Did Ester sleep peacefully all night? No, not at all. Instead, her mind wandered off somewhere and couldn't be redirected to things that made her happy. It always led to Leonel, who, for some reason, left his room. There were many questions she wanted to ask, but oh God! Why did Leonel treat her differently as time went on? Since Chloe's accident, Ester tried to stick closer to Leonel because it was a rare opportunity. Also, when Chloe, in Ester's eyes, foolishly asked her to join the Grisham family.
She thought that with that permission granted, their divorce would happen soon. She could be with Leonel forever. She wouldn't have excessive worries about Leonel possibly turning away. But it turned out that the accident became a turning point where she became the threatened party day by day.
Ester was not blind to seeing all of that happening around her.
When she opened her eyes after struggling to push away all the things weighing on her chest, she immediately grabbed her phone from the nightstand. She called Sofi and asked to be picked up in two hours. At least she had time to prepare. She still had plenty of tricks to bring Chloe down, including her presence at the Mountain Pte birthday party. It would be challenging for everyone to turn away from her radiant company. Compared to Chloe? There was no comparison.
So she needed more preparation. If others couldn't turn away from her, Leonel couldn't either.
"Don't be late," Ester emphasized at the end of the phone call.
"Alright, Miss." Sofi was always ready to answer and obey whatever Ester commanded. That was what made Ester like this girl to work with her. As for the rest? Because she complained too much and worked slowly, which made Ester angry, and she fired several people before Sofi started working for her.
Putting aside her thoughts still revolving around Leonel and Chloe, especially the shadow from last night at the dining table, made her blood boil. She didn't care if what she did behind Chloe's back with Leonel was even crazier and more intimate than what her eyes caught last night. Her principle was that it wasn't her fault but Tisaa's—that flawed woman who took Leonel away from her side.
Growling in frustration, Ester moved to drench her body with running water. She tried to ensure she could wear a broad smile when Ester left her room later because she had to face Chloe and Agatha. Especially Agatha. That middle-aged woman was also an obstacle to getting Leonel.
She remembered the first time Leonel brought her to the Grisham family dinner. Luxurious and classy. She never forgot how tense she felt when they stepped out of the elevator to the restaurant in one of the strategic places inside this towering building.
"No need to be nervous, Ester," Leonel said with a smile. Ester always fell in love when the man next to her displayed his genuine smile. His handsome face multiplied several times. Not to mention his always neat appearance adorned with his favorite brands, making Leonel's appearance captivating forever, causing the girls around him unable to divert their gaze quickly.
"I'm afraid of saying the wrong thing, Darling." Ester grasped Leonel's hand a little tighter. In the reflection of the glass they passed by, Ester ensured there was nothing wrong with her appearance. The Salem-colored dress with a ribbon accent at the waist, with her arms covered to the elbows, looked modest, but Ester was still Ester. The dress hugged her beautiful body quite tightly, only reaching her long calves, which she paired with black heels and a matching clutch.
Most of the accessories she wore to complete her appearance tonight were gifts from Leonel. The beautiful and classy black gem was a gift because Ester finally agreed to spend the night with the Grisham family. Deep down, Ester could already read the Grisham family's movements regarding Leonel. Being an heir is undoubtedly not easy regarding romantic relationships with just anyone.
But Ester was Ester. She couldn't be shaken just because of their social status. After all, Ester wasn't an unemployed person who only knew how to spend Leonel's money. She worked hard to make a name for Ester Gisela and be accepted into the modeling scene in Indonesia. Her goal didn't stop there; as long as she was capable, Ester would continue striving to showcase her talent internationally.
"Mama and Papa aren't the types to speak without thinking. They are relaxed, Ester. You relax too." Leonel gently tapped Ester's hand near him. "Don't be afraid. I'm here."
It was true. What Leonel said always stayed the same and was always fulfilled. Throughout the dinner, where many courses were served and looked delicious, Ester did her best to keep up with their conversations. Especially when Leonel's mother, Agatha Theodore, asked her questions.
