Chapter 97: Chapter 97

Fathia takes a deep breath. Her hands are trembling quite a bit because what she's about to attend is quite nerve-wracking for her. For the first time, she's attending Alef Walker's court trial where today's session will announce the final decision regarding the judge's verdict. Throughout the investigation, testimonies in court and the collection of evidence have taken place, and not a single one from Alef Walker came out to defend himself.

Except for a few things he didn't do related to the fund markup associated with Sailendra. It took time to prove it, but Fathia is grateful that Vino periodically updates her that everything is going smoothly without any significant obstacles. Alef Walker can truly cooperate and seems to genuinely regret his actions.

Beside her, there's Jess trying to calm Fathia down. Since leaving the room, Fathia has looked anxious and even unenthusiastic about finishing her breakfast. Even though Naomi made pasta with an extra load of cheese.

They've been back in New York City for two weeks now. Carrying on with their usual activities, Fathia and Jess are back to attending classes, although not actively yet. They're catching up on next semester's schedule, and their backlog is being filled with piled-up coursework. Vino has taken care of all the paperwork for Fathia.

Jess's intention to reopen the cafe in its previous location has been postponed. The place that changed ownership has utilized the spot really well; it's a bakery now. Always bustling with visitors. Jess's cafe selection back then prioritized its strategic location. Fathia knows Jess's disappointment, even though her friend didn't say anything.

"We'll find a great one later. Next to my flower shop," Fathia reassures.

"Well... the thing is, I haven't really thought about the concept. I want it to match the one in Beverly Hills, but I need a chef as skilled as Asya. My head feels like it's going to explode, Fathia," Jess complains.

Luckily, because of this topic of conversation, the tension Fathia is feeling reduces somewhat. Escorted by Jack and accompanied by Sebastian's hired bodyguard, they smoothly make their way to the Central New York City Court. Before actually getting out of the car, Sebastian had advised them to wear sunglasses and head coverings. He doesn't want to take the risk that there are still people with ill intentions toward Fathia no matter where she is.

And true enough, their arrival was awaited by several media personnel. Fathia becomes even more tense due to the blitz of flashbulbs and a barrage of questions, especially about, "What will Miss Fathia do now? Considering Mr. Alef is your relative?"

Fortunately, Sebastian's hired guards move quickly. They create a small pathway for Fathia to pass through the crowd, shielding her from the many camera flashes pointed at her. Jess immediately pulls her into an embrace and guides her to walk briskly, trying to distance themselves from the uncomfortable situation. Both of them feel highly uncomfortable.

As they arrive in the courtroom, both Fathia and Jess let out a long breath. Relief.

"What's wrong with you guys?" Kenzo suddenly asks.

"What do you mean? You didn't mention there would be journalists!" Jess retorts.

Kenzo's eyes widen. "Seriously? But you're okay, right, Fathia?"

Fathia shakes her head with a small reassuring smile to her cousin. "Where's Aunt Laras?" she asks, changing the subject. And well... this manages to light a spark in the already tense atmosphere. Jess and Kenzo truly are like gasoline. With just a little spark, they explode. They can't have a peaceful moment or use words with a calm tone.

It's always high tension, and no one wants to give in.

"She's here. Come on, you're being waited for."

Both of them following Kenzo's steps, although Jess is clearly grumbling. She shakes her head slightly because her friend is truly annoying when Kenzo is around. Meanwhile, it's impossible for them not to meet since both of them now live in Fathia's house. Sometimes, Laras has to mediate their arguments, which are childish in nature. Although Fathia admits that the atmosphere in her home has become lively and enjoyable. The warmth and bustling nature of the large house are back, even though the occupants are different.

Fathia doesn't mind. In fact, she has prohibited Laras from returning home during the recovery period. Also, Kenzo. And don't forget the occasional visits from her father's youngest sister, Aunt Iklima. There's an invisible embrace from the family that she once felt was missing, filling her life again. Slowly but surely, it's filling the space that Fathia had longed for.

They are ushered to their seats, with Sebastian beside Fathia, minus Vino. She almost wants to inquire about the whereabouts of her loyal assistant, but maybe she'll ask later after all the sessions here are done. Fathia can occasionally feel that Sebastian's gaze doesn't wander anywhere else but toward her. His hand is also holding hers tightly, just to ease her nervousness. Which, by the way, is escalating as the judge and prosecutor discuss more and more matters.

