Paul is an 18 year old trying to find a purpose in his life. He usually spends his time hanging out with his godfather, Wes; who everyone in town knows as “The Town’s Witch”. One day while out fishing with Wes, Paul was involved in an accident that changed his life completely. Now, Paul has to figure why this happened to him and why he is the last of his kind.

Terry bangun sangat pagi pada tanggal 20 Desember. Ia begitu bersemangat dengan acara Ritz Gala yang akan digelar malam ini dan tak henti-hentinya bersenandung saat ia bersiap-siap. London dan Rune yang melihat semangatnya hanya bisa tersenyum.

Herannya, ketika mereka tiba di Hotel St. Laurent, Terry berubah menjadi acuh tak acuh, seolah nominasi Bujangan Paling Diidamkan Di Dunia itu tidak ada artinya. Saat beberapa jurnalis datang menghampirinya untuk mewawancarainya, Terry tampak seolah tidak peduli sama sekali.

"Psshhh... bukannya tadi di rumah dia semangat sekali?" bisik Rune kepada kakaknya.

London hanya mengangkat bahu.

Sebagai pemilik venue, Terry hadir di acara konferensi pers dan memberikan sedikit sambutan, diikuti oleh ketua penyelenggara dari Majalah Ritz.

"Tidak lupa, acara kali ini akan dihadiri dua orang pewaris Keluarga Schneider," kata Terry sebelum mengakhiri pidatonya. Ia mengunjukkan dagunya ke arah London dan Rune yang duduk di belakangnya. "Lima tahun dari sekarang, merekalah yang akan membuka acara Ritz Gala. Jadi kalian harus mulai membiasakan diri dengan kehadiran mereka."

Para jurnalis tampak menjadi riuh. Keluarga Schneider adalah salah satu keluarga yang paling privasi di  dunia. Sebagai pemilik salah satu grup bisnis terbesar di dunia, hanya sedikit informasi yang dapat diperoleh tentang mereka, bahkan detail nilai kekayaan mereka dan daftar silsilah anggota keluarganya sangat sulit ditemukan. 

Keluarga Schneider hanya memunculkan diri di acara-acara sangat penting dan penerus bisnisnya maupun pewaris nama keluarga hanya diumumkan setiap beberapa puluh tahun sekali. Ini dikabarkan untuk menjaga keselamatan anggota keluarganya dan agar mereka tetap dapat hidup seperti orang normal.

Mereka belajar dari tragedi demi tragedi yang dialami beberapa orang terkaya di dunia, seperti  John Paul Getty, Heineken, dll. John Paul Getty adalah seorang taipan yang mengumpulkan kekayaannya lewat berbagai bisnis dan merajai industri minyak di Amerika Serikat. Ia dianggap sebagai orang Amerika terkaya sepanjang masa urutan keenam.

Suatu ketika, salah seorang cucunya diculik dan penculiknya meminta tebusan senilai 17 juta dolar Amerika pada tahun 1973 atau setara dengan 100 juta dolar pada tahun 2018 (setelah inflasi). Getty menolak membayar tebusan karena menganggap jika ia membayar tebusan untuk seorang cucunya yang diculik, maka belasan cucunya yang lain juga akan menjadi sasaran penculikan.

Penculik akhirnya melepaskan sang cucu tetapi ia telah menjadi sangat trauma sehingga menjadi ketergantungan narkoba dan ia menjadi cacat akibat kecelakaan hingga akhir hayatnya. 

Keluarga Heineken yang menjadi konglomerat akibat produk minumannya juga pernah mengalami hal serupa. Freddy Heineken sang ahli waris diculik dan penculiknya meminta tebusan bernilai serupa, sekitar 100 juta dolar nilai  uang di tahun 2018. 

Tebusan dibayarkan dan penculik kemudian berhasil ditangkap, tetapi korban penculikan telah mengalami trauma mendalam yang tidak pernah sembuh.

Pembunuhan dan penculikan adalah hal lazim yang selalu harus dihindari oleh orang-orang dari keluarga sangat kaya. Itu sebabnya, tidak ada yang heran melihat betapa Keluarga Schneider sangat menjaga privasi anggota keluarganya. Dengan demikian, kesempatan bisa melihat langsung dua orang putra dari keluarga Schneider membuat para jurnalis menjadi sangat antusias.

Dalam waktu 10 menit saja wajah-wajah London dan Rune sudah menghiasi berbagai media dunia dan keduanya menjadi trending di Splitz selama beberapa jam, sebelum kemudian digantikan oleh berita tentang Ritz Gala.