"Since when have you been involved in modeling?" Agatha asked. Her tone was well-modulated. Her gaze was sharp, authoritative, and friendly, yet not easy to speak, and her body gestures were calculated.
"Since I graduated from high school, Aunt."
Agatha nodded slowly. "What about your university?"
"I haven't graduated yet. I'm still preparing my thesis."
Agatha furrowed her brows and raised her hand, noticing Leonel wanted to speak. "Why is it delayed?"
Ester knew that things like education, lineage, how she spoke, and how she responded to all the small talk questions around the dining table were Agatha's way of assessing her. She would continue to fight whether she was worthy and could stand alongside Leonel because of her love for Leonel, regardless of whether Ester was sidelined or outright rejected.
"I have many photoshoots that I've already signed, Aunt," Ester replied as she sipped her drink. The opening part of the meal session had just finished. Several servers there began serving the main dishes, including the grilled lobster that Ester could tell was priced fantastically just by its aroma.
"How long have you been in a relationship?" This time the question came from a middle-aged man named Robby Grisham. He still appeared fit, and his sternness was evident on his face. Since Ester's arrival, he had yet to speak much. He only smiled when he reached out his hand to shake Ester. After that, he busied himself talking to Leonel about work matters.
"Almost three years, Uncle," Ester replied with a smile at the end of her words.
"Do you intend to get married?" Robby asked as if there was no need to think about anything else. His eyes also assessed Leonel, sitting before him, and then looked intently at Ester. "Leonel?"
"Yes, Dad. But not soon."
There was a noticeable sigh of relief from Agatha and Robby, which Ester could see from her sitting position. "Leonel plans to get married after I graduate, Uncle, Aunt," Ester clarified their relationship. "Isn't that right, Leonel?"
"Correct." Leonel nodded. "That's what I said, not soon."
"Are you serious about this woman, Leonel?" Agatha glanced briefly at Ester and then shifted her gaze, staring intently at Leonel.
"Yes," Leonel replied firmly.
"Have you researched her background?"
"Love doesn't need a background, Mama. I've loved Ester since our first meeting. We came here to seek your blessing so our marriage can begin smoothly. That's all." Leonel spoke with a firm tone.
"If that's the case, you don't have our blessing, Leonel." Agatha took one of the large folders she had placed on the chair next to her. "I always find out about anyone close to you—adversaries and people of the same kind. Grishams are not ordinary people that anyone can meddle with, Leonel. You know that very well."
"But, Mom," Leonel protested quickly.
"No 'buts.' You can read and thoroughly examine the background of Ester Gisela. I don't care about her achievements in the modeling world, but once she becomes your wife, will that woman next to you be willing to give up everything?"
Ester swallowed hard. Her hands were tightly clenched. She felt extremely frustrated. What was wrong with her background? There was nothing wrong. She was born into a good family, even though it fell apart along the way. She was never involved in any form of crime, including drugs. She could end up with a negative reputation while pursuing her career under the gaze of professional cameras.
"What else burdens Mama about Ester? Leonel has told Mama everything. Mee too. Leonel has often emphasized that all he wants is Ester, not any other woman."
Robby cleared his throat softly, making Leonel stop speaking, while Ester, defended by the man, gently rubbed Leonel's arm. To calm the emotions that had surfaced. It was evident from his rising voice and his irregularly fluctuating chest. His jaw also tightened as he finished speaking just now.
"That's enough, Leonel," Robby said softly. "Don't prolong a problem you already know the outcome of."
Ester furrowed her brow.
"From the beginning, we didn't agree with you being in a relationship with Ester. And you, Ester, stay away from Leonel. Put an end to everything related to Leonel. If you insist, I won't hesitate to hinder every step you take."
