!¡± Fahira panicked, and her hands busied themselves tidying up her messy hair. Fahira nced at her wristwatch and eximed, ¡°Oh my God, why didn¡¯t you wake me up? It¡¯s already three in the afternoon. The office must be empty by now! Poor Ariel must be worried sick waiting for me. I¡¯m so sorry for messing up your bed,¡± she rambled on without pause, like a train on its tracks, while adjusting her clothes, and Darian could only chuckle, finding her amusing.


    ¡°Calm down, Honey, I took care of everything!¡± Darian said, standing up and reaching for Fahira¡¯s hands.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Fahira asked, still confused. She was trying to gather her thoughts, which were still lost in a pleasant dream. She blinked her eyes as she reyed her activities today and tried to understand how she ended up sleeping in her boss¡¯s private room.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You take a shower first, and then we¡¯ll go to one of Mommy¡¯s boutiques,¡± Darian said, leading the still-confused Fahira to the bathroom. He handed her a towel and closed the bathroom door with a chuckle.


    Darian returned to hisfortable sofa and surfed through his social media ounts. Suddenly, he realized that he hadn¡¯t followed his girlfriend on Instagram yet. He became curious about whether Fahira had as many followers as he did. ¡°Not bad,¡± Darian murmured, smiling as he caressed his phone screen, which disyed a photo of his girlfriend.


    Shortly after, Fahira came out of the bathroom, looking refreshed, and sat beside Darian. ¡°Darian, I¡¯m sorry, okay?¡± Fahira pleaded with a sincere smile. She truly regretted falling asleep for so long in Darian¡¯s private room during office hours.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to apologize for, Honey!¡± Darian pinched Fahira¡¯s nose yfully. ¡°That¡¯s your bag!¡±


    ¡°Ah, my work isn¡¯t done yet, and myputer is still on!¡± Fahira replied.


    ¡°David took care of everything. Let¡¯s head to the boutique now!¡± Darian suggested, picking up Fahira¡¯s bag and cing it on hisp.


    As Fahira applied light makeup to her face, Darian gentlybed her long and beautiful hair, allowing it to cascade down. Without taking his eyes off the girl beside him, Darian felt grateful in his heart for sending someone as good as Fahira to guide him to repent and improve himself. Ever since he stayed over at Fahira¡¯s ce in a drunken state some time ago, Darian had started to improve his religious practices, making time for his muslim obligations no matter how busy he was.¡±


    ***


    Fahira remained still, her gaze fixed on the giant que that read YZ Boutique. Anxiousness gripped her heart. Honestly, she was still not ready to meet Yasmin as Darian¡¯s girlfriend. Fahira was certain that tonight would determine the future of their rtionship. Would it end or continue to the wedding? If she could choose and be selfish, Fahira could take advantage of the situation to extract as many benefits as possible from being Darian¡¯s girlfriend without bothering to be his wife, like Helen, her fellow secretary colleague, did. The man would surelyply with all her wishes. But Fahira wasn¡¯t like that; she genuinely loved Darian despite the fact that their rtionship started from the biggest mistake of her life.


    Darian smiled reassuringly and reached out his hand. Fahira took a deep breath to replenish the suddenly depleted oxygen in her lungs. Her heart was beating fast like the thumping of a beat filling her chest.


    Fahira epted Darian¡¯s hand and entered the boutique. It was possible that they would meet the boutique¡¯s owner, who happened to be Darian¡¯s mother. But earlier, Darian had made sure that Yasmin was not at the central YZ boutique.


    Seeing the boss¡¯s son arrive, two boutique employees warmly weed Darian and Fahira. ¡°Is my order ready?¡± Darian asked the boutique manager named Dinda, whom he had known for a long time.


    ¡°Already, Sir. Pleasee in!¡± Dinda replied, ushering Darian and Fahira into the dressing room.


    With the help of another employee, Dinda showed Darian several beautiful dresses. ¡°Honey, try these on, okay?¡± Darian said gently to Fahira. Fahira nodded and followed the employee into the fitting room, carrying the dresses Darian had chosen.


    Darian sat on the sofa in front of Fahira¡¯s dressing room, eagerly waiting to see his girlfriend in a different look tonight. Darian¡¯s restlessness didn¡¯t escape Dinda¡¯s attention. The middle-aged woman, who was around the same age as Darian¡¯s mother, smiled gently. This was the first time Darian had brought a girl to Yasmin¡¯s boutique. Dinda often heard Yasminin about Darian¡¯s reserved nature. ording to information she got from Yasmin, Darian had never been close to any woman before.


    ¡°Darian, how about this?¡± Fahira asked excitedly. She liked the ck dress with open shoulders that now clung to her body. Darian seemed to think for a moment before giving an answer.


    ¡°No, Honey, it¡¯s too revealing!¡± Darian protested, noticing Fahira¡¯s beautiful and smooth shoulders exposed. The girl in front of him looked very sexy, but Darian didn¡¯t want other men to see his girlfriend. Even though it was just dinner with his mother, there would be some male employees at home, and they would naturally see his girlfriend¡¯s body. With annoyance, Fahira returned to the dressing room. Dinda, who was observing their interaction, could only smile. In her opinion, Darian and Fahira looked verypatible. Fahira was a simple girl, but with a little makeup, she would transform into a celestial being.


    ¡°This is thest one!¡± Fahira pouted, wearing a peach-colored sleeveless mini dress. Some ents from the chest down to the bottom of the dress gave it an elegant touch. It was simple, but the dress perfectlyplemented Fahira¡¯s slender figure.


    Darian didn¡¯t say anything. He stood up and approached Fahira, smiling meaningfully. Dinda gave a signal to the employee who stood beside Fahira to leave with her. She gave the young couple a moment of privacy, immersed in their romance.


    ¡°Beautiful!¡± Darian praised without blinking. He traced Fahira¡¯s body from her toes to the tips of her hair. Instantly, a blush spread across Fahira¡¯s face and neck. Darian could only hold his breath as other feelings disturbed his mind and body. Two intertwined elements that usually hit adult men seemed to stir within him.


    Darian¡¯s hand extended to caress Fahira¡¯s cheek for a moment before calling Dinda. ¡°Mrs. Dinda!¡±


    Soon, Dinda entered with the employee who had helped Fahira change clothes earlier. ¡°Yes, Mr. Darian, is there anything else I can help with?¡± Dinda asked politely.


    ¡°Find some shoes that suit Fahira!¡± Darian replied, still captivated by Fahira¡¯s presence. ¡°Okay, sir!¡±


    ¡°Let Miss Fahira!¡± the employee said.


    Now, they were on the second floor of the boutique, where the collection of branded shoes and handbags was disyed. After finding what Darian wanted, they returned to the dressing room. A makeup artist was already waiting to beautify Fahira for the evening. Three days ago, Darian had asked Dinda to prepare everything for tonight without Yasmin, his mother¡¯s, knowledge.


    While waiting for Fahira, Darian wandered around the boutique, looking at his mother¡¯s collection that had never interested him before. Unbeknownst to Darian, he had be the center of attention for the customers who came in. Coincidentally, the boutique was crowded that afternoon, and Darian was the only man there. With his attractive physique and handsome face, Darian seemed to be a ma for women.


    ¡°Sir, Miss Fahira is ready!¡± the employee who had apanied Fahira earlier informed.


    ¡°Okay, thank you. Oh, wrap these dresses!¡± Darian pointed to several pastel-colored dresses for Fahira, ording to her taste. As far as Darian could remember, she had never worn clothes with bright colors or patterns before.


    Darian didn¡¯t care about the admiring nces from all the women around him. He was used to it, except for Fahira. She was the only woman who looked at him inly. To him, she was different from most women who approached him only for money. The cold and aloof expression that usually marked her face seemed to vanish this evening. Cupid¡¯s arrow had hit the depths of his heart, and a faint smile had been gracing his serious face since then.


    ***


    Right after the prayer, Darian and Fahira headed to Putra¡¯s residence. It¡¯s needless to ask about Fahira¡¯s heartbeat. Of course, it wasn¡¯t in a good condition now. She couldn¡¯t stop sending blessings to the Prophet in her heart while her cold hands trembled, trying to calm the anxiety that overwhelmed her.


    On the other hand, Darian seemed ted. His brown eyes couldn¡¯t stop adoring the girl by his side since they left the boutique. Dinda had seeded in transforming Fahira¡¯s appearancepletely. The simple Fahira had turned into an angelic beauty.


    Darian¡¯s car stopped in front of the tall white gate. Fahira became more nervous as the giant gate slowly opened, revealing the grand mansion with its two-story giant pirs. The car entered the spacious courtyard, passing through a fountain with Greek god statues in the middle. Don¡¯t even ask about the beauty of this house. Fahira was already amazed just by looking at the beautiful garden apanying their drive. It felt like she was in a fairytalend. The beauty of the house was already evident in the front yard, let alone during the daytime.


    Possessively, Darian wrapped his arm around Fahira¡¯s slender waist as they entered the magnificent house. As soon as Darian¡¯s car stopped, a bodyguard weed them, holding the door open. Darian immediately walked towards the dining room.


    ¡°Sir Darian has arrived; I will call the Madam!¡± greeted a friendly household staff, a woman around 57 years old.


    ¡°Yes, please, we¡¯ll wait here!¡± Darian replied amiably, then pulled out a chair for Fahira.


    ¡°You¡¯re such a beautiful youngdy! Sir has excellent taste!¡± praised Bi Aminah kindly, gazing gently at Fahira. Darian chuckled and held Fahira¡¯s cold fingers in his.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Honey, you¡¯ve known Mommy for a long time. Why are you so nervous?¡± Darian tried to calm his girlfriend.


    Fahira could only respond to Darian with a smile as the woman they were waiting for descended the stairs gracefully. Yasmin always looked stunning. Age didn¡¯t diminish her charm. Right now, the woman in her fifties walked gracefully in a navy-colored long dress with her beautiful brown hair cascading down. Yasmin even looked more like Darian¡¯s older sister than his mother.


    Darian and Fahira immediately stood up to wee Yasmin. They shook hands and kissed Yasmin¡¯s hand in turn.


    ¡°Please, Fahira, have a seat,¡± Yasmin said warmly.


    Yasmin took her seat after Darian pulled out the chair for her. Now they were facing each other. Darian, who was looking at Fahira¡¯s downcast face, held her hand on hisp. Yasmin smiled faintly with an inscrutable expression as she observed how Darian gazed at Fahira.


    ¡°Ahem¡­¡± Yasmin cleared her throat to divert Darian¡¯s attention and said, ¡°Let¡¯s eat first!¡± She invited them, and two waiters served their dinner.


    ¡°Mom¡­¡± Darian called out after finishing his dinner quickly. Yasmin raised her hand, gesturing for Darian to be quiet. She then picked up her drink and took a sip.


    Yasmin didn¡¯t expect that the girl chosen by her son would be Fahira, his secretary. There were dozens of beautiful girls she introduced to Darian, so why did her son choose an ordinary and simple girl like Fahira? Moreover, Yasmin knew that Fahira was an orphan. Yasmin restrained herself from expressing her feelings directly. She still had a heart and deeply respected herte husband¡¯s will.


    ¡°I love Fahira, so I hope you¡¯ll approve of our rtionship, Mommy!¡± Darian expressed, pleadingly. He knew his mother well. Her first love didn¡¯t agree with Darian¡¯s decision to choose Fahira as his wife.


    ¡°Can I have a moment to talk with you? Can Fahira join us?¡± Yasmin said, looking at Darian seriously and then shifting her gentle gaze to Fahira.


    ¡°Of course, Mrs. Yasmin!¡± Fahira replied briefly.


    Yasmin immediately got up from her seat, and Darian followed. ¡°Just a moment, Honey,¡± Darian excused himself, then kissed the top of Fahira¡¯s head.


    ¡°What is it that makes Mommy not like Fahira? She¡¯s the girl I¡¯ve chosen!¡± Darian asserted when they were in the library, which also served as herte husband Rusdi¡¯s workspace. Darian held both of Yasmin¡¯s hands and kissed them in turn.


    Yasmin looked into Darian¡¯s eyes. The two pairs of brown irises were now locked in a gaze. ¡°Now, make your choice. Me or that girl?¡± she asked firmly.

 Can鈥檛 Be Without You

    Only faint breaths apanied Fahira and Darian on their journey from Setiadi¡¯s grand residence. Darian chose to focus on the asphalt road ahead, while Fahira preferred to look out the window. Even without Darian saying anything, Fahira already knew that Mama Yasmin didn¡¯t approve of their rtionship. It hurt, knowing the reality that their love wasn¡¯t sanctioned by Darian¡¯s parents. Love and pain came hand in hand.


    Fahira knew that all of this was bound to happen, and she had to be prepared. Memories of their time together shed before her eyes. Fahira¡¯s smile blossomed as tears that had been welling up in her eyes started to fall. The tears flowed freely, and she couldn¡¯t hold them back any longer. Tomorrow, everything would change.


    Darian reached for Fahira¡¯s right hand and held it tightly. Both of them were hurting. Darian guided Fahira¡¯s fingers to his lips and kissed them repeatedly. He couldn¡¯t be fair to the two women he loved so deeply. He couldn¡¯t choose because both of them were his soulmates. Darian never expected his mother to reject Fahira for something he considered illogical. His parents had never judged people based on their social status.


    ¡°Now, make your choice. Me or that girl?¡± Yasmin had asked.


    ¡°Give me one reason, mommy, why you reject Fahira? I love her so much,¡± Darian pleaded with his eyes.


    ¡°Not now, Darian. One day, you¡¯ll thank me for this decision,¡± Yasmin replied firmly.


    ¡°But, Mommy?¡± Darian¡¯s plea was interrupted as Yasmin raised her hand, indicating that her decision was final.


    ¡°Papa did ask us to take care of Fahira, but it doesn¡¯t mean you have to marry her,¡± Yasmin stated firmly. ¡°I¡¯m sure you won¡¯t disappoint me, Darian!¡±


    Their conversation with Yasmin echoed in Darian¡¯s mind. He looked sadly at Fahira, who remained silent. Darian knew she was crying now. Once again, he held Fahira¡¯s hand tightly and ced it over his heart.


    ¡°This heart belongs only to you, Fahira!¡± Darian said, causing Fahira to turn and look at him. Her ck eyes were reddened and teary.


    Unexpectedly, Darian chose a different direction than the way to Fahira¡¯s home. Fahira slowly withdrew her hand from his chest.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine,¡± Fahira replied briefly, looking out at the street with a vacant expression.


    Fahira didn¡¯t resist when Darian took her to his apartment. She didn¡¯t want to waste theirst moments together as a couple, as the next day, they would only have the boss-secretary rtionship. They wanted to create beautiful memories before everything came to an end.


    Darian led Fahira to a sofa facing a giant screen where he usually spent time alone, watching national and international business news. Darian went to the fridge and took out some cold drinks. He also ordered some snacks online for the both of them.


    ¡°Honey, I want to spend tonight with you. Let me know if you mind,¡± Darian knelt in front of Fahira, holding both her hands. He looked up, locking his gaze with her ck eyes, seeking her approval. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll take you home now!¡± Darian continued when he received no response from her.


    ¡°Darian!¡± Fahira called out as he started to get up, then she held onto his fingers. Darian looked at Fahira hesitantly.


    She smiled and pulled Darian back to sit beside her. ¡°Forgive me, Darian, for loving you!¡± Fahira expressed sincerely. The words of love that she had never spoken before finally found their way out.


    Darian smiled and embraced Fahira tightly. ¡°Thank you, Honey, I love you more!¡± Darian replied, then kissed the top of Fahira¡¯s head.


    Teeet¡­ teeet¡­ The doorbell of the apartment rang. ¡°Wait, I ordered some snacks for us tonight!¡± Darian said as he released his embrace and headed towards the door.


    Not wanting to drown in sadness, they decided to watch a Turkish drama series titled ¡°Kiraz Mevsimi¡± at Fahira¡¯s request. Fahira was a Turkish drama enthusiast because she found the actors and actresses handsome and beautiful, and their exceptional acting skills always mesmerized her, especially in the romantic scenes.


    ¡°Ayaz kinda looks like you, Darian,¡± Fahira teased, still in Darian¡¯s embrace. He chuckled and yfully pinched her cute nose.


    ¡°Oh, really? I¡¯m much better looking than him,¡± Darian protested, yfully grabbing Fahira¡¯s hand and pulling it towards his own lips.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of gaining weight, Honey?¡± Darian asked, surprised that Fahira hadn¡¯t stopped chewing since the drama started.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care if I get chubby, who cares!¡± Fahira replied nonchntly, taking another bite of her food.


    Darian transformed the sofa into a makeshift bed for them and ced Fahira¡¯s head on his chest once again. ¡°Hold on a moment!¡± Fahira stopped him, reaching for a cold drink and taking a slow sip, leaving half of it behind.


    Fahira found the mostfortable position on Darian¡¯s chest, her attention back on the giant screen in front of them. Darian¡¯s left hand continued to stroke her hair, while his right hand held her fingers tightly. If he could turn back time, Darian would repeat everything from the beginning. He didn¡¯t want to sacrifice the feelings of the two most important women in his life, but he had to make a choice, even though his heart didn¡¯t want to part ways.


    ¡°Honey!¡± Darian called softly, gently caressing Fahira¡¯s cheek. He chuckled as he realized that Fahira had fallen asleep. Slowly, Darian moved her head to the side of the sofa, got up from his ce, and began cleaning up the leftover food and drinks.


    Darian lifted Fahira¡¯s body and carried her to her room. Heid her down on the bed and covered her with a nket. Darian stood there in silence, gazing at Fahira¡¯s serene face. The pain that had been slowly slicing through him now felt like a heart-wrenching tear as he realized that this was thest time they would spend together.


    ¡°My life is iplete without you, Fahira!¡± Darian whispered, looking at her with a mncholic expression as he took a deep breath to replenish the fading oxygen in his chest.


    He felt suffocated.


    Then, heid down beside Fahira, facing the beautiful face that had captured his heart and mind. He examined every line on her face, almost driving himself mad. He carefully stored every detail in his memory, preserving it neatly and eternally, until slowly, but surely, his consciousness began to fade.


    ***


    Fahira¡¯sfort was disrupted as the melodious call to prayer echoed softly. The beautiful sound seemed to beat on her eardrums loudly. Fahira slowly opened her eyelids, only to find an empty space beside her. She was certain that she fell asleep in Darian¡¯s embracest night. Fahira got up, pushing aside the nket that covered her body, and reached for her bag. She took out her phone and turned off the rm.


    Feeling a bit groggy, Fahira entered the bathroom to perform ablution. To her surprise, when she came out of the bathroom, Darian was already standing, waiting on his prayer mat, and smiling at her. Fahira¡¯s vision blurred again. Fortunately, Darian didn¡¯t notice the teardrops in Fahira¡¯s eyes, which mingled with the water from her ablution falling from her face.


    In silence, Fahira put on her prayer garment and prepared for prayer. The sound of ¡°Takbir¡± signaled that Darian had started his prayer. Fahira¡¯s heart trembled as tears flowed freely. Her heart was enchanted by every melodious recitation of the holy verses of the Quran that Darian read. If Fahira could plead with God, then just this once, she wished for the man before her to be the Imam of her life.


    ***


    ¡°After breakfast, you can take a shower. Your change of clothes is in the ck paper bag on the nightstand,¡± Darian said between their breakfast.


    ¡°Where are we going? It¡¯s Sunday, and we still have time to rx,¡± Fahira replied, slightly disappointed as she assumed Darian would soon take her home, but she wanted to spend more time with him.


    ¡°To a beautiful ce, so finish your meal quickly,¡± Darian smiled, moving his te away and folding his hands on the table, looking at Fahira with an unreadable grin.


    ¡°Oh God, I forgot to call Ariel since yesterday,¡± Fahira eximed with panic, about to get up to grab her phone.


    ¡°David has been with Ariel since yesterday, so don¡¯t worry,¡± Darian reassured, holding Fahira¡¯s hand and making her sit back down.


    ***


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Darian held Fahira¡¯s hand, who was still in awe at the beauty of Anyer Beach. It was a coastal tourist destination on the outskirts of Jakarta, precisely in Banten, which Fahira had long wanted to visit. She always dreamed of enjoying the sunset at Anyer Beach with her loved one. And today, her dream came true, as she was walking hand in hand with the man she loved.


    ¡°Am I not dreaming, Darian?¡± Fahira said while admiring the beautiful view. Darian gazed at the girl beside him with love, who was mesmerized by the vast and stunning scenery before them. He intertwined Fahira¡¯s fingers with his own. ¡°You, Fahira, are the woman who will fill my heart forever,¡± Darian whispered to himself, pulling Fahira closer to the shore.


    After enjoying the sea, they sat side by side on the beach. Fahira yed with the white sand being gently swept by the small waves, while Darian, sitting behind her, relished the scent of her body that he knew he would miss dearly.


    ¡°Darian, is this beach always empty? From what I¡¯ve heard, it¡¯s never without visitors, especially on weekends like this,¡± Fahira asked curiously, noticing that they were the only ones along the beach besides the staff.


    ¡°Today, this beach belongs to us!¡± Darian chuckled.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Fahira inquired, ying with Darian¡¯s fingers that encircled her.


    ¡°I rented this ce, Fahira, just for the two of us!¡± Darian revealed, surprising Fahira. She shifted her position to face Darian with an incredulous look.


    ¡°Yes, Honey, I would do anything to make you smile!¡±


    ¡°Come on, our lunch is ready!¡± Darian stood up, lifting Fahira¡¯s body. She protested and struggled to get down, but Darian wasn¡¯t one to be defeated by Fahira. Eventually, she surrendered, hiding her face in Darian¡¯s chest out of embarrassment.


    ¡°Why do you be more adorable?¡± Fahira¡¯s blushing face looked up at Darian, and he yfully touched their noses together, seeing Fahira¡¯s cute expression.


    After lunch, they headed to the cottage that Darian had rented for them to freshen up and rest for a while. Fahira¡¯s eyes widened when they entered the cottage, as it directly faced the open sea. ¡°Thank you, Darian!¡± Fahira said emotionally, her eyes welling up.


    ¡°Take a shower first; you¡¯re making this ce dirty,¡± Darian teased with a grin.


    ¡°Okay then!¡± Fahira grumbled, heading straight to the bathroom.


    Wearing only a bathrobe, Fahira came out of the bathroom as she had forgotten to bring a change of clothes. She looked around for her bag but couldn¡¯t find it, and Darian was nowhere to be seen. Her attention was drawn to a red paper bag with a heart-shaped card that read ¡®To my sweet heart¡¯ on the bed.


    Curious, Fahira approached and opened it. Inside was a sleeveless white dress with a V-shaped neckline, matched with silver stiletto heels and a clutch.


    Suddenly, Fahira¡¯s phone rang loudly, making her jump. She quickly grabbed her phone and answered it.


    ¡°Hurry up! I¡¯m waiting downstairs! Love you. Click!¡±


    Before Fahira could respond, the call ended abruptly.


    ¡°Come along, Miss!¡± A young woman in a blue uniform, whom Fahira recognized as a cottage staff member, said.


    ¡°You scared me there!¡± Fahira eximed, startled as the girl suddenly stood behind her room¡¯s door.


    ¡°I apologize, Miss. Mr. Darian instructed me to escort you,¡± the girl said politely.


    From a distance, Fahira was greeted with Darian¡¯s warm smile, and even the beautiful evening sunset couldn¡¯t divert her attention from the brown-eyed man. Fahira slowly approached Darian, who had been waiting for her.


    Darian¡¯s smile remained as he held Fahira¡¯s hand, guiding her to a table and two special chairs set right at the edge of the beach.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°If I may ask, I only want you to apany me for the rest of my life,¡± Darian said, causing tears to escape Fahira¡¯s dark eyes.


    ¡°I love you, Darian. I love you so much!¡± Fahira eximed, hugging Darian tightly and releasing all her feelings. Fahira¡¯s tears flowed freely in Darian¡¯s embrace, and he was equally powerless.


    ¡°I love you too, Fahira! And I will always love you,¡± Darian expressed, tightening his embrace even more.


    ***


    That evening¡¯s sunset taught me that love and letting go are inevitable. It also left me with longing to let go of all feelings to be buried.

 Break Up

    Fahira thought her feelings for Darian would fade away with time, but in the second week of their separation, her heart felt even more wounded. She had tried countless times to convince herself that everything would be fine. Fahira, who was always strong and resilient, felt different this time. She was in pain. She was fragile.


    Instead, Fahira experienced severe sleep disturbances or insomnia. Every night, she remained awake, her eyes reluctant to close as beautiful memories with Darian pulled her back into the past. It was only around three in the morning that Fahira could finally shut her eyes, but only for 1-2 hours. She felt like giving up, but she also needed to work; she couldn¡¯t just leave her hard-earned job because of personal issues.


    Moreover, the pressure from her coworkers, who would look at her with disdain whenever they met, added to her burdens. Her closeness with Darian a few weeks ago had be the subject of gossip among almost all employees in thepany. However, Fahira didn¡¯t want to dwell on that. What mattered most to her now was healing her own heart. Fahira was certain that Alea was the best choice for Yasmin, Darian¡¯s mother.


    On a night like this, Ariel found Fahira curled up on her bed again. Ariel knew her sister was crying, just like the nights before. Ariel¡¯s heart ached, so much so that she wanted to confront Darian directly. From the beginning, Ariel was ufortable with Darian¡¯s presence beside Fahira. And now, her worst fears hade true. Her sister had to experience heartbreak in her first experience of falling in love.


    ¡°Are you okay? Your face looks so pale,¡± Ariel asked with concern.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Dek. Maybe just tired,¡± Fahira replied, preparing breakfast for both of them. Then silence fell again.


    Since Fahira¡¯s return on Sunday night with Darian, everything had changed. Fahira, who was always friendly and cheerful, became more reserved. She chose to stay busy and immerse herself in her work rather than engage in casual conversations with her colleagues. Although Fahira usually responded to their jokes, this time it was different. Fahira intentionally kept herself upied, even doing some of David¡¯s work. Ray, Mira, Susi, and David themselves chose to stay silent unless Fahira initiated a conversation. They understood how their colleague felt, and they were ready to defend her on the front lines whenever employees from other divisions made hurtful remarks about Fahira and Darian¡¯s rtionship.


    Ariel nced at Fahira for a moment before finishing his breakfast. Then they both got ready and left for their respective destinations. Ariel went with his friend Arif, while Fahira went with Mang Damar, her regr ojek (motorcycle taxi) driver. The man who usually kept an eye on Fahira now became her shadow guard, as did Ariel. When the time was right, he would reveal his true self. But first, he had other tasks toplete.


    As Fahira arrived at the office, she headed to the pantry first, as usual, to make a cup of coffee for her boss. She felt a sense of relief when she entered Darian¡¯s office and saw that he hadn¡¯t arrived at his desk yet. Fahira quickly turned to leave. However, just as her hand was about to grasp the door handle, the door suddenly opened, and the person she was trying to avoid was now standing there, staring at her with a nk expression.


    ¡°Excuse me, I¡¯ll take my leave!¡± Fahira said, bowing slightly in respect, while the man continued to gaze fixedly at her, blocking her path. Darian remained silent, his jaw clenched as he observed Fahira, who looked thinner, gloomy, and lost in thought. Unbeknownst to Fahira, Darian had been secretly watching her through the gap in the curtains of his office.


    Instead of giving Fahira way to pass, Darian entered and closed the door, leaning against it.


    ¡°Don¡¯t make a habit of always bowing your head in front of me!¡± Darian spoke coldly, causing Fahira to slowly lift her head. Their eyes met for a moment before Fahira mustered the courage to respond and match Darian¡¯s icy gaze. ¡°I have work to do, so please let me leave now!¡±


    Darian let out a sharp exhale. Fahira looked disheveled, her eyes darkened, and her face appeared pale. ¡°Today¡¯s schedule is packed. If you¡¯re not feeling well, you should go home and rest. Let David take care of all your work,¡± Darian said firmly, emphasizing his words. Of course, he didn¡¯t want to see the woman he loved fall ill.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Mr. Darian!¡± Fahira retorted, just as determined. Darian then shifted his body away from the door and walked towards hisrge chair, avoiding looking at Fahira¡¯s back because he knew he wouldn¡¯t be able to let her go if that happened.


    The memory of their final encounter as a couple reyed in Darian¡¯s mind uncontrobly.


    ¡°After today, we will only be boss and secretary. I hope that what we¡¯ve experienced together can be enough as memories,¡± Fahira said between tears, while Darian could only remain silent, burdened with pain. He couldn¡¯t bear to part with her in such a painful way.


    ¡°Promise me, Darian,¡± Fahira continued, lifting her face to meet his sad brown eyes. Darian was rendered speechless, feeling the ache in his heart.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t there any other option?¡± Darian tried to sway Fahira¡¯s decision. He wasn¡¯t sure if he could keep his promise.


    ¡°I won¡¯t choose an imam who sees his mother as a burden,¡± Fahira responded firmly. Her words struck Darian¡¯s heart deeply. She was right. In a man¡¯s eyes, a mother¡¯s feet are where a son finds paradise, and a wife¡¯s feet will be his in the future.


    ¡°Whatever decision you make, I¡¯ll ept it, Honey, but never leave my sight!¡± Darian¡¯s voice trembled as he embraced her tightly. Darian would never utter a farewell, as for him, Fahira was his heart. Wherever he was, Fahira would always be by his side.


    When Fahira was about to remind Darian about his meeting schedule, suddenly a handnded harshly on her shoulder. ¡°Move aside, I want to meet my future husband!¡± Alea said arrogantly. David and Ray, who saw Alea¡¯s arrival, were already on alert. Like her previous visits, the model seemed to always seek trouble with Fahira, who remained polite and friendly to her.


    ¡°I apologize, Miss Alea, let me escort you!¡± David responded, quickly opening Darian¡¯s office door and signaling Fahira to return to her desk.


    ¡°Thank you, David,¡± Alea pretended to be sweet, then entered Darian¡¯s office.


    ¡°Hi, Sweetheart!¡± Alea greeted, approaching Darian. Alea lowered her head to kiss him, but Darian immediately got up from his chair, nearly causing Alea to stumble.


    ¡°What do you want here? Didn¡¯t I tell you that I¡¯m busy today?¡± Darian said firmly, then moved to sit on the sofa where he usually met with guests.


    ¡°I want us to have lunch together. Besides, before we get engaged next week, I want us to get to know each other better,¡± Alea replied with a sly grin. She then confidently sat on Darian¡¯sp.


    Darian tolerated Alea¡¯s behavior for a moment. She yed with his tie and traced his strong jawline with her finger. Alea admired Darian¡¯s handsomeness and imed to have fallen in love with him at first sight.


    ¡°Please mind your behavior! We¡¯re at the office!¡± Darian said sternly, with a hint of anger, and reluctantly, Alea got off hisp.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯lle to your apartment tonight!¡± Alea flirtatiously winked at Darian, who still looked at her coldly.


    ¡°Come on, Darling, shortly we¡¯ll be engaged. What¡¯s wrong with spending the night together?¡± Alea coaxed again. She was surprised that her future life partner was so reserved and cold.


    ¡°It¡¯s better if you leave; there¡¯s a meeting that¡¯s about to start,¡± Darian replied, ncing at the clock on his left wrist.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait here!¡± Alea insisted, sitting in Darian¡¯srge chair.


    ¡°Suit yourself!¡± Darian responded curtly while adjusting his suit and then left his office.


    The meeting with division managers was held in thepany¡¯s meeting room. Darian, along with David and Fahira, entered the room five minutes before the meeting started. Each manager presented their division¡¯s work results in turn. As usual, Darian paid close attention and would ask questions and make statements after each presentation.


    About 90 minutester, the meeting found a satisfying oue, meeting the owner¡¯s expectations. Fahira, who had been trying to focus and take notes during the meeting, suddenly felt her vision blur, and the back of her head started throbbing intensely. Cold sweat started to soak her body, and she felt as if she were floating. Thud. Fahira¡¯s head hit the table in front of her. All eyes turned to the source of the sound.


    ¡°Ms. Fahira fainted!¡± David eximed in panic as he shook Fahira¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Fahira!¡± Darian murmured, quickly getting up from his chair as the meeting leader. He was in a panic and immediately checked Fahira¡¯s forehead, which felt hot. Disregarding the other meeting participants, Darian took over David¡¯s task of lifting Fahira¡¯s body.


    ¡°You drive; we¡¯ll go to the hospital now!¡± Darian ordered, lifting Fahira¡¯s body bridal-style.


    ¡°Darling, wake up, what¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Darian panicked, gazing at Fahira¡¯s sad face. David, who was in the elevator with Darian and Fahira, could only stay silent.


    David knew the love story between the two of them, and he could only pray in his heart that they could reunite. David had witnessed how broken Darian was after their breakup. However, Darian was skillful in hiding it while at the office.


    Upon arriving at the hospital, Fahira was immediately attended to by the ER doctor. The results showed that she was suffering from severe dehydration and anemia. ording to the doctor, Fahira was experiencing depression and severe stress. She needed intensive medical treatment.


    Around two in the afternoon, Fahira had been moved to the hospital ward. Darian, who was by Fahira¡¯s side, could only remain silent with a sorrowful gaze. He held Fahira¡¯s hand and kissed it softly. ¡°Forgive me, Fahira,¡± Darian whispered. Tears welled up in his eyes, and he couldn¡¯t bear the thought of being separated from her. But thinking of his mother, Darian¡¯s tears flowed even more. He was torn and couldn¡¯t make a choice.


    A knock on the door interrupted Darian¡¯s tears. He quickly wiped his eyes and opened the door. ¡°Where¡¯s Fahira?¡± Ariel demanded, her eyes shing with anger. Darian remained silent and allowed Ariel and Gavin to enter.


    Darian and Gavin sat in the hospital garden.


    ¡°I entrust Fahira to you, take good care of her,¡± Darian said, holding back his tears.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


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


    ¡°I believe you understand what I mean. I trust that you¡¯ll take good care of her,¡± Darian continued, patting Gavin¡¯s shoulder before leaving him standing there.


    ¡°If you love her, Darian, why are you letting her go?¡± Gavin murmured softly, watching Darian¡¯s retreating figure. He did love Fahira, but he couldn¡¯t bear to hurt Darian either.

 Keep The Heart

    ¡°Have you bought the engagement rings for next week?¡± Yasmin asked during dinner at Setiadi¡¯s residence.


    Words couldn¡¯t describe how ted Alea¡¯s face looked upon hearing Yasmin¡¯s question tonight. The engagement ceremony would be held alongside thepany¡¯s anniversary, meaning she would soon be a part of the Mahesa Putra extended family. Her name would also be more renowned in the world of modeling, given that her future mother-inw was an international model herself.


    ¡°Not yet, Aunt. Maybe tomorrow. Right, Darian?¡± Alea replied with a beaming smile, while Darian seemed lost in his own thoughts.


    ¡°Darian!¡± Yasmin called out in annoyance, giving Darian a sharp look.


    ¡°Oh, yes. What is it, Mom?¡± Darian replied, as he hadn¡¯t heard what Mama and Alea were discussing.


    ¡°My goodness, Darian, Mama and Alea have been talking about the engagement ceremony, and you¡¯re daydreaming! Can you be serious for a moment?¡± This time, Yasmin¡¯s angry gaze was fixed on her son.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Aunt. Darian is just tired, that¡¯s why he¡¯s not focused!¡± Alea exined with a fake smile. Of course, Alea knew the reason behind Darian¡¯s daydreaming. The office was abuzz because Darian carried the unconscious Fahira out of thepany¡¯s meeting, and unfortunately, Alea¡¯s presence waspletely ignored. She was left alone in Darian¡¯s office without a word until closing time.


    ¡°Tomorrow, you only need to apany her for half a day, Darian. I¡¯ve made an appointment with Mama¡¯s favorite jewelry store for the engagement rings, and for your gowns, you can go directly to Mama¡¯s gship boutique.¡± Yasmin exined enthusiastically, but Darian was simply uninterested.


    ¡°Whatever makes you happy, Mom!¡± Darian casually replied, causing Yasmin¡¯s smile to fade. Her emotions were once again triggered. Yasmin admitted that she was at fault for imposing her will without considering her son¡¯s feelings. However, Yasmin also had strong reasons for wanting to separate Darian and Fahira.


    ¡°Alright, then tomorrow, you two can go together. Oh, Alea, you don¡¯t need to think about Darian¡¯s proposal. That¡¯s just how he is!¡± Yasmin smiled gently at Alea. She felt hesitant because Darian always showed indifference towards Alea.


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte; Darian, you should take Alea home now, Mom,¡± Darian interjected and got up from his seat.


    ¡°But it¡¯s not even nine o¡¯clock yet; it¡¯s still early evening!¡± Yasmin protested, telling Darian to sit back down while Alea promptly followed him and stood up.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Aunt. I have other matters to attend to as well. I need to meet with my manager for tomorrow¡¯s arrangements.¡± Alea tried to provide a logical excuse, even though she felt irritated with the cold man next to her. But for the sake of love, Alea was willing to do anything to make Darian fall in love with her.


    Actually, Alea had harbored feelings for Darian for a long time, but her attempts to approach him always failed, as he never acknowledged her presence. Alea took a bold step and persuaded her mother, who happened to be good friends with Yasmin, to arrange this match. Alea had prepared herself to face Darian¡¯s cold demeanor, and she was willing to do anything to have him.


    On the way, Alea tried to break the ice by talking about their rtionship. However, her efforts were in vain; she felt like a parrot talking to itself without any response.


    ¡°Darian, take me to Deluna Night Club. My friends are waiting there!¡± Alea said, still unable to make Darian speak. He remained focused on driving and followed the address given by Alea. Fifteen minutester, they arrived at a two-story building with a sign that read Deluna Night Club, matching the address Alea had given.


    The car stopped, but Alea remained motionless in her seat. ¡°Hurry up and get out!¡± A baritone voice with a cold tone came from Darian¡¯s lips, and Alea¡¯s smile brightened instantly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go; I¡¯ll introduce you to my friends!¡± Alea said, releasing the seatbelt that was fastened around her.


    Reluctantly, Darianplied with Alea¡¯s request as she showed him her phone screen with her mother¡¯s name disyed. Darian was sure his mother wanted to make sure he really escorted Alea home.


    Darian immediately got out of the car, followed by Alea, who was in the midst of chatting with her mother on the phone.


    ¡°Come on, babe!¡± Alea cooed, linking her arm with Darian¡¯s affectionately as they entered the night club.


    Darian tried to control his anger as some of Alea¡¯s fellow models attempted to tease him. The women, dressed in provocative outfits, shamelessly made vulgar jokes that disgusted him. Various questions echoed in his mind. How could his mother be willing to match him with a woman like Alea, who seemed promiscuous? Or perhaps his mother didn¡¯t know about Alea¡¯s free-spirited lifestyle, considering that she was a model herself?


    One by one, Alea¡¯s friends left with the men they were dating, leaving Darian alone with Alea. She called over the waiters to order several bottles of drinks.


    ¡°Tonight, I want us to have fun!¡± Alea whispered yfully, hugging Darian¡¯s arm.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Finally, Darian agreed to Alea¡¯s invitation, considering that he also needed some entertainment at the moment.


    Alea poured a ss of drink for herself and Darian, and they clinked sses. Ting¡­ The sound of sses shing mixed with the loud music and colorful spotlights in the night club. Sip by sip, the alcohol wet Darian¡¯s throat, but suddenly, a strange feeling washed over him as he remembered Fahira¡¯s sad face. He quickly put down his ss and fell silent, staring at his now empty ss, while Alea began to babble incoherently under the influence of alcohol.


    ¡°Stop, you¡¯re already drunk!¡± Darian reprimanded as Alea poured more drinks into their sses.


    ¡°Come on, Darian, darling, tonight is just for us!¡± Alea rambled while snatching her ss from Darian¡¯s hand and gulping it down quickly.


    Darian gazed at Alea intently. She was undeniably beautiful and attractive, but Darian hesitated if he could ever fall in love with her. He couldn¡¯t envision what his married life would be like with her, especially when his heart was still reserved for Fahira.


    Thinking about Fahira, Darian¡¯s vision instantly blurred. Could he still consider Fahira as his lover, while fully aware that he had handed her over to his cousin, Gavin? Yes, Gavin was a good man to take care of his beloved. Darian took a deep breath and let out a sigh as the pain pierced his chest once more. It was excruciating. ¡°If only I knew falling in love could be this painful,¡± his heart murmured, feeling constricted. Nevertheless, Darian never regretted falling in love with Fahira. On the contrary, he felt immensely grateful for having her, even if it was only for a short while. She brought beautiful colors into his otherwise empty life, teaching him that loving someone didn¡¯t necessarily mean possessing them.


    Now, all Darian could do was look at Alea, who was drinking to her heart¡¯s content. Meanwhile, Alea was smiling back at Darian, her face blushing with a conscious awareness.


    ¡°It seems we¡¯ve had enough fun for tonight!¡± Darian said, reaching for his phone on the table and calling David.


    Not long after, David arrived and sat next to Darian. ¡°You take care of her; I¡¯m going to the hospital,¡± Darian instructed loudly, raising his voice over the echoing music.


    ¡°Got it, Boss. What¡¯s the address?¡± David replied, ncing at Alea, who was still rambling with her eyes closed, leaning on the sofa.


    ¡°Up to you!¡± Darian got up from his seat and added, ¡°The challenge still stands, Pajero Sport!¡±


    David smiled meaningfully and gave a thumbs-up to Darian as he walked away.


    ***


    Between hesitation and desire, Darian walked through the quiet hospital corridor. At 2 AM, all the hospital upants were likely fast asleep, except for the nurses and doctors on night duty who remained awake. He stood still in front of the room where Fahira was being treated.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Of course, Darian only wanted to ensure that Fahira was okay without actually seeing her. He peered through the small window on the door to catch a glimpse. He saw Ariel sleeping soundly by Fahira¡¯s side, sitting and leaning against the edge of the bed. Darian turned away and left as soon as Fahira¡¯s eyelids began to open.


    From a distance, a bespectacled man watched Darian with a nk expression as he approached. ¡°Have you been here all this time? Why didn¡¯t youe in?¡± Gavin asked, maintaining eye contact with his older cousin.


    ¡°I just wanted to make sure she was alright,¡± Darian replied shortly, his gaze reflecting a wounded soul.


    ¡°If you love her, why are you doing this?¡± Gavin wanted to express his frustration with his inconsistent older cousin. Since the beginning, Darian had openly shown animosity every time they met. But now, suddenly, Darian was giving up without a clear reason.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget toe to my engagement event with Alea next week,¡± Darian responded and walked away, leaving Gavin standing there with clenched fists, gazing at Fahira¡¯s room.


    In her room, Fahira¡¯s eyes faintly caught the light from the room¡¯smp. Only the hum of the AC filled the all-white room. She closed her eyes again, feeling a headacheing on as she recalled why she was in the hospital. Slowly, she opened her eyes, scanning the room in search of the presence she had just felt, the man she longed for. She could still sense his essence lingering in the air, the masculine fragrance clinging to his clothes.


    Fahira¡¯s lips curled up into a smile when she heard a soft snoring sounding from the teenager dozing off by her side. She gently caressed Ariel¡¯s hair, who woke up immediately.


    ¡°Sister Fahira, you¡¯re awake. Are you thirsty? Or are you hungry?¡± Ariel asked eagerly, holding Fahira¡¯s hand with concern.


    ¡°I¡¯m thirsty,¡± Fahira whispered, responding to Ariel¡¯s touch.


    Ariel fetched a ss of water and helped Fahira take a sip by supporting her head. The door creaked open, and Fahira and Ariel turned to look.


    ¡°Dr. Gavin,e in!¡± Ariel greeted warmly, getting up from the chair and sliding it to make space for Gavin to sit.


    ¡°Feeling better?¡± Gavin asked gently, looking at Fahira with concern.


    ¡°Thank goodness, Doc!¡± Fahira replied with a smile. Her face, which was pale before, looked much fresher now.


    ¡°Just rest,¡± Gavin advised when Fahira tried to get up. Her head was still throbbing from the unstable blood pressure.


    ¡°It happens to be my night shift, and I just finished checking on other patients,¡± Gavin continued as he adjusted the nket around Fahira.


    ¡°Ariel, you should rest too. Let me take care of Fahira!¡± Gavin suggested to Ariel, who immediately agreed. The teenagery down, feeling sore from her previous sleeping position. Taking the opportunity, she straightened her back and closed her eyes, leaving Fahira and Gavin alone.


    Due to the effects of the medication, Fahira drifted back to deep slumber. Gavin, who remained by her side, could only look on with uncertainty. Could he rece Darian¡¯s ce in Fahira¡¯s heart? Could he be the guardian of Fahira¡¯s heart forever or just temporarily?

 Conqueror

    Alea tried to calm her throbbing headache as she slowly opened her eyes. ¡°Where am I?¡± she mumbled as she found herself in an unfamiliar room, mostly decorated in shades of brown. Her attention was immediately drawn to the man sleeping on the other side of the bed. ¡°Darian?¡± she whispered, gazing at the lion head tattoo on his shoulder. But a sudden uneasiness washed over her when she noticed that the man¡¯s hair was jet ck, unlike Darian¡¯s dark brown hair. Even his skin tone appeared slightly lighter.


    Suppressing the pain that surged through her body, Alea attempted to sit up. However, her surprise grew when she realized that the nket slipped, leaving herpletely exposed.


    ¡°No, this can¡¯t be!¡± she said with tears welling up, quickly covering herself with the nket.


    The man stirred and turned to face her, his voice hoarse from sleep. ¡°Awake already?¡±


    ¡°You, you scoundrel! What did you do to me?¡± Alea shouted, her tears streaming down as she held onto the nket to shield herself.


    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re the one who forced me! Well, I couldn¡¯t resist your tempting body!¡± David smirked as he picked up his clothes from the floor and put them on casually.


    ¡°You scum! You stole my most precious possession, the one thing I¡¯ve protected for 23 years!¡± Alea cried, her heartache filling the room. David fell silent, looking at Alea without expression. He didn¡¯t intend for things to turn out like this. His initial attraction to Alea during their first encounter, when he apanied Darian to meet her, had left him curious to conquer her.