"Kalian sudah terkenal, nanti siap-siap saja akan ada sangat banyak gadis yang akan merubung kalian," komentar Terry setelah selesai konferensi pers kepada London dan Rune. "Makanya kalian jangan jauh-jauh dariku."

London dan Rune berdiri saat diperkenalkan Terry. Keduanya tidak terlalu kuatir karena Caspar telah menyiapkan pengawalan yang ketat untuk kedua putra kesayangannya. Jadeith sendiri yang akan turun tangan untuk mengawasi pengamanan di Ritz Gala malam ini.

Pukul 19.00, suasana di depan Gedung Hotel St. Laurent sudah menjadi sangat meriah. Ribuan orang berkumpul  ingin melihat langsung kedatangan tamu-tamu penting, orang-orang paling berpengaruh di dunia dalam acara bergengsi ini. 

Satu persatu mobil paling mewah tiba dan keluarlah para tamu undangan yang dianggap paling berpengaruh di dunia, baik itu politisi papan atas, pemimpin negara yang masih muda, pangeran dan putri bangsawan, selebritis dunia, dan para pemimpin bisnis terkemuka. 

Daftar undangannya sangat terbatas dan tidak semua orang yang diundang tahun kemarin akan diundang kembali di tahun berikutnya. Karenanya bisa dipastikan hanya orang-orang penting akan hadir. Ini merupakan ajang bagi orang super penting dan super kaya untuk bersosialisasi secara langsung dan banyak kesepakatan bisnis dan politik yang dapat terjalin akibat pertemuan di Ritz Gala. 

Bagi orang yang tidak masuk ke dalam lingkaran tersebut, kesempatan untuk terlibat, baik itu bekerja di dalam acara maupun meliputnya, akan dianggap sebagai batu loncatan besar untuk karier mereka. 

Sangat banyak gadis dari kalangan atas yang akan menyuap panitia untuk diberikan akses masuk atau undangan untuk menghadiri Ritz Gala, karena dengan demikian mereka akan dapat bertemu dengan pria-pria sangat berpengaruh dan berkuasa, yang mungkin akan tertarik pada kecantikan dan pesona mereka.

Kit Blue sudah membayar sangat banyak uang untuk masuk ke acara ini, dan ia tidak akan berhenti sampai berhasil mendapatkan salah satu dari pria berpengaruh dari Ritz Gala. Targetnya sekarang adalah Terry, atau Niels, pangeran putra mahkota dari Swedia dan Elios Linden bos aplikasi Virconnect yang sedang naik daun itu.

Ia sudah berdandan secantik mungkin dan tepat pukul 19.00 sudah hadir di Hotel St. Laurent dan berkenalan dengan beberapa gadis lain yang memiliki tujuan serupa. Mereka tampak saling memuji penampilan masing-masing, tetapi pada saat yang sama tampak bersaing untuk kelihatan paling cantik agar mereka dapat memperoleh hati pria idaman yang mereka incar.

Terry dan kedua adiknya langsung menarik sangat banyak perhatian ketika mereka turun dari penthouse ke lobi, karena seisi hotel digunakan untuk acara Ritz Gala, mulai dari lobi, lounge, dan semua ball room yang ada.

Semua orang tahu Terry adalah Presiden Schneider Group dan kedua pria muda yang bersamanya adalah calon pewaris Schneider Group saat ini.

"Haii.. Terry.. Apa kabar?" Kit buru-buru menghampiri Terry dan tersenyum manis sekali. Dalam hati ia tertawa senang sambil melirik gadis-gadis kaya yang bersamanya. Mereka semua tampak terkejut melihat Kit ternyata mengenal Terrence Chan secara pribadi.

Terry berhenti berjalan dan menyipitkan matanya mengingat-ingat siapa gadis ini. Ia tidak heran kalau ada sembarangan gadis yang akan berpura-pura mengenalnya hanya agar dapat mendekatinya.

"Uhmm... selamat malam. Kita pernah bertemu di mana?" tanyanya kepada Kit.

Gadis itu tertawa riang sekali memamerkan barisan gigi mutiaranya yang indah, "Di acara pesta ulang tahun Nicolae Medici. Aku juga seorang alchemist."