***
Ester was used to having her meals prepared by her assistant. Anyone would do, including choosing clothes that she thought would fit her mood for the day, which she would wear. But if not, Ester would choose for herself. But often, she would wear what her assistant had prepared. After all, the assistant was paid to do their job. It would be pointless for Ester to pay them and still disregard some things.
This time, her outfit was decent enough for a morning breakfast together. She was much better now and could control herself, unlike when she remembered the most detestable meal. She would do it if there were a chance to retaliate against Robby and Agatha. Oh, hasn't it already started? Where did she get that special ticket? So she wouldn't waste it. She would make the most of it. As much as possible to gain control over this house and Leonel. It would be pointless to control this house if she couldn't touch its owner or Leonel anymore. She couldn't let that happen to her.
Everything was already planned. She couldn't afford to be careless anymore. That included responding to Chloe's increasingly disgusting behavior.
"Good morning," she greeted everyone politely as they were seated in their respective chairs. She immediately caught Agatha's sharp gaze, while Leonel only glanced at her briefly. Chloe? She smiled broadly, but that smile was full of venom in Ester's eyes. "Oh, it seems like I'm late, right?"
"Please enjoy your meal, Ester," Chloe said in the friendliest tone possible. "Bi Rossa, prepare it for Miss Ester. I can't get used to calling her 'madam' yet because there is still one lady of the house here."
Ester's hand clenched tightly, but she tried to hide it with a smile. She felt immensely irritated. Chloe was unlucky.
"Please, Miss Ester," one of the servants, who never strayed far from the dining table, said. Besides assisting Chloe, they also served everyone present.
"For Miss Ester, don't serve what I asked for her breakfast." Chloe sipped her drink slowly.
"Yes, ma'am. I'll serve a different menu for Miss Ester."
"I wanted to taste the famous dishes prepared by the lady of the house," Ester challenged. She didn't want to back down, not now. "But it doesn't matter. I'm afraid that food might contain certain elements and prevent me from working today." Ester began to enjoy the spaghetti with melted cheese on top. Indeed, what was prepared for her was different. Leonel and Chloe were eating the same dish, as was Agatha. Ester didn't know Chloe's intention, but she wouldn't lose.
"That's not all, Ester. You're right to be suspicious." Chloe spoke up again. Since she couldn't see Leonel's and Ester's expressions clearly, it seemed like she was satisfied with her wordplay. "As the lady of the house who knows what the residents of this house like and dislike, mostly..." Chloe turned her face to Leonel, who had been sitting beside her since earlier. Meanwhile, Ester was seated right in front of her. The sound of the chair being pulled by Ester before she sat down could be heard. "Mostly for my beloved husband. Anything. And I prepare it specifically for him because I realize you can't dominate the kitchen. You can only wrestle in bed."
Adrianna hasn't forgotten to remember the details of her conversation with Chloe about her husband's affair. However, it was just a brief conversation because whenever Adrianna tried to ask further, Chloe always avoided it. Perhaps the pain Chloe experienced was so great that it made her numb. Adrianna thought so. How could her best friend act so normal, considering the treatment Leonel and Ester had behind her back?
Even as a teacher at a play school level, Adrianna avoided discussing the achievements of someone like Ester Gisela. Just hearing her name being discussed made her annoyed. Because she knew what Ester had done that wasn't seen by the public. It was strange how Leonel covered all the rumors about Ester's name. How much does her best friend's husband love her to be willing to sacrifice so much?
Adrianna couldn't understand.
She admitted that Ester had built an excellent reputation for herself. The beautiful 32-year-old model has achieved many successes. Her face also showed class and uniqueness. But unfortunately, in Adrianna's eyes, she was nothing more than a woman who sought the happiness of others. If only the media knew what Ester had done, including being involved in someone else's marriage, Adrianna couldn't imagine how society would judge her.
Adrianna was sure that everyone hated her except for Ester's loyal fans.