    David had been drawn to Alea¡¯s beauty and sensuality, assuming she was just like any other girl he had encountered before. But he was genuinely surprised when he realized that Alea was still a virgin. Although David was known for one-night stands, he had never encountered a virgin before. His curiosity got the best of him, leading him tomit this heinous act. David was used to mutual consent, not forcing anyone.


    David sighed deeply, approaching the bed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I really lost controlst night. It was a terrible mistake,¡± he said truthfully, feeling guilty for his actions.


    ¡°I will take responsibility if you get pregnant!¡± David said firmly as he tried to touch Alea¡¯s hand, but she immediately blocked his attempt.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch me! I feel disgusted!¡± Alea cried, her tears flowing even more. Her feelings were shattered. The purity she had preserved for her future husband was now tainted.


    ¡°You should take a shower first!¡± David took a towel from the wardrobe and ced it on the edge of the bed, looking at Alea with an inscrutable expression.


    ¡°Oh God!¡± David groaned, running his fingers through his hair in frustration when he realized he waste for work. The round clock on the wall stopped at 8, and he received a series of unanswered calls from his boss on his phone. Moreover, Fahira was also absent from work as she was still being treated in the hospital. Still in frustration, David nced at his bedroom door, torn between going to the office or calming the girl inside.


    ¡°Shit!¡± he cursed again when his mind suddenly went nk. His IQ, usually above average, seemed empty.


    David appeared to be contemting something as he paced back and forth in front of the room, trying to find a way out as quickly as possible. Suddenly, the bedroom door swung open wide, revealing Alea standing there, ring at him with hatred. Her wet hair fell loosely, and her face was pale with swollen eyes.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take you home!¡± David approached Alea, but she immediately prevented him. There was no way he would let Alea go home alone in this condition. Everyone else who saw them would automatically realize that she had been a victim of assault.


    ¡°You idiot, David! You¡¯re supposed to be aw enforcer, yet instead of protecting, you took advantage of a drunk girl. Idiot!¡± David cursed himself inwardly.


    ¡°Forget everything that happened. No matter what, I¡¯ll still marry Darian. And in my eyes, you¡¯re just trash, so don¡¯t touch me again!¡± Aleashed out.


    Without saying much, David pulled Alea¡¯s hand and locked her inside the room with him. ¡°Wait for me to shower. I¡¯ll take you home,¡± David said firmly before entering the bathroom to clean up quickly.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    David prepared himself swiftly, asionally ncing at Alea, who stood still by the window with a vacant stare.


    After dropping Alea off at her apartment, David quickly drove to the office.


    Upon arriving at the office, David immediately faced the wrath of his boss. Darian was furious, and Mira and others also felt the impact. Suddenly, Darian noticed something strange about his personal assistant. Instead of being afraid or remorseful for his actions, David seemed lost in thought, deep in contemtion.


    Brak¡­ Darian roughly threw a stack of papers onto the table and stared sharply at David. He already knew David¡¯s habits. Surelyst night, he was drunk and slept with some random woman as usual. ¡°David, do whatever you want with anyone, I don¡¯t care, but please don¡¯t let it affect your performance in thispany. You know Fahira is sick, and I won¡¯t let you in until she fully recovers,¡± Darian exined informally.


    His mind was also in turmoil because he was worried about Fahira¡¯s condition. He felt helpless. Darian didn¡¯t want to hurt Fahira even more with excessive attention, so he always tried to act naturally behind his vulnerability. He didn¡¯t want to give false hope, even though he secretly hoped for a miracle that could change his mother¡¯s mind and grant her blessing.


    Darian sighed heavily and approached David. ¡°You didn¡¯t cause any trouble with Alea, did you?¡± Darian probed, instantly making David¡¯s face pale. He suddenly felt guilty, avoiding eye contact with Darian.


    ¡°Why would I cause trouble with that girl?¡± David replied, pretending to be nonchnt. Darian seemed to look at David suspiciously, but he quickly dismissed his negative assumptions about his good friend.


    ¡°Remember, David. I did ask you to ruin my marriage with Alea, but do it in a respectful manner. Don¡¯t embarrass my family!¡± Darian warned with a tone of intimidation.


    David dared to meet Darian¡¯s sharp gaze and replied, ¡°You know me well, right?¡± David grinned, trying to reassure Darian. There was no way he would admit that he had slept with his best friend¡¯s future wife.


    ¡°Alright. I always trust you!¡± Darian warned, still with a threatening tone. Darian knew there was something David was hiding from him. His best friend couldn¡¯t possibly lie to him for too long. It was only a matter of time before everything would be revealed.


    ***


    In the hospital, Fahira looked restless and anxious. Every time there was a knock on her room door, she would be enthusiastic, but disappointment filled her as soon as she saw who it was.


    During her two-day stay in the hospital, Fahira¡¯s condition improved. She could now get up and go to the bathroom on her own. For those two days, Gavin was always by her side whenever he had free time. Like this morning, Fahira was alone with Gavin as Ariel had to go to school for the first day of the final semester exams. While Fahira was in the hospital, Ariel brought changes of clothes, school uniforms, and textbooks. Of course, Ariel would never leave her alone at the hospital as long as Gavin was there.


    ¡°Sorry, Gavin, I must have been bothering you. I¡¯m better now, so you can leave if it¡¯s inconvenient. I can manage on my own!¡± Fahira said with a hint of embarrassment. Gavin, who was sitting in a chair beside her bed, stopped peeling an apple.


    ¡°Why would you say that, Fahira? I never felt bothered by you. In fact, I¡¯m happy to always be by your side!¡± Gavin replied, cing the te of sliced apples and the knife on the table.


    ¡°Listen, Fahira! Whenever you need someone to talk to, I¡¯m always here. If you feel ufortable about my feelings, just think of me as a friend,¡± Gavin exined, looking deeply into Fahira¡¯s beautiful eyes. He reached for Fahira¡¯s hand and held it tightly.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it true that friends are always there when another friend needs them? My shoulder is always here for you to lean on! Anytime!¡± Gavin continued, shing a smile. He picked up a small piece of apple and brought it to Fahira¡¯s lips, but she refused.


    Gavin chuckled when Fahira shook her head, her lips tightly closed as she resisted his attempt to feed her the apple. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to eat, I¡¯m actually d because it means you¡¯ll stay in the hospital, and I can see you every day!¡± Gavin teased, making Fahira¡¯s eyes widen. She quickly took the te from Gavin¡¯s hand and started eating the apple, leaving half of it behind.


    ¡°You¡¯re so funny!¡± Gavin ruffled Fahira¡¯s hair yfully.


    ¡°Ew, Gavin, it¡¯s all messy now! And I haven¡¯t showered for two days! Your hands are dirty and smelly!¡± Fahira protested while fixing her hair.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t mind even if you hadn¡¯t showered for a week! Especially if I was the one asked to help you shower!¡± Gavin teased, causing Fahira¡¯s face to blush.


    ¡°Thank goodness it¡¯s you!¡± Fahira replied yfully and then yfully hit Gavin with the pillow she was holding.


    Theirughter filled the room, but their yfulness was interrupted by a knock on the door.


    ¡°Good morning, Miss Fahira!¡± Dr. Rahmat greeted, apanied by a nurse holding arge book in her hands.


    ¡°Good morning, doctor!¡± Fahira and Gavin replied simultaneously.


    ¡°Oh, is this Dr. Gavin¡¯s girlfriend?¡± Dr. Rahmat teased while checking on Fahira¡¯s condition.


    ¡°She¡¯s not my girlfriend, Doctor, she¡¯s my fianc¨¦e!¡± Gavin quickly retorted when he saw Fahira was about to say something.


    ¡°That¡¯s good, because if not, I was nning to match Miss Fahira with my son!¡± The senior doctor, in his fifties, continued to tease Gavin. Gavin, nonchntly, even admitted that Fahira rejected him, much to Fahira¡¯s disbelief. How could a handsome, famous, specialist doctor like Gavin proudly admit that he was rejected?


    Finally, Fahira chose to be a listener and asionally joined in theirughter as they exchanged jokes. And Fahira realized that Gavin was actually a fun and humorous person.

 Give Up Hope

    Fahira was both surprised and happy when her three friends came to visit her at the hospital. Not only Fahira, but her friends were also shocked and excited to see Gavin with her. Mira and Susi immediatelypeted to introduce themselves to Gavin, and their yful antics made Fahira burst intoughter.


    ¡°Oh my goodness, Fahira, if I were you, I would prefer to stay sick just to be waited on by a handsome doctor like him,¡± Susi, who was usually quiet, suddenly chattered, leaving the others stunned with their mouths wide open.


    ¡°Are you okay, Susi? It¡¯s unusual for you to have a sane moment and appreciate a good-looking guy. Usually, you can only be a secret admirer of the boss,¡± Ray quipped, masking a smile on Fahira¡¯s lips.


    Mira quickly pinched Ray¡¯s arm when she saw Fahira¡¯s expression darken. The atmosphere fell silent for a moment.


    ¡°Are you all colleagues of Fahira? Let me introduce myself; my name is Gavin, and I¡¯m one of the doctors at this hospital. And, coincidentally, Ariel, Fahira¡¯s little brother, is my patient!¡± Gavin exined to rify their actual rtionship. He didn¡¯t want Fahira¡¯s friends to create personal perceptions that would make Fahira feel pressured or ufortableter.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to bothering here; I¡¯m already better, and I can go home this evening!¡± Fahira added, moving the clothes on the bed that she was about to pack into her bag.


    ¡°Let me do it; you just talk to them,¡± Gavin whispered gently, taking the clothes from Fahira¡¯s hands and putting them in the bag. As Fahira was about to change position, Gavin deftly adjusted the position of the IV drip so Fahira could move easily. The three friends exchanged nces, observing the unusual interaction between the two.


    They were still fixed on the scene, lost in their thoughts. They connected the recent changes in Darian and Fahira¡¯s behavior, and now they were surprised by Fahira¡¯s closeness to Gavin. Fix, like a choir echoing in their hearts. Fahira and Darian, their big boss, had broken up. While Fahira never gave any rification about their rtionship, Darian openly treated Fahira so special. She was the only employee who received such special attention from their usually cold boss.


    Ariel and Arif, still in their grayish-white school uniforms, entered carrying a bag of snacks. It turned out that Ariel¡¯s instinct was right to bring more food because when he entered, the three friends they knew for a long time were already visiting his sister.


    In the midst of their lively conversation, Gavin¡¯s phone suddenly rang. Seeing the name on the screen, he quickly slid the green icon and moved away slightly from the group.


    ¡°Sorry, everyone, I have to go. There¡¯s an emergency operation call,¡± Gavin exined to the others before turning to Fahira with a gentle look. ¡°Fahira, I¡¯ll wait for you to go home after I finish the surgery. I¡¯ve already taken care of all the administrative matters. I¡¯ll instruct the nurse to prepare the medication and anything else you need to take home,¡± Gavin continued, then grabbed the white sweater from the chair he was sitting on and hurried off to respond to the call of duty.


    This is one of the reasons why Gavin has been single all this time. Every woman who gets close to him backs off when they feel they don¡¯t receive attention from the heart specialist. Instead of being able to spend time together on regr days, even on weekends and national holidays, if there¡¯s an emergency call, Gavin has to leave to fulfill his duties.


    His official working hours might be only 8 hours per day, but the reality in the field goes on 24 hours. Not to mention the emergency calls during holidays. Nevertheless, Gavin never feels burdened; on the contrary, he is always grateful to Ah because through his expertise, he can help many people.


    ***


    Two dayster, Fahira was back to her usual activities. Waking up before dawn, cooking, and heading to the office. As soon as she arrived at the office, Fahira prepared coffee for her boss, as usual, and then focused on her work diligently, considering that she hadn¡¯t been at work for four days. She had to double-check her boss¡¯s schedule and tasks during David¡¯s takeover. Fahira was so focused on herputer that she didn¡¯t notice her four colleagues observing her. David was just worried about Fahira¡¯s condition after her illness, but the other three had different thoughts. They were unsure whether to tell her about thepany¡¯s birthday invitation, which coincided with Darian and Alea¡¯s engagement event.


    During the lunch break at thepany canteen, Fahira sat with Susi and Mira, eating their meals. While savoring their food, they talked about various things. Susi, who had been interested in Gavin from the start, tried to gather more information from Fahira. It was only an interest, not love, mind you. That¡¯s just how Susi is; among the three of them, she¡¯s the quietest, but when ites to talking about handsome guys that meet her criteria, she bes the most enthusiastic. She¡¯s hopelessly infatuated with Darian to the point that she never noticed Ray¡¯s feelings, who had long been in love with her. Besides thepany rules that prohibit employees from having special rtionships, Ray and Fahira also didn¡¯t want their rtionship to go beyond being coworkers.


    Suddenly, conversations from other divisions seeped into their ears.


    ¡°Hey, we¡¯re all invited to thepany¡¯s birthday party in two days!¡± Said a chubby but self-proimed sexy co-worker to the other two.


    ¡°I¡¯m curious about the CEO¡¯s fianc¨¦e, who¡¯s rumored to be a supermodel,¡± said the skinny employee, clearly enjoying his meal.


    ¡°It¡¯s going to be so much fun! We definitely have to attend; it¡¯s once a year, and we get to enjoy free, delicious food. Who knows, we might meet our soulmates there,¡± added the snarky employee,ughing.


    Mira and Susi immediately stopped chewing their food and quickly sipped their iced tea on the table.


    ¡°Fahira, let¡¯s go back now! Our break time is almost over, and we haven¡¯t prayed yet, right?¡± Mira invited Fahira, who was still leisurely enjoying her meal.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Just a moment, I haven¡¯t finished eating!¡± Fahira looked at her two friends with a smile and continued eating promptly.


    With little words, Fahira resumed her work after the break time was over. She deliberately immersed herself in her tasks to forget the turmoil in her heart. She wanted to move on from Darian; after all, their rtionship had only been brief. There wouldn¡¯t be another chance or reason for them to be together.


    Fahira stared at Darian¡¯s schedule book for quite some time. A sense of confusion overwhelmed her; she missed him so much, but it seemed that he didn¡¯t feel the same. He returned to his old self, before they fell in love, emotionless and distant. Even when she was in the hospital, he never visited or asked about her well-being. It was as if he didn¡¯t care, as if nothing had happened between them. The desire to resign from thepany resurfaced in her mind.


    Fahira couldn¡¯t bear being close to Darian for too long. Her heart hurt every time memories of their beautiful moments together tried to break down her defenses.


    She felt defeated when the shbacks of their time together invaded her mind brutally and continuously. How could she forget Darian when they met and worked together every day? Fahira took a deep breath to fill her lungs with oxygen, which felt depleted, as she opened a nk document on herputer.


    Her graceful fingers began dancing beautifully on the keyboard, crafting long sentences as a farewell for her dedication and achievements during the three years. Tears that she had been holding back started to surface. She fought her ego, resisting the urge to let them flow freely. Fahira quickly grabbed a tissue from her desk to wipe the tears that dampened her cheeks, all while finishing her typing in a hurry before any of her colleagues noticed. As the printer buzzed, she quickly retrieved the printed document and folded it, cing it in a brown envelope. Fahira then put the envelope in the drawer, preparing herself to hand it directly to the owner of thepany.

 Engagement

    The luxurious and morous white-silver themed decorations adorned the ballroom of a five-star hotel owned by the Putra Corporation. The concept, personally curated by Yasmin, Darian¡¯s mother, and Alea, would make this year¡¯spany anniversary celebration the grandest event, coinciding with the engagement of thepany¡¯s CEO, who is also a world-renowned supermodel, and the beautiful young model, Alea Maura Wijaya, daughter of the owner of Indo Drink canned beverage factory.


    Media personnel had been buzzing around the venue for days, seeking news and capturing photos of the attending guests. It was guaranteed that the engagement of the world-famous supermodel and the CEO of thepany would be the hottest news in print media this week.


    Guests arrived one after another, awestruck by the stunning decorations throughout the ballroom. Darian was seen engaging in friendly conversations with his business colleagues, with Alea staying by his side, never letting go of his arm, which started to annoy him. They looked harmonious in matching outfits. Alea, with her slim figure, was dressed in a low-cut white dress that entuated her beauty, admired by all, except for Darian. He appeared indifferent to Alea¡¯s seductive and morous appearance.


    The MC¡¯s voice redirected the guests¡¯ attention, prompting them to take their seats ording to the invitation cards, which categorized them into VIP, Main, and General sses. VIP for investors and high-rankingpany officials, Main for special guests, and General for thepany¡¯s employees.


    ¡°Darian, let¡¯s take our seats!¡± Alea whispered into Darian¡¯s ear, holding his arm possessively. Darian looked at her with annoyance. He felt like kicking Alea to Pluto right now. If it weren¡¯t for his family¡¯s reputation at stake, he would have done it long ago, erasing Alea from his life forever.


    For a moment, Darian nced towards the entrance, as if searching for someone. In the southern corner, he saw his four colleagues, including David.


    ¡°You fool, Darian, how could Fahira possiblye to your engagement with Alea!¡± Darian murmured to himself while letting out a heavy sigh.


    Before Darian could take a step, someone he had eagerly awaited arrived, apanied by a handsome man wearing sses. Fahira¡¯s smile instantly captivated Darian¡¯s attention. She greeted her colleagues with warmth. Fahira was dressed in a ck long dress with her blonde hair gracefully cascading. Her smooth, exposed back made Darian fume with jealousy. He couldn¡¯t bear the thought of Fahira being admired by any other man but himself. Unconsciously, Darian moved towards Fahira, but Alea quickly stopped him. ¡°Our seats are over there!¡± Alea snapped, noticing where Darian¡¯s gaze was directed.


    With a stern jaw, Darian stared back at Alea, choosing to remain silent and follow her lead. However, suddenly, a voice interrupted their movement.


    ¡°Congrattions, Darian!¡± Gavin greeted Darian alongside Fahira.


    ¡°Let me introduce you, Alea. I¡¯m Gavin, Darian¡¯s cousin. This is Fahira; I¡¯m sure you two already know each other,¡± Gavin said politely to Alea.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Darian replied briefly before Alea had the chance to respond.


    Darian gazed tly at Fahira, who smiled back at him. His eyes then shifted down to Fahira¡¯s hand holding Gavin¡¯s arm. A burning jealousy engulfed Darian, sending heat from his toes to the top of his head. Fahira, on the other hand, tried her best to maintain her natural smile while her heart raced rapidly. Gavin, sensing the tension, quickly diverted the attention.


    ¡°The event has begun, let¡¯s take our seats!¡± Gavin suggested, holding Fahira¡¯s hand that rested on his arm. He looked at Fahira with a gentle smile as he felt the coldness of her hand.


    ¡°Rx, Fahira,¡± Gavin whispered to her ear, sessfully making Darian clench his fists tightly until his knuckles turned white.


    Alea immediately dragged Darian away before something undesirable happened at her engagement party.


    The long-awaited moment for Alea had finally arrived. With a happy smile on her lips, Alea held Darian¡¯s hand affectionately as they climbed the stage beautifully adorned by the organizers.


    Following the MC¡¯s instructions, Darian and Alea now faced each other, with a ck velvet box in Darian¡¯s hand. Alea looked nervous and happy, while Darian maintained his signature expression ¨C t and emotionless.


    ¡°Perhaps we should leave now,¡± Gavin whispered, unknowingly observing Fahira. He had noticed Fahira wiping her tears at the corner of her eyes several times.


    ¡°No, Gavin, I¡¯ll be fine,¡± Fahira replied with a trembling voice.


    Slowly, Darian opened the velvet box in his hand. The shimmer of the diamond rings reflected in Darian¡¯s brown eyes. He then took one ring to ce it on Alea¡¯s finger. Alea¡¯s face lit up with happiness, spreading to all the guests present, as Darian¡¯s hand touched her fingers. Yet, Darian remained silent as he gazed at Alea with an indecipherable expression.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Alea, I can¡¯t continue with this engagement,¡± Darian whispered, cing the ring back into Alea¡¯s hand.


    Instantly, the whole ballroom was thrown into chaos. Darian no longer cared about any of it. In his eyes, Fahira was now his reason for living. He walked towards Fahira¡¯s seat, forcefully grabbing her hand, and led her out of the hotel¡¯s ballroom. Gavin merely smiled as Fahira looked at him with uncertainty. Gavin knew Fahira had asked him to stop Darian from taking her away, but he chose to stay silent. He believed Fahira would be happier with Darian than with him. Gavin wouldn¡¯t force his love on Fahira; for him, seeing the woman he loved happy was enough.


    Gavin got up from his seat and casually walked away, leaving behind the chaos he had sessfully created. His n had worked; he merely wanted to test the depth of Darian¡¯s love for Fahira. If Darian had continued with the engagement with Alea, Gavin would have willinglypeted for Fahira¡¯s love.


    ***


    ¡°Perhaps you should go back inside, Darian. Look at the chaos you¡¯ve created!¡± Fahira said as they stood in the hotel parking area.


    ¡°Why are you wearing such revealing clothes?¡± Darian protested, ignoring Fahira¡¯sment. He took off his jacket and draped it over Fahira to cover her.


    ¡°Only I get to see your body!¡± Darian added, pushing Fahira gently to get into his car.


    ¡°Where are we going? I don¡¯t want to be seen as a homewrecker, stealing another woman¡¯s fianc¨¦!¡± Fahira retorted, trying to hide her hurt. She never expected Darian to do something so foolish for her sake.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Pre-honeymoon, honey!¡± Darian replied briefly, looking at Fahira for a moment before starting his car and leaving the hotel¡¯s courtyard with a triumphant smile.


    ¡°Preposterous! I¡¯m not going on a runaway wedding!¡± Fahira retorted with a smile.


    ¡°You¡¯re my everything!¡± Darian inteced his fingers with Fahira¡¯s and kissed them repeatedly.


    Meanwhile, Alea felt shattered. After the failed engagement event with Darian, she immediately drove her car aimlessly, and luckily, David followed her. She stopped her car on the side of the road near Sarwana Beach, a rtively new and secluded beach in the Lebak Banten area. The beach was deserted, with only Alea and herself present.


    ¡°This girl is crazy, what is she doing alone on this deserted beach?¡± David grumbled as he unbuckled his seat belt and got out of the car. The sound of the roaring ocean indicated high tides.


    From a distance, David saw Alea walking towards the beach without wearing any shoes. She seemed to struggle due to her long dress trailing behind her. Alea muttered in frustration, slightly squatting to lift the hem of her dress. David chuckled, following her path. However, David¡¯s uneasiness grew when he heard Alea calling Darian¡¯s name while wiping her tears. He quickened his pace when he saw Alea approaching the water.


    ¡°Shit!¡± David cursed under his breath, quickly running when Alea began to immerse herself.


    ¡°Alea!¡± David yelled and immediately swam towards her as she got carried away by the current.


    With great difficulty, David managed to bring Alea back to the shoreline. ¡°Damn it!¡± David cursed, checking Alea¡¯s chest, which was not moving. He took a deep breath and administered CPR to Alea while pressing on her chest repeatedly.


    Cough, cough, cough¡­ Alea choked, her chest rising and falling again. David gently turned Alea¡¯s head to help her expel the water that had entered her lungs.


    ¡°Why did you save me?¡± Alea retorted weakly.


    ¡°Thank God!¡± David eximed, hugging Alea tightly.


    ¡°I want to die; I have nothing to be proud of now. My fianc¨¦ ran off with another woman, and my purity is gone. I¡¯m disgusted with myself!¡± Alea sobbed amid her tears.


    David tightened his embrace. ¡°I promise I¡¯ll always be here for you, but please don¡¯t do something crazy like this again!¡± David said, hugging her tightly while showering her head with kisses. Alea finally surrendered, crying her heart out in David¡¯s arms.

 A Fact

    ¡°After spending time together to ease the longing, Darian drove Fahira back home at 8 p. m. His next task was to meet his mother. Whatever decision his mother would make, Darian was ready, as long as she gave her blessing for him to marry Fahira.


    Slowly, Darian¡¯s car entered the grand courtyard of his house. It was the ce where he was raised with abundant love from both his parents. Rusdi, his father, was always strict and disciplined in raising Darian, but when it came to showing affection to Yasmin, his mother, Rusdi turned into a romantic and gentle man. Throughout his life, Darian had never seen Rusdi be harsh to Yasmin. The way Rusdi respected women automatically influenced him.


    Now, Darian faced the toughest situation in his life. He wouldn¡¯t choose, but he would make sure to have both Yasmin and Fahira, the two most important women in his life.


    Darian sighed before getting out of the car. He was sure his mother was waiting for him now. He was confident in his decision, but he would not sacrifice his mother¡¯s feelings, who had given birth to him. Since he was a child, Darian had looked up to his father as a role model. Rusdi might be strict in educating him, but when he was with Yasmin, he became a romantic and gentle man. This respect for women had been passed down to Darian.


    And now Darian was faced with the most difficult situation. He wouldn¡¯t choose, but he would make sure to have both Yasmin and Fahira. These were the two most important women in his life.


    Darian entered the magnificent house full of memories and headed to the living room, where Yasmin usually spent time when she had no work at home. Darian hesitated for a moment. His heart trembled as he saw Yasmin¡¯s back behind the sofa. He couldn¡¯t imagine how hurt Yasmin must be. He was aware that his actions this morning had deeply wounded her. Their family must have be the talk of the town in all the media today. And, of course, it would affect thepany and his mother¡¯s career.


    ¡°Finally, you remember Mommy,¡± Yasmin said coldly without even looking away from the TV screen that was showing the tragedy Darian had caused this morning.


    Darian sighed and approached his mother. He kissed both of Yasmin¡¯s cheeks and sat down beneath the sofa. He held her delicate hands and gazed into the same brown irises that were identical to his.


    ¡°Mommy, have you eaten?¡± Darian asked softly while looking into Yasmin¡¯s swollen eyes. The disappointment in her eyes pierced his heart. It was the first time he had hurt his mother this deeply.¡±


    Darian stood up and walked towards the dining room. He opened the food cover and found it untouched. Still intact. Not touched. Bi Roh, one of Yasmin¡¯s household assistants, quickly served a te of food for Darian without saying much. She also prepared the hot milk that Yasmin usually drank. Of course, the household assistant who had been with the Putra family for over 20 years knew that the rtionship between the mother and son was not in a good state. Since Rusdi¡¯s passing, their rtionship had strained a bit because Darian chose to live in his apartment rather than in the grand family home. Now the house felt empty like a tomb. Only Yasmin lived there alone with her four household assistants. It was no wonder that Yasmin spent more time in her boutique than at home.


    ¡°Mommy needs to eat, Darian doesn¡¯t want Mama to get sick!¡± Darian said as he now sat beside Yasmin.


    Yasmin remained silent. She just gazed sadly at Darian, epting each spoonful from her son¡¯s hand until half the te was left. Darian took a ss of warm milk from the nearby table and handed it to Yasmin. She sipped it slowly, her eyes teary. Yasmin still hoped that Darian could change his decision.


    Darian got up and brought the tray with Yasmin¡¯s half-eaten te and ss to the kitchen. Then he returned with a basin of warm water and a small towel. He sat back down beneath the sofa, rolled up his shirt sleeves to his elbows, and lifted Yasmin¡¯s feet, removing her sandals. Darian dipped both her feet in the water and began to wash them.


    ¡°Since I was little, Mommy has worked hard to give birth to me and raise me well. Thank you is never enough to repay everything. I know Mommy is angry. Mommy is disappointed with me. But Mom, just this once, let me choose,¡± Darian said as he massaged Yasmin¡¯s feet. She looked at him with teary eyes, and the droplets started to fall, one after another, wetting her cheeks more and more.


    ¡°Darian loves Fahira. I can¡¯t live without her, Mom,¡± Darian continued, lifting his face to look at Yasmin through his teary eyes.


    ¡°Since I was little, I never had a choice. Everything was dictated by Papa, and I was always an obedient son. I want to be devoted to Mama and Papa as much as I can. But please, Ma, just this once, I beg you to bless my decision to marry Fahira.¡± Yasmin remained firm as Darian began to dry her feet with the towel.


    ¡°Forgive me, Darian. I can¡¯t do it!¡± Yasmin said firmly, wiping the tears from her cheeks. At that moment, Darian felt like his world was crumbling upon hearing his mother¡¯s resolute decision.


    The tears that had been welling up in his eyes began to flow freely. His soul suddenly felt empty. He wouldn¡¯t be able to hurt Fahira again after the promise he made.


    ¡°Give me one reason. Why don¡¯t you like Fahira?¡± Darian said while wiping his tears roughly.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°But you have to promise me, after you know the reason, you have to leave Fahira immediately!¡± Yasmin insisted. Darian¡¯s heart raced with curiosity about the truth that would soon be revealed.


    Darian nodded hesitantly. He would keep his promise if the reason Yasmin gave was truly genuine and something he could ept. Considering the many mysteries and secrets of Fahira¡¯s life that had not been revealed yet. Darian himself was still waiting for the results of the investigation by David¡¯s trusted people.


    ¡°Come with me, Mommy!¡± Yasmin stood up from the sofa and headed towards the family¡¯s private library, followed by Darian behind her.


    Yasmin sat in the chair behind the desk and opened a drawer.


    ¡°Here is Mommy¡¯s reason!¡± Yasmin said as she took out a brown envelope from the drawer and slid it towards Darian, who was sitting in a chair across the table.


    Still looking at his mother, Darian reached for the brown envelope. He slowly opened it with his heart racing.


    Thud. Darian¡¯s heart suddenly felt like it stopped. His hands trembled as his eyes began to read the contents of the letter, which seemed to tear his heart and pride apart.


    ¡°Where did Mommy get this?¡± Darian asked, his hands trembling as he couldn¡¯t look away from the words that revealed information about Fahira.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to know where Mommy got it. What¡¯s important now is that you know what kind of woman you love. You know Mommy well. Mama never cared about someone¡¯s status. What still puzzles Mama is why daddy told us to protect a woman like Fahira?¡± Yasmin exined with a sad yet emphatic look.


    ¡°Fahira is just a wo-¡±


    ¡°Stop, Mom, that¡¯s enough!¡± Darian cut off Yasmin¡¯s sentence. He couldn¡¯t bear to hear the woman he loved being demeaned like that. Yasmin¡¯s tears flowed instantly. Her heart was in pain. Her only son, whom she loved dearly, had yelled at her just to defend a woman like Fahira.


    ¡°Darian¡­ My child! Because of that woman, you dared to raise your voice at Mommy. Even daddy never raised his voice at Mommy until hisst days!¡± Yasmin¡¯s tears continued to pour.


    ¡°Aaaa¡­¡± Darian screamed in frustration. He roughly ran his fingers through his hair while looking at Yasmin with regret.


    ¡°It¡¯s time for Mommy to know something as well,¡± Darian said as he turned on theputer and printer on the table. He opened his personal email on theputer and searched for an email sent by David a few months ago.


    Soon, the sound of the printer broke the silence. Now Yasmin was curious. Page after page came out of the printer. Darian gathered them and handed them to Yasmin.


    ¡°Please read it carefully, Mommy!¡± Darianmanded with mixed feelings. His mother would surely be disappointed with his actions, but he was sure she would also give her blessing as soon as she knew the truth.


    Darian fell silent. His gaze didn¡¯t leave the beautiful face before him, which was now serious while reading page after page. asionally, Yasmin covered her mouth with her hand and looked at Darian with an incredulous expression.


    ¡°So¡­?¡± Yasmin¡¯s lips trembled. She struggled to speak. She was torn between disappointment and disbelief at the reality presented before her.


    ¡°Yes, I know. I was wrong and sinful. At first, it was just a joke, Mom. But as time went on, I fell in love with her,¡± Darian said, looking at Yasmin who was still in shock with the contents of the papers in her hands.


    ¡°So, you were the man being served by Fahira at the hotel? And the money was for her sister¡¯s heart surgery?¡± Yasmin questioned, still finding it hard to believe. Honestly, Yasmin couldn¡¯t believe that a well-mannered and polite woman like Fahira would do such a demeaning job just for money.


    ¡°At first, I thought the same as Mommy, but after I found out Fahira¡¯s reasons, I regretted it, and sympathy emerged from within me. Now, I truly love her, and I beg Mommy to approve of our rtionship,¡± Darian honestly confessed, his eyes filled with sorrow as he remembered his despicable actions.


    ¡°Wait a minute! Mmmmm, it must be David who blocked your bank ount mutation, right?¡± Yasmin asked again because her trusted person couldn¡¯t trace the ount number that transferred money to Fahira¡¯s ount.


    Darian shrugged and said, ¡°Darian hopes Mommy doesn¡¯t need to bring up this issue again. Darian doesn¡¯t want to see Fahira sad again!¡± Darian pleaded, looking imploringly at Yasmin.


    ¡°Come here!¡± Yasmin spread her arms and stood up. Darian¡¯s smile instantly brightened as he approached Yasmin. Their brown eyes met silently, conveying the long-suppressed longing between a mother and son, separated for so long by ego.


    ¡°I love you, Mom!¡± Darian whispered in Yasmin¡¯s embrace. Tears welled up in his eyes, apanied by a happiness that seemed to have disappeared for so long. Everything had changed since the departure of Rusdi, their father, and role model. Now, it was time for Darian to take over Rusdi¡¯s position as the head of the Mahesa Putra family.


    ¡°I love you more!¡± Yasmin replied, tightening her embrace.


    ¡°Tonight, don¡¯t you want to stay with Mommy?¡± Yasmin asked, loosening the hug.


    ¡°Of course, starting tonight, I will stay with Mommy again,¡± Darian replied, hugging his mother once more. Overwhelmed with emotions, Yasmin felt incredibly grateful as her prayers were finally answered. Darian was back in her arms.

 Darian鈥檚 Love

    Last night, Darian truly transformed into a little child who longed for his mother, like a mother and child who had been separated for a long time. Yasmin¡¯s gentle touch on the top of his head seemed to lull him to sleep, leading him into a beautiful dream. Darian felt as if he was thrown far back into his childhood memories, where he and Yasmin always spent time together.


    Yasmin woke up from her sleep just as the faint call to the Fajr prayer echoed in her ears, melodiously seeping through. Still with her eyes closed, her hand reached out to find the figure that had lulled her into a beautiful dream the night before. Those beautiful eyelids fluttered open as she scanned the entire room. ¡°Did Darian leavest night?¡± Yasmin whispered as she got up from her soft bed. She gathered her beautiful hair and tied it in one ce. She hurriedly left the room and stepped up the stairs to the second floor where Darian¡¯s room was located.


    Slowly, Yasmin¡¯s hand reached for the door handle and pressed it. Creak¡­ Yasmin gently pushed the door with a pounding heart. She prepared herself in case Darian was not in his room and had left without saying goodbye again. However, to her surprise, behind the door, her body froze at the sight before her. Broad and upright back, Darian was sitting cross-legged, facing the Qi, in deep devotion. The melodious chanting of dhikr sounded soothing and calming. Yasmin walked carefully, making sure not to make any noise, and sat at the edge of the bed with teary eyes. Her heart was touched with drops of tears starting to fall. That back reminded her of Rusdi, her beloved husband. Longing washed over her along with a flood of memories that attacked her mind blindly.


    Yasmin¡¯s sobs broke Darian¡¯s concentration, and he quickly turned to find his mother shedding tears. He wiped the tears from Yasmin¡¯s cheeks and hugged her tightly, his heart pounding with concern.


    ¡°Mom, what¡¯s wrong? Are you sick?¡± Darian asked with worry, wiping the tears on Yasmin¡¯s cheek and embracing her tightly.


    ¡°Mom misses Dad!¡± Yasmin whispered, causing Darian¡¯s body to stiffen. The woman in his arms looked so fragile. Guilt immediately stabbed his chest. Darian realized how selfish he had been all this time, leaving his mother alone in this luxurious house after his father¡¯s departure, just to pursue his own freedom. But instead of finding true freedom, he was only engulfed in emptiness and illusion. In the apartment, he became even more drowned in loneliness.


    ¡°Tomorrow, after work, we¡¯ll visit Dad¡¯s grave!¡± Darian replied while gently patting Yasmin¡¯s shoulder to calm her down.


    ¡°Thank you, Darian. I¡¯ll pray now, okay?¡± Yasmin said, releasing the embrace and looking at Darian with a faint smile on the corner of her lips.


    Yasmin immediately performed the Fajr prayer and headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. This morning felt very different; she wanted to make a special meal with her own hands, just like she used to when the family wasplete.


    As soon as Darian came down from his room, he went straight to Yasmin, who was preparing breakfast for the both of them. A smile was evident on the middle-aged woman¡¯s face. Yasmin¡¯s soft humming could be heard along with Bi Roh, the housekeeper who had worked for over 20 years. Bi Roh could feel the extraordinary atmosphere of happiness. It had been a long time since she saw the sparkle of joy after Darian left home and chose to live in the apartment. Yasmin had been spending more time working and taking care of her boutique. Sometimes, she still epted photo shoots as a magazine model or participated as a speaker in various events as a motivator.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Mwah¡­ A quick pecknded on Yasmin¡¯s left cheek, making her turn around. She pinched her son¡¯s belly in annoyance.


    ¡°It¡¯s still too early to go to the office!¡± Yasmin teased, squinting her eyes as she looked at her son, who was already dressed neatly in office attire.


    ¡°Darian needs to pick up Fahira Mom, she might leave before I can get there,¡± exined Darian as he pulled out a chair and settled into it.


    ¡°Then who will eat this breakfast?¡± Yasmin replied with irritation.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have itter,¡± Darian replied briefly, sitting down and sipping a ss of milk in front of him.


    Darian got up from his seat and approached Yasmin, giving her a kiss on the cheek. Yasmin, who was initially disappointed because Darian didn¡¯t have breakfast with her, instantly smiled. Darian¡¯s sweet gesture warmed her heart.


    ¡°Well then, be careful on the road! If Fahira is not busy tonight, bring her home for dinner! Mama will cook something special for my future daughter-inw!¡± Yasmin said with a beaming smile.


    ¡°Of course, Darian will bring the best future daughter-inw for Mommy,¡± replied Darian, reaching for Yasmin¡¯s hand and kissing it.


    ***


    As Darian arrived in front of the Mawar ts building, his heart was pounding rapidly. He couldn¡¯t wait to meet his beloved girl. Last night, he was so engrossed with his mother that he forgot to contact his girlfriend.


    He unfastened his seat belt and quickly got out of the car, paying no attention to the nces of peopleing out of the ts to go to work. Of course, among all the parked cars, Darian¡¯s car was the most eye-catching. Darian stepped out of the car, adjusting his jacket. His athletic physique and the way his clothes clung to his body made it evident that he was not an ordinary person. He ascended the stairs one by one, a faint smile adorning his handsome face.


    Teet¡­ The sound of the doorbell startled Fahira, who was getting ready to leave with Ariel.


    ¡°Come on, dear, let¡¯s go!¡± Fahira called out while looking at Ariel, who was still getting his school books ready.


    ¡°You know, you should have prepared your textbooksst night. And why do we have a guest so early in the morning?¡± Fahira grumbled as she walked towards the door.


    ¡°Hey, beautiful!¡± greeted Darian with a beaming smile as the door opened wide. The man in the ck suit lookedpletely different. Happiness radiated from his face. With his left hand sunk into his pants pocket and his right hand resting on the door frame, he looked even more charismatic. Fahira was momentarily stunned, admiring the perfection of the man standing in front of her.


    ¡°Why are you here so early in the morning?¡± Fahira asked, trying to divert her racing heartbeat. All night, she was restless because Darian didn¡¯t reply to her WhatsApp messages or calls, and now he stood behind the door with an innocent look on his face.


    ¡°I missed you!¡± replied Darian briefly, yfully raising his eyebrows.


    ¡°Clich¨¦!¡± Fahira scoffed, getting even more annoyed, which made Darian chuckle softly. His brown eyes gazed at Fahira with a look full of love, making her heart race even faster.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, sis!¡± Ariel interrupted. Instantly, Ariel¡¯s expression turned cold when he saw the man standing in front of his sister was Darian.


    ¡°Why are you dating here?¡± Ariel said sarcastically, ring at Darian. Ariel intentionally bumped Darian¡¯s shoulder with his backpack so that he would move away from the door, then he passed by them both without permission.


    Fahira just shook her head as she watched Ariel walk away and then locked the door of her house.


    ***


    Fahira couldn¡¯t resist her curiosity any longer and decided to seek the truth right away.


    ¡°Darian, what¡¯s going on? Is Mrs. Yasmin mad at you?¡± Fahira asked anxiously.


    Yesterday¡¯s tragedy became a turning point in their love story. Fahira had to prepare herself for whatever consequences awaited her.


    ¡°Tonight, Mommy invites us for dinner at home!¡± Darian replied, reaching for Fahira¡¯s fingers, bringing them up to hisp, and absentmindedly ying with them while keeping his focus on the busy streets ahead.


    Fahira pulled her hand away from Darian¡¯s grasp. She wasn¡¯t 100% ready to meet Darian¡¯s mother. She felt undeserving, especially after her rejection during the dinner the other day.


    ¡°Why?¡± Darian looked at Fahira, whose mood suddenly changed.


    ¡°No, Darian, I realize now. I¡¯m not worthy to stand by your side. I¡¯m just an ordinary girl and an orphan. Mrs. Yasmin is not wrong; she only wants the best for you!¡± Fahira felt even more insecure now.


    ¡°We¡¯ll continue this conversationter at the office,¡± Darian replied tly. The smile on his lips gradually faded, and without saying anything more, he elerated his car.


    Arriving at the office, Darian immediately held Fahira¡¯s hand as they entered the elevator and went into his office without paying attention to the nces of all the employees. ¡°Darian, what¡¯s all this?¡± Fahira tried to pull her hand away from Darian¡¯s grip.


    ¡°Fahira!¡±


    Darian¡¯s jaw tightened. He was trying to control his emotions. Darian didn¡¯t like Fahira¡¯s constant insecurity. He pulled out a chair for Fahira to sit and then settled on the sofa, facing his girlfriend. He reached for both of Fahira¡¯s hands and held them tightly.


    ¡°Mommy has never cared about someone¡¯s status. Maybe for you and others who don¡¯t know us, it may seem that way. But in our eyes, everyone is equal. In front of God, only piety differentiates us. You misunderstand; I¡¯m not a saint, just a servant of god filled with sins, and now I want to change. I want to start everything anew with you, Fahira. Let¡¯s forget everything about our past,¡± Darian exined, not diverting his gaze from Fahira¡¯s beautiful face.


    ¡°Mommy has given her blessing to our rtionship,¡± Darian added gently. Fahira¡¯s body tensed up, shocked by what she had just heard. Various questions began to swirl in her mind. Why did Yasmin change her mind so quickly after all the chaos Darian had caused because of her yesterday?


    ¡°Please, trust me, Honey,¡± Darian tried to reassure Fahira, who still seemed doubtful about his words. And, of course, he couldn¡¯t tell her that his mother knew about their forbidden actions.


    Fahira smiled and then got up from her chair to start working. Just as Fahira reached the door, Darian called her again.


    ¡°Honey, don¡¯t forget my coffee as usual,¡± he said, making Fahira turn back and smile.


    ¡°Oh, and please order breakfast for me too,¡± Darian continued, which annoyed Fahira.


    ¡°Two portions,¡± Darian teased, wiggling his thick eyebrows.


    Fahira hurriedly left before Darian could tease her any further.


    Afterpleting Darian¡¯s requests, Fahira focused on her work. Unbeknownst to her, her three colleagues, Mira, Susi, and Ray, were smiling at her in a way that she couldn¡¯t understand. Mira, who had been curious since yesterday, finally took the initiative to approach Fahira.


    ¡°Fahira, you know what?¡± Fahira, who was engrossed in her work, immediately looked up to see Mira grinning.


    ¡°What?¡± Fahira asked curtly, trying to act nonchnt. She could already guess where their conversation was heading.


    ¡°You¡¯re famous now, even surpassing celebrities. The sweet event yesterday became a trending topic on social media and television. I never imagined that your boss could be so in love with you,¡± Mira teased, making Fahira sigh deeply before responding.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about it,¡± Fahira replied shortly. Susi, who had just joined them in Fahira¡¯s cubicle, also sighed with disappointment.


    ¡°I can¡¯t say anything right now! I¡¯m sorry!¡± Fahira pleaded with a pleading look. Mira and Susi smiled at each other and returned to their respective cubicles. They understood what Fahira was feeling now. Perhaps other girls would feel ttered by Darian¡¯s bold move of leaving his fianc¨¦e for the girl he loved, but Fahira felt the opposite. She felt pressured. She might appear casual in front of others, but deep in her heart, she was confused and not sure about everything that had happened. Her intuition told her that there might be a bigger event awaiting her.

 Resign鈥檚 Letter

    Fahira¡¯s worries turned out to be unfounded. Yasmin weed her with open arms and even encouraged Darian and Fahira to get married.


    ¡°Fahira, please forgive Mommy, okay? We may not know each other well yet, but I believe Darian¡¯s choice is the best,¡± Yasmin said gently. She reached for Fahira¡¯s fingers and looked into Fahira¡¯s deep ck eyes tenderly.


    ¡°Mrs. Yasmin, you don¡¯t need to apologize. Ipletely understand your feelings,¡± Fahira replied politely. Yasmin¡¯s gentle gaze instantly reminded Fahira of her own mother, and it sent shivers down her spine.


    It had been three years since Fahira¡¯s parents passed away, and during that time, she never visited their graves. Not because she couldn¡¯t afford the transportation from Jakarta to Surabaya, but because a letter had instructed her to stay with Ariel in Jakarta for an unspecified period for their safety. Fahira was afraid that something might happen if she dared to leave, especially for Ariel¡¯s safety.


    ¡°Call me Mommy, soon we will be family,¡± Yasmin said, smiling.


    Currently, Yasmin and Fahira were sitting together in the backyard garden, enjoying the serene atmosphere with the sound of the fish pond as the natural music. The swimming pool was surrounded by palm trees. Darian had excused himself to freshen up since he was still wearing his formal office attire. After dropping Fahira off at home, he went to his own house to change.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Fahira, I hope you don¡¯t mind living with Mama here. I¡¯ve been feeling lonely ever since Darian moved to the apartment,¡± Yasmin said with a hoarse voice. Fahira responded by gently holding the frail hand of the middle-aged woman. Fahira had misjudged the perfect life of Darian Mahesa Putra. Both Darian and Yasmin carried their own deep wounds. Fahira didn¡¯t know the details, but she could sense it.