Ia mengedipkan matanya, memberi isyarat bahwa Terry seharusnya mengingatnya karena mereka sama-sama dari masyarakat Alchemist. Setelah mengumpulkan ingatannya beberapa lama, barulah Terry ingat siapa gadis cantik yang ada di depannya itu.

Ia ingat Kit sengaja menumpahkan wine ke pakaian Aleksis.

Ia mengerutkan kening lalu mengangkat bahu, "Hmm.. tidak ingat."

Dengan acuh ia lalu menarik tangan London dan Rune masuk ke dalam ballroom, meninggalkan Kit yang berdiri tertegun, dan selama 10 detik tidak juga mengerti apa yang baru saja terjadi.

Ketika ia akhirnya sadar Terry sama sekali tidak mempedulikannya dan sudah menghilang ke dalam ballroom, wajah Kit menjadi sangat merah. Ia malu dan marah. Baru beberapa hari lalu ia dipermalukan oleh Nicolae di bandara, dan sekarang Terry pun pura-pura tidak mengenalnya!

Mereka pasti sengaja! pikirnya dengan penuh kebencian. 

Tidak mungkin dua orang sekaligus bisa sungguh-sungguh melupakan gadis secantik dirinya, demikian yang ada dalam kepala Kit.

Kedua tangannya mengepal saat ia berbalik menoleh ke arah ballroom dan menangkap pandangan menghina gadis-gadis tadi yang melihatnya tidak berhasil mendekati Terry.

"Awas kalian... aku tidak terima dipermalukan seperti ini," bisiknya dengan penuh kemarahan, "Aku akan membuat kalian menerima balasannya."

Bagaimana rasanya menjadi manusia abadi di zaman modern? Sebagai seorang pria kaya, tampan, sempurna, dan awet muda, Caspar adalah idola setiap wanita.

Meskipun banyak perempuan ingin menjadi kekasihnya, dia tidak pernah jatuh cinta. Tak seorang pun menarik hatinya sampai ketika ia bertemu perempuan aneh yang di kepalanya hanya memikirkan cara mencari UANG - UANG DAN UANG.

Sebagai gadis yatim piatu yang miskin, Finland telah belajar bahwa dia tidak boleh bergantung pada siapa pun! Dia pelit, cinta uang, dan pasti sedikit gila. Kenapa dia tidak menerima cinta Caspar?

Apa sih yang tidak bisa pria ini berikan untuk Finland? Membelikan pulau untuknya? Sudah. Memberikan dia semua bunga yang ada di seluruh negeri sampai pasangan lain tidak kebagian setangkai mawar pun untuk merayakan Valentine? Sudah juga. Bahkan, membuatkan kolam uang Gober Bebek agar dia bisa berenang di kolam uang seperti Paman Gober karena Finland sangat suka uang? Itu apalagi!

#modernfantasy #immortalmortals

>>>>

Bagaimana para immortal hidup di dunia modern di antara orang-orang biasa? Baca kisah mereka dalam seri buku ini dengan 3 volume:

1. The Alchemist
2. Aleksis & Pangeran Siegfried
3. Secret Identity

Copyright: @2019 Missrealitybites

***
Follow FB Page "Missrealitybites" untuk ngobrol dengan saya tentang novel-novel saya:
1. The Alchemists
2. Ludwina & Andrea
3. Katerina
4. Glass Heart : Kojiro - Nana
5. 1912-1932
6. Altair & Vega
7. Kisah dari Kerajaan Air
8. Finding Stardust / Emma Stardust