And now, when Adrianna took the time to visit Chloe's house, she was slightly surprised to find that Ester was still there. However, the beautiful woman left shortly after with her assistant. Oh, there was something off about this. That pretty face displayed a sour smile. Something must have happened, but what? Adrianna would find out later. She would take advantage of this opportunity after waiting so long for Ester to fall.
At least in front of Chloe.
Being cheated on was highly uncomfortable. Adrianna was sure of that. It made someone feel insecure. She was wondering where they went wrong and what they lacked. Why did their partner choose someone else to satisfy their desires? Shifting their gaze to someone else, even though their spouse had fought to get their attention.
That's what Chloe did, and Adrianna knew it. Supporting Chloe in getting a divorce was the best option. Chloe was too precious to be hurt, especially by Leonel, who didn't know how to appreciate her.
"How are you, Adrianna?" Agatha asked with her friendly smile. Adrianna sometimes thought how lucky Chloe was to have someone who loved her like Aunt Agatha, who loved Chloe wholeheartedly. It was evident and couldn't deceive anyone's eyes. Her sincerity made Adrianna feel like Aunt Agatha was Chloe's biological mother. But no, Chloe's biological parents passed away long ago.
When Chloe could still see, she often took Adrianna to visit their graves. Adrianna thought Chloe would be sad seeing her parents' graves. But no, at that moment, Adrianna felt ashamed of her own life, which sometimes encountered dead ends.
"I still feel sad and lost. Remember that I suddenly became an orphan at a young age," Chloe once said. Her smile looked a little forced. "But I couldn't bear to see them suffer with all those tubes in their bodies. My heart still beats because I'm not ready to let them go. I thought I could be selfish for both of them."
Chloe's parents died in a tragic accident. Their lives depended on the tubes inserted all over their bodies.
"And now I'm sure they're happy up there. Together. What could be more beautiful? They didn't leave each other, did they? I'm here, living my life until I can be with them again."
Ah, that's why Adrianna hated people who hurt Chloe like this. Chloe was too good to experience deliberate pain in front of her eyes.
"Oh, lost in thought?" Agatha chuckled when she noticed her daughter-in-law's silence after asking. Was she surprised because of Ester's presence?"
Adrianna blinked slowly, cleared her throat briefly, then nodded slowly. "Yes, Aunt. It's annoying to start the day already feeling frustrated."
Agatha laughed again. "It's not just you, dear." She gently patted Adrianna's shoulder. "But Mami was delighted with what happened at the dining table earlier. Chloe showed her fangs."
Adrianna furrowed her brow. "What do you mean, Aunt?"
"Oh, you. Please don't call me Aunt. You've been with Esterng for so long, but you still do it," Agatha said, pouting. But then she smiled again. "Chloe will surely tell you."
Adrianna's curiosity grew even more. What was happening? But when she crossed paths with Ester earlier, who looked frustrated, something must have happened in this house.
"Oh, by the way, have you had breakfast? Chloe made sandwiches with meat filling. I admit, Chloe's cooking is truly delicious."
"Even though it's just toast, right, Aunt?" Adrianna let out a laugh. "Exactly, dear. You're right." The middle-aged woman was neatly dressed in a broken white blazer and a knee-length skirt. Agatha Theodore always showed attention to detail regarding her outfit, whether for formal events or simply having lunch with her husband. "I'll leave you two to talk in this garden. Or do you have any plans to go out?"
Adrianna paused for a moment. "Maybe, Aunt."
"It's better that way. Yes, take Chloe out. Getting some fresh air would be good for her progress. Mami is thrilled to hear about Chloe's recovery." Agatha's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Just make sure you accompany Chloe, okay, Adrianna? Don't let her be alone. Poor thing."
Adrianna smiled happily, nodding obediently and letting the middle-aged woman embrace her. She listened to Agatha's whispered gratitude for being there for Chloe until now. In her heart, Adrianna wondered, "When does she plan to get rid of Chloe?"