    ¡°Of course, whatever Mommy wishes, Fahira will follow. May I hug you, Mommy?¡± Fahira¡¯s voice trembled. Both pairs of dark eyes looked misty and filled with hope.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Yasmin pulled Fahira into her embrace. Both of them cried silently, lost in their own thoughts.


    ¡°Ahem¡­ It seems like I¡¯m forgotten,¡± Darian¡¯s voice interrupted the emotional moment between Fahira and Yasmin.


    Fahira and Yasmin let go of each other¡¯s embrace and wiped the remaining tears from their cheeks. Darian just smiled, feeling grateful in his heart to see his two beloved women getting along so well.


    ¡°It¡¯s gettingte, Darian should take Fahira home now. It¡¯s not good for Ariel to be alone at home,¡± Yasmin suggested, looking at Darian with affection.


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s go home,¡± Fahira added.


    ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll take you home,¡± Darian replied, standing up. He was happy to see his mother and Fahira getting along so well.


    ¡°Visit us again sometime, Fahira,¡± Yasmin said, hugging Fahira again before they parted.


    ¡°Mom, I hope you¡¯re ready to have a lively house soon with grandchildren,¡± Darian teased, causing Fahira to blush.


    Fahira red at Darian when he was about to say something else.


    ¡°I¡¯m also looking forward to having a house filled with grandchildren,¡± Yasmin chimed in with a teasing smile, enjoying the interaction between Darian and Fahira. She could see the love shining in their eyes.


    Fahira bid farewell and kissed the back of Yasmin¡¯s hand before the conversation could get any more teasing. She felt a little embarrassed by the yful banter between mother and son.


    ***


    The next morning, David was already waiting for Darian in his office. There was something important that Darian needed to know about Alea. Maybe it wasn¡¯t important to Darian, but it was crucial for David. He was worried that Alea might attempt something drastic and hurt herself again.


    ¡°Where have you been all this time? You¡¯ve been disturbing my life. You were nowhere to be found, not at home, not at the office! If you weren¡¯t my friend, I would have fired you!¡± Darian grumbled as he took off his jacket and ced it on the back of his chair before sittingfortably in his chair.


    Darian¡¯s forehead creased when he saw David¡¯s strange expression. His friend seemed anxious and puzzled.


    ¡°Yesterday, when you left Alea like that and went off with Fahira, I identally followed Alea. Do you know what she did?¡± David exined seriously, while Darian seemed indifferent to the information.


    ¡°Alea tried tomit suicide. She drowned herself in the sea.¡± Darian immediately stood up from his seat, looking at David in disbelief.


    ¡°Thank goodness I followed her. I panicked when her heart stopped beating. I¡¯m grateful, my first aid skills worked,¡± David continued, responding to Darian¡¯s shocked gaze.


    ¡°You should meet her and talk to her, apologize at least, as the fault is not entirely on her, right?¡± David sighed before getting up from his seat.


    ¡°I¡¯ll apany you if you¡¯re hesitant, her mental condition is not stable right now,¡± David said, patting Darian¡¯s shoulder as he walked out of the room, leaving Darian feeling guilty.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Darian cursed as his concentration shattered. The files in front of him couldn¡¯t convince him to focus. He had nned to take Fahira somewhere after work, but now he had another urgent matter to attend to.


    Darian¡¯s heart was in turmoil after David¡¯s words. He couldn¡¯t pretend not to care about Alea if she was attempting suicide. The thought of Alea hurting herself again haunted him, and the guilt would stay with him for a lifetime. Darian contemted whether he should tell Fahira about Alea or not.


    ¡°No,¡± Darian whispered, massaging his nose bridge with closed eyes. He knew Fahira well enough; she would probably choose to leave him rather than see someone else getting hurt, and Darian didn¡¯t want that to happen.


    In the end, he decided to follow David¡¯s advice and meet with Alea, apanied by David. He didn¡¯t want anything undesirable to ur. He was worried that Alea might do something reckless, and Darian didn¡¯t want to be trapped in an unwanted situation.


    From a distance, David observed Darian and Alea engaged in a serious conversation. Alea¡¯s eyes were filled with hatred as she stared at Darian. After a while, she stood up from her seat and grabbed a ss of drink, pouring it over Darian¡¯s face. David quickly stood and rushed over when he saw Darian¡¯s hand about to retaliate towards Alea.


    ¡°Stop, man. We¡¯re in public!¡± David warned, holding Darian¡¯s hand mid-air.


    With a sharp look and a tense jaw, Darian lowered his hand and adjusted his jacket before leaving abruptly. Before David caught up to Darian, he looked at Alea with an unreadable expression and said, ¡°I¡¯lle to your apartmentter in the afternoon.¡±


    Alea watched Darian¡¯s strong back as he walked away, tears streaming down her face uncontrobly. Her heart and mind were in a fierce battle now. Should she seek revenge for the pain and humiliation Darian had caused her, or should she listen to David¡¯s advice and move on without expecting Darian¡¯s love again?


    ***


    Fahira¡¯s face turned crimson as she listened to Darian¡¯s suggestive words. She couldn¡¯t believe what she just heard. The audacity and boldness of his statement left her stunned and flustered. Her mind was racing, trying to process the implications of Darian¡¯s proposition.


    ¡°Darian, you can¡¯t just say something like that!¡± Fahira stammered, feeling a mix of embarrassment, anger, and confusion.


    Darian only smirked, clearly enjoying Fahira¡¯s reaction. ¡°Why not? We both know there¡¯s something between us. And let¡¯s be honest, you enjoy teasing me too,¡± he replied with a mischievous glint in his eyes.


    Fahira clenched her fists, trying to regain herposure. ¡°This is highly inappropriate, Darian. I¡¯m your employee, and you¡¯re my boss. We can¡¯t cross that line,¡± she stated firmly.


    Darian¡¯s expression turned serious, and he took a step closer to her. ¡°Who said anything about crossing lines? We can keep this strictly professional. You¡¯ll be my personal secretary, assisting me with everything, both at work and at home,¡± he exined, trying to sound reasonable.


    Fahira shook her head, feeling overwhelmed by the situation. ¡°I can¡¯t do this, Darian. It¡¯s not right,¡± she said, trying to maintain her resolve.


    Darian sighed, realizing that he might have gone too far with his proposition. ¡°Look, Fahira, I didn¡¯t mean to pressure you. Take your time to think about it. I won¡¯t force you into anything,¡± he said, his tone softening.


    Fahira nodded, still feeling uneasy. ¡°I need some space right now. Can we talk about thister?¡± she requested.


    Darian nodded in agreement. ¡°Of course. Take all the time you need. And remember, I value your work, not just any personal arrangement,¡± he reassured her.


    Fahira forced a small smile, grateful for his understanding. ¡°Thank you, Darian. I¡¯ll get back to you when I¡¯m ready to discuss this further,¡± she replied.


    With that, Fahira quickly left Darian¡¯s office, needing some fresh air and time to collect her thoughts. She knew she needed to figure out what she truly wanted and whether she could handle such a unique andplicated arrangement with her boss.


    As Fahira walked through the office corridors, she couldn¡¯t help but feel a whirlwind of emotions inside her. The professional boundaries had been blurred, and she was faced with a decision that could impact her career and personal life in ways she never imagined. It was a delicate bnce between her heart and her mind, and she knew she needed to tread carefully to protect herself from any potential regrets orplications.


    In the days that followed, Fahira took some time off to clear her mind and think things through. She sought advice from her close friends and family, trying to weigh the pros and cons of epting such an unusual position as Darian¡¯s personal secretary.


    Ultimately, Fahira decided to have an open and honest conversation with Darian. She wanted to express her concerns and boundaries clearly while also acknowledging the chemistry and connection between them. It was essential for them to establish clear ground rules if they were to proceed with this arrangement.


    When the time came, Fahira met Darian again in his office, ready to discuss the matter candidly. They both knew that whatever they decided would have a significant impact on their lives, both personally and professionally.


    As they sat face to face, the tension in the room was palpable. Fahira took a deep breath and began to express her thoughts and feelings, hoping that they could find a path that would respect both their emotions and professional responsibilities.


    And so, their journey into a unique andplex rtionship began, with Fahira stepping into the role of Darian¡¯s personal secretary, navigating the boundaries between work and intimacy, love and professionalism. They both knew that this would be an unconventional path, filled with challenges and uncertainties, but they were determined to make it work and build something meaningful together.


    Fahira¡¯s face turned red instantly. ¡°You pervert!¡± she pushed Darian¡¯srge body away from hers and hurriedly left his office, clutching her agenda tightly.

 Love Bird

    This evening, David was once again assigned by Darian as a bodyguard. And of course, David dly epted it because he also wanted to meet Alea. His mind was restless since the incident when Alea poured water on Darian earlier that afternoon. He didn¡¯t know why he was so concerned about that girl. His life had be uneasy ever since he took away her innocence. Alea¡¯s eyes filled with hatred and anger haunted him like a spell that he couldn¡¯t shake off from his mind.


    David observed Darian¡¯s tender behavior towards Fahira as they conversed in the elevator. David felt like a mosquito now, regretting epting Darian¡¯s offer to ride the exclusive elevator for top executives along with the two love birds. He gave them that nickname because he always witnessed their affectionate moments. It wasn¡¯t just David; anyone who saw them could read the significance of Darian¡¯s gaze towards the girl in front of him. Darian¡¯s world now seemed to revolve around Fahira.


    ¡°Swear to anything, I won¡¯t fall in love with my best friend!¡± David grumbled inwardly as he quickly walked away from the elevator, leaving the two love birds who seemedpletely oblivious to his presence.


    Upon arriving in front of Rusun Mawar, Fahira didn¡¯t immediately get out of Darian¡¯s car. She appeared to be contemting something. Sensing her unease, Darian took the initiative to start the conversation.


    ¡°Tell me what¡¯s bothering you, Honey?¡± Darian gently held Fahira¡¯s slender fingers and brought them to hisp, gazing into her deep ck eyes filled with concern.


    ¡°I want to go back to Surabaya before we get married. I want to visit my parents¡¯ graves. Even seeing them for thest time, Ariel and I never got the chance. Until now, we haven¡¯t visited their graves,¡± Fahira exined, her eyes starting to well up with tears.


    ¡°It¡¯s not without reason that we haven¡¯t gone back. We¡¯re just following the orders of the person who brought us here. I don¡¯t even know who they are. But thanks to them, I can stay here and work in yourpany. I just followed the instructions in the letter they left. It feels like they have prepared everything so meticulously.¡± Darian¡¯s eyebrows furrowed. He seemed to be considering something. The investigation into the death of Fahira¡¯s parents had not yielded any results yet. He was still waiting for the findings from David¡¯s trusted investigator. And now, he had to unravel this new mystery. Who was the person Fahira was referring to?


    ¡°Do you feel like someone is watching you and Ariel?¡± Darian asked with a worried expression. Fahira simply shook her head in response.


    Darian¡¯s hand reached out and caressed Fahira¡¯s cheek. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I promise that we¡¯ll go to Surabaya soon.¡± Darian looked into Fahira¡¯s eyes affectionately and smiled. He needed to find out the truth behind the nned murder of Fahira¡¯s family and reveal the investigation results and motives to Fahira. Sooner orter, she would know.


    ¡°Oh, I want you to wear the ring I gave you. I want everyone to know that you¡¯re my future wife,¡± Darian continued, causing Fahira¡¯s heart to warm up. Fahira smiled and reached for something in her bag.


    Her left hand took Darian¡¯s right hand and ced the diamond ring in his palm. Darian looked puzzled for a moment, but then his lips broke into a wide smile when Fahira extended her hand.


    Slowly, Darian ced the diamond ring on Fahira¡¯s ring finger. ¡°Beautiful!¡± he whispered, then brought her hand to his lips to kiss it.


    Darian got out of the car and apanied Fahira to the front door of her house.


    In another ce, David stood still in front of Alea¡¯s apartment door. His heart was still uncertain about knocking on the door in front of him. ¡°Why am I so busy dealing with this girl!¡± David grumbled in his heart as he turned away, deciding not to meet Alea and leave her life forever. He took a step towards the luxury apartment¡¯s door, but his steps halted at the third door he passed.


    ¡°Shit!¡± he cursed in frustration, imagining Alea doing something crazy like yesterday. David quickly turned back and knocked on Alea¡¯s apartment door. Before his fingers could touch the door, Alea swung it open with a t expression.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Alea red at David with irritation, folding her arms across her chest while scrutinizing the macho appearance of the man standing before her. David was wearing jeans paired with an unbuttoned white shirt, and Alea could easily guess how attractive the man standing in front of her was.


    ¡°Just making sure you¡¯re okay!¡± David replied briefly, intending to leave, but a hand firmly held onto his arm.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go, keep mepany!¡± Alea whispered, causing David to turn and look at her with an unreadable expression.


    David scanned the luxurious pastel-toned apartment. It was neat and clean, of course.


    ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s a mess,¡± Alea said, inviting David to sit in the living room. She headed to the mini bar in the corner of the living room and grabbed a few bottles of drinks and two ss cups.


    ¡°It¡¯s still afternoon; I just want coffee!¡± David refused the drinks that Alea brought straight to the point.


    ¡°I thought you came to apany me in drinking. I need to refresh my mind from Darian,¡± said Alea casually as she ced the bottles and sses on the table.


    ¡°Do you have coffee powder and sugar? I¡¯ll make it myself,¡± David suggested, and Alea nodded her head in response. She opened a bottle of wine and poured it into a ss.


    David got up from his seat and went to the kitchen. He searched for a jar of sugar and coffee powder and then grabbed a ss. After preparing the coffee with a bit of sugar to his taste, he pointed the ss towards the water dispenser. The aroma of coffee filled the air as hot water poured from the dispenser¡¯s spout.


    ¡°Why do you care about me?¡± Alea asked, looking at David who had returned to sit beside her. He stirred the coffee he had made while inhaling its aroma. He observed David¡¯s every move attentively. His fair face and sleek ck hair contrasted sharply with Darian¡¯s appearance. They were like night and day.


    ¡°I see your rtionship with Darian is more than just boss and employee!¡± Alea interrogated, not minding David¡¯s indifference. Instead of answering Alea¡¯s questions, David seemed to savor the hot coffee as he blew on it gently.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°You don¡¯t like Darian¡¯s secretary either, do you?¡± Alea continued. This time, David reacted, shifting his gaze from the coffee cup in his hand to the beautiful face beside him.


    ¡°Darian and I have been friends since high school, and my feelings for Fahira are just that of a co-worker. I sympathize with her polite and courteous manner. Well, I see her more like a little sister!¡± David exined before taking another sip of his coffee.


    ¡°Hahahaha¡­ What¡¯s so great about that vige girl? My face is much prettier. Not to mention sexier. I¡¯m far superior!¡± Alea sneered as she poured another drink from the bottle and took a gulp of wine from her ss.


    ¡°You¡¯re drunk, Alea. And if you can¡¯t handle alcohol, you shouldn¡¯t be drinking like this!¡± David grabbed Alea¡¯s ss and ced it on the table. He was sure that Alea¡¯s body couldn¡¯t tolerate too much alcohol. She was already starting to babble incoherently after just one bottle.


    ¡°Where is it? I¡¯m not satisfied yet!¡± Alea tried to reach for her ss again, but David quickly moved it away.


    Emmm¡­ Suddenly, Alea aggressively kissed David¡¯s lips. ¡°Stop it, I don¡¯t want you to regret it!¡± David pushed Alea¡¯s face away from his.


    ¡°I need some fun. Tonight, you have to keep mepany. I don¡¯t care what we do. I just want to be happy,¡± Alea continued, hugging David tightly.


    A rough exhale escaped David¡¯s lips. He returned the hug and kissed the top of her head.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± David asked to confirm. He couldn¡¯t resist his desire, but he also wanted to do this consensually, just like he had with his previous partners.


    Alea smiled seductively as she stood up and began to take off her clothes one by one until she was left with a pair of sexy ck underwear that made David gulp hard. David remained frozen in ce, his eagle eyes scanning the seductive curves of her body before him.


    ¡°You¡¯re drunk. I better leave!¡± David tried to get up from his seat, but Alea held him back. She now sat on David¡¯sp, framing her face with her hands and sensually licking her lips.


    Unable to contain his desire any longer from Alea¡¯s amateurish seduction, David responded with a more passionate kiss. Their lips moved from each other¡¯s, descending to Alea¡¯s slender neck. Soft moans escaped from Alea¡¯s lips, further igniting David¡¯s desire. David released the kiss and lifted Alea bridal-style, carrying her towards her bedroom.


    With Alea¡¯s help, David¡¯s clothes began toe off. He immediately pinned her down and looked into her dark brown eyes. The desire that had been burning inside him suddenly extinguished to its core. For the first time, David couldn¡¯t take things further with the girl beneath him.


    David lowered his body next to Alea and said, ¡°I can¡¯t go on!¡± Alea was taken aback. Her body froze. She never expected the jerk next to her to still have apassionate side in his heart. Alea had already resigned herself to her circumstances. She no longer cared about her reputation and fame. All she needed right now was a friend she could talk to, someone who could understand her feelings. After her failed engagement with Darian a few days ago, her parents were angry and med her. Their families had be a trending topic in the news, and her parents felt ashamed and asked her to disappear for a while to quell the gossip and news.


    ¡°Sleep, I¡¯ll stay with you tonight! I won¡¯t leave until you kick me out,¡± David whispered as he hugged Alea tightly. He pulled the nket to cover both of them and closed his eyes. Alea lifted her face, gazing at the man embracing her, then slowly closed her eyes, a soft smile forming on her lips.

 Unlock The Riddle

    A man is seen sleeping in restlessness. He moves erratically, causing his king-size bed to look messy, as if he has just finished a heated battle. But in reality, he is only wrestling with his thick nket. asionally, the sound of sighs fills the quiet and dark room. The only lightes from the shy moon peeking through the silver curtains, waving softly due to the breeze from the room¡¯s air conditioner. The silhouette of a man is seen sitting without clothes, then he tosses aside his only cover. Wearing only boxer shorts, he gets up from the bed and looks for his t object to contact someone.


    A stifled growl masks the only rhythm that has dominated the silence when the number he called turns out to be inactive. He checks the time on the small screen in his hand. His hand reaches out to the nightstand, searching for something. Byar¡­ The light greets his eyes harshly, and he quickly shields his sight with his strong hands. Dragging hiszy feet, he enters the bathroom.


    With a heartfelt intention, he washes his face with water andpletes the ablution ritual, trying to dispel theziness and restlessness that linger in his heart.


    The man immerses himself in the beautiful verses he recites, whispering softly until they fill the depths of his heart. Gradually, the restlessness begins to fade, coinciding with the faint sound of the dawn call to prayer that seeps into his ears. Immediately, he rises from his position and raises both hands in takbir.


    Still in his lengthy prayer, the man gazes at a brown mushaf with gold inscriptions that lies beside a walk-in closet, surrounded by frames containing pictures of him with his parents. It was a 17th birthday gift from his father. He can¡¯t remember how long it¡¯s been since hest recited the beautiful verses from the mushaf. With trembling hands, he picks it up and sits back cross-legged, facing the qi. With an uncertain feeling, he opens the mushaf to the middle, where the heart of the mushaf lies.


    The man begins to immerse himself in the beautiful verses, his body trembling. His chest feels like it¡¯s thundering as shbacks from the past slowly fill his mind like a slow-motion documentary. Apart from the ustadz whoes to teach him to recite the Quran every day, his father, Renda, also used to listen to him recite the Quran every day. His vision starts to blur as he turns the next page. Tear.. crystal droplets finally fall one by one, wetting the pages of the mushaf in hisp. He wipes the crystal droplets with his fingertips, as they start to form a river, until hepletes his recitation.


    ¡°Forgive me, O Lord!¡± He murmurs while closing the mushaf and holding it tightly. His dark eyes close tightly as he takes a long breath and exhales slowly, repeating it three times to give space to the tightness in his chest.


    After removing the sarong and t-shirt he wore during prayer, Darian quickly cleans himself and prepares to go to the office. Before that, he does some push-ups and light exercises to stretch his muscles, as he usually does every morning before getting ready for work.


    In respect for his mother, who had painstakingly prepared breakfast for him, Darian ate a little of his meal. To be honest, Darian wasn¡¯t used to having breakfast in the morning since he decided to live in an apartment. He would have breakfast at the office with the menu that Fahira usually ordered online ording to his request.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you finish your breakfast?¡± Yasmin said, sitting across the table in front of Darian with an unreadable expression.


    ¡°Darian usually drinks coffee in the morning and has breakfast a bitter, Mom!¡± exined Darian with a smile.


    ¡°Don¡¯t drink too much coffee!¡± Yasmin cautioned, taking a deep breath.


    Darian nodded and finished his ss of milk.


    ¡°I have to go to work now!¡± Darian got up from his seat, then kissed his mom¡¯s cheek and held her delicate hand to give it a kiss too. ¡°Forgive me. Darian loves you, Mom!¡± Darian whispered as he hugged his mother tightly. Yasmin¡¯s hands lifted to return the embrace, gently patting his back.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ***


    ¡°Good morning, Mr. Darian!¡± greeted David respectfully as he saw Darian enter with Fahira. The sharp look from Darian instantly made David swallow nervously. He was sure Darian was angry because his phone was inactivest night. Seeing the number of unanswered calls that ended up on his WhatsApp number, David was certain that something important needed to be conveyed by his boss.


    ¡°Come to my office now!¡±manded Darian, diverting his gaze to Fahira, who had already settledfortably in her chair.


    David nodded and followed Darian into his office.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir,st night I¡­¡± David¡¯s sentence was cut off by Darian, who stared at him sharply.


    Darian took a deep breath before expressing his concern.


    ¡°I want you to investigate who has been spying on Fahira and Ariel all this time. I want you to catch them as soon as possible,¡± Darian exined, shocking David. David remained silent as he tried to digest what the man in front of him was saying.


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story, and I don¡¯t want to waste any more time. Please check thepany¡¯s security department. Review all the existing CCTV footage. I want the results today!¡±manded Darian, causing David to nod and hurry off to fulfill his boss¡¯s orders.


    Shortly after David left, Fahira entered Darian¡¯s office with a cup of coffee. ¡°Thank you, dear!¡± said Darian, ncing at Fahira briefly.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee, and I¡¯ll excuse myself now, sir!¡± Fahira said, managing to bring a faint smile to Darian¡¯s lips. He briefly nced at the diamond ring on Fahira¡¯s ring finger before she left.


    ¡°Get to work, Darian!¡± Darian¡¯s heart echoed as he watched Fahira¡¯s back through the opening of the curtains in his room.


    Darian really had to restrain himself from detaining Fahira in his room, considering the tasks he had to aplish today. If he had the chance, he would undoubtedly spend time with the woman he loved. Darian quickly shifted his focus to the small screen in front of him and checked the data¡¯spatibility with the files on his desk, seemingly calling for immediatepletion.


    Darian was so engrossed in his work that he even skipped lunch. Fahira, who had reminded him several times, began to feel annoyed. She dared to enter Darian¡¯s room with a lunchbox she had ordered through go-food.


    ¡°Come on, Darian, have lunch first; otherwise, you might get sick!¡± Fahira persuaded, having been sitting across from Darian¡¯s desk for the past 10 minutes. But he remained unfazed, with both eyebrows furrowed in seriousness.


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Darian mumbled without diverting his attention from the small screen in front of him.


    ¡°Darian!¡± Fahira was getting frustrated and got up from her seat, covering Darian¡¯sptop screen with both hands.


    ¡°Just a little more, dear!¡± replied Darian, taking a deep breath as he nced at Fahira, who was smiling sweetly at him. Her smile instantly spread to Darian¡¯s lips, and he smiled as well.


    ¡°Come here!¡± Darian pulled a chair and asked Fahira to sit.


    ¡°Feed me!¡± requested Darian as he took the lunchbox from the table and ced it on Fahira¡¯sp.


    ¡°Alright!¡± Fahira sighed in resignation, then opened the lunchbox and fed Darian the food.


    Darian resumed his serious examination of the rows of text and numbers on the files in front of him while enjoying each bite of food from his lover¡¯s hands.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait to get married, honey!¡± mumbled Darian as he put down the file in his hands and turned his chair to face Fahira.


    Fahira responded with a smile, but she herself was still uncertain. Not about Darian¡¯s love for her, but about the ambiguity in her heart. Fahira wanted to return to Surabaya to visit her rtives there, especially her parents¡¯ graves, to seek their blessings. She was sure that Darian would protect her and Ariel from the wicked people who wanted to harm them both.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be sad; we¡¯ll go to Surabaya as soon as possible.¡± Darian paused and reached for Fahira¡¯s hands, holding them tightly. ¡°So, don¡¯t distract me now; I¡¯m trying to finish all my work. When we get to Surabaya, I want us to have some fun. If you permit, we can practice our honeymoon!¡± Darian teased, causing Fahira to burst intoughter, her cheeks slightly blushing.


    ¡°You¡¯re such a naughty guy!¡± Fahira teased and got up from her seat before Darian could tease her further.


    ¡°Toote, honey!¡± Darian grabbed Fahira¡¯s waist, causing her to fall onto hisp.


    ¡°Let me go, Darian!¡± Fahira squirmed, but Darian only tightened his embrace.


    ¡°Just a moment!¡± Darian coaxed while burying his face in Fahira¡¯s belly, inhaling the scent of her vanitte that always calmed him.


    A knock on the door interrupted Darian¡¯s enjoyment. He reluctantly loosened his grip on Fahira as he sighed, while Fahira quickly got up from hisp and headed towards the door.


    Fahira opened the door and greeted David politely. For a moment, David was silent as their eyes met. There was both concern and anxiety in his gaze. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Fahira asked in signnguage. David smiled and shook his head. Darian, who witnessed their interaction, cleared his throat loudly.


    David entered the room and closed the door tightly.


    ¡°I have something important to tell you, sir!¡± said David as he sat on the sofa, followed by Darian.


    David immediately opened hisptop and inserted a sh drive containing footage from thepany¡¯s CCTV cameras over the past month. Darian took over David¡¯sptop and examined the suspicious footage.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that one of thepany¡¯s employees?¡± mumbled Darian as he zoomed in on the image.


    ¡°Yes, Mr. Darian, you¡¯re right. It¡¯s Robby Handoko, the manager of the marketing division,¡± exined David.


    ¡°Take a look at this!¡± David moved the cursor to two men having a conversation in thepany¡¯s courtyard.


    ¡°That¡¯s Mr. Robby Handoko with Damar, the motorcycle taxi driver who regrly picks up Miss Fahira! I¡¯ve already contacted Mr. Delon. Apparently, his men have been monitoring them both since I ordered the investigation into the ident involving Miss Fahira¡¯s family. But, Mr. Darian, you don¡¯t have to worry because, ording to Mr. Delon, they don¡¯t have malicious intentions. They only want to protect Miss Fahira and her brother. We should be patient and wait for Mr. Delon to find out who is behind all this,¡± exined David.


    ¡°Could this have anything to do with Papa David?¡± Darian murmured as he leaned back on the sofa, rubbing his temples. He began to recount his conversation with Fahira yesterday about a mysterious person who brought him and Ariel to Jakarta.


    David fell silent, looking at Darian seriously. ¡°Mr. Darian, don¡¯t worry; I will uncover all the mysteries as soon as possible,¡± David said, trying to reassure Darian before excusing himself to begin his action.


    ¡°This seems exciting; it¡¯s been a while since I yed detective!¡± David¡¯s heart echoed as he nced at Fahira, who was engrossed in herputer.

 A Cup of Coffee

    37


    ¡°Next week, we¡¯ll go to Surabaya together with Mr. Darian and Mr. David,¡± Fahira revealed during dinner with Ariel. The 18-year-old teenager stopped chewing her food in surprise. She quickly swallowed the mouthful and washed it down with a gulp of warm tea to clear her throat.


    ¡°Are you serious, sister Fahira?¡± Ariel replied, stuttering in disbelief. He had longed to visit his parents¡¯ graves for a while. However, he had kept this wish to himself, not wanting to burden Fahira with his thoughts.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m serious. It¡¯s a school holiday for you anyway,¡± Fahira continued with teary eyes. She felt the same longing. Missing her hometown, cherishing memories with her parents and friends.


    ¡°Are you sure it¡¯s safe for us to go back?¡± Ariel asked, his smile fading as he remembered the foreign letter they found when they woke up in the apartment they currently lived in.


    Fahira smiled and nodded reassuringly, ¡°I¡¯m sure it¡¯s safe. We should finish our meal.¡±


    They continued to eat their meal, savoring each bite while discussing their uing trip to Surabaya. Fahira and Ariel were excited and anxious at the same time. They had missed their hometown and wanted to visit their parents¡¯ graves, but they couldn¡¯t help but worry about the past events that led them to leave Surabaya in the first ce.


    As the days passed, Fahira and Ariel prepared for their trip to Surabaya. Fahira informed Darian and David about their ns, and both men agreed to apany them. Darian wanted to support Fahira and ensure her safety during the trip, while David wanted to continue his investigation into the mysterious events that had been happening.


    Finally, the day of the trip arrived. Fahira, Ariel, Darian, and David boarded a flight to Surabaya. The journey was filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Fahira and Ariel were eager to be back in their hometown, but they couldn¡¯t shake off the lingering worries.


    Upon arriving in Surabaya, Fahira and Ariel were greeted by the familiar sights and sounds of their hometown. They felt a rush of emotions as they stepped foot on their nativend after a long time.


    The first stop was their parents¡¯ graves. Fahira and Ariel stood in front of the tombstones, tears streaming down their faces. They poured their hearts out, sharing their hopes, dreams, and fears with their departed parents. It was a cathartic moment, and they felt a sense of closure and peace.


    Throughout their stay in Surabaya, Darian and David ensured Fahira and Ariel¡¯s safety. They apanied them on their visits to old friends and family members. Fahira and Ariel were grateful for the support and protection they received.


    As the days passed, Fahira and Ariel felt a renewed connection to their hometown. They were reminded of the love and memories they had with their parents. Slowly, the worries and fears of the past began to fade away.


    By the time they returned to Jakarta, Fahira and Ariel felt stronger and more determined to face whatever challengesy ahead. They knew they had each other, as well as the support of Darian and David, to lean on.


    Life continued with its ups and downs, but Fahira and Ariel faced the future with courage and hope, knowing that the love of their parents would forever guide them. And together, they would find the truth behind the mysterious events and secure a bright future for themselves.


    Sweat drenched Fahira¡¯s face as she breathed heavily. Her hands clung tightly to the bedsheets, and her lips moved as she called out to her parents.


    ¡°Father, Mother!¡± She mumbled in her sleep.


    ¡°My dear, take care of yourself and your brother, alright? Your father and I are happy here, seeing you surrounded by good people. Your father and I believe that you and Ariel are strong and brave children. God willing, one day we will be reunited by Ah. Don¡¯t forget to take care of your prayers and always send us gifts. Your father and I love you! I love Fahira, Ariel.¡±


    ¡°Father, Mother!¡± Fahira shouted as she woke up suddenly.


    ¡°Sister Fahira!¡± Ariel, who couldn¡¯t sleep and was busy chatting with Rania on WhatsApp, jumped up from his spot and rushed into Fahira¡¯s room.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, sister?¡± Ariel said anxiously as he saw Fahira¡¯s face, filled with sweat and tears. He immediately embraced his trembling sister tofort her.


    ¡°Father, Mother, brother!¡± Fahira sobbed as she held Ariel tightly in her arms.


    ¡°Calm down, sister. Did you dream about Father and Mother again?¡± Ariel said, taking a deep breath and gently stroking Fahira¡¯s head. Ariel could already guess that Fahira always dreamed and sleep-talked whenever they talked about their parents. That¡¯s why Ariel chose to sleep on the floor in front of the TV, just in case his sister woke up in the middle of the night.


    ¡°Father and Mother are happy up there, sis. If you keep feeling like this, they will be sad. Trust me, Father and Mother are always with us.¡± Ariel continued, releasing the embrace and smiling as he wiped away the remaining tears on Fahira¡¯s cheeks.


    ¡°You should pray, it¡¯s already 3 a. m. Thank you, dear. Why haven¡¯t you slept yet?¡± Fahira said, her eyes scanning Ariel¡¯s still fresh face. She was sure he hadn¡¯t slept.


    ¡°Hehehe¡­ I was busy chatting with Rania on WhatsApp!¡± Ariel replied, forming a forced smile while scratching the back of his head, which wasn¡¯t itchy.


    ¡°Rest! Remember Dr. Gavin¡¯s advice, you need enough rest, no staying upte!¡± Fahira admonished as she got up from her bed and tied her long hair casually.


    ¡°Yes, yes, sis Fahira is bossy. I¡¯m going to sleep.¡± Arielid down on Fahira¡¯s bed and quickly closed his eyes.


    A perfect smile spread across Fahira¡¯s face as she saw Ariel¡¯s peaceful expression. She could hear soft snoring escaping from his lips, indicating that the teenager had fallen asleep.


    Fahira immersed herself in her long prayer until the time of dawn.


    After performing the dawn prayer, Fahira woke up Ariel. Though it took a bit of coaxing, Ariel finally woke up. The teenager quickly performed the dawn prayer and went back to sleep. This time, he moved to his own room so as not to be disturbed, wanting to change his sleeping schedule from the previous night. Of course, Ariel took advantage of his time off as he didn¡¯t have any ns to meet up with his close friend, Ariel.


    After arranging the dishes on the table, Fahira pulled a chair and sat down, enjoying her favorite hot chocte. The warm rays of the sun brought both warmth and serenity to her heart. The morning air felt so refreshing afterst night¡¯s rain. Her mind wandered back to the past, and asionally, a smile formed on her lips, quickly reced by a mncholic look.


    Tet¡­ The sound of a bell shattered her reverie. Fahira set down the cup of chocte she was holding and immediately got up.


    ¡°Good morning, Honey!¡± greeted the chocte-skinned man, who was now standing at the doorway with a beaming smile. Fahira¡¯s eyes widened in surprise as she saw her boyfriend here at her house so early in the morning. The man¡¯s handsomeness multiplied several times with his casual style. Dressed only in ck jeans and a white t-shirt, Darian looked even more handsome and youthful.


    ¡°Hi!¡± Darian greeted again, waving his hand in front of Fahira¡¯s still-frozen face.


    ¡°Uh, Mr. Darian, why did youe to my house so early?¡± Fahira asked formally, with a surprised expression. Darian let out a frustrated sigh and folded his hands in front of his chest.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    ¡°Darian, umm, just call me Darian,¡± he corrected, which instantly made Fahira realize the informality, causing her to smile in amusement. To her, it still felt strange and funny that a man with a stoic face like Optimus Prime¡¯s was now smiling at her more often. The usual freezing atmosphere that apanied her had now transformed into warmth in her heart.


    ¡°Okay, Darian, my dear! Pleasee in!¡± Fahira teased as she swung the door wide open, inviting Darian into her house.


    ¡°My dear?¡± Darian repeated, following Fahira¡¯s steps toward the dining area with a smile. For the first time, a woman other than his mother called him ¡°dear.¡± Instantly, his heart fluttered, apanied by a warm feeling that ran through his veins. Darian couldn¡¯t describe the emotion that now strongly upied his heart, but one thing he understood was that he wanted to make Fahira happy for the rest of his life.


    Darian pulled a chair for himself and said, ¡°I came here because I missed your homemade coffee!¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll make it for you, but after you finish the coffee, you have to leave right away. After all, you¡¯re just here for my coffee!¡± Fahira replied as she turned on the stove to boil some hot water.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tease me! You must have already known why I came here so early, my dear!¡± Darian said irritably, still not taking his eyes off his beloved as she prepared his coffee.


    Fahira chuckled and handed a cup of coffee to Darian. The chocte-skinned man savored the still steaming aroma of the coffee, closing his eyes briefly.


    ¡°Where¡¯s Ariel?¡± Darian asked after scanning every corner of the house and not finding Ariel.


    ¡°Asleep, he stayed upte ying WhatsApp with Rania!¡± exined Fahira, sessfully making Darian¡¯s heart suddenly race.


    ¡°Are you still in touch with Galih?¡± Darian probed, staring sharply at Fahira. Fahira¡¯s eyes narrowed in response to Darian¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Of course, Darian, my dear. I still need to consult about Ariel¡¯s health issues. Besides, Dr. Gavin is just normal, he often asks about you!¡± Fahira replied with a smile, trying to hold back herughter at Darian¡¯s jealousy.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like you being close to Gavin again, he might flirt with you!¡± Darian retorted sarcastically, taking a loud sip of his coffee, deliberately expressing his protest to Fahira.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that, Darian? Moreover, soon Gavin will be my cousin too,¡± Fahira said irritably, getting up from her seat and moving to the sink to wash the dirty kitchen utensils.


    Silence fell, with only the sound of shing utensils identally colliding in Fahira¡¯s hands.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be mad!¡± Suddenly, Darian was standing behind Fahira, holding both her shoulders and turning her to face him. He turned off the still-running tap water and looked into his beloved¡¯s deep ck eyes.


    ¡°You look even more adorable when you pout like this!¡± Darian coaxed, then yfully pinched her nose.


    ¡°Damn, watching this old teenage drama early in the morning!¡± Ariel cursed in his heart. He woke up upon hearing a man¡¯s voice talking to his sister inside the house. Ariel should have guessed who the other man was, besides Darian, who often came to their house.


    ¡°I¡¯m hungry!¡± Ariel¡¯s hoarse wake-up voice prompted Darian to end their romance. He returned to his seat.


    ¡°Wash your face and brush your teeth first! Wait for me, we¡¯ll have breakfast together,¡± Fahira said, to which Ariel only nodded his head. Ariel briefly stared tly at Darian before entering the bathroom.


    After breakfast, Darian apanied Fahira on her weekly shopping, as he had done before. He still felt awkward and shy around the neighbors they happened to meet and pass by. In contrast to Darian, the man seemed rxed and thoroughly enjoyed his time with Fahira. They appeared like a newlywed couple shopping for their basic necessities together.


    Because he was bored, Ariel, who was at home, decided to take over Fahira¡¯s chores. He turned on the washing machine, which was filled with soaking dirtyundry. While waiting for the washing machine to finish rinsing and drying the clothes, Ariel cleaned the house and mopped the floor. He then dragged the floor mattress to the balcony to dry it. Feeling satisfied with the cleanliness, Ariely down on the sofa and upied himself with his phone. There was nothing much to do except surfing the virtual world. He opened Rania¡¯s Instagram ount and left ament on hertest IG story, a smile forming on his lips.


    Meanwhile, Fahira and Darian were currently at a mall for shopping. This time, Fahira gave in and decided not to shop at the traditional market and her regr grocery store. Darian didn¡¯t want to go into a messy and smelly market, not because he felt superior, but rather to save time and energy. Although the prices were higher, they could find all the household necessities conveniently avable in one ce.


    ¡°All because of you, now we¡¯re like celebrities!¡± Fahira grumbled when she noticed some people giving them strange looks as they saw her with her boss.


    ¡°Let them be, I don¡¯t care!¡± Darian whispered while adjusting Fahira¡¯s face mask.


    Before leaving, they had both put on face masks for not only hygiene purposes but also to avoid unnecessary disruptions, like reporters or Darian¡¯s employees spotting them together. Darian didn¡¯t want to cause any difort for Fahira by bing the subject of office gossip or media attention.


    ¡°How about after shopping, we stop by the Civil Registry Office?¡± Darian teased, giving her a sly wink. Fahira burst intoughter and yfully left Darian to head towards the cashier.


    Not far from where they were, someone was observing their interaction while talking on the phone. ¡°Sir, it seems like it¡¯s time for Miss Fahira to know everything!¡±

 Return

    Yasmin could only look on with deep concern at her son, who was packing some clothes into his suitcase. She sat at the edge of the bed, her hands tightly sped in herp. Yasmin was truly worried about her only son. For the first time, she felt so sad about Darian leaving, apart from work matters. Although Darian often traveled abroad for a few days or even a week, Yasmin had gotten used to it. What worried her was the truth that might be revealed-facts about her husband¡¯s rtionship with Fahira¡¯s parents. Yasmin could only pray that everything would be fine and go ording to her son¡¯s wishes. Seeing Darian¡¯s immense love for Fahira suddenly made Yasmin fearful.


    ¡°Darian, are you sure you¡¯re going to Surabaya to meet Fahira¡¯s family?¡± Yasmin¡¯s words made Darian pause in his activity. He smiled and then sat by Yasmin¡¯s side.


    ¡°Yes, Mom, I¡¯m very sure. Don¡¯t you also want to know the reason why Dad asked us to protect Fahira?¡± Darian replied, receiving a nod from Yasmin.


    ¡°If you¡¯re worried about Darian¡¯s safety, Mom, you don¡¯t need to be. There will be people David trusts who will watch over us from afar. David is just being cautious in case things we don¡¯t want to happen,¡± Darian exined to reassure his mother. He intentionally didn¡¯t mention the nned murder of Fahira¡¯s family. In fact, he didn¡¯t mention Fahira and her brother¡¯s existence, who were considered dead by Fahira¡¯s entire extended family in Surabaya.


    ¡°Okay, just be careful on the road.¡± Yasmin resigned herself and lovingly stroked Darian¡¯s head.


    ¡°Mom, take care at home as well. Don¡¯t work too hard, and remember to eat regrly while I¡¯m away,¡± Darian continued, then got up from his seat. He grabbed the suitcase from the bed and made sure all the necessary items were packed for his trip. Satisfied, he zipped it closed and reached for Yasmin¡¯s hand to shake it and give her a kiss. Immediately, Yasmin got up to see Darian off to the front of the house.


    Elsewhere, Fahira and Ariel didn¡¯t say much. They were both lost in their thoughts. Their long-awaited moment was about toe as they would soon set foot on their homnd. More precisely, they were preparing to face the reality that their parents had been gone for a long time. For Fahira and Ariel, it felt like they were trapped in a dream they couldn¡¯t wake up from. The memories of the ident and the bitter truth about their parents¡¯ death, conveyed through a piece of paper, still left deep trauma. Especially after the ident, they suddenly found themselves stranded in a strange ce far from their rtives.


    The sound of a knock on the door startled both of them. Fahira quickly opened the door, while Ariel prepared to put on his backpack and carry Fahira¡¯s bag.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± Darian asked with a gentle smile.


    ¡°Of course!¡± Fahira replied shortly, and they both left the house together with Ariel. She locked the house securely before leaving and bid farewell to the neighbor next door, who happened to be on the porch.


    ¡°Where are you going, Fahira and Ariel?¡± said the middle-aged woman named Umi kindly.


    ¡°We¡¯re going back to Surabaya, while Ariel is on school vacation. Oh, please take care of our house,¡± Fahira replied politely.


    ¡°Sure, be careful on the road, okay?¡± Miss Umi continued, smiling at the three of them.


    After careful consideration, they chose to travel after the Maghrib prayer. Aside from saving time, David also coordinated with Delon¡¯s ns without Darian¡¯s knowledge.


    During the journey, Fahira remained mostly silent, and Darian didn¡¯t let go of her from his embrace. Ariel, who sat in the driver¡¯s seat, seemed restless. David was the one who initiated the conversation repeatedly.


    ¡°Go ahead and sleep!¡± Darian whispered, holding Fahira¡¯s fingers. Fahira looked at him meaningfully and closed her eyes.


    After approximately 10 hours of travel, with two stops at rest areas, they finally arrived at their destination city. Fahira became even more anxious as they entered the housingplex owned by her parents.


    ¡°Ariel, is this correct?¡± David asked to confirm as the car they were in entered the upscale housingplex. David was slightly taken aback because he had always considered Fahira an ordinary person.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yes, Mr. David, that¡¯s the brown-painted gate!¡± Ariel pointed to the towering gate that didn¡¯t reveal the house inside at all.


    ¡°Let me handle it!¡± Fahira stopped David when he was about to get out to meet the security guard at the post.


    From inside the car, they could see the surprise on the security guard¡¯s face when he saw Fahira. They had a brief conversation, and then the security guard saluted Fahira and opened the gate wide for Darian¡¯s car to enter. Fahira quickly got back into the car, bombarded with questions by Ariel.


    ¡°Who¡¯s thedy living in our house? Does Mr. Mukhlis still remember us? I miss my sports bike, Sis!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll find out soon enough. But please, you have to behave!¡± Fahira warned while looking at Ariel with an unreadable expression.


    Darian and David remained silent. Their eyes met several times through the rearview mirror. They both tried to understand the situation they were about to face.


    The luxurious car slowly made its way along the asphalt road, lined with pine trees weing them as they passed through the spacious front yard. Darian held Fahira¡¯s hand and looked at her, offering his support. A magnificent multi-story house with ivory-white and brown fa?ade stood tall before them. Once, their house was painted in white and blue, Mama¡¯s favorite color. Now, everything looked different, except for the beautiful garden on the left side of the house that still delighted the eye. The garden remained exactly as it was when Mama was alive. Memories began to flood back, causing tears to well up in Fahira¡¯s eyes. Darian, who had been gazing at Fahira¡¯s sorrowful face, could only stay silent.


    The car stopped right in front of the grand house. Ariel immediately got out of the car as he couldn¡¯t wait to go home, while Fahira remained silent inside the car, sighing repeatedly.


    They saw a 15-year-old girl freeze in ce upon seeing their arrival.


    ¡°Fahira? Ariel?¡± she murmured and began walking towards them with tearful eyes. Her index finger pointed at Ariel and Fahira alternately, then, in an instant, she collided with Ariel with force.


    ¡°Is it really you, Ariel?¡± she said, tears streaming down her face.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s me, Ariel. Don¡¯t you miss Fahira?¡± Ariel replied, releasing the embrace. The girl smiled and then tightly hugged Fahira. It was evident that she genuinely cared for her cousin.


    ¡°Mother, Father, Arya, grandma! Look who¡¯s back!¡± The girl named Arini shouted, swinging the wide double doors open.


    Darian and David exchanged nces and followed Fahira and Ariel as they entered the house.


