Falling Between Hate and Love

Amidst the bustling city of Jakarta, there is a property company known as "Luminary Estates", which exudes an aura of greatness and innovation in the property world. The owner is a charismatic and influential man, Hamza Allister.

The atmosphere inside the Luminary Estates office is serious and productive. Modern rooms depicting luxury and prestige are spread all around them. Employees are busily moving from room to room, talking about major projects in the pipeline. There is a group of architects discussing the latest design plans, while the marketing team is busy planning advertising campaigns. In the center of the room, Hamza sits at his executive desk, looking at the business charts and reports spread out before him. His firm voice echoes through the room as he gives directions to his subordinates.

Suddenly, the door to the room opened slowly. His only daughter, whose full name is Isabella Oliver Allister, enters the room gracefully. The woman who is familiarly called Bella, in an elegant outfit, presents a mesmerizing beauty. Her long hair fell gently over her shoulders, and her brown eyes contained an irreplaceable softness. Her gentle smile can melt the hearts of anyone who sees it.

"Good morning, Father," greeted the 25-year-old woman, in a soft voice.

Hamza, the charismatic owner of the company, sits at his executive desk, immersed in a pile of important documents. His eyes focus on the business reports spread out before him. He diligently reads and analyzes in detail. He is oblivious to the presence of Bella, his only daughter who possesses unparalleled charm.

Bella, who was full of patience, entered the room with soft steps. She paused for a moment, watching her father. After a while, Bella decided to call Hamza. She approached the executive's desk, trying to get his attention. "Father..."

Only then does Hamza take his eyes off the documents that fill his executive desk? He turned towards his daughter and his eyes were stunned by Bella's beauty. A warm smile appeared on his face, realizing the overwhelming presence in front of him. "Bella. My favorite. You've been here since when?" asked Hamza as he stood up.

"A few minutes ago, but that's not important. I noticed you were a little tense, is everything okay?"

Hamza nodded his head as he sat down. "The usual, work matters. Sit down," Hamza said.

After getting an answer from her father, Bella understands that at this time her father is still tied up with work. She decided to make room for her father to continue his duties. Bella saw a magazine lying on the table. She picked it up and looked at it carefully.

Bella, curious about the photo, said curiously, "Elysian Elegance... Wow, this brand has just launched, but it's already famous. Who's the owner, Dad?"

Hamza, having finished tidying up the documents, turned to Bella. She looked at the photo of the brand and a strained smile appeared on her face. With a look of disappointment and displeasure, he replied, "It's Alex Sinclair's brand."

Bella frowned, grasping the importance of the brand in their competition. She then asked further, "I just heard the name."

Hamza, in a distressed state, explained, "Bella, Alex Sinclair is an ambitious and astute man. Apart from being a successful businessman, he is also a famous actor and a popular content creator. 'Elysian Elegance' is a fashion brand that has achieved tremendous success in the industry."

"But Bella, you should know that there is a complicated history between Father and 'Elysian Elegance'. I was once involved in a conflict that cost the company dearly. I have experienced first-hand the cunning and ruthlessness shown by Alex Sinclair in previous collaborations."

Bella was increasingly curious about the cunning and ruthlessness that Alex Sinclair might possess. With strong curiosity, she asked again, "Father, what makes Alex so cunning? What did he do to your company?"

Hamza sighed heavily, ready to give an honest explanation to his daughter, "Alex has a very shrewd and cunning nature. He knows how to exploit the weaknesses of others for his benefit. In previous collaborations, he has exploited loopholes and taken advantages that should have been ours. Automatically if we are weak then we must lose---"

Bella put her finger on her father's lips. "We won't lose just like that. Please don't say that," Bella said, making the middle-aged man calm down a little.

Elizha Allister, Bella's stepmother, suddenly came to the door. Very wary, she chose not to enter immediately, but instead paused and listened to the conversation between Hamza and Bella. Elizha was a woman of graceful beauty and elegant appearance. Her long, brown hair fell gently around her shoulders, while her glittering eyes showed gentleness and wisdom.

Elizha, in silence listened to the conversation between her husband and her daughter. The moment she caught the name Alex Sinclair, her face turned tense. The memory of her encounter with Alex Sinclair hit her again, triggering anxiety and tension in her heart.

"Then excuse me father. I have an appointment with Ira's mom," Bella said as she got up from her seat.

"You won't go alone, some bodyguards will escort you," said her father.