Lihat visual novel ini di Instagram @casparthealchemist

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Terry woke up unusually early on December 20th. He was so excited for tonight's Ritz Gala that he hummed endlessly as he got ready. London and Rune, who saw his enthusiasm, could only smile.
Amazingly, when they arrived at the St. Laurent, Terry turned indifferent, as if the nomination of the Most Eligible Bachelors in the World was meaningless to him. When several journalists came to interview him, Terry acted as if he didn't care at all.
"Psshhh, wasn't he super excited at home?" Rune whispered to his brother.
London just shrugged.
As the owner of the venue, Terry was present at the press conference. He gave a little speech, followed by the chief organizer of Ritz Magazine.
"I would like to inform you all of the presence of the two heirs of the Schneider Family," Terry added before ending his speech. He leaned his chin towards London and Rune sitting behind him. "Five years from now, they will be the ones to open the Ritz Gala. So I ask that you get used to their presence."
The journalists seemed to be on fire. The Schneider Family was one of the most reclusive families in the world. As the owner of one of the largest business groups in the world, little information could be obtained about them. Even the detailed value of their wealth and family tree was very difficult to find.
The Schneider family only appeared at highly important events, and the successor to the business and heir to the family name was only announced once every few decades. This was rumored to maintain the safety of the family members and so that they could still live like normal people.
They learned from the tragedies that have befallen some of the richest families in the world, such as the Gettys, the Heinekens, and many more. John Paul Getty was a tycoon who collected his wealth through various businesses and dominated the oil industry in the United States. He was considered the sixth richest American of all time.
One time, one of his grandchildren was kidnapped. His kidnappers asked for a ransom of seventeen million US dollars in 1973. That amount was equivalent to a hundred million dollars in 2018, which was after its inflation. Getty refused to pay the ransom because he assumed that if he paid the ransom for a kidnapped grandson, dozens of other grandchildren would also become kidnapping targets.
The kidnappers eventually let go of his grandson, but he had become so traumatized that he got addicted to drugs and became disabled due to an accident until his death.
The Heineken family, who became a conglomerate from their beverage products, also experienced the same thing. Freddy Heineken, the heir, was kidnapped. His kidnappers asked for a similar ransom, which was around a hundred million dollars in value in 2018.
The ransom was paid and the kidnappers were later captured, but the abductee had suffered a deep trauma that was never healed.
Murders and kidnappings were common things that wealthy families must always look out for. That was why no one was surprised to see how the Schneider Family took care of the privacy of their family members. Thus, the opportunity to see the two sons from the Schneider family firsthand made the journalists very excited.
Within ten minutes, London and Rune's faces had graced the various media and they both became trending on Splitz for several hours, before being replaced by news about the Ritz Gala.
"Looks like you two have become quite famous. You better prepare yourselves then. Countless girls are going to be approaching you anytime and anywhere." Terry said to London and Rune after the press conference ended. "So, don't go too far from me."
London and Rune stood up when Terry introduced them. Both were not too worried because Caspar had prepared a strict escort for his two favorite sons. Jadeith himself would intervene to oversee security at the Ritz Gala tonight.
At seven in the evening, the atmosphere in front of St. Laurent Hotel had become very lively. Thousands of people gathered to see the arrival of the important guests, which were the most influential people in the world, at this prestigious event.
One by one, the most luxurious cars arrived, and out came the guests who were considered the most influential people in the world. Some of them were top politicians, country leaders, royals and nobles, world celebrities, and prominent business leaders.
The invitation list was very short, and not everyone who was invited last year would be invited again the following year. Therefore, it was certain that only relevant people would be present. This was an arena for highly influential and extremely wealthy people to socialize directly. People said many businesses and political agreements could be established as a result of the meeting at the Ritz Gala.
For people who weren't in the circle, the opportunity to be involved, be it working on the event or covering it on the news, would be considered a big stepping stone for their careers.
So many girls from the upper class would bribe the committee to be given entry or invitation to attend the Ritz Gala. This was because if they managed to do so, they would be able to meet some of the most influential and powerful men, who might be attracted to their beauty and charms.
Kit Blue had paid a lot of money to get into this event, and she won't stop until she gets one of the most influential men from the Ritz Gala. Her target now was Terry, Niels, the Swedish crown prince, or Elios Linden, the boss of the rising Virconnect application.
She was dressed as beautiful as she could and arrived at the St. Laurent Hotel at exactly 7 PM. She got acquainted with several other girls who had similar goals. They seemed to compliment each other's appearances, but at the same time, they were competing on who looked the most beautiful so they could snatch a man from the event.
Terry and his siblings immediately attracted a lot of attention when they went down from the penthouse to the lobby, as the entire hotel was used for the Ritz Gala, whether it was the lobby, lounge, or the ballrooms.
Everyone knew Terry was the current president of the Schneider Group and the two young men with him were the potential heirs to the Schneider Group.
"Hey, Terry... How are you?" Kit hurried to Terry and smiled sweetly. Inwardly, she heartily laughed while glancing at the other rich girls who were with her. They all looked surprised to see that Kit had known Terrence Chan personally.
Terry stopped walking and narrowed his eyes to remember who this girl was. He wasn't surprised to find that this was another social climber who would pretend to know him just so they could approach him.
"Umm, good evening, Miss. Have we met before?" he questioned Kit.
The girl laughed merrily showing off her beautiful pearly white teeth, "We met at Nicolae Medici's birthday party. I'm also an alchemist."
She winked, gesturing that Terry should remember her because they were both from the Alchemist clan. After trying to recall for some time, Terry finally remembered who the lady in front of him was.
He remembered how Kit pretended to accidentally spill wine on his sister, Aleksis', clothes.
He frowned and shrugged, "Sorry, I don't remember."
He then nonchalantly pulled London and Rune into the ballroom, leaving Kit, who was left alone, dumbfounded. For ten whole seconds, she couldn't understand what had just happened.