    ¡°Surprise!¡± The cheerful girl stretched her arms as if giving them a big surprise.


    Suddenly, everyone who was enjoying breakfast froze in ce with undefinable expressions. From the end of the table, as the head of the family, a sound of an object falling on a te was heard, followed by a loud noise. The echo reverberated throughout the house as the figure moved closer to Fahira and Ariel.


    ¡°Fahira! Ariel!¡± Bisma greeted and then tightly hugged Fahira with teary eyes before turning to hug Ariel. Darian and David could feel the joyful and emotional atmosphere, but there were some people who looked displeased with Fahira and Ariel¡¯s return.


    ¡°I¡¯m grateful, you are both safe. Uncle had a feeling that you were still alive!¡± Bisma continued, shaking hands with Darian and David in turn.


    ¡°Alive? So all this time, they believed Ariel and I were dead?¡± Fahira wondered with furrowed brows. ¡°So, all this time, they didn¡¯t know about me and Ariel?¡± she mused, realizing why nobody knew about their existence.


    Before Fahira could be more suspicious, Ambar and Arya took turns hugging Fahira and Ariel with delight. Meanwhile, Maheswari, their grandmother, remained frozen in ce. She couldn¡¯t believe what she was seeing. Fahira and Ariel then approached their grandmother, who was still silent.


    ¡°I¡¯m grateful, my grandchildren are safe!¡± She said, gently caressing the heads of Fahira and Ariel as they knelt before her. The elderly woman looked healthy and vigorous.


    Maheswari got up from her seat and hugged her two grandchildren one after the other, then immediately called two household staff who were responsible for the kitchen and cleaning duties to prepare food and rooms for their guests. Ariel looked at Fahira, who seemed rxed, and he felt indignant that they were being treated as guests in their own house.


    Finally, they had breakfast together. As the strange atmosphere began to ease, Ambar observed Darian and David. From the way Darian looked at Fahira, Ambar instantly realized that they had a special rtionship.


    ¡°After breakfast, you can freshen up and rest for a while because Uncle wants to have a long talk with you,¡± Bisma exined after they finished eating.


    ¡°Sorry, Uncle, and Aunt, besides wanting to meet you all, we also want to visit our parents¡¯ graves,¡± Fahira interrupted before conveying the news of her uing wedding with Darian next month. ¡°By the way, I want to ask for your blessings for my marriage to Bang Darian, which, God willing, will take ce next month in Jakarta. Fahira hopes that all of you can attend,¡± she continued, stunning everyone, especially Ambar, who had been observing Darian, convinced that he was not an ordinary person.


    ¡°Jakarta? So, you¡¯ve been living in Jakarta for the past three years? Why didn¡¯t you contact us? If we had known, Uncle would havee to pick you up right away,¡± Bisma asked with surprise. He had never expected his nephew and niece to be alive after the tragic ident that imed all the passengers three years ago. Bisma had even participated in the funeral of his stepbrother and his family. ording to the hospital¡¯s exnation, none of the victims¡¯ faces were recognizable, so Bisma didn¡¯t want to investigate the four coffins sent by the hospital.


    ¡°Let them rest first. They must be tired after a long journey,¡± Maheswari intervened to stop Bisma from bombarding Fahira and Ariel with questions.


    David began to read the situation and the expressions of everyone in the dining room. ording to Delon, the nned murder was carried out by Fahira¡¯s own family. So, the news about Fahira¡¯s family¡¯s death, linked to thend dispute, turned out to be a public deception spread by one of the culprits.


    ¡°Rahmat, please bring their bags inside,¡± Ambar called out to her gardener. Rahmat, who was cleaning the swimming pool, immediately came over and carried out his employer¡¯s order. David stared sharply at the young man, around 23 years old, examining his physical characteristics.


    ¡°So, he¡¯s the spy sent by Delon!¡± David thought with conviction.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t our room on the second floor?¡± Ariel remarked sarcastically as he saw Rahmat heading towards the guest room with their bags.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, Ariel, you can sleep with me!¡± Arya quickly chimed in, causing Ariel to give him a sharp look. Since they were children, Arya and Ariel had always shed and never got along. Ariel despised Arya for always trying to take his favorite belongings. However, Ariel always had to give in because of their parents¡¯ advice to share with their siblings.


    ¡°No need! I¡¯ll sleep in the guest room,¡± Ariel replied coldly. The two 18-year-old teenagers red at each other with hostility.


    ¡°Enough, dear. You can sleep with Fahira, and after this, we will visit our parents¡¯ graves,¡± Fahira reached for Ariel¡¯s hand and held it tightly while looking sadly at her younger brother. Ariel sighed heavily and then followed Rahmat into the guest room.


    In the guest room, Ariel felt a mix of emotions. On one hand, he was d to be back in the family home, but on the other hand, the memories of his parents¡¯ tragic death haunted him. He tried to put on a brave front, but deep down, he was still struggling to cope with the loss.


    As Fahira and Ariel prepared to visit their parents¡¯ graves, David decided to have a private conversation with Ambar. He wanted to understand the dynamics of the family and gather more information about Delon¡¯s involvement.


    ¡°Ambar, may I have a moment with you?¡± David asked politely.


    ¡°Of course,e to the study,¡± Ambar replied and led David to a private room where they could talk without interruptions.


    Once inside the study, David asked directly, ¡°Ambar, do you know anything about Delon¡¯s ns and his involvement with the incident that happened three years ago?¡±


    Ambar looked surprised but quicklyposed herself. ¡°I¡¯m not sure what you¡¯re referring to, Mr. David. Delon is my husband¡¯s cousin, and he hasn¡¯t shared any sensitive information with me.¡±


    David studied Ambar¡¯s facial expressions, trying to gauge if she was being truthful. ¡°I believe you have a good heart, Ambar, and I sense that you might not be fully aware of what¡¯s going on. But I can assure you that Delon is not the person you think he is. He is involved in some dangerous activities, and Fahira and Ariel might be in danger if they stay here.¡±


    Ambar¡¯s eyes widened with concern. ¡°What do you mean? Are Fahira and Ariel in danger?¡±


    ¡°Yes, there are people who want to harm them, and Delon may have yed a role in the past events that led to their supposed deaths,¡± David exined carefully.


    Ambar seemed shaken by the revtion. ¡°I had no idea. I thought they were gone forever. What can we do to protect them?¡±


    ¡°We need to be cautious and keep an eye on any suspicious activities. I believe Delon has spies watching Fahira and Ariel. We should try to keep them safe and find evidence to expose Delon¡¯s true intentions,¡± David suggested.


    Ambar nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. ¡°I will do everything I can to protect Fahira and Ariel. They are family, and I won¡¯t let anything happen to them.¡±


    With a shared determination, David and Ambar agreed to work together to ensure the safety of Fahira and Ariel. They knew that their family was in danger, and they had to stay one step ahead to unravel the truth behind the past events and the sinister ns that threatened their lives.

 Tombstone

    In her room, Fahira gently and patiently tried to reason with Ariel, who was caught up in emotions. Truthfully, Fahira felt disappointed with her family¡¯s reception, which seemed unweing to her and Ariel. Moreover, Fahira noticed that everything in the house had changed. Not a single trace of their presence remained. Everything felt unfamiliar.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you, Ariel? You shouldn¡¯t cause trouble here. Our purpose ining back is just to visit Father and Mother¡¯s graves, right?¡± Fahira said softly as she looked into Ariel¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°But sis, this is our home, so it¡¯s only natural that we reim our rights!¡± Ariel insisted, his jaw clenched, remembering the disdainful looks from Arya. Now, everything was entirely owned by Arya, and Ariel had to live in a small, simple apartment. Fahira smiled and gently ced her hand on Ariel¡¯s back, which was resting on herp. She lifted it and held it tightly.


    ¡°Let go of it all, dear. For me, you are the most precious treasure in my life. So, continue to be my sweet little brother. I promise that after we return to Jakarta, I¡¯ll buy you anything you want,¡± Fahira said, causing Ariel¡¯s eyes to well up with tears. What his sister said was true. What use was great wealth if his life was never peaceful? Despite the challenges of living in Jakarta, Ariel feltfortable during the three years he spent with Fahira.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sis. I promise I¡¯ll always follow your wishes. I don¡¯t want anything now. Just having you by my side is enough,¡± Ariel replied and hugged Fahira tightly, tears streaming down his face.


    After taking a shower and changing clothes, Ariel felt more at ease. There was no longer a heavy burden on his heart, as it had been when he first stepped into the luxurious house. Fahira was also ready in casual attire when Ariel emerged from the bathroom. They both got ready and then left the room.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    In the living room, Darian was already dressed neatly. He was chatting with Bisma and Arini, who seemed to idolize the man with the brown eyes.


    ¡°Uncle is so handsome. Arini wants to have a boyfriend like Uncle Darian when she grows up!¡± Arini praised in a typical spoiled tone of a teenager.


    ¡°Focus on studying first, and then think about having a boyfriend!¡± Darian chuckled. Arini reminded him of his cousin Rania. Since their first meeting at the Muay Thai studio, Nadya had oftene to her house. Her presence made Darian happy as his mother now spent more time at home with the teenager. His rtionship with Gavin was also gradually improving, although he still acted cold and indifferent at times.


    Seeing Fahira and Arieling out of the room, Darian got up from his seat and said goodbye to Bisma. Meanwhile, David was waiting outside, observing his surroundings, particrly Rahmat, who was cutting the grass.


    ¡°Let me drive, Uncle,¡± Bisma offered with a smile, showing his car keys to Fahira.


    ¡°Arini wille along, Dad!¡± Arini chimed in, which was immediately agreed to by Bisma.


    And so, the six of them set off in two cars. Throughout the journey, Fahira, who was sitting next to Darian, looked restless. ¡°Rx, honey!¡± Darian whispered, putting his arm around Fahira¡¯s shoulders. Repeatedly, Darian tried to swallow his saliva as he imagined Fahira¡¯s reaction when they arrived at the cemetery.


    After about 15 minutes, they arrived at Fahira¡¯s family private cemetery. With her heart pounding, Fahira got out of the car and nced at Darian for a moment before taking a step forward. It was not the first time she hade to this private cemetery belonging to her extended family. In the past, her father, Pramudya, used to take them to visit her grandparents¡¯ graves every month. However, this time was different; she came to pay her respects to her father and mother.


    They were greeted by a tall white gate that allowed them to see several graves adorned with flowers from afar. The cemetery looked clean and well-maintained. During his lifetime, Pramudya had assigned one of the residents living around the cemetery to clean it every day.


    ¡°Miss Fahira! Mr. Ariel!¡± The cemetery caretaker greeted them with a surprised expression. Both his hands went up to rub his eyes, as if he couldn¡¯t believe what he was seeing. He had to make sure he wasn¡¯t hallucinating.


    ¡°I must be hallucinating!¡± he said again, looking at Fahira and Ariel alternately, then shifting his gaze to Bisma and Arini, scratching the back of his head in confusion and fear.


    ¡°Joni, quickly open the gate!¡± Bismamanded, causing Joni to startle. With trembling hands, he opened therge gate and stared back at the two people who were still shocking him.


    Tears began to flow from Fahira¡¯s eyes as she saw her grandparents¡¯ graves one by one. Her steps became hesitant as she approached the grave in the middle. A tombstone inscribed with ¡°Pramudya Abdih¡± alongside ¡°Fatimah Zahrah¡± was clearly visible before her.


    ¡°Mother, Father!¡± Ariel cried out, immediately falling to his knees on his father¡¯s tombstone, tears flowing freely.


    Slowly, Fahira touched her mother¡¯s tombstone with trembling hands. Darian ced his hand on Fahira¡¯s shoulder, looking bewildered. He felt unable to bear witnessing all the sadness in his beloved¡¯s heart. In a corner of his heart, he felt grateful for still having his own mother. Ah had granted him more time to fulfill his duties to the woman who had given birth to him in this world.


    ¡°Father, Mother, forgive Fahira for only being able to visit you here now!¡± Fahira whispered as she shifted to embrace her mother¡¯s tombstone.


    ¡°My dear,¡± Darian murmured softly, gently rubbing Fahira¡¯s shoulder. David, who stood beside Ariel, couldn¡¯t hold back his emotions either. He held Ariel¡¯s shoulder and said, ¡°Ariel, you are a strong young man now. Your duty is to take care of your sister. You have to be strong!¡± Ariel raised his head to look at David and nodded.


    Bisma and Arini, witnessing the emotional scene, could only remain silent with tears streaming down their faces. Especially Bisma, who felt incredibly guilty for easily believing that his two nieces were dead. He regretted not thoroughly investigating the car ident case involving his stepsister. Although they were stepsiblings, Pramudya had always treated him well, just like a blood sibling. They were half-siblings from their father¡¯s side, but they had different mothers.


    While Fahira was still holding Pramudya¡¯s tombstone, she was startled by Ariel¡¯s exmation. ¡°Sis, why is there a grave for both of us here!¡± Fahira shook her head in disbelief as she looked at Ariel. Her suspicions from this morning turned out to be true. They were considered to be gone.


    ¡°My love!¡± Darian embraced Fahira tightly as she approached the graves with tombstones inscribed with ¡°Fahira Ramadhani¡± and ¡°Nazriel Ramadhan,¡± while Ariel sat kneeling among the graves with a tombstone bearing his and Fahira¡¯s names, a feeling he couldn¡¯t quite understand overwhelming him. Suddenly, his heart raced irregrly, causing a sharp pain in his chest.


    Thud¡­ Ariel¡¯s body suddenly copsed, and David swiftly supported his head, narrowly avoiding hitting the tombstones.


    ¡°Brothers!¡± Fahira cried out, rushing to Ariel and hugging him.


    ¡°Brother, please get the medicine from my bag!¡± Fahira shouted, pointing to her bag, which Darian had brought.


    ¡°Here it is!¡± Darian quickly handed Fahira a capsule, which she immediately ced under Ariel¡¯s tongue.


    ¡°Dear, wake up! You promised to always be with me!¡± Fahira murmured, still holding Ariel¡¯s weak body.


    ¡°We should take him to the hospital!¡± Darian and Bisma said simultaneously.


    ¡°Wait!¡± Fahira interjected. She needed to wait a few minutes to observe the effects of the medication. Fortunately, she always remembered Dr. Gavin¡¯s advice to carry Ariel¡¯s heart medication with them wherever they went, just in case of emergencies. Although Ariel had been dered fully recovered, he still needed time to adjust to the device imnted in his heart. While waiting for Ariel to wake up, Fahira gently rubbed his palm and gazed at his pale face.


    ¡°Miss Fahira!¡± Shortly after, a weak whisper came from Ariel.


    ¡°I¡¯m grateful!¡± Fahira murmured, hugging Ariel, who still had his eyes closed.


    ¡°We should head home for now. Ariel needs rest!¡± Fahira suggested. Bisma and David quickly helped lift Ariel into the car.


    During the journey, Fahira immediately called Gavin to update him on Ariel¡¯s condition. Hearing Fahira mention Gavin without the ¡°doctor¡± title caused a tinge of jealousy to arise in Darian¡¯s heart. He nced at Fahira through the rearview mirror. David, noticing the change in Darian¡¯s expression, spoke up after Fahira hung up the phone.


    ¡°Fahira, does Ariel often experience this?¡±


    ¡°After the surgery, Ariel no longerined of chest pain. But Gavin did warn us that the device in Ariel¡¯s heart is still in the adaptation phase,¡± Fahira exined, her gaze returning to Ariel¡¯s face as she gently caressed his head.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we head straight to the hospital?¡± Darian responded with concern.


    ¡°No need, dear. He¡¯ll be fine. Ariel just needs rest; he¡¯s exhausted from the long journeyst night,¡± Fahira said, relief evident in her voice.


    As they arrived home, Ariel showed slight improvement; he could walk on his own, although still with assistance from David. Finally, Ariel agreed to rest, although his heart and mind were unsettled. Fahira and Darian only left the room after making sure Ariel was fast asleep.


    In the living room, Fahira¡¯s grandmother and other family members were already waiting for them. Though hesitant, Fahira eventually shared Ariel¡¯s condition, starting from the diagnosis of his arrhythmia heart condition to the post-surgery recovery.


    ¡°Perhaps you should stay here. This is your home and¡­¡± Bisma began, a panicked look in his eyes, but he couldn¡¯t finish his sentence.


    ¡°Perhaps you should all rest first. We can continue this discussion after lunch,¡± Maheswari intervened, getting up and heading to her room, followed by Ambar. Arya excused himself to leave with his school friends.


    ¡°Brother, I¡¯ll head to my room now, okay?¡± Fahira told Darian.


    ¡°Rest well, I¡¯ll wake you up for prayer,¡± Darian replied, apanying Fahira to her room, while David went into his own room next to Darian¡¯s. David had purposely asked to share a room with Darian to make it easier to talk privately if needed.


    Darianid down on the bed, trying to calm the throbbing pain and the ache in his head. He needed rest to rx his mind for a moment. However, before he could close his eyes, he was startled by David¡¯s discovery of a CCTV camera in the corner of the room, specifically above the bathroom door. David skillfully disabled the CCTV to render it non-functional.


    David raised a finger to his lips to signal Darian not to speak. He then proceeded to inspect every corner of the room. Moving swiftly, David checked each piece of furniture. Finally, his hand reached under the bed frame and found a small device. Darian was taken aback, unable to believe what he was witnessing ¨C David had found a listening device.


    ¡°Here, we have to be cautious and careful about what we say, boss!¡± David said firmly, handing the listening device to Darian.


    Still in shock, Darian began to contemte. Could it be that the premeditated murder was carried out by someone close to Fahira? And what was the connection between her father and Fahira¡¯s father?

 Bitter Reality

    Darian nned to go outside to get some fresh air. The desire to rest had disappeared due to his increasingly chaotic thoughts. His intuition led his steps towards the garden. A smile instantly blossomed on Darian¡¯s face as he saw his beloved woman, Fahira, enjoying the beauty of various blooming flowers in the garden. Fahira was inhaling the scent of freshly picked white roses.


    ¡°No flower can match your beauty, my love!¡± Darian whispered, now standing behind Fahira. Her body tensed as Darian¡¯s strong hands encircled her waist.


    ¡°Are you sure I¡¯m beautiful?¡± Fahira asked, feeling a warm sensation spreading through her heart due to Darian¡¯s tender gesture.


    ¡°There is no beauty in this world like you, honey!¡± Darian replied, while savoring the scent of Fahira¡¯s body that always intoxicated him.


    Fahira untangled Darian¡¯s hands from her body and looked at the dark-skinned man with a gaze full of love. ¡°Thank you for all your love, dear,¡± Fahira said, her eyes welling up with tears.


    Darian¡¯s hand gently caressed Fahira¡¯s cheek as he lovingly gazed at her. ¡°Of course, my love. You mean everything to me,¡± he said tenderly.


    Darian then took Fahira on a stroll around the rather spacious garden. Thete Fatimah, the deceased, was a flower enthusiast. Out of love for Fatimah, Pram built this beautiful and extensive garden next to their house ording to Fatimah¡¯s wishes. Pram even bought various types of flowers directly from Mng every time he visited his tea ntation. In addition to the house and assets, Pram also inherited a tea ntation located in Mng, East Java.


    From the window on the second floor, two women observed Darian and Fahira with hatred in their eyes.


    ¡°How did this happen, Mommy? It¡¯s clear that the ident imed the lives of Pram, Fatimah, and their two children. Then whose bodies were sent from the hospital?¡± Ambar asked Maheswari with an inquiring tone. Her mother-inw and husband were conspiring to get rid of the entire Pram¡¯s family just for the inheritance.


    ¡°Be quiet! I don¡¯t understand it either,¡± Maheswari replied, clenching her fists.


    ¡°Now what should we do, Mom? The man with Fahira is not an ordinary person. He owns one of thergestpanies in Jakarta. I¡¯m afraid he will be suspicious and investigate the ident involving Uncle Pram and Aunt Fatimah! We might end up in jail; I don¡¯t want that,¡± Ambar said anxiously.


    ¡°Calm down! I¡¯m sure Fahira won¡¯t bring up the inheritance issue if we don¡¯t mention it. So we need toe up with a n to get them to leave our house as soon as possible!¡± Maheswari said cynically, never taking her eyes off Darian and Fahira.


    ¡°Or we could just kill them, like our original n!¡± Ambar suggested.


    The door suddenly mmed open. Maheswari and Ambar were startled, turning their heads towards themotion. Bisma walked in with red eyes, looking at the two women in front of him with disbelief.


    ¡°Brother Bisma!¡± Ambar murmured, reaching out to grab Bisma¡¯s arm, but he pushed her away.


    ¡°I never thought you could be this despicable. You¡¯re willing to kill our family for the sake of inheritance!¡± Bisma eximed, his eyes sharp as he stared at Maheswari, while the old woman merely smiled sardonically without any sense of guilt.


    ¡°You think all of this is for you, huh! I did it all for you and my grandchildren. You never understood how I felt because you were always hiding behind Fatimah¡¯s shadow. That wretched woman stole what was rightfully mine,¡± Maheswari shouted with frustration before getting up from her seat and locking gazes with Bisma.


    ¡°You were the one who became the third party between Father and Mother Fatimah. You were always harsh to Mother Fatimah, even though she treated us well,¡± Bisma responded, clenching his fists and jaw, while Maheswari¡¯s eyes showed pain.


    ¡°And now you defend them after what I did for you? I only wanted justice because your father left all his wealth to Pram. And we only received a house not much bigger than this one and a small piece ofnd. Mommy didn¡¯t receive a single share of the tea ntation in Mng,¡± Maheswari exined, leaving Bisma shaking his head in disbelief. It was hard for him to ept the truth that his own mother was behind all of this.


    Bisma¡¯s body slumped to the floor, resting on his knees. Tears streamed down his face as he recalled the beautiful memories he shared with his older brother, Pram. He pounded his chest hard to suppress the overwhelming pain that engulfed him.


    ¡°Now it¡¯s up to you. If you want to report Mama¡¯s actions to Fahira and the police, I¡¯m willing to ept it if it makes you happy!¡± Maheswari said sarcastically. Bisma got up from his ce and left his mother¡¯s room with a broken heart. He couldn¡¯t bring himself to report Maheswari and her wife, two women he loved dearly. How could he bear to see Maheswari spend her remaining years behind bars?


    Both Darian and Fahira felt somewhat relieved after spending a long time talking in the garden. At least, they could share their feelings with each other. Unbeknownst to anyone, David began to carry out his actions following Delon¡¯s instructions. There was no more time to waste; everything had to be revealed as soon as possible. ording to the n, Delon had gathered the names of the culprits along with the evidence for their arrest in the nned murders of Fahira¡¯s parents.


    ***


    ¡°Boss, tomorrow Mr. Delon and his team will make the arrests of all the culprits. I hope you can calm Fahira and Ariel down. It¡¯s not easy for them to ept all this,¡± David exined to Darian, who remained gazing at the ceiling with a series of deep sighs.


    If there was an option, Darian would choose to take Fahira and Ariel far away right now. He could no longer bear to see the suffering that befell his beloved and younger sister. Darian couldn¡¯t fathom why someone would be so heartless as to harm and even kill their own family.


    ¡°I never expected this, Darian. Fahira¡¯s life is soplicated. If I were in your shoes, I wouldn¡¯t let her go no matter what. I would make her happy for the rest of my life!¡± Darian turned to look at David, who also stared at the ceiling of the room.


    ¡°Are you alright, David?¡± Darian inquired, surprised by David¡¯s strange demeanor.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious, the only woman I never want to sleep with is Fahira. I admire her so much,¡± David confessed, causing Darian to sit up and stare sharply at him.


    ¡°Watch yourself, or if you dare do anything to my future wife!¡± Darian threatened seriously.


    ¡°Hahahah¡­ I see Fahira like my own little sister. Honestly, Darian, ever since I first met Fahira, I felt a connection with her. I don¡¯t know, she feels different and special to me. So, you don¡¯t need to be jealous, but if you ever hurt her, I¡¯ll be the first one to beat you up! I don¡¯t care even if I get fired,¡± David replied nonchntly.


    Darian¡¯s smile diminished as hey back down next to David. The conversation continued into thete night until eventually, sleep overtook their consciousness, and the two close friends dozed off together.


    ***


    This morning, everyone gathered in the dining room for breakfast. Unlike yesterday, the atmosphere today felt tense and uneasy. Everyone chose to remain silent and focused on their food, although they seemed to have no appetite. Only the clinking of forks and spoons broke the silence of the grand house until the breakfast session ended, and everyone dispersed.


    Ariel was seen walking towards the courtyard and then turning towards the garage door. His sports motorcycle was neatly parked there, next to his father¡¯s Vespa. Ariel¡¯s mournful gaze turned cynical as Arya entered through the garage door. He quickly left before his emotions were provoked again. He didn¡¯t want his brother to worry about him anymore.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Ariel started walking around the spacious courtyard surrounded by pine trees, reminiscing about all the beautiful memories he shared with his parents. His lips formed a smile as he remembered the past, like when he and Fahira used to nt flowers together with their mother. Ariel used to yfully disturb them whenever the two women he cherished were busy gardening. However, Ariel¡¯s joy was interrupted when two cars, which he recognized as police vehicles, stopped in the front yard. They weren¡¯t the usual white and blue sedans with shing red lights on the roof, but Ariel knew that these two Jeep-like vehicles weremonly used by intelligence agencies.


    Ariel¡¯s estimation turned out to be correct when four men in all-ck clothing got out of the cars. One of them looked fierce and intimidating.


    ¡°Is Mrs. Maheswari here?¡± the most intimidating man asked.


    ¡°She¡¯s inside. Allow me to take you there,¡± Ariel replied politely, showing the four men into the house. Ariel immediately informed his grandmother, uncle, and aunts about the arrival of the four guests.


    Darian, David, and Fahira, who were in the living room, quickly got up from the sofa to see who hade. Thud¡­ Darian and David exchanged nces.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on, Sister Fahira?¡± Ariel whispered as he stood beside Fahira.


    ¡°Good morning,¡± one of the men greeted.


    ¡°Please have a seat,¡± Maheswari said with a tense expression. She suddenly felt uneasy. Ambar, who was sitting next to her mother-inw, looked restless with a pale face, while Bisma appeared calm but puzzled.


    ¡°We apologize for disturbing your time. Our purpose foring here is this.¡± The fierce-looking man, Delon, handed a letter to Maheswari.


    The old woman looked at Delon briefly before opening the envelope. Her eyes widened as she shook her head.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but you must be mistaken. The contents of this letter are not true. Someone must be trying to frame me.¡± Maheswari put the piece of paper back into the envelope, then stood up and ushered the four men to leave.


    ¡°We don¡¯t want to act forcefully. So, we hope that Mrs. Maheswari and Mrs. Ambar wille with us to the police station for further investigation!¡± Delon replied calmly.


    Maheswari and Ambar looked at Bisma simultaneously.


    ¡°Did you do this, Bisma?¡± Maheswari said with teary eyes.


    ¡°What do you mean, Mommy? I really don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re talking about,¡± Bisma replied, looking panicky.


    ¡°Excuse me, but what is going on here?¡± Fahira interrupted, approaching Delon to ask for an exnation. Darian immediately held Fahira¡¯s shoulder with an uncertain feeling.


    ¡°You must be Miss Fahira Ramadhani and this is your brother, Nazriel Ramadhan, right?¡± Fahira and Ariel nodded simultaneously.


    ¡°We will also need information from both of you!¡± Delon added.


    ¡°I still don¡¯t understand. What is this all about?¡± Fahira let go of Darian¡¯s hand and approached Delon.


    Delon nced at David before exining everything.


    ¡°So, I was assigned by Mr. David to investigate the case of your parents¡¯ ident three years ago, at the order of Mr. Darian! It turns out that the fatal ident was nned by your grandmother and aunt themselves.¡±


    Shock washed over Fahira and Ariel.


    ¡°Fahira!¡± Darian cried out, quickly catching Fahira¡¯s copsing body, while Ariel sank to the ground, tears flowing freely.


    David immediately ordered Delon to take Maheswari and Ambar away. He then led Ariel to sit on the sofa, while Bisma could only watch helplessly as his mother and wife were taken away by the police, feeling utterly shattered.

 Spies

    The next day, Fahira and Ariel visited their parents¡¯ grave to bid farewell. Fahira wanted to return to Jakarta as soon as possible to ease the heavy burden in her heart and mind. The longer she stayed in the house, the more her sorrow multiplied. If it weren¡¯t for Darian, who was always by her side, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to face this bitter reality. The pain and disappointment seemed to empty her mind and soul. She wanted to get back to work, immersing herself in her usual tasks whenever problems struck. It was the only way Fahira could stand tall amidst the harsh life she had been living for the past three years.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to stay longer here?¡± Bisma said when his two nephews bid farewell to return to Jakarta.


    ¡°No, uncle, we need to get back to work,¡± Fahira replied with a distant look. Arini and Arya, who stood beside Bisma, could only remain silent with a mncholic gaze. They were still disappointed and saddened by the arrest of Maheswari and Ambar, the two women who had taken care of and raised them with love.


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, give me your ount numbers. I¡¯ll transfer money every month for your needs in Jakarta,¡± Bisma continued, his eyes welling up with tears. Bisma was deeply affected by the actions of his mother and wife, which resulted in his two nephews bing orphans.


    ¡°No need, Uncle. Fahira and Ariel are now my responsibility. You don¡¯t need to worry about them. I promise to do my best to make them happy,¡± Darian interjected, wrapping his arm around Fahira¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Fahira, please entrust all of our parents¡¯ belongings to Uncle. Please take care of them well. I promise to visit here often,¡± Fahira said, now tears streaming down her face.


    ¡°Forgive Fahira, Uncle. Fahira won¡¯t seek retribution from Grandma and Aunt. Fahira will leave everything to thews of our country, but if Uncle wants Fahira to withdraw thewsuit, I will do it,¡± Fahira exined, leaving everyone startled. Especially Darian, he never expected Fahira to be so forgiving. How could she easily forgive the heinous acts of her grandmother and aunt who killed her parents?


    ¡°Uncle Pram and Aunt Fatimah must be happy up there because they sessfully raised their daughter well.¡± Bisma held Fahira¡¯s body and embraced her tightly with tears of emotion.


    ¡°But Uncle won¡¯t do that. Let Mommy and Ambar face the consequences of their actions,¡± Bisma replied after easing his embrace.


    Bisma changed to hugging Ariel while patting his shoulder. ¡°Take good care of Sister Fahira, okay?¡± Bisma whispered before releasing the embrace. Ariel could only nod without uttering a word.


    ¡°Brother Ariel, I apologize for all the mistakes I¡¯ve made towards you!¡± Arya said, then hugged Ariel tightly. For the first time, he sincerely apologized to his cousin. For so long, Arya had been influenced by the instigation of his grandmother and mother to hate Ariel and Fahira. But now, he truly realized that the one with a wicked heart was the woman who had been his role model all along.


    After saying their goodbyes, they left the mansion full of memories. Forgiving her grandmother and aunt¡¯s actions wasn¡¯t easy for Fahira. However, holding onto hatred now seemed meaningless; her parents had been gone for a long time. She just wanted her parents to rest in peace. Starting a new chapter with her brother was the best choice. Fahira was willing and convinced that everything was the will of the Almighty. She only asked for one thing: for her parents to be happy there, in the most beautiful ce, in the sight of god.


    ***


    At exactly 10 p. m., they arrived at Darian¡¯s house. Darian intentionally brought Fahira and Ariel to stay with him. He wouldn¡¯t feel at ease leaving them alone in their own house without his supervision. Darian wouldn¡¯t be at peace until the people who had been watching Fahira and Ariel were caught.


    Darian didn¡¯t expect his mother to warmly wee them and even hug Fahira and Ariel affectionately.


    ¡°You should freshen up first, then eat. While you freshen up, let Aminah heat the food. Oh, David, you can also rest here; a guest room has been prepared for you too,¡± Yasminmanded enthusiastically.


    ¡°Okay, Mom!¡± David replied briefly. It was perfect timing as he was indeed exhausted after driving quite a distance. If this were his own house, David would probably lock himself in his room and spend the whole day hibernating. And true to his thoughts, after showering, David skipped dinner and immediatelyy down until he fell asleep.


    After eating a modest meal, Darian, Fahira, and Ariel went to rest. They actually wanted to rest immediately after the long journey, which drained their energy and minds. However, out of respect for Yasmin, who had made an effort to prepare the food for them, they managed to finish their meals quickly, albeit without much appetite. Yasmin was a bit hesitant when Fahira chose to share a room with Ariel. After all, Ariel was already a teenager, so it didn¡¯t seem appropriate for them to sleep in the same bed. But Darian¡¯s silent signal managed to silence Yasmin¡¯s objections. She reluctantly agreed and escorted Fahira and Ariel to their room.


    Despite feeling tired and sleepy, Darian¡¯s anxiety couldn¡¯t be dispelled until it was three-quarters past midnight. Finally, he decided to get up and perform ablution to calm his heart by praying. After finishing his prayers, Darian intended to go to the kitchen to make some coffee. Perhaps a cup of coffee would bring some peace to his troubled mind. There was still one truth left to be revealed-the rtionship between Fahira¡¯s father and Darian¡¯s parents. He was worried that this uing revtion could be a boomerang for his rtionship with Fahira.


    Fahira, who happened to wake up feeling thirsty, was startled when she saw Darian standing while pressing the dispenser button. A puff of hot steam hit the face of the dark-skinned man.


    ¡°What are you doing so early in the morning, Honey?¡± Darian¡¯s body tensed momentarily, surprised to hear Fahira¡¯s voice. He quickly turned around to face her and smiled.


    ¡°What do you want? Do you want me to make you something?¡± Darian offered gently while stirring the coffee he had brought.


    ¡°I¡¯m thirsty, Darian. I want some warm water,¡± Fahira replied, approaching Darian. Instantly, Darian ced his coffee on the pantry table and gestured for Fahira to sit down.


    ¡°Just sit here, I¡¯ll get it for you!¡± Darian immediately took a ss from the dish rack and filled it with half hot water and half cold water.


    ¡°Thank you, Darian!¡± Fahira said, epting the ss of water and drinking it all.


    ¡°Feeling better now? How about Ariel? Shouldn¡¯t we take him to the hospital?¡± Darian asked anxiously.


    ¡°Darian, we¡¯re both fine. Ariel is better now, he slept well through the night,¡± Fahira exined.


    ¡°Do I often do this?¡± Fahira pointed to the coffee cup still steaming in front of Darian. He lifted the cup with his fingertips and took a slow sip after blowing on it a few times.


    Darian shook his head while enjoying the strong ck liquid soothing his throat until there was only half a cup left. Darian got up from his seat, took Fahira¡¯s hand, and led her to the living room before their household assistants woke up and disturbed them.


    Fahira looked uneasy as Darian casually put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her into his embrace. Of course, Fahira was afraid of causing spection if anyone saw them being this close.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, my dear?¡± Darian said, changing his position to face Fahira.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do this, I¡¯ll be embarrassed if someone sees us, especially madam Yasmin!¡± Fahira admitted with a forced smile.


    Ignoring Fahira¡¯s words, Darian insteadughed and hugged her tightly, showering her with kisses all over her face until a slight cough interrupted theirughter and activities.


    ¡°Hey, Mommy dear!¡± greeted Darian, changing his position by resting his hand on Fahira¡¯s shoulder. A shade of orange instantly spread across Fahira¡¯s face, extending to her fair neck as she tried to move Darian¡¯s hand off her shoulder.


    ¡°It seems like we should speed up your wedding!¡± Yasmin teased Fahira, who blushed even more shyly.


    ¡°I¡¯m ready, Mommy, it¡¯s no problem today!¡± Darian replied casually.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I should help Aminah in the kitchen!¡± Fahira tried to stand up, but Darian immediately pulled her back to sit.


    ¡°Just stay here and keep Mommy¡¯s sonpany, I¡¯ll be in the kitchen.¡± Yasmin approached Fahira with a gentle smile.


    ¡°But¡­!¡± Fahira¡¯s words were caught in her throat when Darian whispered, ¡°Do you want me to kiss you in front of Mommy?¡± Fahira shook her head quickly, looking at Darian sternly, while Yasmin smiled subtly and left them alone.


    ***


    Darian¡¯s smile widened as he remembered that there was a woman waiting for him at home. He got up from his executive chair and reached for his suit jacket hanging on the back of the chair, putting it on. Going home seemed like the best option right now. But before he could shut down theputer that held all thepany data, he heard a knock on the door.


    Upon hearing the invitation from inside, David entered Darian¡¯s office with an indescribable expression on his face. He remained silent for a while, causing Darian¡¯s eyebrows to furrow as he waited for the news David was about to deliver.


    ¡°Mr. Delon has arrested all the individuals involved with the one who had been spying on Miss Fahira and Ariel for the past three years,¡± David finally spoke.


    Darian¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, and a mix of relief and curiosity filled his expression. ¡°Really? That¡¯s great news! What happened?¡±


    ¡°Based on the investigation, the person behind all this was actually Maheswari¡¯s close friend, a woman named Sandra. She was the one who had been feeding information about Fahira and Ariel to Maheswari and Ambar all this time. It seems they were acting on someone else¡¯s orders,¡± David exined.


    ¡°And who¡¯s that someone else?¡± Darian asked with a hint of suspicion.


    ¡°We haven¡¯t been able to find out yet. But we¡¯ve arrested all those involved, including Maheswari and Ambar. They¡¯re now in police custody,¡± David replied.


    Darian nodded, processing the information. ¡°Well, that¡¯s a relief. At least Fahira and Ariel can finally feel safer now. But we need to find out who¡¯s behind all this and what their motives are.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I agree. We¡¯ll keep investigating until we get to the bottom of this,¡± David affirmed.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Thank you for the update, David. I¡¯ll make sure to inform Fahira about this when I get home,¡± Darian said gratefully.


    As David left the office, Darian took a deep breath, feeling a weight lifted off his shoulders. Now he could focus on going home and spending time with Fahira. He quickly shut down hisputer, left his office, and headed home, eager to share the good news with his beloved. The mystery might not be fully solved yet, but knowing that the immediate threat was eliminated brought some peace of mind.

 Rusdi鈥檚 Will

    Uncle Zahir smiled warmly while shaking Darian¡¯s hand firmly. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right, Darian. It¡¯s been a long time since west met. I¡¯m doing well. And how about you?¡±


    Darian nodded, trying to hide his anxiety behind his smile. ¡°I¡¯m doing fine, Om. Can I help you with something?¡±


    Uncle Zahir shifted his gaze for a moment towards David, who was standing next to Darian. ¡°Can we talk in private?¡±


    Darian and David exchanged a brief look before Darian nodded. ¡°Sure, we can talk in the private room.¡±


    Uncle Zahir followed Darian to a private room, away from the prying eyes and ears. As they sat down, Uncle Zahir began, ¡°Darian, I have something important to discuss with you. It¡¯s about the truth that has been hidden for a long time.¡±


    Darian¡¯s heart raced, and he tried to maintain hisposure. ¡°Go ahead, Uncle Zahir. I¡¯m listening.¡±


    Uncle Zahir took a deep breath before continuing, ¡°I know about your rtionship with Fahira, and I want you to know that I support you both. But there is something you should know. The truth is, your father and Fahira¡¯s mother were deeply in love in the past. They were childhood sweethearts.¡±


    Darian¡¯s eyes widened in surprise as he listened to the revtion. ¡°What? My father and Fahira¡¯s mother?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s true,¡± Uncle Zahir confirmed. ¡°But circumstances forced them to separate, and your father married someone else. Fahira¡¯s mother also married someone else, but they never forgot each other. Even after their respective marriages, they kept in touch secretly.¡±


    Darian¡¯s mind was racing, trying to process the information. ¡°So, Fahira and I¡­ we are actually half-siblings?¡±


    Uncle Zahir nodded sadly. ¡°Yes, you are. I¡¯m sorry for telling you this now, but it¡¯s something you needed to know. Fahira doesn¡¯t know about this, and I wanted to be the one to inform you first.¡±


    Darian felt a mix of emotions overwhelming him ¨C shock, confusion, and sadness. He couldn¡¯t believe that his love for Fahira was tied to such aplicated and unexpected revtion.


    ¡°I understand that this is a lot to take in,¡± Uncle Zahir said gently. ¡°Take your time to process everything. I just wanted to be honest with you. Fahira is a wonderful person, and I believe she deserves to know the truth as well.¡±


    Darian nodded, still trying to grasp the reality of the situation. ¡°Thank you, Uncle Zahir, for telling me the truth. I will find the right time to talk to Fahira about this.¡±


    Uncle Zahir ced a reassuring hand on Darian¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Take care, Darian. I¡¯m here for both of you if you need anything.¡±


    Darian managed a small smile, appreciating the support from Uncle Zahir. As they left the room, he knew that his rtionship with Fahira would never be the same again. The truth had brought a new level ofplexity to their love, and he needed to find a way to navigate through it with honesty and understanding.


    Darian sat on the sofa next to Yasmin, facing the white-haired man in front of them. Despite his youthful appearance and strong physique, the white hair indicated that Zahir Ali Muhammad was not young anymore. He was Darian¡¯s father¡¯s close friend during his lifetime, and also Rusdi¡¯s personalwyer. Zahir¡¯s visit to their house was undoubtedly for a reason.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Alhamdulih, Uncle, I¡¯m doing well. You seem as sharp as my father!¡± Darian replied with a smile, reminiscing about the old times when Zahir used to yfully pat his shoulder.


    The atmosphere fell silent when Zahir mentioned the purpose of his visit ¨C to deliver Rusdi¡¯s will. Zahir opened the bag he had ced on the table and took out a folder containing several documents.


    ¡°Let¡¯s rx, shall we?¡± Zahir tried to ease the tension. Yasmin and Darian smiled nervously, feeling anxious about what he was going to say.


    ¡°So, here it is. Rusdi made this will a long time ago. To be honest, I didn¡¯t n to reveal the truth yet, but due to the recent events and the arrests made by Darian, I think it¡¯s best to disclose it now,¡± Zahir exined and looked meaningfully at Darian.


    ¡°What do you mean? I don¡¯t understand, Pak Zahir,¡± Yasmin asked, ncing between Zahir and Darian.


    Zahir smiled before answering Darian¡¯s question, ¡°So, Rusdi and Pram had a very close rtionship. They were best friends. Although they rarely met, whenever Rusdi was on a business trip to Surabaya, he always made time to see Pram. Ten years ago, when Putra Corporation was facing financial deficits and almost bankruptcy, they made an agreement.¡±


    ¡°An agreement?¡± Yasmin and Darian repeated in unison.


    ¡°Exactly. Pram injected funds from the sale of his tea ntation to cover thepany¡¯s deficit, with the condition that Rusdi would return the money when Ariel turned twenty. And a year before the ident that imed the lives of Fahira and Ariel¡¯s parents, Pram entrusted their safety to Rusdi, as they were facing numerous threats. Pram knew that one of the people targeting his family¡¯s lives was his own stepmother. To be cautious, whenever Pram traveled with his entire family, he would separate the two children with bodyguards watching over them. Damar and Robby were Rusdi¡¯s men.¡± Zahir paused briefly before revealing the heart of all that he had shared.


    ¡°So, 30% of the 65%pany shares belong to Fahira and Ariel. I apologize if this reality is painful for you, Yasmin and Darian, but I¡¯m merely conveying Rusdi¡¯s will and decision. You both can study the entire details and evidence here!¡± Zahir handed the folder to Yasmin and Darian.


    ¡°I never had an issue with thepany shares. I¡¯m just disappointed that Papa never told me all this from the beginning. Fahira became my secretary at the office based on Papa¡¯s rmendation. And what I¡¯ve done to Fahira¡­¡± Darian¡¯s words trailed off as he struggled to express the turmoil in his heart. He wanted to be honest, but he couldn¡¯t bear to expose his own ws in front of others. Only Ah, himself, Fahira, Yasmin, and David knew about it.


    ¡°I should go. If you need anything, feel free to contact me,¡± Zahir bid his farewell, finishing the drink on the table.


    After Zahir left, the atmosphere remained quiet. Both Yasmin and Darian sat in silence, trying to digest the information they had just received a few minutes ago.


    Yasmin was struggling hard to recall something. She had never been involved in thepany¡¯s affairs before, and she only recently found out about thepany¡¯s financial difficulties and near bankruptcy. But there was one thing Yasmin remembered, something Rusdi used to say to her, ¡°Mom, everything we have is entrusted by Ah, so if one day our wealth is taken back by Him, we must be prepared. Whenever that may be.¡±


    Tears welled up in Yasmin¡¯s eyes as she reminisced about all the memories she had with Rusdi. Her sobbing caught Darian¡¯s attention, who had been lost in his thoughts.


    ¡°Dad is happy up there, Ma!¡± whispered Darian as he embraced his mother.


    ¡°By the way, where are Fahira and Ariel?¡± Darian asked, trying to divert his mother¡¯s sadness.


    ¡°Oh, they were cooking together earlier. You¡¯re smart to find a future wife who can cook,¡± Yasmin replied with a smile, then released their embrace after wiping her tears.


    Darian¡¯s smile brightened as he saw the woman he loved still busy in the kitchen. Earlier, Fahira continued cooking with them despite the guest¡¯s presence. Ariel was seen washing peeled fruits and cutting them into small pieces to put in the blender.


    ¡°It seems like after we get married, my waistline will expand,¡± Darian whispered, causing Fahira¡¯s body to tense up. He blew warm breath on her left neck.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do that, Darian!¡± Fahira shifted her body away and looked around. A sigh of relief escaped her lips when she didn¡¯t see anyone else in the kitchen except Ariel. Darian chuckled, following the movements of her beautiful eyes that seemed restless.


    ¡°Mom is in her room, she wants to be alone!¡± Darian honestly replied as his smile started to fade.


    ¡°Is there something wrong, Darian?¡± Fahira inquired, looking at the man in front of her with seriousness.


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story, I¡¯ll tell you everythingter!¡± Darian paused, gazing into his beloved¡¯s eyes. ¡°Right now, I¡¯m hungry,¡± he continued and headed to the dining table.


    Still with her aloof demeanor, Ariel ced a ss of apple juice in front of Darian.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Darian said. ¡°By the way, sometime we should do some Muay Thai. I¡¯ll teach you, but before that, you should consult your doctor!¡± Darian continued without mentioning Gavin¡¯s name in front of Fahira.