"All right,"

*

On her way home to her biological mother, Maria Iravati. Bella was surprised to encounter a total traffic jam on the road. She saw crowds of people and unusual activities. After observing, Bella found out that there was a group of content creator teams who were distributing free food to homeless people around there.

However, Bella did not see this act as a noble deed that was completely disinterested. To her, it was just fodder for their content to be uploaded to social media. The ubiquitous cameras confirmed their intention to capture the moment.

When Bella saw the banners fluttering around the area, as well as the logo on the shirts of the team of creators walking by, that of the brand 'Elysian Elegance', her outrage intensified. To her, it was an act that further reinforced the deviousness of Alex Sinclair and his brand.

Bella couldn't understand how the creators were just using social issues as a tool to promote their brand. She couldn't understand how they could easily take advantage of the situation without really caring about the people they were helping.

In her heart, Bella vowed to fight against Alex Sinclair's scheming and to protect her father's company. Under these circumstances, her sense of resolve and determination grew stronger to fight for what was right.

After passing through the traffic jam that hampered her journey, Bella finally felt relief when her car returned to normal. As her car approached her mother's house complex, Bella's car suddenly passed the kindergarten where she used to go to school. Bella's gaze fell on the children running around frantically, asking for help with scared expressions on their faces.

Moved by her sympathy and concern, Bella immediately asked the driver to stop the car. Swiftly, Bella and her bodyguard got out of the car and crossed the road to approach the school that had been attacked by several unknown people.

As Bella approached the school, the atmosphere was tense. There were visible traces of damage, namely an open school door and several broken windows. The children and teachers looked scared and confused. Bella steadily approached one of the teachers who looked worried. "Teacher, who are they and why did they attack this school?" she asked in a concerned tone.

The teacher sighed and replied in a trembling voice, "Actually, there was an incident that happened a while ago. One of our fellow teachers, Ms. Sarah, had blasphemed her brother Alex Sinclair on social media. It was a big mistake, and Ms. Sarah has already apologized sincerely."

Bella listened carefully, feeling the growing confusion.

The teacher sighed again, trying to explain the situation. "After Ms. Sarah apologized, we hoped that everything could be resolved properly. But unfortunately, Alex didn't accept the apology. He saw this as an opportunity to take revenge and ruin this school, even to the point of destroying things and parts of the building that had been painstakingly built."

Bella was shaken to hear that explanation. She felt a mixture of anger and sadness within her. She couldn't accept how cruel Alex was in taking revenge for a mistake that had been forgiven. With turbulent feelings, Bella gathered her resolve. "I won't let cruelty and revenge destroy what we love. We must face this together and fight injustice."

After listening to the teacher's explanation of the motive behind the school attack, Bella felt the fire of anger burning within her. Her eyes were sharp, her eyebrows were slightly furrowed, and her lips were tightly pursed. Her face exuded a strong intensity, indicating that she was unhappy with the atrocities committed by Alex Sinclair.

Her normally bright and gentle eyes now seemed to burn with deep anger. Her face turned tense, reflecting her firmness and determination to fight against the injustice that was happening.

Bella's gaze became more serious and focused as if she was gathering all her strength to fight an intolerable enemy. The lines on her face expressed deep courage and determination. 'That person is endlessly cruel,' Bella said.

There was a tremor of emotion in Bella's eyes as if to imply her desire to restore justice and restore calm to the school that was vandalized. Despite her anger, her face radiates the gentleness that comes naturally to her. "First my father's company, then now he's vandalizing the place of Education. I vow to bring him to his knees before the educators in this school," she said passionately.

A few hours later...

Bella got out of the car still lost in thought. She walked to the terrace of her mother's house with soft steps and a heart still full of questions. The atmosphere of the terrace was full of warmth and tranquility, characterized by the gentle breeze and the sound of water gurgling from the small pond nearby.

Iravati, the mother, sat in a comfortable bamboo chair, watching Bella with enthusiasm. She is dressed in a robe with a hijab, indicating that she has just returned from recitation. Tenderness and modesty radiate from her every movement and her sincere gaze.

Iravati is a figure of stunning beauty, very similar to Bella. Her soft and graceful face seemed to radiate wisdom and peace. Her bright and loving eyes showed the warmth of her heart that never faded.

However, Iravati was surprised to see Bella who seemed to be daydreaming. She walked up to Bella, smiling as she asked with tenderness, "Honey, what are you thinking about? What made you daydream like this?"

Bella was jolted out of her reverie by her mother's voice. She looked at her mother's face. Bella released a faint smile, trying to express what was in her heart.