*How do immortals live in the modern world? One had been walking the earth for 438 years without ever falling in love. The other one couldn't get over the only woman he loved, even after 100 years.

**What happen when an immortal didn't know he was immortal? After living for almost a century, he still looked like he was 25. So, he thought maybe... maybe he was a freak, a victim of human experimentation during Hitler's time. Growing up, he came to hate humans and their fondness for war and destroying nature. He swore to one day rule the world and decide on which humans got to live. In his book, 'only the good, the strong and the intelligent should live'.

***The wealthiest tycoon was an immortal who was raised in the ivory tower by his overprotective parents. One day he decided to go undercover as poor photographer to make friends with regular people. Alas! Scheming people tricked him to sleep with the most notorious golddiger in Berlin whose only goal in life was to marry a wealthy and powerful man. When she was pregnant with his child, the undercover tycoon wanted to take responsibility but still pretending to be poor. Will he finally let her know that he was wealthy? Why was she so adamant to marry a wealthy and powerful man?

THIS BOOK HAS 3 DIFFERENT STORIES. They are connected, but you can read them as standalone.

1. The Alchemist
2. Aleksis & Prince Siegfried
3. Secret Identity


Volume 1 has fluffy romance, Volume 2 has action/adventure, Volume 3 has comedy, and Volume 4 is a revenge/redemption drama.

#modernfantasy #alchemist #alchemy #immortalmortal #immortals #fantasy #romance #slice-of-life #sci-fi #action #adventure #secret-identity #comedy #travel #trivia #contemporary #billionaires #mystery

It is no secret that among all the cricketers in the world, Indian cricketers are the ones who earn the bulk of money. The Board of Control For Cricket in India (BCCI), being the wealthiest cricket board of all, rewards them handsomely. They earn not only from the board by playing for the national side but also the franchises splurge big bucks on them in the Indian Premier League.

Also Read: Sardar Patel Stadium To Have Three Types Of Pitches

Apart from this, these athletes earn millions through various sponsorship deals, endorsements. The fact that India's cricketing board gains revenue also through the domestic competitions that take place throughout the year makes it possible to pay their players heavily.

We at Cricket Addictor will take a look at the top 10 cricketers from India and net worth in 2019:

10) Rohit Sharma – $18.7 million

Rohit Sharma (Credits: Twitter)

The Indian limited-overs vice-captain is one of the classiest players today. Since the time he got promoted in the top-order, Rohit Sharma has accumulated runs at an alarming rate. Apart from this, the Mumbai Indians captain is the successful captains in IPL history, having led the Mumbai Indians to four IPL titles. The Mumbai batsman is the numerous holder of various T20I records, including the most capped player for India, highest run-getter, and has hit most sixes at the international level.

Rohit Sharma is currently in the A+ grade of players in BCCI's contract list. He has a net worth of $18.7 million that translates to a mind-boggling 130 crores in INR. There are various brands which he is endorsing independently that include Maggi, Lays, Ceat, Addidas, Aristocrat, Oppo, and Relispary.

Also Read: Sourav Ganguly Feels India Should Play At Least One Pink Ball Test In A Series

9) Suresh Raina – $25 million

Suresh Raina. Credit: BCCI

Once Suresh Raina was a mainstay in India's limited-overs set up. Due to his quick run-scoring and the ability to pick the gaps beautifully, he established himself as a dependable finisher for his national side. The southpaw is also a run-machine when it comes to the Indian Premier League, having played for Chennai Super Kings for a majority part of his career.

In total, Raina has made a whopping INR 88.7 crores from the T20 extravaganza. His total net worth as of 2019 comes down to $25 million. In the year 2017, the left-handed batsman formed the Gracia Raina Foundation that strives to empower woman through knowledge and awareness. He also has a wide range of cars in his arsenal including Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, and Range Rover.