    Ariel smiled at Darian and nodded his head. Rather than being offended by Ariel¡¯s indifferent attitude towards him, Darian felt something else for the teenager in front of him. Soon, Ariel would be his colleague in thepany. If Ariel proved to be capable, Darian wouldn¡¯t hesitate to hand over his position as CEO of thepany. So, now he was thinking about imparting the business knowledge he had acquired to his future brother-inw and rmending the best faculties in Jakarta. Darian was sure that Ariel would reject any offer to study abroad, especially with Fahira¡¯s protective nature, it was unlikely that she would allow her younger brother to study far away from her. Plus, considering Ariel¡¯s history of heart disease, there was a possibility that it might worsen someday.


    Fahira looked suspiciously at Darian, who was observing her brother, and asked, ¡°What¡¯s your n?¡± Darian was taken aback by the question. Meanwhile, Ariel remained in his position, enjoying his meal without paying attention to the conversation.


    ¡°You¡¯ll find out soon, Love!¡± replied Darian, stealing a kiss on Fahira¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°Jerk!¡± protested Fahira yfully as she lightly hit Darian¡¯s shoulder with her blushing cheek. Shortly after, Yasmin came out of her room and joined them at the dining table. Politely, Ariel pulled out a chair for Yasmin with a smile. ¡°Thank you, dear,¡± said Yasmin, ruffling Ariel¡¯s hair affectionately.


    Seeing the interaction between his mother and Ariel, Darian suddenly felt jealous. How could Ariel be so close to his mother in such a short time while he, who knew Ariel before anyone else, was still being ignored?


    In the evening, Darian reluctantly escorted Fahira and Ariel back to their apartment. He wanted to bring them to his home as soon as possible. He was sure that their presence would bring more color to his home, especially for his mother.


    Not wanting to prolong the matter, Darian finally told Fahira and Ariel about the truth conveyed by his father¡¯swyer. Fahira and Ariel were stunned, finding it hard to believe what they heard. Seeing their shocked expressions, Darian decided to hide the truth that Fahira¡¯s father knew about the nned ident. Perhaps, for now, it was the best decision so that Fahira and Ariel wouldn¡¯t be consumed by sorrow.


    In the end, Darian chose to stay at Fahira¡¯s ce after getting permission from his mother. He couldn¡¯t bear leaving Ariel and Fahira in such a downhearted state. After facing the bitter truth upon their return from Surabaya, they now had to find other facts once again.

 Wedding

    The long-awaited special day for Darian had finally arrived. Dressed in a silver suit, a white shirt, and a ck (traditional cap) perched affectionately on his brown hair, Darian looked stunning. His sweet smile seemed to radiate endlessly, filling the pastel-themed yet morous and elegant ballroom of the hotel.


    The wedding of the top figure in Putra Corporation was going to be the grandest event held throughout the year. Every preparation was meticulously taken care of by a renowned Indonesian wedding organizer, in ordance with Darian¡¯s desired concept. Pastel colors dominated the decoration, as they were Fahira¡¯s favorite. Darian deliberately kept the concept of the wedding a secret, knowing that Fahira would reject an extravagant celebration. He wanted to make this special day, which only happened once in a lifetime, more memorable.


    There was no doubt about how Darian¡¯s heart raced when the MC began to greet the invited guests. He stood, anxiously waiting, and nced at the beautifully decorated stairs. Not long after, the woman who had stolen his heart stood at the top of the stairs, apanied by Yasmin and Ariel. Darian was captivated by the sight of Fahira descending the stairs gracefully in her long flowing white gown, adorned with colorful rose petals sprinkled along her path.


    ¡°Please, the groom may take his seat as the solemnization ceremony is about to begin.¡± The MC¡¯s voice failed to bring Darian back to reality. He was still fixated on Fahira, who now stood not far from him. Darian seemed enchanted by Fahira¡¯s perfect beauty. The simple woman had transformed into an ethereal being, as if she were a celestial being sent from heaven to apany him for the rest of his life.


    ¡°Darian, the officiant has been waiting for you!¡± Gavin whispered, nudging Darian¡¯s arm. Not only Darian was mesmerized by Fahira¡¯s beauty, but Gavin, who had been with Darian all this time, was also almost lost in admiration for the bride if it weren¡¯t for his logical mind kicking in.


    ¡°Darian!¡± Gavin repeated more urgently into Darian¡¯s ear. This time, Darian snapped out of his trance and coughed while forcing a stiff smile as he realized that all eyes were on him.


    Darian took a deep breath to make sure his suit was in order, then promptly took his seat across from the officiant. He nced briefly at the woman sitting beside him. She chose to keep her head lowered, her hands sped tightly in herp.


    ¡°In the name of god,¡± Darian whispered as he prepared to receive the officiant¡¯s extended hand, which was already in front of him.


    ¡°I hereby solemnize the marriage between Brother Darian Mahesa Putra, son of Rusdianto Mahesa Putra (deceased), and Sister Fahira Ramadhani, daughter of Pramudya Abduh (deceased), with a dowry consisting of a set of prayer equipment and the sum of IDR 27, 422, 000. 00, paid in cash.¡±


    ¡°I ept the marriage and the dowry for Sister Fahira Ramadhani, which is paid in cash!¡± Darian confidently and clearly pronounced the sacred vows.


    Valid.


    Valid.


    The echoes of ¡°Valid¡± resounded throughout the ballroom hotel.


    After the solemn and dignified recitation of the prayer, Darian was invited to put the wedding ring on Fahira¡¯s ring finger. He looked at her, still with her head bowed, and gently held her hand. Slowly, Fahira lifted her face, tears rolling down her cheeks, as Darian ced the diamond ring on her ring finger. With trembling and sweaty hands, Fahira then ced the ring on Darian¡¯s finger, sealing their love in an official bond.


    ¡°I love you, Fahira,¡± Darian whispered, kissing her forehead as he recited a prayer.


    Yasmin and Ariel, who had witnessed the details of Darian and Fahira¡¯s wedding ceremony, couldn¡¯t hide their emotions. Happiness and sadness intertwined as one. With tears streaming down her face, Yasmin hugged Ariel, who was desperately trying to hold back her tears. Ariel couldn¡¯t help but imagine how perfect the asion would have been if their parents were also present. Fahira¡¯s happiness would have beenplete.


    After the solemnization ceremony, Gavin distanced himself from everyone. His heart shattered into pieces, witnessing the woman he loved standing beside his own cousin. He thought he had made peace with his feelings by constantly reminding himself to be sincere and let go of Fahira. But the truth was different. Gavin¡¯s heart was in so much pain that he felt suffocated.


    The wedding reception followed the ceremony. This time, the ballroom was filled with more guestspared to the intimate gathering during the solemnization. Darian and Yasmin¡¯s business associates,pany executives, and other employees were in attendance.


    Although Fahira¡¯s guest list was smaller, it didn¡¯t diminish her happiness. She was grateful that her uncle and two cousins from Surabaya attended the wedding after the significant incident that happened between them some time ago. Fahira was overjoyed to see Bisma, Arya, and Arini sincerely praying for her and Darian¡¯s marriage. In fact, Uncle Bisma acted as the officiant, recing herte father. Furthermore, her best friends, Mira, Susi, and Ray, were there to cheer her on, teasing her relentlessly whenever Darian wasn¡¯t around.


    ¡°Gosh, Fahira, you look stunning!¡± praised Mira, mesmerized by Fahira¡¯s appearance.


    ¡°You¡¯re so amazing for snagging a wealthy guy like Boss Darian! Teach me how to attract rich men!¡± added Mira, amazed by the super luxurious decorations that were pleasing to her eyes. On the other hand, Susi was stunned by the presence of the affluent guests.


    ¡°Mir, let¡¯s charm them! Who knows, one of them might fall for us!¡± Susi chimed in, looking at the handsome and wealthy men attending the event.


    ¡°Fahira, I want you to introduce me to your boss¡¯s single brother!¡± interrupted Susi.


    ¡°Me too!¡± added Mira, not wanting to be left out. Meanwhile, Fahira chose tough at her friends¡¯ absurdments.


    ¡°The key is simple!¡± Fahira whispered, capturing Mira and Susi¡¯s full attention as they eagerly waited for her to continue.


    ¡°Love!¡± Fahira dered, instantly eliciting sarcasticughter from Susi and Mira.


    Before Susi and Mira could respond, Darian was seen approaching them. ¡°Sorry to interrupt, may I borrow my wife for a moment?¡± Darian politely addressed his two employees. Without hesitation, Darian wrapped his arm possessively around Fahira¡¯s slim waist and led her towards the other guests.


    Susi and Mira were still frozen in ce as Darian and Fahira left. ¡°Sus, pinch my hand!¡± Mira reached out her hand to Susi, still looking at the newlyweds. ¡°I think we¡¯re going crazy, Mir! There¡¯s no way the boss would smile so sweetly at us like that,¡± Susi replied, pinching Mira¡¯s arm hard, causing her to cry out in pain.


    ¡°Why are you two still standing here?¡± Ray¡¯s voice suddenly sneaked into their ears, making both of them tense up. Without paying attention to Ray¡¯s pained expression, the two women hit his shoulder hard. Ignoring his cry of pain, they walked over to the buffet table that offered various mouth-watering dishes.


    ***


    After the reception ended, the entire Darian and Fahira¡¯s families upied the hotel rooms that had been prepared for them. Fahira, feeling exhausted from standing all day in high heels, chose to rest first.


    Dariany down on the bed after taking off his tie and jacket. His back felt sore, while Fahira was still removing her makeup. Fortunately, Fahira had chosen a simple makeup and essories for her wedding, so she didn¡¯t need to ask for help from anyone to take it off. However, there was one important thing that Fahira forgot. She couldn¡¯t possibly take off her wedding dress by herself. Darian, who had been observing Fahira, couldn¡¯t help but suppress a chuckle. He deliberately wanted his new wife to ask for his help. He knew Fahira well and understood that she wouldn¡¯t ask for help from anyone as long as she could handle it herself.


    Fahira looked at Darian, who was pretending to be busy with his phone. Honestly, Fahira felt embarrassed to ask Darian for help in unfastening her wedding dress. Especially since the dress was perfectly tailored to her body and, of course, she wasn¡¯t wearing a bra underneath. She looked at herself in the mirror again and tied her hair neatly. Then, with both hands, she tried to reach the small buttons that lined along her back. ¡°Impossible,¡± Fahira eximed in frustration as she could only reach a few buttons at the top.


    ¡°Why did I choose this design?¡± Fahira¡¯s irritation peaked. After all, she herself chose a gown with a transparent back adorned with buttons.


    ¡°Do you need help?¡± Darian teased as he stood up from hisfortable position. Reluctantly, Fahira nodded. Her heart started racing as Darian stood behind her.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say so earlier?¡± Darian teased again as he started unfastening Fahira¡¯s wedding dress one by one.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    From behind the mirror, Darian could see Fahira¡¯s unease, her cheeks turning a shade of pink.


    ¡°Can you step outside for a moment, Darian?¡± Fahira asked shyly, holding the front of her dress.


    Susi and Mira were still frozen in ce as Darian and Fahira passed by. ¡°Sus, pinch my hand, please!¡± Mira reached out her hand to Susi, her gaze still fixed on the newlyweds. ¡°I think we¡¯re going crazy, Mir! There¡¯s no way the boss would smile so sweetly at us like that,¡± Susi replied, pinching Mira¡¯s arm hard, causing her to wince in pain.


    ¡°What are you two still standing here for?¡± Ray¡¯s voice suddenly sneaked into their ears, making their bodies tense up. Without paying attention to Ray¡¯s pained expression, the two women hit his shoulder hard. Ignoring his cry of pain, they walked over to the buffet table that offered various mouth-watering dishes.


    ***


    After the reception ended, the entire Darian and Fahira¡¯s families upied the hotel rooms that had been prepared for them. Fahira, feeling extremely tired from standing all day in high heels, chose to rest first.


    Dariany down on the bed after taking off his tie and jacket. His back felt sore, while Fahira was still removing her makeup. Fortunately, Fahira had chosen simple makeup and essories for her wedding, so she didn¡¯t need to bother asking anyone else for help. However, there was one important thing that Fahira forgot. She wouldn¡¯t be able to take off her wedding dress by herself. Darian, who had been observing Fahira, couldn¡¯t help but suppress a chuckle. He deliberately wanted his new wife to ask for his help. He knew Fahira well, and understood that she wouldn¡¯t ask for help from anyone as long as she could handle it herself.


    Fahira looked at Darian, who was pretending to be busy with his phone. Honestly, Fahira felt embarrassed to ask Darian for help in unfastening her wedding dress. Especially since the dress was perfectly tailored to her body, and, of course, she wasn¡¯t wearing a bra underneath. She looked at herself in the mirror again and tied her hair neatly. Then, with both hands, she tried to reach the small buttons that lined along her back. ¡°Impossible.¡± Fahira eximed in frustration as she could only reach a few buttons at the top.


    ¡°Why did I choose this dress in the first ce?¡± Fahira¡¯s frustration reached its peak. After all, she herself chose a dress with a transparent back and button ents at the back.


    ¡°Need some help?¡± Darian teased as he got up from hisfortable position. With a reluctant smile, Fahira nodded. Her heart started beating faster as Darian stood behind her.


    ¡°You should have said something earlier!¡± Darian teased again as he began to unbutton Fahira¡¯s wedding dress one by one.


    From behind the mirror, Darian could see Fahira¡¯s uneasiness. A tinge of blush appeared on her cheeks as she kept her head down in embarrassment.


    ¡°Can you step out of the room for a moment?¡± Fahira said timidly while holding the front of her dress.


    ¡°Why should I leave the room?¡± Darian asked, teasing his wife even more.


    ¡°I want to change my clothes first and take a shower. I can¡¯t possibly go to the bathroom with this dress on,¡± Fahira said, frustrated that Darian didn¡¯t seem to understand her request.


    Still looking at Fahira through the mirror, Darian approached her and nted a kiss on her neck. ¡°Why are you embarrassed? I¡¯ve seen it all before,¡± he whispered huskily. His fingers started ying on Fahira¡¯s bare back, leaving her defenseless.


    ¡°I¡¯m still sweaty. I want to take a shower!¡± Fahira protested, standing up from her seat.


    ¡°Well then, let¡¯s shower together!¡± Darian replied with a grin, making Fahira even more flustered as her face turned redder.


    With a grin on his face, Darian moved Fahira¡¯s hands away from her dress. Before Fahira could say anything, Darian¡¯s lips were already pressed against hers. He gently kissed Fahira, who felt cold due to her nervousness. Fahira¡¯s nervousness started to melt away as she responded to Darian¡¯s kiss. Gradually, Fahira¡¯s hands moved up and wrapped around Darian¡¯s neck. Unconsciously, her dress started to slide down, leaving Fahira topless.


    Darian briefly released their locked lips to catch a breath. Then he smiled, admiring the beautiful sight before him. Realizing Darian¡¯s gaze, Fahira¡¯s hands quickly covered her front.


    ¡°Why cover up? Everything already belongs to me, my love!¡± Darian whispered, kissing Fahira¡¯s shoulder, which led to the curve of her white neck. ¡°Darian!¡± Fahira whispered as she moved her face away from Darian¡¯s neck, feeling a slight pain from the small bite he gave her.


    ¡°We should take a shower and pray together, Honey, and then we can continueter,¡± Darian whispered before lifting Fahira¡¯s body and leading her into the bathroom, leaving Fahira with no choice but to hide her blushing face in Darian¡¯s chest.

 Hot In Here

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Alea sneered at the man she never expected to see at her apartment door.


    ¡°You should leave! I¡¯m not interested!¡± she continued, closing the apartment door again.


    ¡°I just wanted to make sure you¡¯re okay!¡± the man replied, his hand holding the door leaf. He then pushed it, causing the door to swing wide open, and Alea casually walked in, ignoring him. The smell of alcohol wafted into David¡¯s nostrils as he followed Alea¡¯s footsteps.


    ¡°Today is your boss¡¯s wedding day, why are you here?¡± Alea said sarcastically as she sat back down at her mini bar.


    David looked at Alea with an inscrutable expression, ncing at the empty bottle in front of her. Earlier, feeling uneasy thinking about Alea, David had impulsively left his boss¡¯s wedding reception.


    ¡°Stop it! You¡¯re getting drunk!¡± David tried to grab the bottle of alcohol from Alea¡¯s hand as she was about to pour it into a ss.


    Feeling annoyed, Alea stood up and approached David with a seductive smile, analyzing the man who, unfortunately, looked so handsome tonight. She reached for David¡¯s shirt cor and loosened his tie. She discarded it carelessly and started unbuttoning David¡¯s shirt one by one. David remained silent, gazing at the beautiful woman in front of him, whotely had made his life uneasy.


    ¡°Stop it! I don¡¯t want you to regret this!¡± David said, forcibly removing Alea¡¯s hands from his body.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be hypocritical, David! Weren¡¯t you the one who started this game? Tonight, I want you!¡± Alea teased, ying with her fingers on David¡¯s half-opened shirt. Meanwhile, David could only look at the woman before him with concern. Alea¡¯s mood was a mess because of Darian and Fahira¡¯s wedding. What could David do about it? All he knew was that he worried about the heartbroken woman in front of him.


    David remained silent as Alea began to kiss his neck. This wasn¡¯t the first time they had spent the night together. But David couldn¡¯t stand being used as a vent for Alea¡¯s pain over Darian. He admitted that he was a fan of one-night stands, but this was not how he wanted things to be. And the worst part was that ever since he took Alea¡¯s virginity that night, David couldn¡¯t bring himself to be intimate with other women anymore.


    He had lost count of how many times he had hired call girls to warm his bed, just like he always did. But all attempts had failed. His prideful weapon that usually made women scream helplessly from the pleasure he gave now showed no reaction at all. And now, with just a small touch of Alea¡¯s hand, he easily got aroused.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do this, Alea,¡± David refused, which only made Alea more determined to seduce him.


    And David finally gave in. With mixed emotions, he started responding to Alea¡¯s advances. Alea briefly released their lips to catch a breath, and she looked into David¡¯s eyes, now filled with passion, before kissing him again, unburdening herself of all the weight in her heart. In the end, only David, the one man who always worried about her, remained. The man who always came at the right time. Without any resistance, David carried Alea¡¯s body to the bedroom.


    After their passionate lovemaking, Alea got up from the bed and casually put on her clothes, while David still gazed at her back with feelings he couldn¡¯t quite interpret.


    ¡°Alea!¡± David called, making Alea turn around and murmur.


    ¡°During our lovemaking, I never used protection. I¡¯ll take responsibility if you get pregnant,¡± David said, looking at Alea, who still gazed back expressionlessly.


    ¡°Hahaha, don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t ask you for any responsibility. Besides, I don¡¯t want to bemitted to anyone,¡± Alea said firmly,ughing cynically.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious, Alea!¡± David replied, getting up and putting on his clothes.


    ¡°Abort it if it happens, problem solved!¡± Alea retorted lightly, which instantly made David growl with anger. With a tense jaw, he approached Alea and held her chin with an intimidating gaze.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let you do it. I may have a messed-up behavior, but I won¡¯t kill my own flesh and blood,¡± David asserted, only to be met with Alea¡¯s loudughter. David¡¯s words sounded utterly ridiculous to her. How could she ever marry a man she considered just an entertainment?


    ¡°Oh, and there¡¯s one more thing, David. As long as I¡¯m not tired of having fun, you¡¯re not allowed to have sex with any other woman,¡± Alea warned before leaving the room, leaving David trying to contain his anger. He now felt like a gigolo.


    ¡°Shit!¡± David cursed. He only just realized that he had trapped himself in the game he created.


    ***


    Fahira sat silently on the edge of the bed. Her heart was beating irregrly as she imagined what would soon happen between her and Darian. The wedding night. More precisely, not just an ordinary wedding night between a man and a woman, but a truly thrilling night that would be a field of blessings, no longer tainted by the sins they hadmitted before. If in the past, all that Fahira could think of was Ariel¡¯s recovery, now everything was different. Fear and uncertainty mixed, creating an indescribable feeling.


    ¡°Honey!¡± Darian called, leaning against the headboard, his hand patting the empty space beside him. Fahira¡¯s body tensed, too afraid to look at the man who had now be her husband.


    Fahira closed her eyes, biting her lower lip. The fragrance of the white-themed room with scattered rose petals added to her nervousness. Honestly, Fahira was not fully prepared. Her dream of marriage and the wedding night hade true, but why was she suddenly overwhelmed by fear?


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Darian whispered, now behind Fahira. Both of his hands with brown skin slipped around Fahira¡¯s sides, encircling her slender waist, while he inhaled the scent of her favorite vanice fragrance.


    ¡°If you¡¯re not ready, just say it, Darling. I won¡¯t force you!¡± he whispered again, gently brushing Fahira¡¯s long hair aside. He kissed her neck while tightening his embrace.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Tell me, Darling, don¡¯t remain silent. I won¡¯t be upset!¡± Darian continued, now starting to worry. Suddenly, he felt guilty. Could it be that Fahira was still traumatized by that night?


    Darian sighed heavily and loosened his embrace. He got off the bed, then knelt before Fahira, supporting himself on his knees. He took hold of Fahira¡¯s slender fingers and held them tightly.


    ¡°I apologize for all the mistakes I¡¯ve made. I promise I won¡¯t hurt you anymore!¡± Darian sincerely promised. The beautiful pair of eyes that now looked at him seemed to glisten with tears.


    ¡°It¡¯s me who should apologize, Honey, for not fulfilling my duties as a wife!¡± Fahira honestly gazed into the brown eyes before her.


    ¡°You never did anything wrong, Fahira. It¡¯s me who¡¯s been wrong!¡± Darian replied, then stood up.


    ¡°Maybe we should rest. There¡¯s plenty of time for us to do it,¡± Darian continued, guiding Fahira to lie down on the bed. He pulled the nket over them both.


    ¡°I love you, my wife,¡± Darian whispered, hugging Fahira tightly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry Honey,¡± Fahira murmured softly. Darian smiled and kissed Fahira¡¯s forehead for a long time, silently uttering prayers in his heart.


    With courage, Fahira shifted her body, closing the distance between them by hugging Darian.


    ¡°Go to sleep!¡± Darian whispered, caressing Fahira¡¯s head until they fell asleep together.


    Perhaps due to being deeply asleep or exhausted, Fahirapletely missed her usual nighttime prayers. Meanwhile, Darian was awake, looking at Fahira¡¯s beautiful face. He traced the lines of her lovely features, repeatedly expressing gratitude that Ah had brought him together with someone as good as Fahira. Despite the twists and obstacles, they finally united in the sacred bond of marriage.


    Slowly, Darian kissed Fahira¡¯s lips and then quickly got up to perform the night prayer. He immersed himself in his prayers until the time for the dawn prayer arrived. Then he woke Fahira up for the congregational Fajr prayer. Fahira startled when she realized she had slept so soundly that she missed the best time to be with the Creator.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you wake me up!¡± Fahira grumbled as she tied her hair and headed to the bathroom hastily.


    Darian just smiled, watching Fahira¡¯s figure disappear behind the bathroom door. Shortly after, his wife emerged with dripping water on her face from ablution. She put on the prayer gown that Darian had prepared behind the prayer mat.


    After they finished praying together, they tidied up the prayer area. Again, Fahira felt awkward as Darian looked at her meaningfully. Darian, sitting on the edge of the bed, pulled Fahira¡¯s hand and hugged her, cing his hand on her stomach.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my Love!¡± Darian murmured. Slowly, Fahira¡¯s hand lifted, caressing the brown locks of the man who was now herwful husband. The man who owned her heart and soul.


    ¡°I¡¯m ready, my Love!¡± Fahira whispered, sessfully making Darian loosen his embrace and tilt his head up to look into her eyes, searching for honesty there. Seeing the hint of doubt in her brown eyes, Fahira gave him a smile and nodded with flushed cheeks.


    Darian stood up and touched Fahira¡¯s cheek with the back of his hand, then caressed her lips with his fingers before their lips met. Instantly, a warm feeling spread throughout their bodies as the gentle kissing turned more intense, intoxicating Fahira. With their hearts pounding rapidly, Fahira finally gathered the courage to respond to Darian¡¯s kisses. The cool breeze from the air conditioning unit only added to the warmth they exchanged in each other¡¯s arms.


    ¡°I love you!¡± Darian whispered in between their activities. His kisses trailed down from her lips to the hollow of Fahira¡¯s neck. Unnoticed by Fahira, Darian¡¯s hands began to explore the curves of her body, which now only had a seductive ckce underwear.


    For a moment, Darian paused and removed the remaining cloth from Fahira¡¯s body. ¡°Don¡¯t look at me like that, I feel embarrassed!¡± Fahira said with a trembling voice, while Darian¡¯s lips were already fixated on the beautiful sight before him.


    Darian grinned and pulled Fahira onto the bed. Once again, he passionately kissed her, and slowly their bodies came together. Fahira closed her eyes tightly, feeling the pain in her core. It wasn¡¯t as painful as the first time they did it, but it was still a first experience for both Fahira and Darian, filled with love and tenderness.


    ¡°Thank you, my Love!¡± Darian whispered after they finished their intense intimacy. He then pulled the nket to cover their naked bodies, giving them a moment to rest before they indulged in the intoxicating activity once more.

 If Tomorrow Never Comes

    At 8 in the morning, Darian and Fahira finally came down from their room. The whole family was already having breakfast at the hotel restaurant where Darian and Fahira¡¯s wedding celebration took cest night, including Darian¡¯s extended family who came all the way from Turkey.


    ¡°Sorry we¡¯rete!¡± Darian politely greeted everyone who was enjoying their breakfast.


    ¡°Come join us!¡± replied Abiyyu, Gavin¡¯s father, with a hint of a smile.


    Of course, everyone in the room looked meaningfully at the newlywed couple. The glow of happiness was evident on Darian and Fahira¡¯s faces. Calmly, Darian pulled a chair for Fahira. Feeling a bit nervous after sweeping her gaze across Fahira¡¯s family, she took her seat.


    ¡°Are you sure you want to postpone your honeymoon? It¡¯s a special gift from your cousin, Darian, and, well, from us too!¡± Abiyyu continued, chewing his food.


    ¡°Yes, Uncle. Darian and I need to finish some work at the office first. Oh, by the way, where¡¯s Gavin?¡± Darian inquired, not finding his cousin around.


    ¡°He leftst night. He said there was a sudden operation call at the hospital,¡± Abiyyu replied casually. Gavin¡¯s parents were used to his unpredictable schedule, but they hade to understand and ept their son¡¯s demanding profession.


    ¡°Actually, Aunt and Uncle were nning to introduce Gavin¡¯s beloved to us, but he keeps canceling whenever we talk about marriage,¡± Desi, Gavin¡¯s mother, added. Fahira just listened while trying to enjoy her food. She didn¡¯t have much of an appetite as guilt suddenly overwhelmed the happiness she had just experienced with Darian. Fahira almost forgot about disappointing the young doctor.


    ¡°A while ago, he mentioned wanting to introduce the woman he loves to us, but it was suddenly canceled. He said the woman is the sister of one of his patients at the hospital,¡± Desi paused, her words heavy with disappointment.


    Uhuk, uhuk, uhuk. Fahira choked on the food she was chewing. Darian quickly grabbed a ss of water and helped Fahira drink it while gently rubbing her back. Of course, Darian knew the reason behind her choking.


    ¡°Easy there, Fahira,¡± Desi said worriedly. The middle-aged woman smiled, witnessing her nephew¡¯s gentle behavior towards the woman he married yesterday. Desi still remembered Fahira as the woman she once met at the hospital mosque. Back then, Desi gave her business card to Fahira. For some reason, Desi feltpassionate towards the woman who was crying in her prayers that day, and she briefly considered getting to know her better.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, Uncle Bisma, let Fahira and me be the ones to take you, Arya, and Andini to the airport,¡± Darian purposely changed the subject to dispel the difort that had settled upon Fahira¡¯s mind.


    ¡°No need, my child! We can just order a taxi. You both must be tired. Rest up!¡± Bisma replied with a hint of reluctance. Bisma felt ufortable among Darian¡¯srge extended family. Coming from the countryside, he felt awkward and insecure, especially considering everything his wife and mother-inw had done to Fahira¡¯s parents.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, Uncle. Let us take you,¡± Fahira chimed in, ncing at her family members one by one.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯lle too, Fahira!¡± Ariel finally broke his silence. Although he was annoyed by Arya and Rania¡¯s closeness since yesterday, he still wanted to apany his uncle and cousins. There was an unwillingness in him when he saw how easily Arya became close to Rania, a woman he had long admired. Perhaps it was Arya¡¯s friendly nature that made the tomboyish girl bond with him faster than with Ariel. Despite Ariel¡¯s fame as the school¡¯s basketball team captain and member of the student council, he wasn¡¯t easily approachable to everyone at school. The teenager was known to be cold and indifferent, especially to girls who openly expressed their interest in him.


    ¡°Of course, Dek, you¡¯reing!¡± Fahira replied, holding Ariel¡¯s hand on the table. Ariel, who had been sitting next to Fahira all this time, appeared calm, but his gaze was fixed on Arya and Rania, who were sitting across the table. His expression was t but meaningful.


    After breakfast and about an hour of rxation, the entire Darian family bid farewell, including Abiyyu and Desi. Ariel¡¯s heart warmed up again when he saw Arya and Rania teasing each other in front of him. Darian, who noticed Ariel¡¯s annoyed gaze towards Arya and Rania, could only suppress a amused smile. Especially when he realized that he was the one who fell in love a littlete. Darian had never experienced the teenage love many called the most beautiful and unforgettable. He waste to fall in love, but he never regretted it because when he did fall, he was instantly led to his true love.


    ***


    ¡°Do you like Rania?¡± Fahira teased when the three of them were on their way back from the airport. Darian, sitting behind the steering wheel, nced at Ariel through the rear-view mirror.


    ¡°Oh,e on, no, we¡¯re just friends because we go to the same school!¡± Ariel argued, although in his heart, he admitted that he did like Rania. He felt a liking for her, but he hadn¡¯t fallen in love yet, at least in his opinion. Darian seemed to be holding back a smile, seeing Ariel¡¯s sudden embarrassment and reddening face.


    ¡°ording to Fahira, it¡¯s better not to date yet, Ariel. Focus on your studies. Fulfill Dad¡¯s wishes, and besides, Darian will need your help in thepany in the future. After this, Fahira will also step down from her job. As for college, it¡¯s up to you where you want to go, as long as it¡¯s not far from Fahira,¡± Fahira exined, then turned to look into Ariel¡¯s eyes. She had great expectations for her younger brother. Fahira wanted him to seed and be a great person, as their parents had wished.


    ¡°I already said earlier, Rania and I are just friends! As for college, I haven¡¯t thought about it yet. What¡¯s certain is I don¡¯t want to be far from Fahira!¡± Ariel replied, trying to deny his special feelings for Rania, the only female student in school who had managed to catch his attention.


    Then they all fell silent, preupied with their own thoughts, only the faint hum of the song ¡°If Tomorrow Never Comes¡± by Ronan Keating, an Irish boy band alumnus, apanied their journey until they arrived in front of a tall building with the sign ¡°Rose Apartment¡± to pick up Fahira and Ariel¡¯s belongings. Starting today, Fahira and Ariel would live in the luxurious residence of the Darian family, as requested by Yasmin. To be honest, Ariel felt a bit hesitant about living with his sister¡¯s new family. However, due to everyone¡¯s insistence, he finally resigned himself and tried to ept it with an open heart. Moreover, he couldn¡¯t bear to live far from Fahira, the only family he had and loved unconditionally.


    The arrival of Darian, Fahira, and Ariel was greeted with happiness by Yasmin. Her brown eyes sparkled as she lovingly embraced Ariel. Yasmin felt like she had gained a son again. The thought of her home being soon filled with her new family brought joy to her heart. At least the loneliness that had been faithfully apanying her would soon vanish.


    Yasmin immediately called her housekeeper to bring and escort Ariel to the room she had prepared. It was located on the second floor, adjacent to Darian and Fahira¡¯s room, separated only by a lounge area with arge ss window showcasing the view of the backyard with a swimming pool below.


    Ariel felt like a stranger in the grand house, but Yasmin¡¯s gentle treatment reassured him, and he tried to be polite andposed. Ariel could sense the genuine affection radiating from Yasmin¡¯s brown eyes, a woman of simr age to histe mother. Every time Yasmin hugged him, he felt like he had found his mother again. He missed his parents dearly.


    Now, Ariel stood on the balcony of his room, gazing straight at the garden filled with colorful blooming flowers. Fatimah, his mother, was a lover of these beautiful flowers. Not wanting to drown in sadness, Ariel went back inside and arranged his clothes in the walk-in closet provided. The furniture and design of his room were just as he had wished for. However, Ariel found the new room too luxurious and spacious, far bigger than his room in the apartment where he had lived with Fahira. Ariel knew he had to adapt now; he didn¡¯t want to be selfish. Fahira¡¯s happiness was far more important than his ego.


    As Ariel was putting his clothes away, a knock on the door interrupted his activity. He walked towards the door and opened it, weing Fahira inside. Fahira smiled and followed Ariel, who resumed his task.


    ¡°Brother, do you mind living with sister Fahira?¡± Fahira asked, now sitting on the edge of the bed. Worry filled her mind as she observed Ariel, who seemed calm.


    ¡°Of course not, Sister. Why would you think that?¡± Ariel replied, sessfully making Fahira take a deep breath and hold it for a moment before exhaling slowly.


    ¡°I¡¯m just worried, brother. This is indeed a lot to handle after everything we¡¯ve been through. But please, try to understand and ept it all. I love Bang Darian, and you know that. Your rtionship with him hasn¡¯t been great, but please, try to get closer to him and get to know him,¡± Fahira pleaded, pulling Ariel¡¯s hand so he would sit in front of her. ¡°Whatever happens, I will always support and love you.¡±


    Ariel held Fahira¡¯s hand and looked into those beautiful eyes that were exactly the same as histe mother¡¯s, saying honestly, ¡°I know, Mbak. I just need to adapt.¡± He then offered a soft smile.


    ¡°Thank you, brother!¡± Fahira replied briefly, hugging Ariel tightly as tears began to roll down her cheeks. Ariel¡¯s hand lifted to gently stroke Fahira¡¯s back. Ariel promised he wouldn¡¯t disappoint Fahira and theirte parents.

 Late In Love

    While Fahira was in Ariel¡¯s room having a conversation, Darian met with his mother, Yasmin. Darian was a bit hesitant to tell Yasmin about all the events that had befallen Fahira and Ariel. He hadn¡¯t fully disclosed the problems within Fahira¡¯s family, including the nned murder involving Fahira¡¯s own family members. However, Darian felt the need to exin it because he was worried that Yasmin might feel disappointed or sad about Ariel¡¯s cold and withdrawn behavior.


    And Darian¡¯s worries came true. After listening to Darian¡¯s detailed ount, Yasmin immediately burst into tears. She couldn¡¯t believe howplicated Fahira and Ariel¡¯s lives had been. It was beyond Yasmin¡¯sprehension that a nned murder wasmitted by Fahira and Ariel¡¯s own grandmother and aunt. Such a cruel story felt like something out of an Indonesian soap opera that she often watched, but this time, it was real and experienced by her own son-inw and daughter.


    ¡°Darian, I hope Mama understands. Ariel has a different personality from Fahira. ording to Fahira, Ariel became quiet and reserved after they were separated from their parents and moved to Jakarta. Even his heart condition, he managed to keep it a secret until Fahira found out when it was already severe. And that¡¯s Fahira¡¯s reason¡­,¡± exined Darian, not wanting to continue as he felt embarrassed and guilty about his foolish actions that haunted him with a sense of guilt for the rest of his life. And now, he was determined to redeem himself with his sincere love.


    ¡°Of course, Mommy will love Ariel like my own child. Besides, even before you asked, Mama had already fallen in love with him from the first time we met,¡± Yasmin confessed, as if she could see a younger version of Darian in Ariel. A reserved and closed-off person to everyone else but her. Only to her could the young Darian pour out his feelings. That only happened when her husband, Rusdi, was not at home.


    It all happened because of Rusdi¡¯s tough and disciplined attitude towards young Darian, causing his son to never walk his own path, and Yasmin couldn¡¯t do anything about it because she understood that Rusdi¡¯s actions were for Darian¡¯s own good, even though it eventually transformed Darian¡¯s cheerful nature into one filled with ambition and seriousness.


    Feeling that he had conveyed enough to Yasmin, Darian bid her farewell and returned to his room.


    His brown eyes scanned the room, but Fahira was nowhere to be seen. Then, Darian sat on the edge of the bed to reach for his phone, checking for any important messages or work-rted calls. However, his hearing soon caught the sound of a running shower from the direction of the bathroom, and a smile appeared on Darian¡¯s lips. He put his phone back on the nightstand and took off his shirt that clung to his body before heading towards the bathroom. Perhaps it was luck or maybe Fahira had simply forgotten to lock the bathroom door, but Darian was able to easily enter.


    Darian remained frozen in ce, struggling to swallow his saliva. His throat suddenly became dry and choked when he saw Fahira in the bathtub, still behind the curtain, and Fahira hadn¡¯t noticed his presence there. It was Darian¡¯s heavy voice that finally made Fahira¡¯s eyes wide open.


    ¡°Why did youe in, Honey!¡± Fahira panicked, submerging her naked body into the foamy bathtub.


    Darian chuckled, freeing thest piece of clothing that clung to his body. ¡°The door wasn¡¯t locked, Sayang,¡± Darian replied casually as he got into the bathtub with Fahira, a smirk on his face that Fahira hade to know sincest night.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll move then,¡± Fahira¡¯s right hand reached for a towel while her left hand tried to cover her naked front. Fahirapletely forgot to lock the bathroom door, still following the habit from her old home where they never locked the bathroom door.


    Without saying much, Darian reached for Fahira¡¯s body, cupping her blushing face. He nted a brief kiss on Fahira¡¯s lips, making her beautiful eyes gaze at him nervously. His brown eyes shifted to Fahira¡¯s slightly parted lips, as if challenging him to taste them. Fahira¡¯s eyelids slowly closed as Darian¡¯s face drew near. His hot, rapid breath brushed Fahira¡¯s face, causing her heart to race.


    Darian¡¯s lips gently pressed against Fahira¡¯s soft ones, full of emotion. ¡°Respond, Honey!¡± Darian whispered as he felt Fahira¡¯s body tensing up because of his actions. He paused for a moment, looking at his woman with an expression that was hard to interpret. Fahira hesitantly lifted her hands, pausing for a moment before connecting their lips again. This time, Darian allowed Fahira to take the lead. She quickly adapted, and Darian liked it very much.


    ¡°From the beginning, I knew Fahira was a smart and agile woman,¡± Darian praised silently, enjoying every touch of his hands on Fahira¡¯s body, his favorite part. It was a sensation they were experiencing for the first time. Making love in the bathtub turned out to be very enjoyable, just like in the romantic novels that Fahira often read during her free time.


    And indeed, when Darian entered the room with two portions of food and drinks for them, Fahira was already fast asleep. While enjoying the delicious meal, Darian looked at Fahira¡¯s peaceful face. For him, there was nothing more joyful than being with the woman he married just yesterday.


    Finally, Darian decided to open hisptop to check his emails, which he hadn¡¯t touched for three days. As expected, there were dozens of emails rted to thepany, all waiting for his prompt response. Darian became serious as he read through the emails and started replying to each one.


    However, suddenly Fahira¡¯s phone, which was on the nightstand, started ringing loudly, and worried that it might disturb his wife¡¯s rest, Darian quickly grabbed the phone and put it on silent mode. ncing at the names disyed on Fahira¡¯s phone, Darian hesitated to open the WhatsApp messages from her two best friends. It still felt odd to him to invade Fahira¡¯s privacy in that way, even though Fahira herself never minded.


    The phone kept blinking, distracting Darian¡¯s concentration. He sighed in frustration and rubbed his forehead. He wanted to scold his employees if they were in the office right now. However, all he could do at the moment was to grumble to himself. He looked at Fahira¡¯s phone hesitantly, then, annoyed, Darian unlocked the PIN on Fahira¡¯s phone and opened the WhatsApp messages from Mira. His curiosity got the better of him, wondering what the women were talking about that was famous for having 70 stories that wouldn¡¯t end in a single sitting.


    Mira:


    ¡°Fahira, you¡¯re amazing! You made Optimus Prime smile all day yesterday. That¡¯s rare!¡±


    Susi:


    ¡°Hello, Mrs. Optimus Prime! Ahem, how¡¯s ¡®MP¡¯ doing?¡± Susi¡¯s message further piqued Darian¡¯s curiosity. He nced at Fahira¡¯s still calm face. Then, he reached for his own phone to find his wife¡¯s contact number.


    Enveloped in curiosity, Darian waited for the phone call to connect.


    Optimus Prime calling¡­


    Optimus Prime calling¡­


    Seeing his own contact name on Fahira¡¯s phone screen made Darian¡¯s eyes widen in surprise. He couldn¡¯t believe it. He then dialed his number again, still in a state of silence, while gazing at Fahira¡¯s face. He started reminiscing about his favorite robot character from the movies, ¡°Have I been that stern at the office?¡± Darian murmured to himself while recalling his behavior towards all his employees at work.


    ¡°Admittedly, I rarely smiled when replying to their greetings, but isn¡¯t it a boss¡¯s duty to act that way to ensure all employees under him are obedient and respectful?¡± Darian monologued in frustration. He never expected Fahira to save his contact with that name.


    ¡°You deserve to be punished for all this, my dear!¡± Darian whispered, cing Fahira¡¯s phone alongside his own. He decided to close his email and shut down hisptop while grumbling to himself, ¡°Fahira should be punished for daring to touch the feelings of her boss and husband like this.¡±


    Darian decided to step outside the room to get some fresh air. He always felt stuffy inside the room, as just looking at his wife¡¯s face was enough to ignite his manly desires. His broad steps slowed down as he saw his mother and Ariel engaged in a friendly conversation in the dining area. Ariel seemed to beughing, as if Yasmin was telling a funny story. Quietly, Darian approached them without them noticing, and he overheard Yasmin mentioning his name.


    ¡°Are you both talking about me?¡± Darian teased, joining Yasmin and Ariel in the dining area.


    ¡°A little bit, Darian. Turns out you used to sulk when you were a child!¡± Ariel said, still amused.


    ¡°Well, Mommy is favoring me now. How could she expose her son¡¯s secrets like this!¡± Darian protested, pretending to be angry, although deep down, he was extremely happy to see Ariel cheerful again.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, Ariel, I have a gift for you. But you must promise not to refuse. It¡¯s your right!¡± Darian continued, then got up from his seat. He ced his arm around Ariel¡¯s shoulder and led him towards the garage. Yasmin¡¯s eyes misted at the sight of Darian and Ariel getting along so well. She was immensely grateful to see her son surrounded by happiness. If only Rusdi were still alive, he would have felt the same way Yasmin did now.


    Ariel looked at Darian with curiosity as he saw something covered in ck cloth in front of him. Darian¡¯s smile widened as he extended his hand, inviting Ariel to uncover the gift. Ariel nced at Yasmin, seeking permission, and she nodded.


    With a pounding heart, Ariel stepped forward to reveal the gift. Sreeek¡­ The ck cloth slowly unveiled, revealing a dazzling sight that hit Ariel¡¯s eyes. It was the sports motorbike he had longed to own. Thetest model of the sports bike that had once belonged to Arya.


    ¡°Are you sure this is for me?¡± Ariel said, not taking his eyes off the red sports bike. ¡°This is very expensive, Bang!¡± he continued, his fingers caressing the fuel tank, tracing it up to the handlebars of the bike. Darian smiled satisfactorily, with his arms folded in front of his chest. He actually wanted to give Ariel a car as a gift, but Fahira stopped him because Ariel wasn¡¯t yet skilled enough to drive a car. Besides, it had been three years since Ariel had practiced driving, so Fahira allowed Darian to give Ariel a car only after he graduated from high school.


    ¡°Try it out!¡± Darian replied briefly. Ariel smiled and immediately got on his new bike.


    The sound of the sports motorbike¡¯s engine filled the spacious yard of the Setiadi residence. The bike, worth almost 78 million, began to glide slowly around the house.


    ¡°But I feel embarrassed to ride it to school, especially when everyone knows about your and Fahira¡¯s wedding,¡± Ariel confessed after parking his bike. He was worried about being looked down upon by his friends for taking advantage of his brother-inw¡¯s wealth.


    ¡°Why bother about other people¡¯s opinions? What matters most is the opinion of the people who love you. We are now one family, Ariel, so you don¡¯t need to worry,¡± Yasmin said, gently caressing Ariel¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Mommy is right. As long as we don¡¯t harm others, we don¡¯t need to be concerned about things that are not important to us. Whatever,¡± Darian chimed in, patting Ariel¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ll go to my room now; I¡¯ve missed your sister!¡± Darian said, causing Yasmin to smile and yfully pinch his arm.


    ¡°Bye!¡± Darian left Yasmin and Ariel, whistling happily.


    ¡°Such a teenage oldie!¡± Ariel teased, raising both hands as Darian stopped in his tracks. Darian turned and chuckled, then continued walking up the stairs with his right hand raised.


    Darian admitted that he was indeed an ¡°oldie teenager.¡± He had only fallen in love at the age of 29, an age not considered young. But what was wrong with that? He was actually grateful because he didn¡¯t have to experience the pain of heartbreak.


    ***


    Falling in love is not just a matter of intertwined hearts, but togetherness in emotions until separated by death.


    The soft moans that escaped from Fahira¡¯s lips sounded sexy to Darian¡¯s ears. Fahira¡¯s strong grip on Darian¡¯s hair only fueled his enthusiasm toplete their passionate activity.


    After cleaning themselves, they left the bathroom together and proceeded to pray Dhuhur in congregation.


    ¡°I¡¯m hungry, Honey. Let¡¯s have lunch first!¡± Darian invited after they tidied up their prayer equipment.


    ¡°I¡¯m tired, Darian,¡± Fahira replied with a pout, then moved to lie on the bed.