"For the first time, I harbor hatred for a person I've never seen. But once I heard his name, I couldn't forget what he did," Bella said in a soft tone. "Alex Sinclair, he came back to disrupt Father's company and even attacked my school. I can't understand why he's so evil."

Iravati nodded in understanding, patting Bella's hand gently. Her soft voice carried, trying to provide support and strength. "My dear, this world is sometimes full of people whose motivations are difficult to understand. They may be caught up in limitless ambitions and desires."

Bella pondered for a moment, digesting her mother's words. Slowly, Bella's expression began to relax, and her doubtful eyes began to radiate strength.

"With wisdom and kindness, we will face and overcome all obstacles. We must not allow evil to destroy the peace of life. Together, we will create justice and goodness," Iravati said with determination in her voice.

"Mom won't understand how I feel."

"Never mind, you better focus on your wedding which is just a few days away," Iravati said.

Iravati pondered silently, her face filled with a mixture of relief and worry. In her heart, she was happy that Bella would soon get married and have someone ready to protect her. However, a prophecy from the fortune teller Gunjani triggered anxiety in her. 'Bella, your daughter will marry her enemy. You will see the signs,'

With an anxious heart, Iravati decided to visit Gunjani's house before attending the recitation. She brought a wedding invitation for Bella, to prove that her predictions had been wrong. Upon arriving at the fortune teller's house, Iravati was welcomed with great honor.

After reading the wedding invitation carefully, Gunjani looked at Iravati seriously. "Thank you for this invitation. However, what you do now, will only bring Bella closer to her destiny."

Iravati was surprised to hear Gunjani's words but tried to remain calm. "What do you mean, Gunjani? I want to prove that Bella will not marry her enemy. I don't want to see her suffer."

Gunjani, with unwavering conviction, explained. "Iravati, sometimes destiny has an elusive path. In Bella's case, there is a strong bond between her and her enemy. The love and battle they face will lead them to an unexpected end."

Iravati's face reflected confusion and anxiety. "But, Gunjani, I don't want Bella to get hurt. Isn't there anything you can do to prevent this?"

Wisely, Gunjani gave her advice. "Iravati, no one can change fate, but you can be a strong support and guide for Bella. Give her your love and wisdom, and allow fate to play its part. There are valuable lessons she will discover on this journey."

Iravati felt overwhelmed by Gunjani's trust, but she tried to accept the words. "If you were not my relative, then I would have thrown you in jail," Iravati threatened.

Iravati was a mother who loved Bella with all her heart. She didn't want her daughter to hate anyone or be filled with a vengeance that corrupted her heart. She desired to protect Bella from all threats and give her happiness. That's why she doesn't let her daughter hate others.

The Grand Orchid Hotel~

Today the entire Allister family came to the hotel to see the wedding preparations. Both Hamza and his wife deliberately took the time to focus on the wedding preparations.

"Mom, come in first. I'll catch up later," Bella said to her stepmother after getting out of the car.

"What's wrong, where are you going?" asked Elizha.

"I have a call from---"

Elizha smiled and shook her head. From the blushing look on her stepdaughter's face, she had guessed who was calling. "All right. Don't stay out too long," Elizha said as she turned around.

Unfortunately, the call ended before Bella answered the call. And only left a short message which said, 'Later tonight I want to meet you. I have something important to say,"

Bella replied to the message feeling a little worried. It was unusual for her boyfriend to send a short message and then invite her to meet suddenly. After replying to the message, Bella continued her steps towards the hotel.

Preparations for the wedding of the daughter of a prominent businessman were underway. There were only three days left before the long-awaited moment. Busyness enveloped every corner of the hotel. The air vibrated with the excitement and beauty that radiated from every detail of the preparations. Anyone who walked into the reception area of the hotel would be greeted by the fragrant scent of fresh flowers installed in every corner of the room. The main hall is adorned with beautiful marble floors, illustrating the luxury of this hotel. Along the aisle leading to the wedding hall, rows of luxurious white pillars were adorned with white jasmine flower arrangements symbolizing purity and elegance.

Bella wanders around the hotel area not alone but with her best friend Maira and several other servants assigned to escort Hamza's daughter. Maira was originally only a foster child from the orphanage who had been given luxurious facilities by Hamza to accompany Bella's every step. A dozen years together they are like younger siblings. Even though she is close to Bella, Maria remains at her limit as a servant.

"I can't wait to see you walk in here in your wedding dress." Maira teased.