Fathia doesn't fully understand what they're reading out. She chooses to listen until...

"So with this, Mr. Alef Walker is convicted guilty of all the crimes committed based on the existing evidence. Based on this, the sentence is twenty-five years of imprisonment and a fine of two million dollars."

After that, Fathia isn't as focused on listening anymore. A twenty-five-year prison sentence is long. Just like what Fathia hoped, that she'd aim for the most fitting punishment for her uncle. The one who separated her from her beloved parents and sibling. Not to mention a series of events that left her traumatized.

However...

Fathia briefly shifts her gaze from staring at the back of her uncle. He's sitting upright, his eyes fixed on the judges and prosecutors right in front of him without hesitation. When Fathia entered the courtroom, a small smile appeared on her uncle's face. His eyes are no longer cold. No longer filled with intimidation. As if his arrogance had disappeared along with his crumbling power.

His regret is clear, evident in his eyes. Especially when he turns to look at his wife and child; Aunt Laras and Kenzo.

A sudden pang of guilt emerges in Fathia's mind, but the law still needs to be upheld. Twenty-five years of imprisonment for Alef, however, won't bring her family back. That's right. Fathia has to stay strong and support Laras.

While at home and engaged in lively conversations with Larasati Claire, the middle-aged woman with a warm smile, never once mentioned problems with her husband. She also never denied when she gave updates about her periodic visits to the prison regarding Alef's well-being there.

Even after Fathia is back in Sebastian's luxurious car, and despite the smooth proceedings of the trial without any hitches, she remains silent.

"What's on your mind?" Sebastian breaks the silence. The engine's rumble is ready to cut through the New York City streets this afternoon. "Is something bothering you?"

Without hesitation, Fathia turns and nods softly. "I... feel sorry for Aunt Laras."

A gentle, affectionate pat on Fathia's head is given by Sebastian. Her hair has grown longer, and the cut is almost the same as when Sebastian last saw her, before that incident happened. Except... her face still bears the scars. "Laras' mother told me that Mr. Alef deserved the punishment. But you need to know, Fathia."

The paused statement truly piques Fathia's curiosity. "Know what?" Fathia quickly asks as Sebastian deliberately drags out his next words. And indeed, that handsome face that's becoming even more handsome in Fathia's eyes is displaying a mischievous grin.

"Just speak the truth. It's just us two."

Fathia huffs in annoyance and amusement at the same time. "Okay. What do you know, Tian? Are you satisfied now?"

Sebastian bursts into laughter. "It really seemed that way, didn't it?" He starts driving the car, following the convoy in front of him. The leading car is driven by Jack with Kenzo and Laras inside. Meanwhile, Jess is in another car with Ronald. Then there's Sebastian's car. Finally, the convoy is closed by Sebastian's hired bodyguard's SUV.

At the very front of the convoy, two large motorcycles are also guarding. Sebastian intentionally provides such tight security because he really doesn't want any unfortunate incidents that Fathia might experience again.

Their destination: the Alvin family grave.

This idea was sparked by Fathia a day before the verdict was announced. Laras was happily on board with it, as she hadn't visited her brother's and her best friend's graves in a long time. Laras considered Rossie to be like her best friend.

"You still won't tell me what you were about to say earlier?" Fathia breaks the silence. Sebastian seems focused on the steering wheel. He glances briefly and then chooses to answer with a smile. "You'll find out what I meant later."

Sebastian Sachdev is annoying day by day, indeed. Fathia lets the man refocus on driving. She settles into her seat, which she adjusted just right.

"Fathia," Sebastian softly calls. A gentle stroke is felt around her cheek. Ah... Fathia fell asleep again during the journey from the courthouse to her parents' graves. She was supposed to keep Sebastian company while he was driving. Seriously, why did she fall asleep instead?

However, this time her sleep is different. There's no longer an overwhelming sense of fear and pressure. Even though she knows that her sense of peace would be so different if they were all together again. But that's impossible. True.

"We're here, right?" Fathia asks as she straightens herself up. She tidies up her slightly messy hair.

"We're here, Princess."

Fathia smiles widely. "It's been a while since I heard that from you."