Meanwhile, Chloe, who had been busy tidying up the dining table, fell silent. Peni and Bi Rossa were also assisting her, even though Chloe had been helping with her movement stimulation and eye xercises.
"Please sit here, Mom," Peni politely requested. "Let me take care of it. What would you like me to make for you? Miss Adrianna seems to have come to visit."
Peni's words surprised Chloe. "This morning?"
"It's already noon, Mom." Peni chuckled. "You and Mrs. Agatha came down from your rooms around nine."
Chloe nodded softly. "Take me to Adrianna and serve some snacks."
Peni immediately fulfilled her mistress's request. For some reason, she felt pleased today, especially when she was near her mistress and saw the expression on the beautiful face of the person who made her mistress sad. Additionally, for the first time since Peni had been here, she could see the attention Leonel was giving Chloe.
"Are you having trouble cutting the toast?" Leonel asked during their meal. They were busy with their cutlery and their respective dishes. Peni and Rossa stood close to them, particularly those who had to be vigilant and observe the surroundings if Chloe needed assistance.
"No," Chloe quickly intervened when she felt Leonel approaching. "I can do it myself."
Their interaction drew the attention of both Peni and Rossa. There were meaningful smiles exchanged and significant eye contact. Agatha also noticed their exchange but joined in the unspoken agreement without uttering a word, conveying their gratitude for what Leonel was doing.
And it only heightened Ester's emotions. It was quite a pleasure for her to witness this drama at the dining table, where the mistress of a prominent man turned out to be nothing more than a means to satisfy his desires.
"Do you need help, Chloe?" Leonel asked again. "Let me do it. Or do you want me to feed you because of your stubbornness?"
Chloe was taken aback, then shook her head quickly. "It's fine. Do whatever you want."
Since she had been here, there was no longer any need for secret conversations between Leonel and Chloe. Leonel openly cheated on Chloe, but what surprised them was that Chloe herself asked Leonel's mistress to be present. Despite Chloe's blindness, her beauty, sincerity, and attitude toward others remained the same. Nothing had changed except for the first time when Peni saw Chloe's condition after the accident. It was a natural reaction because losing one's sight was not a trivial matter.
"Chloe," Adrianna called out quickly. The girl gently grabbed her friend's arm and asked Peni to leave them alone. "Did I correct your appearance today?"
"Is something wrong?" Chloe asked, sounding worried. "Aunt Agatha chose this for me. She said it matches the brightness of today. Is that so?"
Adrianna laughed but nodded happily. "Yep. Mama Agatha is right. It's a bright day, and you look great in this soft color."
A relieved sigh escaped Chloe's lips. "You know, I feel like a walking orange juice. Because, from my perspective, this orange dress seems a bit too much."
"No," Adrianna retorted. "Maybe you see it as a bright orange, but it's a soft orange. The color is very gentle to the eyes. Or do you want me to take a picture of you?"
"Some things never change," Chloe teased.
"It's not just for the gallery, Chloe." Adrianna guided Chloe to sit on one of the comfortable sofas in the Grisham family lounge. Rows of large books adorned a tall wooden shelf, adding to the room's atmosphere. Not to mention the large vase filled with various flowers that Chloe loved. Her love for flowers made this house feel much warmer than the monotony it would have been without any touches. Adrianna couldn't imagine caring for such a large and luxurious house, but Chloe did it exceptionally well. She was truly suited to be a homemaker, with everything that came with it.
"But you can use it as an archive in the future." Adrianna gently patted Chloe's hand. "When a beautiful woman in these photos is fighting against her limitations. Learning to accept what God has given her without losing her identity, with so much sincerity in her heart."
Adrianna's words elicited quite amusing laugh from Chloe. "Where did you learn such poetic words?"
Adrianna pouted slightly but then burst into laughter herself. "I wonder. Maybe crossing paths with Ester made me poetic?"
Chloe shook her head in disbelief, still with a smile lingering on her lips. "So... did I miss something here?"