    ¡°Of course, you must be tired after the ¡¯rounds¡¯ we¡¯ve been having since this morning!¡± Darian teased, sessfully making Fahira blush again.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s have lunch in the room. Give me a moment to get the food,¡± Darian said as he approached Fahira, who was now sitting with her back against the bed. He stole a quick kiss on her slightly swollen lips, a result of their earlier activities.


    ¡°Go away!¡± Fahira pushed Darian¡¯s body away. She was truly exhausted, her body felt sore, and she just wanted to rest.

 Punishment For Fahira

    Upon arriving in the room, Darian found Fahira who had just woken up from her sleep. She was staring at him as he stood with his back to the door. Darian walked towards the bed, greeting Fahira with a smile, then he sat down and lightly kissed her lips.


    ¡°Are you still tired?¡± Darian asked gently, brushing aside a strand of hair that was obstructing his view. He then caressed her smooth cheek tenderly.


    Her brown eyes scanned the beautiful face in front of her. Starting from the forehead, her beautiful pair of eyes, her delicate nose, and the cheeks that often blushed when she was with him. Finally, her brown eyes fixed on his lips, proportionally shaped with the upper lip slightly thinner and the lower one slightly thicker, seemingly challenging him to kiss her until her lips swelled.


    Fahira swallowed hard as she realized where Darian¡¯s gaze was directed. She bit her lower lip nervously, feeling the familiar feelings that always emerged whenever Darian¡¯s brown eyes looked at her with intensity, full of adoration and love.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to the bathroom,¡± Fahira replied and tried to get up, but Darian swiftly held her hand to stop her.


    Darian¡¯s hand lifted and reached for Fahira¡¯s chin. Their eyes met for a moment before Darian¡¯s lips imed hers. Darian gently sucked on her lower lip, asionally pulling away and then reattaching his lips to hers. Fahira¡¯s heart raced as Darian¡¯s lips began to explore her fair neck.


    For a few seconds, Darian moved his face away from Fahira¡¯s neck and grinned when he saw the red marks of ownership, the result of his passion, scattered there. His desire still burned, and Darian wanted to find another spot to mark her again.


    ¡°I love you, Fahira!¡± Darian murmured while caressing her cheek. It was a sentence he often said, but not to Fahira. Darian recalled that Fahira had never directly reciprocated his deration of love.


    Darian waited for a response from Fahira, whose lips appeared restless. ¡°Say it, Honey!¡± Darian said again, his fingers now caressing Fahira¡¯s lips.


    Fahira took a deep breath and held it for a moment in her chest before replying, ¡°I love you too, Abang.¡±


    ¡°Not like that, my dear,¡± Darian replied, then kissed Fahira¡¯s lips again. ¡°Say it, or I¡¯ll punish you tonight!¡± Darian threatened, his voice husky. Once more, Darian looked at Fahira, who blushed even more, while his brown eyes were filled with a haze of desire.


    ¡°I-I love you too, Darian,¡± Fahira whispered, and quickly she tried to move away from the bed, wanting to escape from Darian, who surely wanted to ravish her now. But before Fahira could get off the bed, Darian¡¯s hand pulled her towards him, and she fell into his embrace.


    ¡°You won¡¯t be able to escape from my punishment,¡± Darian whispered, then yfully nibbled Fahira¡¯s ear.


    ¡°What kind of punishment is that!¡± Fahira protested, struggling to free herself from Darian¡¯s muscr grip.


    An unreadable grin appeared on Darian¡¯s handsome face before he released his hands from Fahira¡¯s body. ¡°Take your phone and mine,¡± Darian said, sessfully making Fahira¡¯s eyebrows furrow in confusion. Despite her uncertainty, Fahira followed Darian¡¯smand and handed him both phones.


    ¡°Come here!¡± Darian said, pulling Fahira to sit in front of him.


    With her legs spread apart, Fahira sat against his chest, and Darian¡¯s hands circled her body, holding both phones. ¡°What are you up to?¡± Fahira protested, still attempting to free herself.


    Darian brushed Fahira¡¯s long hair aside and rested his chin on her shoulder. ¡°Punishing you for your cheeky behavior,¡± he whispered, then unlocked his own phone and ced Fahira¡¯s phone in her hand.


    Curiosity still lingering, Fahira watched as Darian¡¯s phone lit up, disying a call from a contact named ¡®My heart.¡¯ Soon, Fahira¡¯s phone began to vibrate, and her heart sank as she saw the name ¡®Optimus Prime¡¯ appear on the screen. Her body froze instantly, and it felt like her heart had stopped beating. She hadpletely forgotten to change the name of the contact to the man currently embracing her.


    ¡°What punishment do you deserve?¡± Darian asked, smiling mischievously, sensing Fahira¡¯s tense body in his embrace.


    ¡°I can exin, honey!¡± Fahira replied nervously, not daring to move.


    ¡°So, all this time, you saved my contact as Optimus Prime?¡± Darian took the phone from Fahira¡¯s hand and ced it somewhere randomly, along with his phone.


    ¡°Stupid Fahira! How could you forget to change your own husband¡¯s name!¡± Fahira cursed herself in her mind for her carelessness.


    ¡°You deserve a punishment that matches your mistake,¡± Darian whispered as his hands lifted and gently squeezed Fahira¡¯s breasts. Darian¡¯s warm breath, now growing heavier, caressed Fahira¡¯s neck, causing her body to shiver.


    ¡°It¡¯s already evening, Darian, and we haven¡¯t prayed yet,¡± Fahira retorted, forcibly removing Darian¡¯s hands from her chest. But Darian wouldn¡¯t be himself if he easily gave in. He embraced Fahira again, rendering her immobile. Then slowly, Darian loosened his embrace, feeling no resistance from Fahira. His hands returned to her favorite part of her body, but this time, it wasn¡¯t to squeeze; instead, he began to unbutton Fahira¡¯s shirt one by one, while nibbling on her ear, causing Fahira to moan softly.


    ¡°Darian!¡± Fahira murmured, instantly making Darian smile with satisfaction as he sessfully aroused the desires of the woman who never ceased to excite him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s continue in the bathroom!¡± Darian stopped his lips that were still ying around Fahira¡¯s ear and moved down to the curve of her neck. He got up from his spot and lifted Fahira¡¯s body, carrying her into the bathroom.


    Fahira could only surrender and follow the intoxicating game that Darian had created. The gentle touches of Darian¡¯s hands, exploring every inch of her body, took her to a new sensation that couldn¡¯t be described. It carried her to heights she had never reached before, drowning her in a whirlwind of moans, whispers, and stifled groans that shed and mingled with the millions of droplets of sweat in the shower rain that poured over their bare bodies.


    ¡°Call my name, Honey!¡± Darian whispered, stopping his attack. He gazed into Fahira¡¯s clear eyes now clouded with desire. Her eyelids blinked asionally due to the water pouring on her face, as she looked at Darian with deep meaning.


    Darian grinned, then captured Fahira¡¯s slightly swollen lips, pushing her body against the wall. Fahira, disregarding her lingering shyness, slightly opened her mouth, giving Darian¡¯s tongue the space to y inside. Then, Fahira¡¯s hands gripped Darian¡¯s shoulders as he slowly united their bodies.


    ¡°Darian.¡±


    ¡°Fahira.¡± They whispered each other¡¯s names with their eyes closed as they reached the peak of pleasure together.


    ***


    The next morning, after taking a shower and performing the Fajr prayer, Fahira headed straight to the kitchen, ignoring Darian¡¯s whining as he didn¡¯t want her to leave. How could Darian still want some ¡°affection¡± afterpletely ravishing her the night before, making her feel like her bones and joints were about toe loose? Fahira herself still felt sleepy and tired, but she felt reluctant to indulge Darian¡¯s wishes, as he now seemed like a big baby, whining when his desires weren¡¯t fulfilled.


    Yasmin smiled as she descended from her room and found Fahira busy cooking with Bi Aminah.


    ¡°Oh, Madam Yasmin, it¡¯s Miss Fahira who insisted on helping with the cooking!¡± Aminah politely informed her employer.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Miss. Fahira is indeed good at cooking, and besides, it¡¯ll make Darian happy to stay at home,¡± Yasmin replied, suppressing her smile as she noticed the red marks scattered on Fahira¡¯s fair neck. Surely, they were all the result of her son¡¯s doings.


    ¡°Never mind, Mom. Fahira is indeed skilled in cooking, and it makes Darian stay at home longer,¡± Yasmin replied, holding back a smile as she noticed the red marks scattered on Fahira¡¯s white neck. Clearly, they were the result of her son¡¯s affection.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Yes, Mom. I want to prepare breakfast every day,¡± Fahira continued, still focused on the frying in front of her.


    ¡°Alright, you continue cooking, and I¡¯ll make the juice,¡± Yasmin said as she headed towards the four-door fridge to get oranges and tomatoes for the juice.


    Shortly after, Darian and Ariel came downstairs, both dressed neatly. Darian was wearing a suit, while Ariel was in his ash-white uniform.


    ¡°Hi, dear,¡± greeted Darian as he kissed Fahira¡¯s cheek while she was arranging the food on the table. Fahira immediately moved away from Darian, giving him a sharp look. She felt embarrassed when she realized Yasmin and Ariel were watching her with unreadable smiles, while Darian casually pulled a chair next to Ariel and sat down.


    Fahira served rice for Ariel, Darian, and Yasmin, and then for herself. Ariel, who usually looked gloomy in the morning, appeared different today. His face was glowing with happiness. Unconsciously, Fahira felt relieved seeing her younger brother in such a state.


    ¡°Are you joining Muay Thai training, honey?¡± asked Darian after finishing his breakfast.


    ¡°Yes, sweetheart. I¡¯ve wanted to learn Muay Thai like you for a long time,¡± replied Ariel as he reached for the orange juice and drank it all.


    ¡°But you should consult with Gavin, Ariel!¡± Fahira intervened, instantly fading the smile on Darian¡¯s face. Hearing Gavin¡¯s name without the title ¡®doctor¡¯ slipped from his wife¡¯s lips, caused a sudden rush of heat in Darian¡¯s body.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll call Gavinter, and I¡¯ll take you for a check-up,¡± Darian quickly responded.


    ¡°Just a minute!¡± Yasmin interjected upon hearing Fahira and Darian¡¯s conversation. ¡°Has Gavin been the one taking care of Ariel all this time?¡± Yasmin continued, sessfully making the three people across the table freeze.


    ¡°So, Fahira and Gavin have known each other for a long time? Mmm, Aunt Desi mentioned yesterday that Gavin wanted to introduce a woman, and that woman is the sister of one of his patients, right?¡± Yasmin looked at the three people in front of her, demanding answers.


    ¡°Fahira must know who that woman is, right?¡± Silence. Fahira looked frozen as she nced at Darian, who, as it turned out, was also looking at her.


    ¡°Fahira, you should get ready. We have to go to the office today; there¡¯s a lot of work we need to finish before you officially resign,¡± Darian interjected to break the conversation that obviously made him ufortable. Regardless, he couldn¡¯t deny that Gavin had once loved his wife, and there might still be lingering feelings there.


    ¡°Oh, right, it¡¯s already noon. I also have an appointment with the designer,¡± Yasmin nced at the wall clock and immediately got up after wiping her lips with a tissue.


    ¡°Mommy, Ariel should go to school now, right?¡± Ariel corrected and reached for Yasmin¡¯s hand, kissing the back of it. Instantly, Yasmin¡¯s brown eyes welled up with tears as she gently caressed Ariel¡¯s head. ¡°Be careful on the way. Don¡¯t rush while riding the motorbike!¡± Yasmin advised, then kissed Ariel¡¯s cheek, and the teenager nodded with a smile.


    Ariel bid farewell to Fahira and Darian, then left for school, while Yasmin and Fahira headed to their respective rooms to get ready for the office.


    While waiting for Fahira to prepare, Darian contacted Gavin to schedule a regr health check-up for Ariel and consult about his condition for joining Muay Thai training. About 15 minutester, Fahira came downstairs in her work attire, and Darian immediately took her hand, leading her towards the exit.


    During the journey, they didn¡¯t talk much. Darian kept stealing nces at the woman beside him. Even before they parted, he already missed Fahira. Darian¡¯s luxury car stopped right in front of thepany¡¯s lobby. A security guard rushed over as Darian and Fahira got out of the car. Darian handed the car key to the guard to park it in thepany¡¯s special parking area.


    Before entering the building, Darian checked Fahira¡¯s appearance and adjusted her high-necked shirt to cover the red marks of his artistic endeavors. The employees passing by gave way, allowing Darian and Fahira to enter first. The female coworkers who used to gossip about Fahira now lowered their heads respectfully, while Fahira acted as usual, greeting them warmly.


    ¡°Did you see, honey? I bet you didn¡¯t mind when I saved your contact as ¡®Optimus Prime,''¡± Fahira said as they stepped into the elevator.


    ¡°Don¡¯t bring that up. Or do you want another punishment from me?¡± Darian pulled Fahira closer, eliminating the distance between them. Blushing, Fahira¡¯s cheeks turned orange, spreading to her neck when their eyes met.


    ¡°No, honey!¡± Fahira stammered, pushing Darian¡¯s chest away. ¡°We¡¯re in the office, Darian!¡± she continued, but her attempt only elicited a strange grin from the handsome man.


    Fahira was taken aback when Darian¡¯s lips hungrily pressed against hers without warning. Darian¡¯s forceful kisses gradually softened, savoring the tender touch of Fahira¡¯s lips. asionally, he pulled back slightly and then deepened the kiss again.


    However, Darian¡¯s lips were abruptly stung when Fahira¡¯s gentle bite prompted him to halt their intimate activity. ¡°It seems like you wants to undress you right here, my dear!¡± Darian said in frustration, just as the lift announced their arrival at the desired floor. The elevator doors opened, and Fahira quickly stepped out, leaving Darian frozen in ce.


    ¡°It looks like you enjoy the punishments I give you,¡± Darian mumbled to himself, smiling broadly as he followed Fahira¡¯s steps toward her office.


    ***


    The heaviest punishment in love is the longing in the wrong ce and a heart that never finds mutual agreement.

 A Dimple Woman

    Three days without visiting the office, Darian could already guess how much work awaited him. Various colored folders containing important files were piled up on his desk. Darianfortably settled into hisrge chair and started to power up hisptop. While waiting for the screen to light up, he began to open the topmost folder.


    Soon, a knocking sound interrupted Darian¡¯s focus as he was engrossed in the documents in his hand. Fahira entered with a cup of coffee in her hand. Instantly, their smiles met and their gazes locked.


    ¡°I should leave you alone now!¡± Fahira said, looking at the mountain of files in front of Darian as she ced the cup of coffee on the table.


    ¡°Of course, you shouldn¡¯t stay here too long if you want us to leave quickly,¡± Darian replied with a mischievous grin that made Fahira chuckle.


    ¡°Good idea!¡± Fahira replied and took a few steps back, leaning in to peck Darian¡¯s cheek.


    ¡°Bye!¡± She quickly dashed out of Darian¡¯s office before he could catch her.


    After the door closed, Darian¡¯s smile returned as he shook his head. He felt like a madman because of the secretary he had married just three days ago. Darian sighed and held his breath for a moment, then exhaled slowly as he recalled their passionate activities over the past three days. He loosened his tie to relieve the sudden heat that overwhelmed him.


    Darian closed his eyes and repeated the word ¡°focus¡± several times to clear his mind.


    Time flew, and Darian had been immersed in the piles of files for almost two hours. The stack of folders that was once on his left had now shifted to the right side of his desk, leaving only a few folders behind. He put down the pen that had been glued to his fingers and stretched his numb body. He grabbed the coffee prepared by his beloved secretary and sipped it slowly, savoring every drop of the dark liquid that refreshed his throat. Standing up, he leaned against the desk and enjoyed the sun that was starting to move towards noon.


    A faint smile appeared on his lips as he remembered his love journey with Fahira. An idental meeting that led to something beautiful and would be cherished for the rest of his life.


    The sound of two knocks instantly brought Darian back from his reverie.


    ¡°Come in!¡± Darian replied, with little interest in the bright view of Jakarta¡¯s capital city outside.


    ¡°Excuse me, sir. Are these the files of the candidates for your new secretary?¡± David saluted with several folders in his hands.


    Darian ced the empty coffee cup on his desk and moved to sit on the sofa, gesturing for David to do the same.


    ¡°Call Fahira, let her choose one for me,¡± Darian replied, then opened one of the folders that David had ced on the table.


    David simply nodded, which drew Darian¡¯s attention away from the folder in his hand.


    ¡°Is there a problem?¡± Darian asked when he noticed David¡¯s troubled expression. He then remembered that David disappeared in the middle of his and Fahira¡¯s wedding ceremony. ¡°Oh, where were you during my and Fahira¡¯s wedding?¡± Darian continued, using informalnguage.


    ¡°Just tell me. Maybe I can help with your problem!¡± Darian pushed the folders in front of him and leaned back on the sofa¡¯s backrest. He could tell that his friend was in a serious predicament.


    David looked at Darian with uncertainty, torn between being honest and admitting that he had betrayed his friend¡¯s trust, or concealing the problem he had created himself.


    ¡°Tell me, David! I¡¯m sure it¡¯s not about a woman, right? Because if it is, ah¡­ You must have fallen for your own words,¡± Darian prodded, but David remained unmoved.


    ¡°But unfortunately, what you said is true!¡± David replied, frustration creeping onto his once calm face. A momentter, Darian¡¯sughter filled the white and silver room.


    ¡°Who is the woman that managed to capture the heart of a ¡®yer¡¯ like you, David?¡± Darian continued through hisughter.


    David looked at Darian for a moment before replying, ¡°She refused themitment I offered.¡± Darian paused, looking at David in disbelief before hisughter erupted again.


    Darian¡¯sughter slowly subsided when he noticed David¡¯s t expression, which clearly conveyed his anxiety.


    ¡°I¡¯m always here if you need someone to talk to, David. At least there¡¯s someoneughing at you like now!¡± Darian teased casually. Of course, he wouldn¡¯t force David to share his problems if he didn¡¯t want to.


    ¡°You should go back to your desk and discuss this with my beloved wife,¡± Darian instructed as he got up from the sofa and returned to hisrge chair.


    David sighed, ¡°Alright, Mr. Darian.¡± He then left Darian¡¯s office feeling a mess. How could he share his problems with Darian when he himself was confused about his feelings for Alea? Moreover, there was no love ormitment between them. They were only having fun, so why was he getting caught up in emotions? Wasn¡¯t living freely as he had been doing all along enough?


    After David left, Darian remembered something he should have done earlier. He hadn¡¯t contacted Gavin yet. He picked up his phone from the table, searched for Gavin¡¯s contact, and called the young doctor to schedule Ariel¡¯s health check-up.


    ***


    At 3 pm, Fahira and Darian were already at home. They rxed for a while in the living room, sitting on the sofa with Fahira in Darian¡¯s embrace, enjoying the news on TV.


    ¡°Where are you going, Ariel?¡± Fahira asked, adjusting her sitting position when she saw Arieling down from his room, wearing his favorite hoodie.


    ¡°Just going out for a bit to find a girlfriend, so only you and Darian can date,¡± Ariel teased casually, ignoring Fahira¡¯s sharp look, while Darian simply smiled, running his fingers through Fahira¡¯s hair.


    ¡°Watch out if you really start dating!¡± Fahira threatened, causing Ariel to pause on the stairs.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, Ariel. I¡¯m going out with Arif for a while,¡± Ariel replied, only to be interrupted by Darian. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, we¡¯re meeting Dr. Gavin at 4:30.¡±


    ¡°Got it!¡± Ariel raised his right hand and paused briefly on his temple with a smile before walking away.


    Fahira sighed deeply and got up from the sofa, climbing the stairs towards her room, with Darian following behind.


    ***


    Now, the three of them were in a white and brown room withplete medical equipment. Ariel looked calm and rxed as the handsome bespectacled doctor examined him, asking questions that the teenager promptly answered.


    After the examination, Ariel returned to sit next to Fahira and Darian. Meanwhile, the handsome doctor named Gavin appeared serious as he wrote something on a white sheet of paper.


    ¡°So, Ariel can practice Muay Thai as long as it¡¯s under the guidance of a professional coach. Actually, practicing Muay Thai is good for cardiovascr health, but Ariel must know his limits and follow the procedures. Oh yes, I¡¯ll still give you the prescription as usual. The medicine should always be avable just in case, although I¡¯m sure Ariel is already healed,¡± Gavin exined, sliding the prescription in front of Fahira. For a split second, Gavin gazed at the beautiful face in front of him, a face he had longed for.


    ¡°By the way, if you need anything, you can call me!¡± Gavin continued after averting his gaze from Fahira, and then he smiled. He felt relieved seeing Darian¡¯s loving gaze towards Fahira, but deep down, it was still difficult for him to let go.


    The atmosphere of Ariel¡¯s examination seemed normal, but Fahira could sense a cold aura enveloping the entire room. Gavin, who usually smiled a lot, looked serious and subdued, without the usual jokes he used to make during Ariel¡¯s check-ups. Moreover, Fahira caught Gavin several times staring at Darian¡¯s hand on her shoulder.


    ¡°Okay, thank you, Gavin!¡± said Darian, promptly bidding farewell with Fahira and Ariel.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee,¡± Gavin replied shortly, standing up to shake hands with Darian and Ariel, and then he smiled at Fahira.


    After they left, Gavin sat back in his chair, massaging his temples with closed eyes, trying to calm his racing heart every time he met the woman he loved. A woman who could never be his again. Fortunately, Ariel was hisst patient for the day, so at least he had plenty of time to calm himself down.


    He let out a rough exhale as he remembered the conversation with his parents a while ago. They arranged a marriage between him and a woman who worked as an elementary school teacher in a public school in Jakarta. The daughter of his mother¡¯s friend. Up until this moment, Gavin was still trying to find a strong reason to refuse the arranged marriage. He had no choice but to reject his parents¡¯ request after failing to introduce Fahira as his potential wife. The only way to stop the arranged marriage nowy in the hands of the woman herself.


    Gavin quickly reached for his phone on the table and searched for the contact given to him by his mother. In no time, the call was connected, and the melodious voice of a woman, like a radio broadcaster, greeted his ears. For a moment, he was taken aback by the beautiful voice on the other end.


    ¡°I¡¯m Gavin, we need to meet briefly,¡± Gavin said after exchanging greetings. ¡°After this, I¡¯ll send you the address of the caf¨¦,¡± he added, skipping small talk.


    He got up from his chair and left his practice, heading to the employee parking lot. He got into his car and intended to stop at the hospital mosque, which was quite far from the parking area, to join the Maghrib prayer before meeting the girl he had just spoken to on the phone.


    With his broad strides, Gavin entered a caf¨¦ with a sign that read ¡°Greenday Caffe.¡± He scanned the green-themed caf¨¦, surveying the visitors who were filling up the ce as dinner time approached. Gavin intentionally scheduled the meeting after Maghrib prayer so that he could speak freely with the girl his parents wanted to arrange his marriage with.


    In a corner on the west side, a girl dressed simply like a high school student waved at him. Gavin was momentarily confused and looked around, but there was no one else standing there. He pointed to the girl and then pointed at himself. The girl blushed and nodded her head. A little surprised, Gavin approached the girl¡¯s table, trying to make sure if she was the same girl he had spoken to on the phone.


    ¡°Gavin, right?¡± She greeted warmly as she stood up and extended her hand. Gavin remained motionless, his eyes scrutinizing the appearance of the girl in front of him. She was wearing jeans paired with a soft pink t-shirt and a jacket draped over the chair she had been sitting on. She smiled widely, showing off her dimples.


    Sweet.


    ¡°Let me introduce myself, I¡¯m Farah Hanifah, just call me Farah,¡± the girl named Farah continued, sessfully pulling Gavin out of his thoughts.


    ¡°Farah!¡± Gavin repeated, furrowing his brow. Out of thousands, even millions of names for women, why did he have to meet someone with a name so simr to the woman he loved?


    Seeing Gavin¡¯s strange expression, Farah responded, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m Farah. Is there something wrong with my name?¡±


    ¡°Of course not,¡± Gavin quickly replied, then took a seat across from the girl with a ponytail.


    ¡°Can I order something for you, Gavin? Coffee? Let me order it for you,¡± Farah asked with a blossoming smile.


    ¡°No need. I already had coffee at the hospital!¡± Gavin retorted when Farah was about to call the caf¨¦ server.


    Gavin cleared his throat before getting to the point of the meeting. ¡°Let¡¯s get straight to it. I don¡¯t have much time for this.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead!¡± Farah replied casually, stirring her guava juice with a straw.


    ¡°I hope you¡¯ll reject the arranged marriage between us,¡± Gavin honestly stated with a serious expression, while Farah simply smiled meaningfully.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t Gavin reject it himself?¡± Farah retorted, sessfully rendering Gavin speechless. He felt his jaw tense before responding to Farah¡¯s words.


    ¡°I can¡¯t refuse my mother¡¯s request. So the only one who can cancel this arranged marriage n is you, Miss. Besides, we don¡¯t know each other, and there¡¯s no love between us,¡± Gavin honestly said, with a cynical smile on the corner of his lips.


    ¡°I also can¡¯t refuse my parents¡¯ request,¡± Farah paused her sentence as she observed the handsome man in front of her. She was certain that love at first sight wasn¡¯t an empty phrase, as she now found herself admiring the cold man in front of her. ¡°Besides, love can happen anytime, so there¡¯s no problem, right!¡±


    ¡°Marriage is a crucial matter, and I don¡¯t want to y games with it. For me, marriage is once in a lifetime,¡± Gavin insisted, but it failed to rattle the calmness of the girl in front of him.


    Unlike Gavin¡¯s intention to intimidate her and change her mind, Farah was instead enchanted and determined to make the man in front of her fall in love.


    ¡°I would never hurt my parents¡¯ feelings, so please find your own way to cancel this arranged marriage n,¡± Farah put on her ck shoulder bag and got up from the chair, whispering, ¡°Gavin, you¡¯re handsome!¡± Farah walked away, leaving Gavin frozen, restraining the anger that had taken hold of his heart. Gavin really wanted to curse the girl if they weren¡¯t in a public ce.


    ¡°Farah Hanifah,¡± Gavin murmured to himself before quickly trying to catch up with the dimpled girl. Unfortunately, Gavin couldn¡¯t find her anywhere in the caf¨¦ area.

 Opium

    ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want a honeymoon, Darling?¡± Darian asked, his breath still heavy after their passionate lovemaking. Darian, who was initially lying on his back next to Fahira, shifted to a side position, propping his head on his hand, gazing at Fahira who was now covering herself with the nket.


    ¡°I¡¯m asking, honey, answer honestly,¡± Fahira replied, returning Darian¡¯s gaze. Her hand gently caressed his slightly bearded jaw as he sensually looked back at her.


    ¡°Tell me!¡± Darian said briefly, reaching for Fahira¡¯s fingers and giving them a gentle kiss.


    ¡°I want to go on a honeymoon, but with a condition that we have to travel and visit all the tourist destinations there!¡± Fahira smiled, waiting for Darian¡¯s response, who seemed to be contemting. He then grinned and yfully kissed the tip of Fahira¡¯s nose before answering.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t a honeymoon about making babies, dear? Why bother going somewhere? I¡¯ll just keep you in the room all day. Making babies until we have a Darian junior!¡± Darian replied casually,nding a brief kiss on Fahira¡¯s lips.


    ¡°In that case, we don¡¯t need to go anywhere, Darian. Every day, you don¡¯t even let me wear clothes when we¡¯re in the room. Look at all the lingerie you admire!¡± Fahira teased yfully, making Darian burst intoughter. He embraced Fahira¡¯s body and nted kisses on her face affectionately.


    ¡°Why wear clothes with less fabric? Besides, when you wear those, it¡¯s like you¡¯re not wearing anything at all. And in the end, you¡¯ll take them off,¡± Darian said, feeling his desire rise again.


    It had been a week since their wedding, and Fahira had officially resigned from her job. Now she was focusing on managing the household and helping her mother-inw, Yasmin, with the boutique business. Yasmin had intended to pass the reins of the fashion division to Fahira, effectively making her the sessor. Yasmin, on the other hand, preferred spending time at home with Fahira and Ariel after returning from the boutique.


    Darian didn¡¯t want to restrict Fahira¡¯s freedom if she still wanted to work in thepany. However, as a husband, he didn¡¯t want Fahira to be overworked when he could more than sufficiently provide for their life together. He just wanted Fahira to be the reason she came home every day, to wee her from work with delicious dishes she had created herself. This was the married life Darian had always dreamed of.


    ¡°Wait, Darian, it¡¯s starting to feel ufortable!¡± Fahirained as she suddenly felt pain in her lower abdomen. It was the difort that usually apanied her menstrual cycle. Fahira quickly released herself from Darian¡¯s embrace and hurriedly walked to the bathroom. Darian chuckled, seeing Fahira disappear behind the bathroom door with her innocent and naked body.


    Not long after, Fahira¡¯s voice was heard calling Darian from the gap in the door. With his head peeking out, Fahira asked for Darian¡¯s help.


    ¡°Darian, could you please get me some clothes and underwear, and also some sanitary pads?¡± Fahira requested with a grimace.


    ¡°Sanitary pads?¡± Darian repeated to confirm that he had heard correctly.


    ¡°Yes, Darian, my period just started!¡± Fahira¡¯s final response left Darian momentarily stunned. It turned out his hearing was still normal. What he had just heard was indeed true. Darian cursed silently in his heart. He had just wanted to continue with round two of their intimate time, but his hopes were instantly dashed because Fahira¡¯s period came at an inconvenient time.


    For a moment, Darian stared at Fahira before getting up and fetching the items as requested. They had just been talking about their postponed honeymoon ns, but reality didn¡¯t match their expectations.


    Fahira emerged from the bathroom with Darian already dressed. The chocte-skinned man was sitting, leaning against the headboard, engrossed in his phone. Fahira slowly walked towards the bed, holding her stomach, and sat on the edge of the bed with her back to Darian.


    ¡°Honey?¡± called Darian when he saw Fahira still silent.


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s wrong, Darling?¡± Darian asked again when he didn¡¯t get a response from Fahira. He put down his phone and approached her. He touched her shoulder, then pulled her into his embrace.


    ¡°My stomach hurts, Darian. Can you please get me some painkillers for period pain?¡± Fahira said in a hoarse voice, trying to endure the pain that seemed to twist her stomach. Her hands clutched her abdomen tightly, which felt increasingly constricting.


    Darian immediately jumped off the bed, panicking, and lifted Fahira¡¯s body.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the hospital now!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you, honey? It¡¯s just period pain!¡± Fahira protested, hitting Darian¡¯s chest, asking to be put down.


    ¡°You said you¡¯re in pain!¡± Darian put Fahira back on the bed, looking confused. Still looking at Fahira, Darian scratched the back of his head, even though it wasn¡¯t itchy.


    Ignoring Darian¡¯s confusion, Fahira chose to lie down in a fetal position. Her hands pressed tightly against her throbbing and painful stomach. It was a routine pain that came at the end of every month. It was something she was used to, but the pain was still exceptionally intense for Fahira.


    ¡°What should I do with this, Darian?¡± Darian asked, sitting by Fahira¡¯s side. He patted her shoulder and then reached for the strands of hair covering Fahira¡¯s pale face.


    ¡°Darian, could you please get me some painkillers for period pain?¡± Fahira responded with her eyes closed.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Of course, but where, sweety? Which brand of medicine? And what if I go and leave you alone in the room? I don¡¯t want to leave you alone,¡± Darian rambled on, asking numerous questions with deep concern.


    ¡°You can find them at a convenience store or a pharmacy, just tell the staff, they¡¯ll know, Darian!¡± Fahira replied with her voice sounding somewhat muffled as she tried a few times to suppress the pain in her abdomen.


    ¡°Alright, Darian will go now. I¡¯ll have Aminah bring you some hot tea,¡± Darian said, quickly changing his clothes while grabbing the car keys. Before leaving the room, Darian took a moment to look at Fahira¡¯s pale face.


    Darian couldn¡¯t imagine what Fahira was going through. This was his first experience witnessing a woman in pain during her period. As far as he could recall, his mother-inw, Yasmin, had never experienced anything like what his wife was going through. However, Yasmin often shared unique aspects of being a woman with Darian, telling him that he should understand these things to be prepared for the future. Now, Darian found himself quite puzzled. It was already 11 at night, and he hesitated to wake the household staff. Eventually, he decided to go to the kitchen and make some hot tea for Fahira himself. But unexpectedly, Ariel also came out of her room. Seeing the panic on her brother-inw¡¯s face, Ariel approached Darian.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Darian?¡± the teenager asked when they were both at the bottom of the stairs.


    ¡°Fahira asked for painkillers for her period, but I¡¯m clueless!¡± Darian replied with a mix of panic and frustration, as he had no knowledge about women¡¯s issues.


    Ariel burst intoughter, causing Darian¡¯s eyebrows to furrow. Irritated? Definitely. How could Arielugh when he was in a state of near panic seeing Fahira¡¯s condition?


    ¡°Just let Ariel buy them, and you can make hot tea for Fahira instead! By the way, Ariel wants to go out to buy some inte data,¡± Ariel said calmly, then went back to her room to get her jacket, motorcycle keys, and money. For Ariel, this was nothing new. Every month, Fahira would go through this.


    Darian quickly went down to the kitchen after seeing Ariel leave the house. After preparing the tea, he returned to the bedroom. Seeing Fahira curled up on the bed, his heart softened. He ced the cup of warm tea on the nightstand and gently woke Fahira up.


    ¡°Sweetheart, drink the hot tea first. Ariel is getting the medicine,¡± Darian said softly, caressing Fahira¡¯s cheek with the back of his hand. He then grabbed a tissue from the nightstand to wipe the sweat from Fahira¡¯s face. She remained in the same position, curled up with both hands pressing against her stomach. Darian sighed deeply as Fahira still didn¡¯t move. However, he was sure she wasn¡¯t sleeping. While waiting for Ariel to return, Darian sat by Fahira¡¯s side, gently stroking her shoulder without stopping.


    Soon, the sound of knocking on the door and Ariel¡¯s voice could be heard. Darian quickly got up from the bed to open the door. He received the medicine in a white bag from Ariel and immediately returned to Fahira. Ariel followed Darian¡¯s steps while observing how he treated her sister.


    Darian helped Fahira sit up and opened the medicine bottle after reading the brand name. The brand of the medicine was instantly recorded in his mind; he would buy plenty of it as a precaution for when Fahira had her period again.


    ¡°Darian, I¡¯m not sick, just experiencing period pain!¡± Fahira said softly, taking the medicine bottle and quickly drinking from it. She then reached for the warm tea in Darian¡¯s hand and drank it to wash away the bitter taste of the medicine.


    ¡°You¡¯re so cute, Honey. Fahira experiences this every month. Don¡¯t worry!¡± Ariel chimed in with a chuckle.


    Ignoring Ariel¡¯s words, Darian¡¯s mind wandered. He recalled that during the two years he worked as Fahira¡¯s secretary, she would always take leave at the end of the month. It was a regr urrence, and Darian had even scolded Fahira a few times because it coincided with her busy schedule or important meetings with clients. Yet, Fahira handled all his work for him.


    ¡°Ariel, you can go back to your room now, honey. If anything happenster, I¡¯ll call for you,¡± Ariel said after enjoying the scene of the newlyweds¡¯ romance before her, smiling mischievously. In Darian¡¯s eyes, Ariel was being overly dramatic, but deep down, he was grateful that Fahira found someone who truly loved her unconditionally.


    ¡°Thank you, Ariel!¡± Darian replied briefly without looking at Ariel as she left. He simply stared at the pale face of the woman he loved.


    Fahira slowlyy down and smiled. ¡°Come here!¡± Darian pulled Fahira¡¯s body into his arms.


    ¡°So, every month, you take leave from work because of this?¡± Darian asked, curious about the sudden realization that had struck him.


    ¡°Yes, Darian,¡± Fahira replied shortly, finding the mostfortable position on Darian¡¯s arm. She inhaled his masculine scent, which always managed to calm her.


    ¡°Go to sleep!¡± Darian whispered, caressing Fahira¡¯s shoulder.


    Fahira nodded her head and slowly closed her eyes, trying to suppress the increasing pain in her abdomen. She let the pain relievers do their work as her consciousness was drawn into the world of dreams.


    Darian stopped stroking Fahira¡¯s head when he felt her steady breaths while she was nestled in his embrace. He sighed deeply and then exhaled slowly through his lips. ¡°Remember, Darian, it¡¯s a red date. The junior has to fast until next Sunday.¡± Darian¡¯s heart was rmed as he imagined the challenging days thaty ahead.

 Gavin

    Darian¡¯s smile widened as he noticed his wife approaching him. She took over his hands, which were in the process of tying his tie. His brown eyes refused to look away from the beautiful woman before him. Her graceful fingers deftly adjusted his tie until he didn¡¯t realize Fahira had finished.


    ¡°All set, Darian!¡± Fahira said, caressing Darian¡¯s chest, her fingers brushing against the folds of his suit jacket.


    ¡°Ever since I have you, Darian only wants to stay at home!¡± Darian whispered while tracing Fahira¡¯s face, which always seemed to glow whenever she was with him.


    Darian¡¯s lipsnded at the tip of Fahira¡¯s upturned nose, gently rubbing against it. His hand reached out to stroke Fahira¡¯s long, lustrous ck hair that cascaded down her back. Wet traces still lingered between Darian¡¯s fingers, carrying the scent of roses. His fingers then moved to her rosy lips, which always lured him into passionate kisses and long, lingering embraces ¨C a favorite activity they often indulged in.


    ¡°Okay, Honey, go to work now!¡± Fahira grabbed Darian¡¯s hand, moving it away from her lips. If she let him, Darian would bete for the office, as had be his habit for the past two months.


    ¡°Whenever I¡¯m with you, Darian forgets everything,¡± Darian sighed deeply, exhaling slowly through his lips as he recalled the busy schedule he had that day. ¡°If only I didn¡¯t have so much work, I would choose to stay at home with you!¡± Darian continued and then briefly kissed Fahira¡¯s lips. ¡°Just a moment!¡± Darian reached for the back of Fahira¡¯s head, pulling her closer to deepen their kiss.


    ¡°Enough, Honey!¡± Fahira managed to say in the midst of their kiss. She then lifted her hand and pushed against Darian¡¯s chest with all her strength, but he didn¡¯t budge. Finally, the loud ringing of Darian¡¯s phone in his pants pocket seeded in pulling him away from their passionate moment.


    Darian released their locked lips, leaving Fahira¡¯s face blushing. This only made Darian more frustrated and annoyed when he saw David¡¯s name disyed on his phone. Of course, David was the only employee who dared to call him if he waste for work. Even Lily, his new secretary, would never dare disturb him while he was at home.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be back early, okay!¡± Darian whispered in Fahira¡¯s ear before leaving a small bite on her earlobe, sending shivers down her spine.


    Darian chuckled as he saw the orange color spread from Fahira¡¯s face to her fair neck. He lowered his head and nted a wet kiss on her white neck, teasing her sensitive spot, which had be his new hobby. Seeing the flicker of desire in Fahira¡¯s eyes intensified, Darian didn¡¯t want to waste the opportunity. He connected their lips again, and without realizing it, Fahira¡¯s body bumped against the edge of the bed, causing her to fall back. Quickly, Darian pinned Fahira¡¯s body and swiftly satisfied his desires in just 10 minutes.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough for breakfast today!¡± Darian whispered, still catching his breath. He smiled teasingly before leaving Fahira, whoy defenseless on the bed with clothes that were almost shapeless because of his actions, and headed to the bathroom.


    ***


    At exactly 9 AM, Darian arrived at the office. Lily, his secretary, who had looked half-panicked due to the uing meeting starting in one hour, could suddenly breathe a sigh of relief when she saw her boss strolling into the room casually. All the employees saluted their boss, who now appeared more approachable. Although Darian¡¯s cold demeanor had slightly softened, it didn¡¯t mean he was being friendly to everyone. Only those he favored would receive his friendly disposition.


    Lily and David quickly followed Darian into his office, preparing all the materials needed for the meeting. David spent more time in the office now, as Darian only required his assistance during meetings, both in the office and outside. Darian preferred to drive his own car to work, and that worked well for David, as he now had more time to spend with his woman. It had been almost a month since David and Alea started living together, but all of this was still a secret from Darian. David didn¡¯t dare to be honest with Darian about his rtionship with Alea.


    ¡°Is everything ready?¡± Darian asked after settling into his oversized chair.


    ¡°Everything¡¯s ready, Sir!¡± Lily ced the files on Darian¡¯s desk and sat down in the chair next to David.


    Darian immediately opened the files and studied them briefly. While Darian was engrossed in the documents before him, David observed his friend, who now seemedpletely different. Darian¡¯s face appeared calmer and brighter. A tinge of jealousy crept into David¡¯s heart. He suddenly felt the urge to end his adventurous phase and start building a life with the woman he loved. David had already expressed his love to Alea, but her response was unexpected. Alea rejected his advances outright, and David didn¡¯t know what she truly wanted. His proposals had been tly refused each time. Despite that, they were now living together and engaging in a husband-and-wife rtionship freely and unreservedly.


    ¡°Oh, David, starting tomorrow, you can work as usual,¡± Darian¡¯s words brought David back from his thoughts about Alea. David furrowed his brows, trying toprehend his boss¡¯s order.


    Darianughed, seeing David¡¯s confused expression. ¡°Yes, starting tomorrow, you¡¯ll be driving my car again!¡± Darian continued, focusing on the words in the file once more.


    ¡°Understood, Sir!¡± David replied briefly.


    Elsewhere, Fahira was at the boutique with Yasmin. A loyal customer of YZ Boutique arrived, warmly weed by the middle-aged woman, while Fahira continued studying the boutique¡¯s management book with the help of Sari, Yasmin¡¯s assistant. From the first time Sari met Fahira when she came with Darian, Sari was sure Fahira was a good person. Especially after learning Fahira came from a prestigious and wealthy family. Fahira was always kind to everyone, including all the boutique staff. Being the boutique owner¡¯s daughter-inw didn¡¯t make Fahira arrogant; she still dressed modestly, despite wearing branded clothing. Sari understood her boss¡¯s fashion taste well. High ss.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Even so, Yasmin herself was always kind to all her employees. Almost every day she was at the boutique, all the staff could enjoy delicious and expensive meals ordered by Yasmin directly from her favorite restaurants.


    At one o¡¯clock in the afternoon, Fahira decided to go home to rest for a while before preparing lunch for her husband. Yasmin had to stay at the boutique to assist her fellow models in choosing the quality products avable at YZ Boutique.


    Suddenly, on her way home, Fahira felt a headache. She pulled her car over to the side of the road to alleviate the pain. However, her eyes caught arge sign with the words ¡°Anna Bakery.¡± Instantly, her eyes sparkled, and her stomach growled in demand. Fahira held her stomach, feeling puzzled as she had just had lunch with the boutique staff an hour ago. Why was her stomach suddenly empty? The headache disappeared, reced by a strange feeling stirring inside her.


    The car that Fahira rode came to a slow stop in front of the bakery. The delightful aroma filled her senses as she stepped onto the bakery¡¯s porch. The woman, dressed in a knee-length blue gown, walked gracefully into the store, catching the attention of a bespectacled man without her knowledge. He sat in the corner of the shop, waiting for his mother¡¯s ordered bread while gazing at Fahira with longing. A feeling he should have cast away since Fahira became his cousin¡¯s wife.


    ¡°I want chocte, mocha, vani, and blueberry variants. Five of each, please!¡± Fahira said to the store employee behind the counter.


    ¡°Sure, ma¡¯am. Please wait a moment!¡± the young female employee replied politely.


    Fahira chose to sit in one of the chairs and checked her phone when she heard a familiar voice greeting her.


    ¡°How are you, Fahira?¡± Gavin said, sitting in the chair across the small round table from Fahira.


    Fahira looked surprised, but her lips soon curved into a smile when she saw that it was Gavin.


    ¡°Thanks to god, I¡¯m doing well. And how about you? It¡¯s been a long time since west met,¡± Fahira replied amiably.


    ¡°If you only knew, Fahira, how desperately I¡¯ve tried to forget you. Even now, my feelings for you have never changed,¡± Gavin said silently in his heart.


    ¡°You can see for yourself that I¡¯m not doing well because I¡¯m always thinking of you!¡± Gavin blurted out, sessfully freezing Fahira¡¯s body. The gentle smile on her lips slowly faded away. Her deep ck eyes scrutinized Gavin¡¯s appearance, noticing the changes. His usually clean white face was now covered with a light stubble on his jaw, and he looked thinner.


    ¡°Just kidding, Fahira,¡± Gavin chuckled, seeing the change in her expression.


    ¡°Oh, by the way, since we¡¯ve met, I want to invite you to my wedding next week,¡± Gavin continued, looking intently at the beautiful face of Fahira.


    ¡°Wow, congrattions! I hope everything goes smoothly. Who¡¯s the lucky girl, Gavin?¡± Fahira asked, her eyes gleaming. It was an answer that Gavin didn¡¯t want to hear. He hoped Fahira would object to his ns to marry the woman he didn¡¯t love.


    ¡°It seems you¡¯re very happy, rejoicing in my misery, Fahira!¡± Gavin¡¯s reply carried a tinge of irony behind his smile.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m happy for you, Gavin, because you¡¯ve finally found the right woman to apany you in life!¡± Fahira replied with sincerity still evident in her smile.


    Shortly after, a female employee brought the two boxes of bread ordered by Gavin and Fahira. Before Fahira got up from her seat, Gavin said, ¡°Please include this order for the beautifuldy.¡± He handed some money to the employee without paying attention to Fahira¡¯s changed expression. It wasn¡¯t about paying for the bread, but the endearing address ¡°beautifuldy¡± that Gavin used.


    On her way home, Fahira tried to understand the meaning behind Gavin¡¯s seemingly casual words. He said he was joking, but Fahira could see the hurt in his eyes. She sighed deeply, holding it in her chest for a moment before letting it out abruptly. Could it be that Gavin still had feelings for her? The question lingered in her mind until her car came to a halt in the grand driveway of her now-residence. ¡°I still love you,¡± the whisper of those three words echoed strongly and repeatedly in her mind. Gavin¡¯sst words before his car door closed shut and he left the bakery. Three words that made Fahira wonder if her hearing was ying tricks on her.