Sebastian seems to ponder for a moment. In front of him, the convoy of cars has started to unload its passengers one by one. But Sebastian still wants to linger a little longer with Fathia. There's never enough time when he's with the girl dressed beautifully in a sleeveless white blouse with a wide collar. Her long black pants perfectly embrace her slender legs, and she's wearing 5 cm high pump shoes. Her black hair has grown longer over time, with a slight wave now. Her light makeup, accentuated with a touch of maroon lipstick, makes Fathia look much more mature than her usual days.

"Did I already praise how beautiful you look today?"

The girl shakes her head while pushing Sebastian to give her a little space as he's getting too close. For her movement, Fathia is rewarded with a playful jab from the man.

"Why, huh? Can't get close anymore?"

"Not like that, Tian." Fathia enjoys activities where her fingers are allowed to play with Sebastian's thick hair. In fact, the guy says Fathia is like giving him his own relaxation on his overthinking head. "Everyone is ready at Dad's place while we're not, you know."

Sebastian responds with a chuckle. "I've been ready two days ago."

Fathia raises an eyebrow. "To come here?" The question is to confirm whether Sebastian's action is true or just empty talk. But he's sincere. His black eyes don't hint at any lie, and there's conviction in the nod he gives. "What for?" Fathia is curious about what Sebastian did here without her.

Did he visit her sister?

Suddenly, a pang of pain hits her heart and stomach. Creating a whirlwind named jealousy even though that's... her sister. The one Sebastian used to love with all his heart. She shouldn't have thoughts as petty as this. Oh God! She shakes her head slightly, trying to dismiss these negative thoughts immediately.

"I talked to Mr. Alvin and Mrs. Rossie."

Fathia's forehead furrows even more.

"Asked for permission to marry his beautiful daughter. The one I'll cherish until the end of time. The one who will be by my side every day in the future. Sharing the hustle of managing Group Azure, opening a restaurant to compete with Jess's, not to mention being a flower courier."

Fathia chuckles. "Are you serious talking like that with Dad?"

"Ah, how beautiful Princess Fathia looks when she laughs. Her laughter's been missing since earlier, I don't know where it went even though I've been right beside her. Am I not attractive to make her happy?"

"Tian," Fathia warns, earning another sharp jab from Sebastian. "I find it strange hearing you talk like that."

Sebastian steals a quick kiss, which is met with a playful jab from the girl.

"I seriously talked to Mr. Alvin, Mrs. Rossie, and... Felice."

Fathia, who was getting ready to pull the door lever to get out of the car, hesitates upon hearing Sebastian's next words.

"Getting their blessing to be in a relationship with their beloved daughter. Felice's dearest sister. Where I feel like the master of seizing opportunities but not really. The more I deny my feelings for you, the more certain I am that I can't turn away from you, Fathia."

The girl gazes at Sebastian in amazement. Not to mention, slowly but surely, her cheeks start to blush. Maybe all of her face is getting red now.

"Hopefully, they approve."

The girl's smile becomes even wider. "I'm sure they'll approve."

Sebastian's face gets closer to Fathia's. Where his breath starts to graze her face. The heartbeat Fathia feels is still the same. Every time Sebastian gets closer, Fathia just surrenders to whatever he's going to do. Nevertheless, that sense of surrender is balanced, as Fathia has become more adept at matching every touch Sebastian gives.

Including when their lips meet. Tilt her head slightly so Sebastian can explore the maroon-painted lips that have been tempting him. As if there's no satisfaction in exploring, he uses the tip of his tongue to trace Fathia's neatly lined teeth one by one. Making the girl close her eyes instantly.

They forget that they're in the parking lot of the cemetery. Luckily, Sebastian's car is tinted, so no one knows what they're doing inside. Until...

"You guys aren't planning on rocking the car here, are you?" Jess's voice, half-shouting, interrupts Sebastian's activity. The long, affectionate embrace is broken, and Sebastian growls in frustration afterward.

"When do I get a chance to catch Jess being all lovey-dovey with Kenzo?" Sebastian grumbles in disbelief. As he exits the car without thinking about his slightly disheveled appearance, Jess's exclamation only gets louder.

"Oh my God! Come on, Mr. Sebastian! Seriously? Swapping lipstick with Fathia?"