"Heh, don't be like that. I'm embarrassed," Bella said.

"Why should you be embarrassed?"

"Don't forget, we're not here to mess around. Come with me."

Upon entering the wedding room located on the top floor of the hotel, every guest was greeted by a stunning view. The decor of the room is dominated by shades of white and gold, creating an impression of elegance and luxury. The ceiling was adorned with sparkling crystal chandeliers, giving it a romantic and graceful touch.

As Bella wandered around the hotel, her eyes were drawn to a vase of flowers sitting on a table. However, what she saw made her feel unacceptable.

On the vase was beautifully engraved the logo of the brand "Elysian Elegance", a brand owned by her father's business rival, a cunning and ruthless man. Anger welled up inside Bella. Her heart burned with the events of how the brand owner had tried to destroy the reputation of her family's business with dirty tactics.

She felt that having the brand's logo in her wedding venue was an intolerable insult. "Who put this vase here?" Bella asked some of the decorating team on duty.

"Sorry miss, but-"

"I request the removal of all items with the Elysian Elegance brand logo. Items from cunning and ruthless businessmen do not belong here. Ruthless people have a good image in front of people, but not everyone knows their cunning. What are you waiting for, hurry up and get rid of the vase!!!" said Bella.

On the other hand, Elizha, who was busy organizing the catering, was surprised by the news delivered by her bodyguard. "I saw Alex Sinclair here. I'm sure it's Alex, even though he's in disguise,"

Elizha stood up instantly. Elizha felt her heartbeat stop for a moment. She could not ignore this striking resemblance. A wave of fear instantly hit her, and a sense of panic rapidly spread through her body. She feared that the man was Alex Sinclair in disguise, preparing to launch his attack at the most crucial moment.

"Hurry up and find him and don't let him mess things up," Elizha told the bodyguards.

When Bella saw the decoration team carrying a vase bearing the brand's logo "Elysian Elegance" out of the hotel, the tension was mounting inside her. Every vase that came out brought new fears that filled her mind. However, Bella's focus was drawn to the last man carrying the vase.

From the side, the shape of his jaw, his sharp nose, and his hair was very similar to the picture of Alex Sinclair that she saw on the banner yesterday. All the doubts and suspicions that had filled her mind suddenly became an almost unbearable reality.

Bella's body was overwhelmed by a wave of panic that pushed her into action. Amidst the chaos of her feelings, her eyes fell on the fruit knife lying nearby. At that moment, a drastic decision crossed her mind. With lightning speed, Bella grabbed the fruit knife and brought it close to the neck of the man who looked like Alex.

A roar filled with tension filled the room. Everyone was transfixed in shock and fear. Their gazes shifted between Bella and the fruit knife that was on the man's neck. Time seemed to stop for a moment.

"Who are you, and where are you from?" asked Bella pressing.

The man straightened his neck and lifted his chin. "Senayan. Sorry miss, I'm just a member of the decoration team," he replied confidently.

"I don't believe you. Prove that you are indeed a member of the decoration team," said Bella.

Unexpectedly the man pulled out a business card from his pocket and handed it to Bella.

Bella accepted the card but didn't let go of the knife. After reading and observing the photo on the card, Bella finally let go of the knife and returned the card with a guilty feeling. "All right. I thought you were my father's enemy. As a form of my guilt, I give you the responsibility of decorating," Bella explained.

The man nodded his head.

Since it was already noon, Bella decided to go home. When she almost reached the exit, a thunderous noise filled the room. Screams and the sound of crying made Bella's heart beat faster.

With a burning sense of anxiety, Bella rushed toward the source of the noise. As she entered the hall, a horrifying scene unfolded before her eyes. A dozen bodyguards lay on the floor, badly injured. The vases that were previously filled with beautiful flowers were now scattered and broken into pieces.

However, there was one patch of floor that caught Bella's attention. Bright red blood handwriting stood out amidst the destruction. It read, "Our next meeting will be in Puadai. Signed Alexandra Allister."

"So the man I almost killed earlier, was Alex," Bella said stunned.

"What do you mean?" asked her stepmother in surprise.

Bella told her stepmother about the incident. Even her father heard about it. Unexpectedly, Elizha's reaction was instantaneous. She couldn't imagine what Alex would do to her family. Especially after what Bella did earlier. "My debt hasn't been paid yet, is Alex going to collect my promise by asking for my daughter Bella? After the insult Bella did earlier, I'm sure Alex won't accept it. Oh God, what should I do," Elizha said silently.