 Late

    Fahira stepped out of the car, carrying a stic bag from Anna Bakery. As she opened the front door, she noticed a pair of sports shoes, one of which belonged to her brother-inw, Ariel, ced next to a woman¡¯s shoes. With various questions swirling in her mind, Fahira entered the house. Instantly, the sound ofughter from a girl apanied by Ariel¡¯s voice greeted her. Unconsciously, she moved closer to the source of the sound.


    ¡°Hey, Fahira!¡± the girl greeted as she got up from thefortable sofa and hugged Fahira, giving her a kiss.


    ¡°Oh, Rania, who did you think wasing?¡± Fahira replied, ncing at Ariel with a meaningful look.


    ¡°We¡¯re just friends, Fahira!¡± Ariel quickly interjected before Rania could finish her sentence.


    Suddenly, Rania¡¯s expression darkened upon hearing Ariel¡¯s response. His words shook the special feelings she had kept to herself for the young man. Rania quickly put on a smile as Fahira looked back and forth between them.


    ¡°That¡¯s great! You both need to focus on pursuing your dreams first. Go to college and build your careers. Only then should you consider dating. In fact, why not skip dating altogether and get married directly,¡± Fahira¡¯s words made Rania¡¯s pretty face blush. What Fahira said was true, but deep in her heart, she wanted Ariel to make their rtionship official. Otherwise, Rania would choose to continue her education abroad as her parents wished.


    ¡°What do you have there, Fahira?¡± Ariel pointed to the stic bag in Fahira¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Oh, right, I almost forgot. I suddenly had a craving for these pastries. You can have them. I¡¯ll go change first,¡± Fahira said, then handed the bag of pastries to Ariel.


    After making sure Fahira had entered her room, Rania quickly grabbed her backpack, intending to bid farewell to Ariel. Her mood suddenly became ufortable.


    ¡°Why are you leaving so quickly, Ran?¡± Ariel asked, looking directly into Rania¡¯s eyes. The girl appeared nervous when their eyes met. Ariel was no fool; he knew Rania was offended by the response he gave to Fahira earlier.


    ¡°Are you mad at the answer I gave Fahira?¡± Ariel¡¯s question froze Rania¡¯s body, her face flushed immediately.


    ¡°N-No, of course not, Riel,¡± Rania replied hesitantly, quickly breaking eye contact.


    ¡°In that case, stay here. I still want to be with you!¡± Ariel said, still holding onto Rania¡¯s arm. The grip began to loosen, sliding down to her hand, where it stopped at her slender fingers.


    ¡°Tell me, do you still want to leave?¡± Ariel looked at the girl in front of him, who seemed uneasy, while holding her fingers tightly.


    ¡°Tell me, Ariel! I just need certainty from you, then everything will continue or end,¡± unfortunately, those words could only echo in Rania¡¯s heart for now.


    ¡°Of course not, Ariel. Why would you think I want to stay here? Well, of course, I¡¯m going home.¡± Rania chuckled nervously, trying to cover up her uneasiness. Her intense gaze from Ariel made her heart race. Not to mention her legs, which suddenly felt like jelly as warmth spread from her toes to the top of her head when her fingers were held firmly by Ariel.


    As Rania tried to change the subject, Fahira came down from her room wearing casual clothes.


    ¡°Are you disturbing them, Fahira?¡± she asked, noticing their nervous expressions.


    ¡°No!¡± they both eximed simultaneously. Fahira smiled inquisitively, then took a seat on a single sofa in front of them.


    She casually grabbed a piece of the mocha-vored pastry. ¡°This is seriously delicious!¡± Fahira said, thoroughly enjoying the taste.


    Ariel¡¯s eyebrows furrowed as he observed Fahira relishing the mocha pastry. He remembered that Fahira had never liked anything with a mocha vor. As far as he knew, she wasn¡¯t a fan of coffee either, despite asionally sipping his coffee.


    ¡°Is it unusual for you to like mocha-vored pastries, Fahira?¡± Ariel couldn¡¯t contain his curiosity.


    ¡°But this one is really good, dear,¡± Fahira replied, disregarding the curious gazes of the two teenagers.


    After finishing one mocha and one blueberry pastry, Fahira went to the kitchen to prepare dinner for them. Ariel and Rania resumed their cheerful conversation, and without realizing it, Ariel ended up sitting closer to Rania, almost touching.


    Ahem¡­ A clearing of the throat at the entrance startled Ariel from his ce. Darian entered, carrying his work bag, and greeted Ariel and Rania, who looked flustered.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°You two can continue!¡± Darian said as he saw Rania getting up and cing his bag on the table near her.


    Darian headed towards the kitchen, Fahira¡¯s favorite spot. He kept his promise toe home early, not because of the promise itself, but because the thought of his wife, whom he left abruptly that morning after teasing her, made him unwilling to stay at the office. A smile spread across Darian¡¯s face as he saw Fahira seriously preparing spices in the kitchen. He slowed his steps and positioned himself behind Fahira.


    ¡°Miss you, Honey!¡± Darian whispered as he tightly hugged Fahira. Fahira¡¯s body tensed briefly, surprised by Darian¡¯s sudden presence.


    ¡°It¡¯s unusual for you toe home this early, darling,¡± Fahira said without stopping her activities.


    Darian brushed aside Fahira¡¯s tied hair and nted a wet kiss on her fair neck. ¡°Come on, Honey, don¡¯t be like that. Ariel and Rania will see us,¡± Fahira said, trying to break free from Darian¡¯s embrace.


    ¡°Let them see. They¡¯re dating, right?¡± Darian asked curiously. He had seen Ariel and Rania together several times. He thought they were a cute teenage couple, but unfortunately, Fahira didn¡¯t support their rtionship. So Darian chose to remain silent instead of arguing with his wife, as it would likely end up with him having to sleep on the sofa all night.


    Fahira didn¡¯t dislike Rania. She just wanted Ariel and Rania not to get caught up in the freewheeling lifestyle that many teenagers nowadays seemed to adopt, especially in a metropolitan city like Jakarta, where everything seemed to be permissible.


    ¡°They¡¯re not allowed to date, dear. Let them focus on learning first,¡± Fahira replied, and Darian simply nodded. He chose to stay silent to avoid making his wife angry, as it might lead to him having to sleep on the sofa all night.


    The worry Fahira felt was valid and understandable, but separating Ariel and Rania, who seemed to have feelings for each other, would be a cruel act. However, Darian felt helpless. He had only recently experienced falling in love himself. Just the thought of parting with Fahira, even for a short while when she was angry, caused him great distress.


    ¡°But, Yang, shouldn¡¯t we give them a chance? I¡¯m just worried that they might get hurt. Try talking to Ariel calmly. You can help them understand each other better. At least let them have a healthy rtionship. Truly healthy, my love. That¡¯s why our support is necessary so they don¡¯t do anything reckless or go overboard,¡± Darian exined, trying to express his thoughts.


    Fahira sighed deeply, then turned off the stove after making sure her cooking was done. She untangled Darian¡¯s hands from her body and faced him. ¡°What you say is right, but¡­¡± Fahira paused, looking at Darian with a doubtful expression. ¡°I¡¯m just worried that hopes won¡¯t match reality, Bang. Sometimes, even after a couple has been together for a long time, fate doesn¡¯t bring them together. Destiny is Ah¡¯s secret, but it¡¯s better to be cautious than to be hurt even moreter,¡± Fahira continued, taking off her apron. ¡°You should change your clothes and rest!¡± She moved towards the sink to wash her hands with soap.


    Darian wrapped his arm around Fahira¡¯s shoulder and walked towards the staircase leading to their bedroom. Darian smiled faintly when he noticed Fahira¡¯s gaze fixed on the two teenagers who were happily chatting below. Fahira had been in that position before, where she fell in love for the first time, but fate had other ns.


    Fahira had once been in a serious rtionship with a senior at her university. Her boyfriend had even sought approval from both of their parents. However, they were forced to separate due to an ident that imed both of Fahira¡¯s parents¡¯ lives. She and her brother, Ariel, were left stranded in Jakarta. To this day, Fahira and her ex-boyfriend had not officially ended their rtionship.


    Darian stared intently at Fahira¡¯s mncholic face. She had been serious when she mentioned her past. He looked into her beautiful eyes, searching for the truth.


    ¡°I admit it, Honey. I once fell in love with someone, but we had to separate because of the ident that took both of my parents,¡± Fahira said, not blinking as she met Darian¡¯s gaze.


    Darian released his embrace and sat on the edge of the bed, avoiding looking at her. Fahira¡¯s confession truly hurt him.


    ¡°That was in the past, Honey. Now, I love you,¡± Fahira said, sitting on Darian¡¯sp with a smile. ¡°It might have been just a teenage crush. The proof is that I¡¯m here with you now!¡± she continued, nting a brief kiss on Darian¡¯s lips.


    Darian still didn¡¯t react when Fahira kissed him again and nibbled on his lips. He found Fahira¡¯s sudden aggression rather odd.


    ¡°Are you angry, Honey?¡± Fahira blinked, looking at Darian, who remained motionless.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m angry. I¡¯m jealous that you talked about another guy in front of me. Do you still love him?¡± Darian cupped Fahira¡¯s face, gazing into her eyes, which blinked several times.


    Unexpectedly, Fahira burst intoughter. ¡°Honey, you¡¯re funny. Well, you¡¯ve never been in love before!¡± Her honest response sounded dissonant to Darian. It felt like a mocking remark, hitting his ego.


    ¡°Oh, now you dare to tease me?¡± Darian grinned and pulled Fahira¡¯s body closer. He kissed her neck, inhaling her intoxicating scent, then left a trail of kisses there.


    A stifled moan escaped Fahira¡¯s lips as she felt Darian¡¯s hands begin to explore her chest. ¡°Darian, I think I might bete for my period!¡± Fahira said in a hoarse voice.


    Darian immediately stopped what he was doing. He looked at Fahira¡¯s beautiful face, now flushed with desire. ¡°Are you serious, Yang?¡± Darian re-buttoned Fahira¡¯s shirt and gazed at her intently.


    ¡°Yes!¡± Fahira nodded shyly. ¡°But I haven¡¯t seen a doctor yet, and it¡¯s only been a weekte!¡± she admitted.


    Darian sat back, silently contemting Fahira¡¯s confession. He theny beside her, cradling her in his arms, preventing her from getting up.


    ¡°From now on, you can¡¯t be tired, okay!¡± Darian said, holding Fahira tightly.


    Fahira surrendered in Darian¡¯s embrace, even though doubts still dominated her feelings. From the various sources she had read, there were many signs of pregnancy, but she hadn¡¯t experienced any of them, except for feeling dizzy earlier that afternoon before meeting Galih.

 The Most Beautiful Grace

    Yasmin couldn¡¯t hold back her emotions as tears of joy streamed down her face. She hugged Fahira tightly, congratting her on the wonderful news. Ariel, who had been anxious this whole time, couldn¡¯t help but let out a relieved sigh and smiled happily at his sister.


    ¡°Thanks to god, thank you!¡± Yasmin uttered her gratitude repeatedly while still hugging Fahira. Darian also shared in the happiness, feeling a mixture of excitement and responsibility for the little life that was growing inside his wife¡¯s womb.


    Fahira was overwhelmed by the love and support from her family. Her heart felt full of joy and gratitude as she embraced her mother tightly.


    ¡°Mom, I am pregnant,¡± Fahira said softly, her voice choked with emotions.


    ¡°Yes, my dear, you are going to be a mother. I am going to be a grandmother,¡± Yasmin said, her voice filled with pride and happiness.


    Ariel couldn¡¯t contain his happiness and excitement either. He hugged Fahira and Darian, congratting them on the wonderful news. The atmosphere in the room was filled with love, joy, and the promise of a new life.


    Meanwhile, Gavin, who was still dealing with his own emotions and heartache, tried his best to push away the feelings that were threatening to overwhelm him. He knew he had to ept the reality that Fahira had moved on and found happiness with someone else. But it wasn¡¯t easy for him, as the pain of letting her go still lingered in his heart.


    Over the next few days, Yasmin and Ariel were busy nning and preparing for the uing wedding between Fahira and Darian. They were determined to make it a memorable and joyous asion, celebrating not just the union of the couple but also the new life that wasing into their family.


    Fahira and Darian were filled with gratitude and excitement as they prepared for this new chapter in their lives. They knew that parenthood would bring challenges and responsibilities, but they were ready to face it together, hand in hand.


    As the wedding day approached, Gavin struggled with his feelings and emotions. He had made peace with the fact that Fahira was no longer avable, but seeing her so happy with Darian brought a bittersweet ache to his heart.


    On the day of the wedding, Gavin decided to attend to show his support and respect for Fahira¡¯s happiness. He watched from a distance as Fahira walked down the aisle, looking radiant in her wedding dress, and Darian¡¯s eyes filled with love and adoration as he saw his bride.


    Throughout the ceremony, Gavin had a mixture of emotions, but he tried to focus on the happiness and joy surrounding the couple. He knew it was time to let gopletely and allow Fahira to move on with her life.


    After the wedding, Fahira and Darian embarked on their journey as a married couple, with the anticipation of bing parents adding to their excitement.


    Life went on, and Fahira and Darian embraced their roles as husband and wife, eagerly awaiting the arrival of their little one. They continued to be surrounded by the love and support of their family, creating a warm and nurturing environment for their growing family.


    As for Gavin, he focused on his work and hobbies, slowly healing the wounds in his heart. He knew that love woulde to him again in the future, and he remained hopeful for his own happiness.


    Time passed, and Fahira¡¯s pregnancy progressed smoothly. With every ultrasound appointment, she and Darian were filled with awe and wonder as they saw their baby grow and develop.


    Eventually, the day came when Fahira gave birth to a healthy baby girl. They named her Ayesha, which means ¡°alive¡± or ¡°she who lives.¡± Ayesha brought immeasurable joy and love to their lives, and the family embraced her with open arms.


    As for Gavin, he continued to be a friend to Fahira and her family, cherishing the bond they had as friends. Although the road was not easy, he was content in knowing that Fahira was happy with her family, and he had learned to cherish the memories they shared.


    Life moved forward, and each of them found their own paths in love, happiness, and fulfillment. Fate had led them to different destinations, but the connection they shared as friends remained strong, a testament to the power of love and the journey of life.


    Curiosity got the better of Ariel, and he approached Yasmin to examine the thin sheet of paper she was holding. Ariel couldn¡¯tprehend why Yasmin looked so stunned.


    ¡°What is this, Sis? And what does the colon mean?¡± Ariel questioned, peering at the paper. Hearing Ariel mention the colon, Yasmin quickly snatched the paper from Ariel¡¯s hand and inspected it again. This time, her expression was even more hysterical, and she burst into tears, embracing Fahira tightly.


    ¡°Thank you, my dear! You¡¯ve given Mama two grandchildren at once!¡± Yasmin eximed emotionally.


    ¡°Two? Does that mean Mbak Fahira is expecting twins?¡± Ariel eximed, equally surprised. Yasmin let go of her embrace, her tear-streaked face beaming with happiness.


    ¡°Yes, Mom, Ariel. Fahira is pregnant with twins!¡±


    ¡°Thanks to god,¡± Yasmin and Ariel expressed their gratitude simultaneously.


    From that night on, everyone became more protective, with Yasmin even forbidding Fahira from cooking or going to the boutique. Even in the bedroom, Darian never let Fahira go to the bathroom alone.


    After a few days of staying at home without any significant activities, Fahira began feeling bored. Whilezily browsing TV channels with the remote, Fahira sat on the living room sofa. Frustration painted her lips as she couldn¡¯t find anything interesting to watch. Eventually, she decided to y with her gadget. Opening the YouTube app, she searched for her favorite Turkish telenov. However, identally, she clicked on a mukbang channel instead. The show featured a woman from South Korea consuming an enormous amount of food in a single sitting. Watching her open her mouth wide and munching on various foods simultaneously made Fahira feel queasy. Surprisingly, instead of craving or wanting the food, her stomach churned with difort and nausea. She hastily got up from the sofa and rushed to the nearest bathroom in the corner of the kitchen.


    As one of the household staff asked about her well-being, Fahira raised one hand, her mouth tightly sealed, holding back the turmoil in her stomach that was about to explode.


    ¡°Miss Fahira! What¡¯s wrong?¡± Aminah called out, panicking as she had been in the kitchen earlier and witnessed Fahira¡¯s rush to the bathroom.


    Fahira could only manage a weak response, ¡°I¡¯ll be fine, Aminah. Just feeling a bit sick.¡±


    Despite her concern, Aminah gave Fahira some space, sensing that she might need some privacy. However, the uneasiness persisted, and Fahira couldn¡¯t help but wonder about the strange reaction she had to the mukbang video. She decided to keep it to herself for now, not wanting to worry anyone.


    Aminah knocked on the bathroom door repeatedly while calling out Fahira¡¯s name upon hearing Fahira¡¯s vomiting sounds. Shortly after, the door opened, revealing a pale and weak-looking Fahira. Aminah quickly assisted Fahira to sit on a chair and made her a cup of warm tea.


    ¡°Can you help me to the bedroom, Aminah?¡± Fahira asked after finishing her warm tea. The nausea in her stomach was starting to subside, but now she felt dizzy.


    ¡°Sure, Miss,¡± Aminah replied politely and called her coworker, Bi Roh, to continue her tasks.


    ¡°Do I need to call the Master or Madam?¡± Aminah offered while guiding Fahira up the stairs.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll be fine after a short rest,¡± Fahira replied softly. Once in the bedroom, Fahira immediatelyy down, feeling suddenly weak, and closed her eyes.


    At three in the afternoon, Darian returned home from work, feeling slightly puzzled as he didn¡¯t receive the usual warm wee from his beloved wife.


    ¡°Aminah, where¡¯s Fahira?¡± Darian asked one of the house staff he met before going upstairs.


    ¡°Oh, Mrs. Fahira was in her room earlier, she was vomiting and now she¡¯s resting in her room,¡± replied Roh politely.


    ¡°Thank you, Aminah¡± Darian hurriedly walked towards the bedroom, feeling worried.


    Klek¡­ Darian turned the doorknob and slowly opened the door. Inside, he found Fahira seemingly asleep with her back towards him. He approached the bed silently, trying not to make any noise to avoid disturbing his wife¡¯s rest. Seeing her peaceful face, a smile appeared on his lips. He then decided to sit on the sofa after changing into casual clothing.


    While waiting for Fahira to wake up, Darian decided to y with his gadget and surf the inte. It had been a while since hest checked his social media ounts.


    ¡°Perhaps you were not meant for me, but my presence here is to be your secret worshipper.¡±


    Deg¡­ A recent Instagram story from Gavin posted an hour ago ignited a surge of anger in Darian¡¯s heart. Though he knew his cousin was willing to back off for him, Darian still felt jealous whenever they crossed paths. As a man, Darian understood the longing in Gavin¡¯s eyes for his wife. Gavin still harbored feelings for Fahira, even though his wedding with a woman named Farah was just around the corner.


    Darian revisited Gavin¡¯s Instagram page out of curiosity. Besides the heartbreak poems, there were no other posts. He sighed deeply, realizing that another man loved his wife as deeply as he did.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    Suddenly, he heard Fahira groaning, shifting her position to lie on her back. Her beautiful eyes blinked several times, and her right hand reached up to massage her head.


    ¡°Feeling dizzy?¡± Darian whispered as he sat by her side.


    ¡°When did youe home?¡± Fahira tried to sit up, holding back the pain in her head.


    ¡°About an hour ago. You should rest,¡± Darian gently held Fahira¡¯s head and ced it on hisp.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I fell asleep, dear,¡± Fahira admitted, and Darian responded.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, love. Still feeling nauseous?¡± Fahira shook her head while looking up at his brown eyes.


    ¡°Dizzy?¡± She nodded. ¡°Take a rest for a while.¡± Darian¡¯s hand gently caressed her head.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t taken a shower yet, and I haven¡¯t prayed Asr,¡± Fahira replied, snuggling closer to Darian, hugging his abdomen affectionately.


    ¡°Me neither. Want to shower together?¡± Darian offered seriously, this time genuinely suggesting a proper shower. Fahira hesitated for a moment, pondering something.


    ¡°A real shower, right?¡± Fahira asked, noticing theck of mischievous grin on her husband¡¯s face, unlike usual.


    ¡°Yes, love. A real shower. Besides, I don¡¯t think I should ask for any ¡®special attention¡¯ given your condition. The doctor said I shouldn¡¯t visit our baby too often during the first trimester,¡± Darian exined with a teasing smile, recalling his usual mischievous behavior whenever he was with his beautiful wife. Although he had always seized the opportunity to be intimate with her, this time he was determined to restrain himself for the sake of Fahira¡¯s health and their two unborn babies.


    ¡°Seems like you have a big baby now!¡± Darian chuckled while helping Fahira put on her clothes. Not to mention the state of their junior, which was mischievously protesting under the towel wrapped around his waist.


    ¡°That¡¯s you, not me. I can dress myself, you know,¡± Fahira replied, her cheeks flushing as Darian hooked her bra. Especially when Darian deliberately touched her back.


    ¡°Junior is getting excited!¡± Darian whispered with a grimace, feeling some difort below.


    ¡°Stop it, dear. I can dress myself,¡± Fahira yfully teased, then turned around to face her husband. As she noticed him trying to hold back his desires, Fahira gave him a brief kiss on the lips and quickly got dressed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait for you downstairs,¡± Fahira said with augh, leaving Darian still trying to control the difort. Fahira chose to pray in Ariel¡¯s room before going downstairs, wanting to discuss an important matter with her younger brother. After much consideration, Fahira finally epted Darian¡¯s proposal to have a proper conversation with Ariel about the closeness between the 18-year-old teenager and Rania, Darian¡¯s cousin who was also Fahira¡¯s cousin-inw.


    ¡°Hold on!¡± Darian murmured to himself before re-entering the bathroom.

 Office

    Four monthster¡­


    Fahira was incredibly grateful that her first pregnancy didn¡¯te with severe morning sickness like most pregnant women experience. However, she did feel nauseous and vomit every morning upon waking up. After vomiting the bitter yellow liquid, she would feel weak and easily exhausted. To alleviate the difort, she would drink warm tea and then rest in Darian¡¯s arms.


    As a result, Darian would arrivete to the office every day. David and Lily had arranged all of Darian¡¯s schedules to ensure he wouldn¡¯t miss any importantpany meetings. David himself became busier since Fahira¡¯s pregnancy began, with his workload multiplying several times over. He frequently had to go back and forth from the office to Darian¡¯s house whenever Fahira needed something.


    As the days went by, Fahira¡¯s clingy behavior and emotional sensitivity increased, often leaving Darian confused and overwhelmed trying to fulfill her desires. Furthermore, Fahira¡¯s belly grewrger due to carrying twin babies, making her sizerger than the average five-month pregnant woman. Darian became increasingly worried, especially when he saw Fahira being active around the house. Despite her gentle tasks, Darian remained anxious, as Fahira was stubborn and refused to be told to rest. She always found something to do every day.


    Ariel, as Fahira¡¯s only brother, also felt responsible just like Darian. He was ready to assist whenever Darian and Yasmin were not around.


    This afternoon, the house was exceptionally quiet since both household assistants had requested leave at the same time for a few days. Bi Aminah was busy preparing for her daughter¡¯s wedding, while Santi was mourning her father¡¯s permanent departure. Without anyone noticing, Fahira decided to visit Darian at his office. Unfortunately, both Yasmin and Darian were not aware of her n. To make things worse, Fahira drove her own car. The security guard at the gate was surprised to receive a greeting from Fahira, who was driving her car herself. He looked inside to find her chauffeur, but there was none.


    Like a bird out of its cage, Fahira thoroughly enjoyed the bustling streets. Suddenly, she had a craving for a mocha-vored pastry she had bought before. Her car instantly headed towards Anna Bakery. Upon arriving, Fahira promptly ordered various pastries in a considerable quantity.


    Fahira¡¯s luxurious ck car slowly entered thepany¡¯s premises and stopped in front of the lobby. The security guard rushed to see the wife of thepany¡¯s boss arriving. He quickly received the car keys from Fahira to park the car in thepany¡¯s basement.


    ¡°Thank you, Sir!¡± Fahira said with genuine gratitude and a warm smile. Some of the employees who knew her respectfully saluted, and one of them, who worked as a receptionist, approached Fahira.


    ¡°Do you need any assistance, Ma¡¯am?¡± the receptionist named Aliya offered.


    ¡°No, dear. But here, take these for all of you!¡± Fahira handed over a bag of pastries to Aliya.


    ¡°Thank you, Ma¡¯am!¡± Aliya replied gratefully while receiving the bag of pastries from Fahira.


    Fahira¡¯s smile greeted all the employees she happened to meet, walking gracefully towards the special elevator forpany executives with her visibly erged belly. The maroon knee-length dress made her fair skin shine even more,plemented by her long hair flowing beautifully and radiating Fahira¡¯s hidden beauty that had been kept under wraps for so long.


    *Ding* The elevator doors opened, and Fahira headed straight to her former office. The smile on her face remained as she recalled the memorable moments spent with her colleagues and friends. She missed the times ofughter, teasing, long queues during lunch breaks at thepany¡¯s cafeteria, and countless other memories she couldn¡¯t fully describe. But she was undeniably grateful for everything she had experienced so far.


    Happiness and sadness were intertwined aspects of destiny that had to be faced. Two feelings that couldn¡¯t be negotiated. Fahira had gone through it all, the happiness with her family, and the tragedy of losing both parents and the feeling of istion in Jakarta. Life was like a spinning wheel, and now, happiness seemedplete before her eyes, but who could predict when the wheel would turn and bring her back to its lowest position? However, Fahira was certain that as long as Darian held her hand firmly, they could ovee anything with ease.


    Fahira slowed her steps when she saw her three friends, Mira, Susi, and Ray, engrossed in their work in front of theirputers.


    ¡°Hi!¡± Fahira greeted them with a broad smile, causing everyone in the room to turn and look.


    ¡°Fahira!¡± Mira and Susi eximed simultaneously.


    They quickly stood up, approached Fahira, and weed her with two bags of pastries in their hands. They hugged her and gave her cheek kisses in turn, except for Ray, of course. He simply shook Fahira¡¯s hand, looking mesmerized.


    ¡°Mrs. Fahira!¡± Lily greeted her warmly. The 23-year-old girl had taken Fahira¡¯s ce as Darian¡¯s secretary.


    ¡°Mrs. Fahira, do you want to meet Mr. Darian?¡± Lily asked Fahira, sliding a chair for the pregnant woman.


    ¡°It seems like there are still guests! It¡¯s okay, I¡¯d like to stay here. I miss chatting with you all!¡± Fahira honestly replied while inviting everyone to open and enjoy the pastries she had brought.


    Mira and Susi couldn¡¯t help but touch Fahira¡¯s belly affectionately and with amazement as the lively conversation continued. They still couldn¡¯t believe that the former secretary of Darian was now carrying hisst name as a big boss.


    Ray, who had been observing Fahira while chewing on his pastry, received a scolding from Susi. ¡°Watch your eyes! Fahira now belongs to Darian, the big boss.¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay. You guys are no fun. I¡¯m just amazed at how much more beautiful Fahira has be. She¡¯s stunning!¡± Rayplimented, immediately receiving a yful elbow from Mira.


    ¡°Be careful, Ray. If your boss hears your words, it¡¯ll be the end for you!¡± Susi teased, mimicking the gesture of someone slitting a throat.


    ¡°Oh,e on. I still want to experience our first night together, Mir!¡± Ray teased with a hidden intention. Ray had long had feelings for Susi, but she didn¡¯t care. To her, Ray was just a friend. Meanwhile, Susi shivered with horror, finding Ray¡¯sment extremely disgusting.


    Approximately an hourter, David and the financial director came out of Darian¡¯s office. The director greeted Fahira politely before leaving, but David seemed frozen in ce, realizing that Fahira¡¯s sudden presence meant trouble for him. The wrath of Darian.


    ¡°What are you doing here, Mrs.?¡± David asked with concern.


    Seeing David¡¯s sudden panic, Fahira chuckled and reassured him, ¡°Rx, David. Mr. Darian is already tame, you know!¡±


    While Fahira found it amusing, the others surely didn¡¯t. They knew that Darian¡¯s protective behavior towards Fahira during her pregnancy, as David had shared with them, could mean trouble. They were probably in big trouble now. Fahira knew there would be a lengthy and free lectureing her way. She found it strange how Darian had changed from a man of few words to a chatty and controlling husband. It was no surprise, though, given that he had been raised as the crown prince and had a certain level of authority ingrained in him. However, his chatty nature was something new.


    Darian took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, choosing his words carefully to avoid saying anything harsh that could upset Fahira. He didn¡¯t want her to feel stressed, as it could affect their unborn child. He strictly followed all the advice given by Dr. Intan, Fahira¡¯s obstetrician, who had been taking care of her during the pregnancy.


    ¡°Honey doesn¡¯t want to imprison you at home, Love. Just doesn¡¯t want anything to happen to you and our future baby!¡± Darian ced his hand on Fahira¡¯s belly, gently caressing it up and down.


    Fahira hissed as she felt the baby responding to Darian¡¯s touch.


    ¡°See? Our little ones agree with Honey. They always react whenever Abang touches them,¡± Darian said with excitement, feeling the gentle movements of the baby in Fahira¡¯s belly.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°They have the same pro as you, Honey. They always react when you touch them,¡± Fahira replied while also caressing her belly. As usual, she immediately felt the urge to use the restroom.


    ¡°Need to pee?¡± Darian asked as Fahira moved her hand away and hurriedly got up from her seat, with Darian following suit. He was well aware of Fahira¡¯s routine of frequent restroom visits during her pregnancy, especially at night.


    Darian apanied Fahira into her private office and followed her into the bathroom. He helped her remove her underwear, which was stuck under her bulging belly, and patiently waited for her to finish.


    ¡°Thank you, Honey!¡± Fahira said as she walked out of the bathroom, with Darian by her side.


    ¡°Don¡¯t thank me. I should be the one saying that,¡± Darian replied as he made sure Fahira wasfortable on the edge of the bed. He then took a small towel from the walk-in closet to dry her wet feet.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home, alright? You need to rest!¡± Darian suggested, putting on Fahira¡¯s shoes one by one.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t you busy?¡± Fahira asked, her attention still focused on Darian, who was now standing in front of her.


    ¡°Honey can continue his work tomorrow. What¡¯s important now is that we go home, Love! Besides, you¡¯re feeling sore everywhere, right?¡± Darian teased, making Fahira burst intoughter.


    Ever since Fahira became pregnant, Darian had learned to control his desires whenever they were together. Even assisting Fahira in the restroom made him feel feverish. Not to mention when Fahira would change clothes in front of him. Most people might consider pregnant women to look chubby and unattractive, but not Darian. He adored Fahira¡¯s increasingly full and sexy body.


    ¡°You see, the lewd brain is acting up again!¡± Fahiraughed as she got up.


    Darian immediately shut down hisptop and grabbed his phone. He also took Fahira¡¯s sling bag before they left the room.


    ¡°Lily, please tidy up my desk!¡± Darian ordered, and Lily nodded in response.


    David saw Fahira and Darian leave the office, so he grabbed his phone and car keys, ready to take them wherever they wanted to go.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go home with my wife. So, please drive my carter,¡± Darian instructed David, who readily agreed.


    Before they left the office, Fahira took the time to greet everyone in the room. Unlike when she arrived earlier, her presence had suddenly enlivened the office. But now, it was just smiles and nods in response to Darian¡¯s appearance beside Fahira.


    ¡°Honey should live in the Arctic with his fellow creatures!¡± Fahirained as they stood in the elevator. Darian raised an eyebrow, not quite sure what Fahira was referring to.


    ¡°What do you mean, Love?¡± Darian asked, trying to understand Fahira¡¯s cryptic words, but he wasn¡¯t making any mistake.


    ¡°Honey, why so stingy with your smiles? They look so scared!¡± Fahira¡¯s words finally made sense to Darian.


    ¡°Oh, about that. Are you sure you won¡¯t be jealous if you suddenly bes friendly with everyone?¡± Darian inquired, shifting his gaze to his wife. Fahira seemed to be contemting the question, remembering how the women reacted when Darian was around during their routine check-ups at the hospital.


    ¡°Promise me you won¡¯t get jealous if I be friendly with them,¡± Darian probed further. Fahira paused for a moment, considering the question, while Darian¡¯s words brought her back to reality.


    In response, Darian chuckled and stole a quick kiss from Fahira¡¯s lips, resting his hand on her shoulder while whispering, ¡°If you want that, I¡¯ll do it, Love!¡±

 David鈥檚 Confession

    David entered the Putra Corporation building feeling a bit annoyed since David hadn¡¯t picked him up as usual. Moreover, David hadn¡¯t given any updates at all. Usually, his personal assistant never skipped work or disappeared like this. He suddenly felt worried because David wasn¡¯t just his assistant; he was also his best friend-the only best friend he had.


    Reluctantly, Darian pushed aside his ego and decided to call David first.


    ¡°Shit!¡± Darian cursed under his breath when the operator on the other end of the line told him that David¡¯s phone was inactive.


    The elevator opened, signaling his arrival on the desired floor, and Darian stepped into his office. He nced at David¡¯s desk, which was empty and tidy, indicating that he hadn¡¯t arrived yet.


    ¡°Lily, where¡¯s David?¡± Darian asked as they entered his office.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, sir, I don¡¯t know. I tried to contact him earlier, but his phone was off,¡± Lily exined, standing in front of Darian¡¯s desk.


    Darian¡¯s sharp gaze shifted towards his secretary, causing her to freeze on the spot.


    ¡°Read my agenda for today,¡± Darian said, pressing the power button on hisptop screen.


    Lily cleared her throat to calm her nerves before starting to read Darian¡¯s schedule. She was nervous because David had caused some trouble, and the consequences might affect her, especially as she was Darian¡¯s secretary and often interacted with the cold and perfectionist man.


    After Lily finished reading the agenda, she quickly excused herself from Darian¡¯s office. Just as she was about to touch the doorknob, Darian interrupted her movement.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°By the way, when Davides in, tell him toe to my office immediately,¡± Darian said without bothering to look at Lily, who was trying to steady herself on her 7 cm high heels. A sigh of relief escaped her lips, and she answered Darian.


    Before starting his work, Darian opened the coffee lid in front of him, inhaling the delicious aroma that always enticed him, even though he had to learn to like the strong ck liquid without Fahira making it for him. To him, the most enjoyable coffee was the one made by his beloved wife.


    Thinking of Fahira, a smile formed on his handsome face. He vividly remembered the details of her beautiful face. Darian shook his head to dispel the thoughts that seemed locked in the home with the woman who was now carrying their twin sons. Justst week, the ultrasound showed that they were expecting boys, fulfilling Darian¡¯s wish to have a son who would protect his younger siblings when they grew up. It didn¡¯t mean he didn¡¯t want a daughter, but he wanted their first child to be a boy. If Ah granted them more children, Darian nned not to allow Fahira to use contraception after the birth of their firstborn.


    Darian took a slow sip of the ck liquid, enjoying how it caressed his throat. The aroma and the hot vapor that wafted up provided a unique sensation for the coffee lover.


    Unbeknownst to him, nearly three hours had passed, and Darian was deeply engrossed in his work. Lily hade in and out of his office numerous times. Today, Darian didn¡¯t have any important meetings scheduled, so he decided to review some critical documents for a meeting with foreign investors the next morning.


    Soon, another knock on the door interrupted Darian¡¯s focus. ¡°Come in!¡± he replied without looking away from hisptop screen.


    ¡°Sorry, Sir, I¡¯mte!¡± David said, sessfully making Darian sit up straight and look at him with a t expression.


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± replied Darian shortly, sliding his chair slightly back to create some distance between the table and himself. Darian stood up from his chair and sighed in frustration at his personal assistant.


    ¡°I¡­¡± David started, but he was interrupted by Darian lifting his hand to signal him to be quiet. Then, Darian stood facing arge mirror that disyed dozens of tall buildings before him.


    ¡°David, I will ept any excuses you have for your unprofessional behaviortely, except if it¡¯s about a woman. I don¡¯t want to hear that,¡± warned Darian informally. His right hand, which was previously tucked inside his pants pocket, was now free. Darian changed his position, facing David with his body leaning on the edge of his desk. David responded with meaningful eye contact.


    ¡°Seems like I¡¯ve gotten an answer that I absolutely didn¡¯t want,¡± continued Darian,ughing out loud. Theughter echoed in the white and silver room. ¡°Who?¡± Darian asked, trying to suppress hisughter.


    ¡°He¡¯s the manughing in front of me right now! Laughing at my suffering!¡± David said, causing Darian¡¯sughter to stop abruptly, as if he choked on his own saliva.


    Darian¡¯s eyebrows furrowed as he stared at David sharply. His brown eyes searched for any hint of lies in David¡¯s dark eyes, but all he found was honesty. An honesty that Darian didn¡¯t know who the woman in question was.


    ¡°David, you don¡¯t have to talk like that,¡± Darian said with a hoarser voice than usual. Though he tried to remain calm, his heart began to beat faster.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think that way, Darian. I don¡¯t want to be the one who takes away your happiness,¡± continued David, his voice filled with regret.


    Darian pounded the table with his right hand, startling David. ¡°You think that by hiding your feelings, you can keep me away from my happiness? You don¡¯t have to distance yourself from me, David. We¡¯ve been friends for years, and I value our friendship more than anything,¡± Darian said firmly.


    ¡°But you have to remember that our friendship also requires honesty. If you have a problem, I want to hear it from your mouth, not from someone else or spection,¡± Darian added, full of emotion.


    David fell silent, contemting for a moment before nodding his head. ¡°You¡¯re right, Darian. I shouldn¡¯t have kept this from you,¡± he said softly.


    ¡°Now I feel like I¡¯m burdening you with my problems. I don¡¯t want our friendship to change because of this,¡± continued David.


    ¡°You never were a burden to me, David. That¡¯s what you have to understand. Our friendship means a lot to me, and I will always be there for you,¡± Darian said sincerely.


    David smiled faintly, lifting the corners of his lips. ¡°Thank you, Darian. I¡¯m grateful to have a friend like you,¡± he said.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about this problem honestly. We can ovee it together,¡± Darian suggested, trying to offer support to David.


    After that, they both sat together, and David shared his entire problem with the woman who had been the subject of their conversation. Darian listened attentively and gave advice and genuine support to his friend.


    They spoke for a long time, and time passed without them realizing it. Darian felt relieved because David finally opened up and shared his problem with him. They both encouraged each other and promised to always stand by each other¡¯s side, no matter what happened.


    Their friendship grew even stronger, and David promised to face his problems head-on. Darian also feltpelled to give more support to his friend, especially when it came to the woman who was causing him so much pain.


    Darian believed that they would ovee all obstacles together and continue to maintain the friendship they had built over the years. Fahira¡¯s presence in Darian¡¯s life had brought many positive changes, including strengthening the bonds of friendship with the people around him.


    Both of them left the room with lighter hearts, ready to face whatever challenges the future held. Because sincerity, support, and true friendship will always bring happiness and strength, even in the midst of life¡¯s storms.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll be honest. The woman is Alea. The woman who was once going to marry you.¡± Darian¡¯s body froze instantly. His face tensed up. So all this time, David was in a rtionship with Alea. The same woman that he had heartlessly dumped on the day of their engagement just to be with Fahira.


    Darian had never even considered Alea as a woman. He felt nothing butziness and disgust whenever his mother talked about their marriage. So, since when did Alea fall in love with him? They had only met a few times.


    Darian closed his eyes, his jaw visibly clenching as he took a deep breath and held it for a moment before exhaling slowly, repeating it twice. So, the woman David had talked about before was Alea. Darian admitted that he also yed a part in Alea¡¯s suffering since she had attempted to end her life after their engagement, bing a victim of David¡¯s assault. Perhaps the term ¡°assault¡± sounded too extreme, but in reality, David had taken Alea¡¯s innocence when she was heavily intoxicated under the influence of alcohol.


    In short, David finally openly told the entire story of his romance with Alea, from the beginning until now. Darian, still in shock, could only be a loyal listener as David narrated all the problems he faced in detail.


    ¡°Now, what are you going to do? You can¡¯t possiblyply with Alea¡¯s request to terminate the pregnancy,¡± Darian sighed, feeling overwhelmed by the huge problem his friend was facing.


    ¡°Of course not. I deliberately got her pregnant so she would be bound to me and agree to marry me!¡± David admitted with irony. In the end, he found himself trapped in the game he had started, and whether he was ready or not, David had to face it alone.


    ¡°This is a ssic case of ¡®hoist with his own petard,¡¯ David. Emmmm¡­ Are you sure it¡¯s love and not just an obsession?¡± Darian said as he stood up and patted David¡¯s shoulder. The man remained motionless in his chair. ¡°You just need to convince her that your love is genuine,¡± Darian continued, trying to offer as much support as possible to David. Darian had experienced the bitter and sweet journey of winning Fahira¡¯s heart in the past.


    ¡°If she¡¯s worth fighting for, then fight for her, David. Don¡¯t be weak. You witnessed how I fought for Fahira¡¯s love. Nothing was easy. And I believe Alea actually loves you, maybe she¡¯s just hesitant because of your past. At J-Rock Night Club, who didn¡¯t know yers like you, David!¡± Darian took a deep breath before making an interesting offer to David. ¡°Need a sparring partner?¡±


    David shook his head. ¡°I can¡¯t do that this time, Darian, sorry. I want to go back to my apartment. I¡¯m worried that Alea might resort to taking medication to terminate the pregnancy, as she had threatened before. Right now, she¡¯s under my staff¡¯s watch. So, I¡¯ll ask for some time off from work for a while. If you mind, you can fire me,¡± David exined, still looking at Darian seriously.


    ¡°Okay. Solve your problem as soon as possible. And if you need help, just contact me directly.¡± Darian patted David¡¯s shoulder again, offering a smile.


    ¡°Thank you for understanding, Darian!¡± David replied shortly before quickly leaving Darian¡¯s office.


    A heavy sigh escaped Darian¡¯s lips. He never expected Alea to be the woman David had been involved with all this time. He hoped that their friendship would remain unaffected by Alea¡¯s presence between them. Although that seemed quite impossible.

 Name鈥檚 For The Twins

    The scorching sun, descending towards the southwest, failed to untangle the traffic jam in Jakarta, the capital city. Unfortunately, Darian was still trapped in the crawling traffic. Both hands, which had been resting on the steering wheel, were suddenly lifted when the harsh sunlight hit his retinas. He pulled down the sun visor to shield his brown eyes. Normally, no matter how long the traffic jam, having David in front of the wheel would never make Darian feel irritated like he did now. At least light banter or David¡¯s usual jokes would entertain Darian and make him forget how annoying it was to be stuck in traffic.


    After about 15 minutes, the car that Darian was driving slowly began to move. To dispel his frustration, Darian finally yed his favorite song. The old song by Westlife started melodiously greeting his ears. As the music yed, a sense of calm began to soothe Darian¡¯s heart, which had been grumbling incessantly. Unknowingly, his car began to move out of the long traffic jam, steadily heading towards his home.


    The luxurious Range Rover Sport, thetest model, stopped right in the driveway. Darian got out of the car and paused for a moment to gaze at his bedroom window. A smile curved on his lips as he imagined his beautiful wife¡¯s face. Even after just a few hours apart, Darian¡¯s longing felt unbearable.


    He then entered the house and headed to his bedroom. Ariel was engrossed in a wide-screen in front of him, holding the yStation controller skillfully while ying with Arif. The two teenagers were so focused on their game that they didn¡¯t even notice Darian passing by them. It was true that the living room, where Ariel and Arif were ying, was quite far from the stairs leading to the bedrooms. However, it was still apparent when someone passed by.


    Climbing each step of the stairs, Darian shook his head with a restrained smile, reminiscing about his memories with his high school friend, David. The mischief they sometimes got up to, like lying about attending study groups at school, when in reality, they were ying yStation at David¡¯s house without their parents¡¯ knowledge. That was the extent of Darian¡¯s mischievousness, which was vastly different from David¡¯s. Apart from participating in illegal street racing, David also had a hobby of collecting girlfriends. It was no wonder Darianughed when David imed that he wanted to be a police officer or work in the national intelligence agency. And it turned out to be true ¨C David became one of the secret intelligence agents that Darian hired to protect himself and hispany without anyone else knowing.


    Darian quickly pushed away thoughts about David when he reached the front of his bedroom door. He grasped the doorknob and gently pressed it, worried about disturbing his wife¡¯s rest. Click, the door opened. Darian¡¯s mouth instantly gaped open, and his eyes widened as he was greeted by a sight of incredible beauty.


    With her pregnant belly, Fahira was wearing an ultra-thin and transparent nightgown. Darian could even see her prominent navel and the peaks of her breasts, seemingly challenging him to kiss them.


    ¡°Eh, honey, you¡¯re home!¡± Fahira said with the sweetest smile every time she weed her husband¡¯s return.


    ¡°Why are you just standing there?¡± Fahira continued, closing the online novel app she had been reading. Since bing pregnant, Fahira often spent her time reading novels to pass the time.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Darian quickly snapped out of his trance and walked towards the bed. He seemed to swallow hard before speaking. ¡°Darling, why are you wearing such thin clothes? What if you catch a cold?¡± Darian climbed onto the bed and sat facing Fahira. She adjusted her sitting position, leaning against the headboard.


    ¡°It¡¯s too hot, honey,¡± Fahira replied yfully, with a teasing smile. When she acted like this, Darian was defenseless. Fahira¡¯s pregnancy hormones seemed to favor her, as she became more assertive. But seeing his wife¡¯s growing belly, Darian could hardly do anything. With all his might, he tried to restrain his desires when he was with his tempting wife.


    ¡°I¡¯ll change my clothes first, dear!¡± Darian protested as Fahira¡¯s hand began to trace his thin beard.


    ¡°No need, honey!¡± Fahira pouted, holding Darian¡¯s hand back. Darian looked into Fahira¡¯s eyes and sighed.


    ¡°Is our baby bored at home? Do you want to go out?¡± Darian¡¯s hand caressed Fahira¡¯s belly, and then he leaned in to give her a kiss. He tried to distract Fahira¡¯s desires. It¡¯s not that Dariancked desire, but he was just concerned about Fahira¡¯s condition. The doctor had advised them not to engage in intimate activities more than four times a week. And they had already had two roundsst night.


    ¡°Are you serious about taking me out?¡± Fahira¡¯s eyes sparkled with excitement upon hearing Darian¡¯s offer.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go shopping for our baby¡¯s needs, honey?¡± Fahira suggested again, which Darian readily agreed to.


    ¡°Thank you, honey!¡± Fahira cupped Darian¡¯s face and gave him a deep kiss on the lips.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll take a shower first, then we can get ready to go!¡± Darian said, about to get up from the bed.


    ¡°Let¡¯s shower together!¡± Fahira stretched her arms yfully.


    ¡°You¡¯re such a big baby!¡± Darian chuckled,plying with Fahira¡¯s request. ¡°Wait a moment!¡± Before lifting Fahira¡¯s body, he removed all his clothes and left only his boxers.


    During their shower together, Darian ignored Fahira¡¯s pleas for intimacy in the bathtub. Of course, Darian firmly refused. He wouldn¡¯t take the risk of fulfilling her desire, even though he himself was desperately holding back the pain below.


    ¡°Are you no longer in love with me, Abang? My body is ugly, fat,¡± Fahira whimpered because her wish was not fulfilled.


    Fahira herself was frustrated with her pregnancy hormones, which always craved her husband every time they were close. Fahira always wanted Darian¡¯s gentle and passionate touch, buttely, he always rejected her, citing the doctor¡¯s advice.


    Fahira¡¯s expression changed as they left the bathroom. She even refused when Darian tried to lift her up, as he had done when entering the bathroom. Still silent, Fahira put on her home clothes, with her back to Darian.


    Darian sighed deeply and prepared the prayer equipment for both of them. After praying together, Fahira immediately moved to leave the room, but Darian quickly locked the door.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be angry, dear!¡± Darian pleaded as he held Fahira¡¯s shoulders.


    ¡°Just say it if I¡¯m no longer attractive in your eyes!¡± Fahira said angrily, looking into a pair of brown irises in front of her.


    ¡°I already told you the reason, dear. For me, you¡¯re always beautiful and attractive. But I don¡¯t want anything to happen to you and our children!¡± Darian¡¯s hand, which was initially on Fahira¡¯s shoulder, now slid down, gripping her slender fingers.


    Fahira remained motionless as Darian¡¯s fingers touched her stray hair, covering part of her face. Darian¡¯s fingers reached for the strands of hair and tucked them behind Fahira¡¯s ear. Unexpectedly, Darian¡¯s left hand, which was still holding her hand, directed Fahira¡¯s hand downward towards Darian¡¯s body. Fahira flinched and tried to pull her hand away, but Darian¡¯srge hand held it firmly in ce.


    ¡°Look, every time I¡¯m with you, he always rises, but I restrain him so he doesn¡¯t misbehave!¡± Darian chuckled, causing a blush to appear on Fahira¡¯s cheeks. Honestly, Fahira also understood, but for some reason, her pregnancy hormones made her easily carried away when her desires were not fulfilled. In the bathroom earlier, Fahira could see the spark of desire in those brown eyes. The man had hissed a few times every time Fahira¡¯s hand touched him. Not to mention his manhood, which had been erect while they were in the bathroom.


    Seeing Fahira¡¯s shy face, now Darian couldn¡¯t hold back his desire either. He quickly cupped Fahira¡¯s face and passionately kissed her lips. The light kiss escted into a heated one as Darian¡¯s hands began to undo Fahira¡¯s dress buttons one by one. Hisrge hands slipped in, seeking Fahira¡¯s favorite parts of her body and teasing them. Soft moans escaped Fahira¡¯s lips as Darian¡¯s kisses trailed down her neck.


    Darian pulled away from Fahira¡¯s neck and looked into her beautiful eyes, which were now filled with desire. Grinning, Darian dropped Fahira¡¯s dress, letting it fall to the floor. He guided Fahira towards the bed and sat her on the edge. Then quickly, Darian undressed himselfpletely.


    Fahira bit her lower lip as Darian started his actions, exploring every inch of her body with wet kisses, indulging in the pleasure that made her feel like floating until she felt weak after reaching climax.


    Just in time for dinner, Fahira and Darian came down from their room. Yasmin and Ariel seemed to be enjoying their dinner with light conversation.


    Darian pulled out a chair for Fahira and then took a seat himself. ¡°Seems like you¡¯re having fun!¡± Darian joined Yasmin and Ariel in their conversation.


    ¡°Ariel is being asked about his ns for continuing education. He¡¯s in 12th grade now, so he should already have an idea of where to pursue his education,¡± exined Yasmin, reaching for a ss of water in front of her and taking a sip.


    ¡°Maybe he wants to follow in your footsteps, Darian, and go to America,¡± Yasmin replied, which instantly made Fahira choke.


    ¡°Easy, dear!¡± Darian quickly grabbed a tissue and wiped Fahira¡¯s lips, with his left hand gently patting her shoulder. Ariel, who was also panicking, now stood beside Fahira.


    ¡°Are you okay, Sister Fahira?¡± Ariel patted Fahira¡¯s left shoulder. Yasmin looked at the two men alternately while thinking about something. Did she say something wrong?


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, really!¡± Fahira replied, holding both hands that were on her shoulders.


    Darian and Ariel sat back in the chairs nking Fahira. The two possessive men, Fahira¡¯s beloved, looked rxed again.


    ¡°There are many good universities in Jakarta, Mom. Ariel can study here. Besides, Fahira might cry every day if she¡¯s far from her little brother,¡± Darian exined, trying tofort Fahira, who looked sad.


    ¡°Yes, Mom, Ariel will study in Jakarta. Besides, Ariel also wants to see his nephew grow up,¡± Ariel added, making a smile appear on the middle-aged woman¡¯s lips. Fahira¡¯s brown eyes sparkled as she imagined her two grandchildren, who would be born into the world soon.


    ¡°Oh yes, that¡¯s true. Mom can¡¯t wait to see Mama¡¯s grandchild born. They will surely be handsome and adorable!¡± Yasmin looked at Fahira with a radiant face.


    Then they finished dinner with light-hearted conversations about Ariel¡¯s school. Fahira herself had returned to her cheerful self as usual. However, Yasmin¡¯s words before they parted created a momentary silence. ¡°Mama has already prepared many good name options for Mama¡¯s future grandchild,¡± she said.

 New Life

    Days passed and months went by unnoticed, and now Fahira¡¯s pregnancy has entered the final trimester, which means the Darian family is now filled with a mix of worries and happiness about the uing arrival of the twins into the world.


    Since the first trimester of Fahira¡¯s pregnancy, Darian has been on high alert as a husband and has be more possessive and protective. He frequently goes back and forth to the office just because Fahira wants to be close to him. Fahira¡¯s sweet and clingy behavior has also increased multiple times since entering the eighth month of pregnancy. She experiences various diforts, and Doctor Intan, who is in charge of Fahira¡¯s pregnancy, has already warned Darian and the family about the risks and vulnerabilities of a twin pregnancy.


    One of Fahira¡¯s severeints is the pain in her back and legs. She can¡¯t sleep if it¡¯s not Darian caressing her back or massaging her legs. Even light activities like standing and walking be difficult for Fahira due to her erged belly. So, if Darian is not at home, Yasmin, Ariel, or one of the maids will apany Fahira.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to the office, Honey?¡± Fahira asked, sitting on the bed, leaning on several pillows. Her face grimaced a few times as the babies in her womb moved. Her hand spontaneously caressed her belly to soothe the active fetus.


    ¡°I can¡¯t bear to leave you alone at home,¡± Darian replied, still standing in front of the bathroom with both hands moving up and down, drying his wet hair with a small towel.


    Fahira struggled to swallow her saliva when she saw droplets of water falling from Darian¡¯s hair and passing through his chiseled chest. For almost a month, Darian had been refusing her advances for intimacy. Fahira understood his reasons, but her pregnancy hormones seemed upromising. She always felt aroused whenever she saw Darian¡¯s bare chest. The thin hairs on his chest seemed to challenge her fingers to y around. Although Fahira was sure that she desired more than just ying around with him.


    Fahira struggled to swallow her saliva when she saw droplets of water falling from Darian¡¯s hair and passing through his chiseled chest. For almost a month, Darian had been refusing her advances for intimacy. Fahira understood his reasons, but her pregnancy hormones seemed upromising. She always felt aroused whenever she saw Darian¡¯s bare chest. The thin hairs on his chest seemed to challenge her fingers to y around. Although Fahira was sure that she desired more than just ying around with him.


    ¡°Honey,e here!¡± Fahira called with a meaningful smile that Darian had memorized.


    Darian sighed deeply and sat on the edge of the bed, embracing Fahira to give her time to inhale his scent as she always did whenever they were together.


    ¡°Honey, let me feed you, okay? Then you have to rest,¡± Darian said, caressing Fahira¡¯s hair and asionally giving a kiss on the top of her head.


    ¡°But I¡¯m not sleepy, I want to walk in the park!¡± Fahira replied, loosening the embrace although she hadn¡¯t fully satisfied inhaling Darian¡¯s calming scent.


    ¡°Alright. But after that, you have to rest. You haven¡¯t slept all night!¡± Darian smiled and caressed Fahira¡¯s chubby cheeks.


    ¡°Put on your clothes first!¡± Darian gave a quick peck on Fahira¡¯s lips and then got up from the bed to put on his clothes.


    While dressing, Darian pondered something. Suddenly, he felt uneasy seeing Fahira¡¯s condition. ording to the ultrasound results from a week ago, the estimated due date for the twins is in two weeks, but hearing Fahira¡¯sints and seeing her current condition, Darian couldn¡¯t bear it. Moreover, Dr. Intan had suggested a cesarean section for Fahira, but her stubbornness to give birth naturally led Dr. Intan to back down. However, Dr. Intan was slightly worried since the weight of Fahira¡¯s unborn babies wasrger than the average size of twins.


    After putting on his clothes, Darian immediately fed Fahira. She eagerly finished the chicken porridge and then whined, asking to leave the room. As usual, Darian had to convince Fahira first to use the wheelchair he had prepared. Gently, Darian helped Fahira sit in the wheelchair and adjusted her swollen legs.


    ¡°It must be painful, right, Honey?¡± Darian whispered as he stood up from his kneeling position.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt, Honey. It¡¯s just that my feet feel numb,¡± Fahira giggled, blushing as she realized the changes her body had undergone. Not only her clothes, but even her sandals and shoes had changed size. Sandals and shoes that used to be size 38 were now size 40.


    Darian gazed into Fahira¡¯s clear eyes and smiled. ¡°I¡¯m grateful for all the sacrifices you¡¯ve made. I promise to try my best to be a good husband and father to all of you!¡± Darian said, kissing Fahira¡¯s forehead.


    With Darian pushing the wheelchair, they descended the stairs using the special ramp that Darian had prepared for Fahira since her pregnancy entered the seventh month.


    ¡°Where are you going, sister?¡± Ariel asked when he saw Darian apanying Fahira down from the room. Seeing Darian in casual clothes, Yasmin immediately asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to the office, Darian?¡± Darian pushed the wheelchair towards the dining table.This content belongs to N?/velDra/ma.Org .


    ¡°Today, I want to stay home and apany Fahira. She said she wants to get some fresh air in the park!¡± Darian exined, and Fahira nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Oh, Darian, for the next few days, it¡¯s better for you to stay at home with Fahira. Mommy is just worried if Fahira suddenly goes intobor,¡± Yasmin continued, looking at Fahira with concern.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Mommy. Darian deliberately took some time off from work to stay at home. Besides, I can still do my work from home,¡± Darian smiled, bidding farewell as he headed to the backyard.


    Ariel, who was about to leave for school, finished his milk and said his goodbyes to Yasmin. After kissing her on the back of her hand, the teenager quickly caught up with Darian and Fahira to say goodbye.


    The aroma of petrichor filled Fahira¡¯s senses as her wheelchair came to a stop. Her clear eyes scanned the entire garden, admiring the beauty of the blooming flowers. The colorful blossoms captivated her heart, which had been troubled since the night before. Fahira smiled as she watched butterflies and bees fluttering around the flower buds, like soldiers ready for battle.


    ¡°Are they more fascinating than your husband?¡± protested Darian, who had been observing Fahira¡¯s cheerful expression. For him, Fahira was the beauty he had admired all this time.


    ¡°Oh, I think my husband is just jealous of them. How can fellow butterflies be jealous!¡± Fahira chuckled, yfully squeezing the hand of her brown-eyed man.


    ¡°I am a jealous man,¡± said Darian, kissing Fahira¡¯s fingers.


    Fahira winced in pain as the babies in her womb started moving, just likest night. Almost every night, Fahira couldn¡¯t sleep soundly due to the increased activity of her twin babies.


    ¡°What¡¯s my little hero up to? Alright, calm down now, Mama needs some rest,¡± Darian said, gently caressing Fahira¡¯s visibly moving belly. Suddenly, the movements stopped, as if responding to Darian¡¯s words.


    ¡°Smart!¡± Darian praised with a chuckle.


    However, Fahira soon winced again, this time in more pain, and unconsciously gripped Darian¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°Can we go to the hospital,  Brother? Please,¡± Fahira pleaded, her breath starting to be rapid. Sweat suddenly dampened her forehead. In fact, she had been feeling ufortable sincest night, but she chose to endure it so that Darian wouldn¡¯t panic.


    ¡°Hospital!¡± Darian repeated, still in shock, but a momentter, he snapped back to reality. ¡°Of course, my dear!¡± he replied and quickly got up to push Fahira¡¯s wheelchair towards the backyard.


    Darian immediately called Santi to bring the bag containing the childbirth supplies prepared by Yasmin, as well as the driver to take them to the hospital.


    ¡°Stay calm, my love!¡± Darian said anxiously on the way to the hospital.


    Fahira, who was experiencing pain, could only nod as she tried to regte her breathing, which seemed to be gasping. Her hands kept stroking her belly, which asionally felt stiff. Panicked, Darian called Dr. Intan to inform her that Fahira would soon be inbor, and then called Yasmin toe to the hospital.


    Upon arriving at the hospital, several nurses were already waiting for them in front of the ER with a stretcher. Darian quickly lifted Fahira from the car. However, he was shocked when he felt her warm and wet hands, so he immediatelyid her down on the stretcher. At that moment, Dr. Intan hurriedly approached them.


    ¡°Quick, take her inside, I¡¯ll check the patient¡¯s condition first!¡± Dr. Intan ordered, and two nurses immediately obeyed.


    After examining Fahira¡¯s condition, Dr. Intan approached Darian, who was waiting behind the curtain, and asked him to step aside for a moment.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Sir, but Mrs. Fahira will soon give birth¡­¡± Dr. Intan paused when she saw the panic on Darian¡¯s face, ¡°Mrs. Fahira is already two centimeters dted, but the baby¡¯s position has not entered the pelvis, so we need to perform the surgery as soon as possible.¡±


    Darian¡¯s world stopped for a moment. His heart raced, and his body trembled. ¡°Please do your best for my wife and children, Doctor!¡± Darian quickly responded.


    ¡°Alright. Please apany your wife inside, I hope you can stay calm,¡± Dr. Intan continued before hurrying away and instructing a nurse to prepare the operating room.


    ¡°Honey!¡± Fahira called out with teary eyes, reaching out her hand as she saw Darian pulling the curtain aside.


    ¡°Calm down, my dear. I¡¯m here,¡± Darian replied, epting Fahira¡¯s outstretched hand, and taking a deep breath before exining the procedure the doctor was going to perform to save Fahira¡¯s life and their twin sons.


    Darian held Fahira¡¯s hand tightly and kissed her forehead for a long time.


    ¡°You need to have surgery,¡± Darian whispered, causing Fahira¡¯s cries to intensify.


    ¡°Listen, listen to me, my love. Everything will be alright. I promise that during the surgery, I will be right by your side.¡± Darian tried to calm Fahira by cradling her face in his hands. He looked deeply into her teary eyes and wiped them gently with his fingertips.


    ¡°For the sake of our children,¡± Darian whispered again, causing Fahira¡¯s body to freeze. Slowly, she nodded. She had to be strong for the sake of their two beloved children.


    ¡°For the sake of our children!¡± Fahira repeated, calming her fears.


    Yasmin arrived after Fahira entered the operating room. ¡°How is Fahira, Darian? Are they alright?¡± Yasmin anxiously questioned, her face pale. Santi, who was standing next to Yasmin, was equally panicked.


    ¡°In the name of God, Mom, Darian will have to go in soon. Please pray that the surgery goes smoothly,¡± Darian exined with a trembling voice, hugging Yasmin tightly. Just then, a nurse called Darian¡¯s name, forcing him to let go of the embrace.


    Cold air embraced Darian as the smell of medications filled his senses. The sound of medical equipment monitoring Fahira¡¯s condition filled the all-white room with its rhythmic beeping. Darian¡¯s vision blurred as he saw his beloved wife lying helplessly on the operating table, her hands outstretched to the sides. Her left hand was tied to the edge of the operating table, while her other hand was connected to a device that disyed her vital signs. Darian quickly wiped the tears that had welled up in his eyes, then tried to smile as he approached Fahira¡¯s head.


    ¡°I¡¯m here, my love!¡± Darian whispered, sessfully bringing a faint smile to Fahira¡¯s lips.


    Shortly after, Dr. Intan entered the room to perform the surgery. Darian¡¯s only task now was to hold Fahira¡¯s free hand and whisper soothing words into her ear to keep her calm. Surrendering himself and praying to the giver of life for the new life that would soon join their small family as a blessing.

 Jonah & Joziah

    In the waiting area outside the operating room, Yasmin and Santi remained silent. However, prayers continued to resonate in their hearts for Fahira¡¯s safety and the well-being of her two sons. Not far from them, Gavin hurriedly approached. He had learned about Fahira undergoing a cesarean section from his assistant. Afterpleting his visiting duties for inpatients at the hospital, Gavin immediately went to the operating room.


    ¡°How is Aunt Fahira?¡± Gavin asked, trying to catch his breath. Hearing Gavin¡¯s voice, the middle-aged woman stood up and embraced him tightly. ¡°We¡¯re still waiting!¡± Yasmin replied, still held in Gavin¡¯s embrace.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Aunt, Fahira and her two sons will be safe and healthy. The surgery will be over soon.¡± Gavin released the embrace and gestured for Yasmin to sit back down.


    Suddenly, anxiety overwhelmed Gavin¡¯s heart as he imagined Farah being in that operating room. The thought of being by his wife¡¯s side during a cesarean section made his hands tremble. Although Farah had not shown any signs of pregnancy until now, it was understandable given their unhealthy rtionship since the first day of their marriage until seven months ago. It had been only a month since Gavin fulfilled his marital obligations to Farah, the woman who now filled his days, shifting Fahira¡¯s position in his heart with patience and genuine love.


    Gavin sat with Yasmin still in his embrace. His gaze fixed on the blinking red light, indicating that the operation was in progress. After a while, the blinking light gradually dimmed. Not long after, the loud cries of a baby were heard from inside the operating room, followed by another baby¡¯s louder cries.


    ¡°Thanks to God, ¡± they all said simultaneously.


    In the operating room, Darian and Fahira couldn¡¯t hold back their emotions as the cries of their two babies echoed. Tears flowed from their eyes as two nurses presented the two red-faced babies before them. ¡°Thank you, my love!¡± Darian whispered, kissing Fahira¡¯s face as tears streamed down. It was the most emotional and thrilling experience Darian had ever had, making him even more grateful for the blessings Ah had bestowed upon him.


    ¡°Our sons, love!¡± Fahira said with a trembling voice as a nurse ced one of the babies on her chest for early breastfeeding. The tiny little lips of the baby moved gently.


    Shortly after, the two babies were taken by the nurses to be cleaned and wrapped in warm nkets. Darian received a call to perform the Azan for his two sons. He kissed Fahira¡¯s forehead before following the nurse to a room with frosted ss in the corner of the operating room. Meanwhile, the doctor and medical team were tending to Fahira¡¯s body after the surgery.


    ***


    After three days of being hospitalized, Fahira was finally allowed to go home. The fear she felt before undergoing the surgery had disappeared, reced by an indescribable happiness that filled her heart.


    Yasmin, who was experiencing being a grandmother for the first time, couldn¡¯t help but shed tears repeatedly. She imagined what it would be like if her husband, Rusdi, was here with her, enjoying thepany of their grandchildren together ¨C something they had always dreamed of.


    ¡°Fahira, let her rest, Darian!¡± Yasmin said while carrying one of her grandchildren, while the other baby was in the arms of Bi Aminah.


    ¡°Yes, Mom!¡± Darian replied, assisting Fahira to get back onto the bed. He ced a pillow behind Fahira¡¯s back so she could lean against itfortably.


    ¡°Still in pain?¡± Darian whispered as he noticed Fahira¡¯s body moving with stiffness. The woman hissed a few times when trying to adjust her position. Then, Darian offered her some food or drink that she might want.


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, honey, it¡¯s bearable!¡± Fahira replied, not paying attention to Darian. Instead, she gazed at her two beloved babies with sparkling eyes. Fahira still felt like she was dreaming, having these two cute and adorable babies at the same time.


    Jonah Mahesa Putra was born weighing 2. 05 kg and measuring 47 cm in length. As the younger brother, Joziah Mahesa Putra was born slightly bigger, weighing 2. 54 kg and measuring 50 cm, making the little baby look chubbierpared to his older sibling. Even at just three days old, Joziah seemed more active and fussy, unlike his calm andposed older brother. Since birth, Jonah had shown signs of being considerate and understanding towards his little brother. He would easily fall asleep after nursing on Fahira¡¯s breast milk, unlike Joziah, who always fussed if he wasn¡¯t in Fahira¡¯s embrace.


    ¡°Your baby is so clever, Daddy!¡± praised Darian while waiting for Joziah to finish nursing with enthusiasm. Darian¡¯s index finger gently caressed Joziah¡¯s rosy cheek as the baby fell asleep. Meanwhile, Jonah remained calm in his crib. Since their time at the hospital, Jonah had never been fussy. He would only cry loudly when he was hungry.


    Darian carefully lifted Joziah from Fahira¡¯sp after making sure the little one was full. Then, he adjusted Fahira¡¯s pillow to ensure she could restfortably.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Darian asked as Fahira put her feet on the floor.


    ¡°I need to change my pad, honey. It seems full,¡± Fahira exined while wincing in pain from her soreness.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take you there!¡± Darian replied promptly and helped Fahira to the bathroom.


    To Darian¡¯s surprise, the bathroom had been tidied up by Mama. All of Fahira¡¯s necessities were neatly arranged inside the mini walk-in closet. Darian assisted Fahira to sit on the toilet seat.


    ¡°You can wait outside. I can do it myself!¡± Fahira retorted, intending to change the pad, which was full of postpartum blood. She felt embarrassed and worried that Darian might feel disgusted seeing her dirty blood.


    ¡°Why? Are you embarrassed?¡± Darian asked, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Yesterday at the hospital, I was the one who changed your pad, right? Now I can do it again!¡± Darian continued, kneeling in front of Fahira.


    ¡°Well, at that time, I was still in pain, but now I can do it myself!¡± Fahira replied, still keeping an eye on Darian as he pulled her dress up to clean her intimate area.


    ¡°This has be Darian¡¯s duty, my dear!¡± Darian diligently cleaned Fahira¡¯s body and washed the pad full of blood until it was clean. Fahira, who was observing Darian¡¯s movements while he was putting on the new pad, could only remain silent. She was truly surprised that someone like Darian could handle such a disgusting task without feeling disgusted.


    After making sure everything was clean, Darian helped Fahira out of the bathroom. Fahira walked slowly towards the baby cribs, a smile spreading across her face as she saw her two healthy babies. Her hand reached out to caress Jonah¡¯s cheek, and then she switched to gently touch Joziah in the crib.


    ¡°Mommy said that Joziah looks exactly like you when you were a baby,¡± Darian mumbled proudly, following Fahira¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Seems like it!¡± Fahira chuckled and lifted her face to meet Darian¡¯s warm brown eyes. Cup¡­ Darian gave her a quick kiss on the lips and hugged her tightly.


    Darian nced at the clock on the wall, which showed it was already 10 PM, and suggested they should rest as they needed to wake up every two hours to breastfeed the twins. Yasmin had prepared a special room for the twins, but Fahira and Darian declined. They wanted to be in the same room with the twins. So, without their knowledge, Yasmin had amodated their wish and organized the room to be spacious andfortable.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Before dawn, Yasmin and Ariel were already in Fahira and Darian¡¯s room. The alternating cries of the twins had awakened everyone in the house. The soundproofing that was previously installed in the room had been removed. Yasmin was concerned that the new parents might feel overwhelmed at night. And indeed, when she saw Fahira¡¯s disheveled state and Darian looking lost trying to soothe Joziah.


    ¡°I told you, the twins need to be given form milk as well. Relying solely on Fahira¡¯s breast milk would be overwhelming. Besides, Fahira¡¯s breast milk hasn¡¯t fullye in yet,¡± Yasmin said, and then instructed Ariel to fetch form milk from the kitchen. Ariel hurriedly followed Yasmin¡¯smand.


    Ariel returned with arge box containing form milk, a thermos, and several bottles, as instructed by Yasmin. Seeing Ariel¡¯s haul, Fahira and Darian¡¯s eyes widened. They never expected Yasmin to have prepared everything for the twins as well.


    ¡°Mommy already prepared everything before you came home from the hospital!¡± Yasmin said while gently rocking Joziah, who was still sucking on his fingers due to thirst.


    Ariel quickly prepared the form milk as per Yasmin¡¯s guidance and gave it to Joziah.


    ¡°See, look!¡± Baby Joziah instantly fell silent as he sucked on the form milk given by Yasmin. He was so hungry that the sound of him gulping down the milk was audible to everyone. Meanwhile, baby Jonah continued to suckle on Fahira¡¯s breast strongly.


    The atmosphere became calm again as both babies fell back asleep. Sleepiness immediately overcame Fahira and Darian. However, Yasmin prevented Darian from climbing onto the bed.


    ¡°Darian, you should pray Fajr first before going back to sleep. Oh, and Fahira, why don¡¯t you make some milk or tea for yourself? Poor thing, you¡¯ve been breastfeeding the twins all night. I¡¯m sure you must be hungry now,¡± Yasmin said as she carefully ced baby Jonah back into the crib.


    ¡°Yes, Mom,¡± Darian replied shortly.


    ¡°Go pray first, Darian. I¡¯ll make some milk for Sister Fahira!¡± Ariel chimed in before Darian left the room.


    ¡°Thank you, dear!¡± Fahira answered this time. Her stomach had indeed been empty sincest night.


    Ariel and Yasmin left the room while Darian performed ablution to pray. True to their words, after Fahira quickly finished her milk, she immediately fell asleep again with Darian by her side.


    At 7 AM, Fahira woke up, slightly surprised to see the two cribs empty. She was sure that her babies were now with their grandmother and uncle. However, Fahira felt bad for making her mother-inw busy, while she and Darian had fallen into a deep sleep.


    ¡°Darian, wake up! Our babies are not in the cribs!¡± Fahira murmured, sessfully waking Darian up. In a semi-conscious state, he leaped off the bed.


    ¡°Where are our babies!¡± Darian said, getting into a ready position.


    ¡°Hahaha, you¡¯re funny, honey. They must be with Mommy now,¡± Fahira chuckled as she sat up and tied her hair hastily, leaving Darian in confusion.


    ¡°Darian, you can go downstairs! I¡¯ll take a shower first!¡± Fahira continued amidst herughter. She stretched her legs to the floor and walked towards the bathroom.


    ¡°Do you want me to help you shower?¡± Darian offered, trying to wake himself up.


    ¡°No need, I can manage on my own. You go downstairs and check on the babies. Besides, the bathroom is well-equipped, right?¡± Fahira continued, entering the bathroom and closing the door.


    ¡°Seems like that¡¯s how it should be, my dear. I might faint if I stay in there!¡± Darianughed while still looking at the bathroom door. He tidied his hair and clothes, then went downstairs while imagining what Fahira might be doing inside the bathroom. ¡°Fasting, Darian. Fasting!¡±

 Gavin鈥檚 Family

    58


    With a blossoming smile, Fahira examined herself in front of the mirror. She scrutinized her body, which had undergone drastic changes. From being slim and sexy, she had transformed into a curvier woman, especially in the chest area. The smile at the corners of her lips was momentarily concealed by the sudden appearance of tears in her eyes. Then, her hands lifted to cup her chubby cheeks in front of her reflection. asionally, she would gently press her cheeks to make them look slimmer, reminiscent of her appearance ten months ago when she was not pregnant with the twins.


    A heavy sigh filled the quiet room. The woman standing in front of the dressing table shook her head repeatedly, trying to dismiss the sudden negative thoughts that rudely disrupted her happiness and wreaked havoc on her emotions.


    Fahira reached for the makeup set on the dressing table to apply a bit of powder to conceal the dark circles under her eyes and her paleplexion. She also added a soft pink color to her lips. Satisfied with her appearance, Fahira checked herself from head to toe in the mirror, asionally twirling her curvier figure, although she was sure that no matter from which angle she looked at herself, her body wouldn¡¯t change.


    Suddenly, she realized her mistake. Instead ofining, she should be more grateful. Out there, many other people were eagerly awaiting the arrival of their own bundles of joy. Was it right for her toin when Ah had blessed her with two healthy and adorable babies at once?


    After realizing her wrongdoing, Fahira hurriedly stepped out of the room to meet her entire family. She wore a knee-length silver in dress with buttons at the front, hugging her body. Her wet hair cascaded beautifully down her shoulders. However, before she reached the door, she felt pain in her abdomen from the post-surgery.


    ¡°Oh god, I forgot to wear the postpartum girdle, no wonder it hurts!¡± Fahira moaned as she went back inside and put on the girdle to support her abdomen, which, of course, appeared loose after being home to two babies at once. Unlike before, this time Fahira only focused on securing the girdle around her waist, without minding her body looking plumper.


    ¡°Is Sister Fahira feeling better now?¡± Ariel said, coincidentally meeting her at the bottom of the stairs. The teenager observed Fahira¡¯s refreshed and radiant appearance.


    ¡°I¡¯m getting there, dear. Still in pain, but it¡¯s nothingpared to having the twins in our lives!¡± Fahira replied, weing Ariel¡¯s warm hug.


    Fahira¡¯s arms encircled Ariel¡¯s waist, while Ariel, with her possessive manner, wrapped her arm around Fahira¡¯s shoulders as they descended the stairs. Ariel still couldn¡¯t believe that she now had a new family that truly loved her. Yasmin, the middle-aged woman, treated her with great kindness, just like her own child. Ariel finally received the abundance of love from a mother she had longed for.


    ¡°Why is it so crowded?¡± Fahira asked, noticing the housekeepers busy in the kitchen.


    ¡°We¡¯re having a thanksgiving and aqiqah ceremony for the twins, Sister,¡± Ariel exined as she led Fahira, still hugging her, to the living room.


    ¡°Come here, Fahira!¡± Desi, Gavin¡¯s mother, called out while holding baby Joziah. Meanwhile, baby Jonah was in Farah¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Sorry, I didn¡¯t know there were guests!¡± Fahira released her embrace on Ariel and took the hands of Gavin¡¯s parents, kissing the back of their hands, followed by Ariel.


    ¡°How are Gavin and Farah?¡± Fahira greeted as she sat next to Darian. Without hesitation, Darian took Fahira¡¯s hand and brought it to hisp, holding it tightly.


    ¡°We¡¯re doing well, Sister,¡± Farah replied, stroking the rosy cheeks of baby Jonah who lookedfortable on herp. ¡°By the way, Fahira, how do you manage to have twins like this?¡± Farah continued, making Gavin¡¯s eyes widen. Her candid attitude had always been fearless.


    ¡°Do you want us to have twins like you and Darian, dear?¡± Gavin asked with a yful smile. To Farah¡¯s enthusiasm, she nodded her head with an innocent face.


    Rania, sitting next to Ariel, rolled her eyeszily. Gavin had openly refused to marry Farah before, and even after they got married, he never treated Farah like a wife. Rania felt sorry for witnessing how Gavin treated his wife with rudeness and indifference. And now, with his sweet act of calling Farah affectionate names.


    ¡°Why are you upset? Isn¡¯t this what we hoped for, that the rtionship between Brother Darian and Brother Gavin improves?¡± Ariel whispered as she noticed Rania¡¯s irritation with her own brother.


    ¡°Brother Gavin is just putting on a show, you know! I still don¡¯t believe his sweet words. He probably just wants to show off to Fahira that he has moved on,¡± Rania whispered back.


    Ariel and Rania were witnesses to the love triangle between Fahira, Darian, and Gavin. They often exchanged stories about their own siblings. In the past, Ariel and Rania had even tried to y matchmakers for Gavin and Fahira. However, Ariel couldn¡¯t force Fahira to choose Gavin as her life partner; in the end, Fahira chose Darian.


    ¡°Ehem¡­ Ariel, Rania! You shouldn¡¯t get too close!¡± Darian scolded when he noticed the intimacy between the two teenagers. Although Ariel and Rania imed to be just friends, their closeness made everyone doubt the true nature of their rtionship.


    ¡°From now on, Des, Abi. They¡¯re already adults. Besides, isn¡¯t it nice that we could be rted by marriageter?¡± Yasminughed, causing everyone to join in. Rania could only bury her blushing face, while Ariel looked embarrassed and scratched the back of her head with an awkward smile.


    The warm and lengthy conversation with Gavin¡¯s extended family had made Fahira unintentionally skip her breakfast. After the Gavin family left, Fahira whispered to Darian, ¡°I¡¯m hungry.¡± At the same time, her stomach growled loudly, and she gently caressed her belly.


    ¡°Oops, I forgot that you haven¡¯t had breakfast yet, my love.¡± Darian hit his forehead with the palm of his hand, then quickly got up from the sofa and went to the kitchen. To soothe the rumbling in her stomach, Fahira turned on the television, looking for a channel that featured Indonesian cuisine ¨C her hobby since she was pregnant with the twins.


    Shortly after, Darian returned with a tray in his hand. The dish looked so appetizing, as if it was inviting Fahira to devour it immediately.


    ¡°Mommy said you shouldn¡¯t eat spicy food while breastfeeding,¡± Darian said as he ced the tray on the table, right in front of Fahira.


    ¡°Yes, honey. I already know that. After giving birth, mothers should avoid spicy food,¡± Fahira exined, pausing for a moment. ¡°I¡¯ll eat on my own. You can eat too.¡±


    ¡°Okay. You go ahead, and I¡¯ll get my own food.¡± Darian got up from the sofa, tousled Fahira¡¯s hair, and left.


    Fahira gently caressed her overfilled stomach as the cry of a baby was heard. Yasmin came out of her room carrying baby Jonah and ced him on Fahira¡¯sp, with Darian preparing a pillow as support. Baby Jonah eagerlytched onto Fahira¡¯s breast, and the sound of his gulping was audible. Darian couldn¡¯t stop admiring his reflection in baby Jonah¡¯s face. He chuckled when the little baby choked a bit due to Fahira¡¯s abundant breast milk. Soon after Jonah was full and fell back asleep, the cries of baby Joziah prompted Darian to get up from his seat.


    ¡°See, I just thought about it, and now the other one will start crying,¡± Darian teased as he took baby Joziah from Santi¡¯s hands.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think you need to cover it again, dear. It¡¯s useless!¡± Darian joked when he noticed Fahira¡¯s unbuttoned shirt.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look,ter you¡¯ll envy them!¡± Yasmin retorted withughter while taking baby Jonah back from Fahira¡¯sp.


    ¡°Mom, you¡¯re always like that!¡± Darian replied with augh. It wasn¡¯t just envy; he already felt some difort down there. It seemed like he would be fasting for a longer time, considering Fahira had only undergone the operation a month ago, and it might be 2-3 months before he could break his ¡°fast.¡± Darian had read from several articles that some mothers only resumed intimate rtions after 6 months or more following the surgery.


    As exined by Dr. Intan, they were actually allowed to resume intimate rtions 6-8 weeks after the operation. However, it all depended on the wife¡¯s physical and psychological condition, as all women after childbirth experience psychological disturbances. From losing self-confidence due to changes in body shape to stress caused byck of rest and support from family and the surrounding environment. Therefore, Darian tried to always be by Fahira¡¯s side until she could adjust to her current condition. He didn¡¯t want Fahira to experience baby blues, a psychological disorder that could eventually affect their rtionship and even the production of breast milk. So, he promised to be a vignt husband 24/7 for his wife, their two little ones, and of course, for the sake of the ¡°junior.¡±


    ¡°You should rest, my love!¡± Darian suggested after Fahira fixed her appearance.Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m bored in the room, can I stay here?¡± Fahira offered, looking at the two baby cribs in the corner of the living room. Baby Jonah and Joziah were sleeping soundly in their respective cribs. Fahira was grateful that Yasmin truly understood her desires. Without Fahira even asking, her mother-inw had already prepared baby cribs in addition to those in the bedroom.


    ¡°Mommy is the best, no doubt,¡± praised Darian as he hugged and kissed Yasmin¡¯s cheek before she left.


    ¡°Besides, this is also for mommy¡¯s own convenience. Mama doesn¡¯t need to go upstairs to your room. Let the twins stay here close to Mommy¡¯s room,¡± exined Yasmin with augh. Her graceful hand lovingly caressed Darian¡¯s face.


    Not wanting to be carried away by emotions and the memories of herte husband, Yasmin quickly went into the room. But before that, she instructed Darian to adjust the position of the sofa bed that Fahira would use.


    While Fahira was sleeping, Darian sat on the side of the sofa, ying with his phone.


    ¡°David,¡± Darian murmured as he saw a WhatsApp message from his friend.


    David:


    ¡°Alea and I are nning to visit the twins this afternoon. Hope you don¡¯t mind?¡±


    Darian quickly replied to David¡¯s message.


    Darian:


    ¡°Of course, not at all, Bro! Both of us are looking forward to your visit.¡±


    Meanwhile, inside the room, Fahira woke up from her nap. Her vision was still slightly blurry from just waking up. After moving a little and feeling slightly refreshed, she noticed Darian sitting next to the sofa.


    ¡°Honey, how long did I sleep?¡± she asked softly.


    ¡°About two hours, Honey,¡± Darian replied, setting his phone aside.


    ¡°It¡¯s been three days since I¡¯ve been home, but it feels like I haven¡¯t had a proper rest yet,¡± Fahira sighed while rubbing her face.


    ¡°Is there something bothering you, Honey? Do you feel ufortable here?¡± Darian asked with concern.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not that. I¡¯m just overwhelmed with the joy of having the twins and all the love and care from everyone. I guess it¡¯s just taking some time for me to adjust,¡± Fahira exined with a smile, reassuring Darian.

 Endlesss Love (End)

    That afternoon, David and Alea came to visit the twins. They were warmly weed by the entire Setiadi family. Apart from being Darian¡¯s personal assistant at the office, David was also his best friend. In fact, Yasmin had known about the close bond between the two men since they were in high school.


    ¡°Honey, aren¡¯t you tired of kissing baby Joziah all the time?¡± David protested, as Alea had been adoring the handsome face of baby Joziah non-stop since they arrived an hour ago. If observed closely, the two babies looked like duplicates of Darian, but one of them had darker brown eyes. Coincidentally, baby Joziah, with Darian¡¯s signature dark brown eyes, was in Alea¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re jealous of this handsome little guy!¡± Alea squinted her eyes at David, her husband of three months and the father of the baby in her womb.


    ¡°You know how jealous I can be!¡± David replied, stealing a kiss on Alea¡¯s cheek.


    Aleaughed and apologized to Darian and Fahira. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for this childish yboy¡¯s behavior!¡± Her words made Darian and Fahira burst intoughter together.


    They still couldn¡¯t believe that the romantic entanglements they had faced in the past had now unraveled so beautifully. Darian breathed a sigh of relief, his hand embracing Fahira¡¯s shoulder while baby Jonah slept soundly in her arms. He was happy for his friend and former prospective fianc¨¦e. David, the yboy, had finally found true love. Just like himself, who had also found true love through a one-night mistake. A mistake that ended beautifully.


    ***


    Two yearster¡­


    Fahira admired her appearance in the mirror, making sure that Darian would be enchanted and fall in love with her all over again, just like three years ago when they were still dating. The ck long dress she wore had a simple yet elegant design that showcased her sexy figure. The silver high-heeled shoes with sparkling glitters matched the clutch bag that was already on the bed. Everything she wore was a gift from Darian, tailored to her taste. Darian always understood whatever she wanted, or rather, he always made an effort to understand andpromise. In their three years of marriage, they faced various challenges that tested their love. Sometimes, problems arose and disrupted their rtionship, but with Darian¡¯s mature attitude, they managed to resolve them all amicably.


    Unlike their previous wedding anniversary celebration, which was held grandly at home with family and close friends, this time Darian wanted to surprise his beloved wife in a beautiful way. The mother of the two adorable toddlers who made him reluctant to stay at the office every day.


    Fahira added the final touches to her appearance, tidying up her long hair and styling it into an elegant updo, leaving a few strands to cascade down the sides of her face. Before leaving the room, she sprayed her favorite vanice perfume, the one Darian loved, all over her body.


    Fahira found the house looking empty. Before going downstairs, she took the time to check Ariel¡¯s room. However, it was empty, and suddenly her hand touched her forehead as she smiled. Fahira had forgotten that Ariel was no longer her little brother whom she always worried about. The teenager had grown into an adult. It was not right for Fahira to excessively worry about her younger sibling. Ariel was now 21 years old and a fourth-semester student of economics and business at a prestigious university in Jakarta, following in Darian¡¯s footsteps. After graduating, Ariel was being prepared to assist Darian in hispany. In fact, Darian nned to hand over the CEO position to his brother-inw, as he himself would take over Yasmin¡¯s position in thepany.


    ¡°Shall we, Madam?¡± said a middle-aged man named Ari, pulling her out of her thoughts. He was the driver instructed by Darian to pick her up.


    ¡°Certainly, let¡¯s go, Sir,¡± Fahira replied with a bright smile.


    In about 20 minutes, Fahira arrived at a luxurious hotel lobby with a gold theme. She walked gracefully into the lobby, where two female hotel attendants warmly weed her and escorted her to her destination. Even Fahira herself didn¡¯t know where she was being taken. She chose to keep her lips sealed, although her curiosity was making her heart race.


    Finally, Fahira arrived at a ballroom in the hotel, beautifully decorated with pastel colors. A man in a silver suit with a beaming smile stood there, weing her with loving eyes. Although the lighting in the setting was a bit dim, Fahira could see the sparkle of love in his dark brown eyes, which were now fixed on her.


    With tears welling up in her eyes, Fahira took steps toward the man she loved. She was so focused on the man with the dark brown eyes that she didn¡¯t notice the thousands, even millions, of flower petals that apanied her every step. Her only goal was to receive the warm embrace of the muscr man and hug him back.


    ¡°Honey!¡± Fahira whispered, still locking eyes with him.


    ¡°Special for you, sweetheart.¡± Darian closed the distance between them and nted a brief kiss on Fahira¡¯s luscious lips. She closed her eyes for a moment, savoring the warmth that spread through her entire body.


    ¡°Are you hungry?¡± Darian asked, directing his gaze to the dinner set up on the table. He had prepared a romantic dinner for the two of them.


    Laughing, Fahira shook her head. How could Darian ruin their romantic moment like this?Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    ¡°I have something for you, my love.¡± Darian took out a ck velvet box from his suit pocket.


    ¡°This is just a small gift from me. It doesn¡¯tpare to all the gifts you¡¯ve given me in my life,¡± Darian whispered as he slowly opened the ck velvet box.


    Fahira stood still as the beautiful sparkle caught her eyes.


    ¡°So beautiful!¡± Fahira eximed, tears of joy starting to form on her cheeks.


    ¡°You are the beauty in my life, my love. Thank you for all the love and our two precious children. I love you so much!¡± Darian ced the box on the table and delicately picked up the diamond ne with a heart-shaped pendant.


    Darian moved behind Fahira and fastened the diamond ne around her slender neck. ¡°You must always remember, my heart belongs only to you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, my love!¡± Fahira whispered, holding the beautiful pendant with both hands.


    ¡°This is just the beginning, sweetheart!¡± Darian whispered, creating some distance between them. He grinned and pped his hands.


    A shower of rose petals fell from above like rain, along with a message that read ¡®Happy 3rd Anniversary Darian ¨C Fahira.¡¯


    ¡°I love you, Darian,¡± Fahira said, embracing Darian tightly. He chuckled and nted a kiss on the top of Fahira¡¯s head.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you embarrassed to be the center of attention for so many people?¡± Darian whispered, causing Fahira, who was in his arms, to tense up.


    Before Fahira could ask, a loud chorus of anniversary wishes echoed throughout the ballroom, apanied by bright lights that showcased the luxurious decorations. Yasmin descended the staircase, holding two handsome toddlers, followed by the entire Gavin family, David, and Darian¡¯s extended family specially invited from Turkey.


    Fahira tearfully reached out her arms as she knelt down to greet her two little heroes running toward her. The emotion was quickly reced by the joy and excitement of the party that had just begun. After everyone congratted Darian and Fahira, they rushed to the feast that had just been served by the hotel staff. This luxurious hotel was one of the newest establishments owned by Putra Corporation, a special gift from Darian to Fahira.


    ¡°Did you happen to read the name of this hotel, honey?¡± Darian whispered in Fahira¡¯s ear.


    Fahira hesitated for a moment, then lifted her face to meet his gaze, looking into his dark brown eyes that were also looking back at her. Fahira shook her head as an answer to Darian¡¯s question.


    ¡°Fahira Hotel,¡± Darian continued, embracing Fahira.


    ¡°If I could turn back time, I would start everything beautifully. Without causing any pain. I will always love and cherish you with every breath I take. I promise, always love you, Fahira Ramadhani.¡±


    Darian¡¯s heartfelt expression made Fahira tighten her embrace. For her, it was not just about material things, but the genuine love that Darian had for her. She felt like the luckiest woman in the world.


    _____END______


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