8) Rahul Dravid – $31 million

Rahul Dravid. (Credits: Twitter)

Rahul Dravid is not only one of the most respected athletes in the world but also one of the most accomplished cricketers. The Karnataka batsman is commonly known as "The Wall" due to his ability to bat for exceedingly long hours to tire the opposing bowlers. Rahul Dravid is presently the head coach of India's U19 Cricket team and has also taken up coaching stints in the Indian Premier League.

His net worth amounts to $31 million. A truckload of brands has sponsored the veteran throughout his career, including Reebok, Pepsi, Kissan, Max Life, Sansui, Samsung, Gillette, and Bank of Baroda. The 46-year old has also committed to social causes, including UNICEF and Children's movement for civic awareness.

7) Yuvraj Singh – $35.5 million
Yuvraj Singh retired this year. Credits – BCCI

A key member of India's two World Cup triumphs, Yuvraj Singh took the world by storm with his sublime performances that were crucial to his side's victorious campaigns. The flamboyant left-hander earned the man of the tournament for his all-round performances in the 2011 World Cup.

His current net worth is about $35.5 million. The southpaw is also the brand ambassador of sports.365.in, Puma, and Ulysse Nardin Watch. Once a cancer patient himself, the 37-year old established a foundation along with his mother to fight cancer by spreading awareness.

6) Virender Sehwag – $40 million

Virender Sehwag (Credits – Getty)

Virender Sehwag is one of the most aggressive opening batsmen that India ever had in their ranks. Commonly known as Viru and the Nawab of Najafgarh, Sehwag is only one of the two batsmen to have passed the score of 300 twice in Test cricket. His two triple centuries came against Pakistan and South Africa.

The former Indian opener has a net worth of $40 million presently. Sehwag has endorsed brands such as Adidas, Boost, Samsung Mobiles, Reebok, Karbonn Mobiles, and Hero Honda. He makes about $4.1 million from his endorsements.

5) Gautam Gambhir – INR 147 crores

Gautam Gambhir (Credits: Twitter)

The left-handed batsman is yet another cricketer who played a significant role in helping lift the T20 World Cup in 2007 and the 50-over World Cup in 2011. Having joined Lok Sabha a few months ago, Gautam Gambhir has assets worth INR 147 crore which happened to be the richest out of the 349 candidates in contention.

The former Indian opener has an income of INR 12.40 crore. His movable and immovable assets are valued at INR 116 crores and 28 crores, respectively. Gambhir also initiated the Gautam Gambhir foundation in 2014 that went on to built community kitchens in 2017 in Delhi. It aimed at ensuring no one would go hungry in the city.

4) Sourav Ganguly – $55.5 million

Sourav Ganguly. Credits – Getty

Widely referred to as "Dada", Sourav Ganguly is one of the polarising figures in Indian cricket. The elegant left-handed batsman was one of the captains to revive Indian cricket from the depths of the match-fixing scandal. He announced his retirement from international cricket in 2008, but continued to play IPL and remained indulged in coaching roles.

In October 2019, he became President of the BCCI. Ganguly's net worth is $55.5 million, which includes his IPL salary and the money from his endorsements. He is the brand ambassador of Puma, Essilor Lens, Tata Tetley, and Senco Gold from where he earns more than one crore from each of those brands. He is also associated with Complan, Cycle Agarbathes, and many housing projects.

3) Virat Kohli – $92 million

Virat Kohli. (Credits: Twitter)

Presently, the greatest batsman across formats, Virat Kohli's contributions towards cricket are unprecedented. Under Kohli, the Indian Test team has grown from strength to strength. The Indian captain has set the benchmark for fitness in world cricket and is also a style icon.

The 31-year old's net income is a staggering $92 million and is one of the top-tier cricketers in BCCI's contract list. The Delhi batsman has endorsement deals with several brands including Audi, Boost, Colgate-Palmolive, Gillette, Gionee, Herbalife, MRF, Puma, Punjab National Bank, Uber, and Vicks. In 2017, Forbes ranked Virat Kohli seventh in the list of the most valuable brand among athletes.

2) Sachin Tendulkar – $120 million

Sachin Tendulkar (Credits: Twitter)

The name needs no introduction. Sachin Tendulkar was a complete batsman, a prolific run-getter and the most celebrated icon the game has ever known. Tendulkar is the most capped player in ODI and Test cricket. Having made his debut way back in 1989, the Mumbai batsman retired after playing international cricket for 24 years. He is the highest run-getter in both ODIs and Tests and also has the most number of centuries in both the forms of the game.

The 46-year old's present net income is $120 million. During Tendulkar's career, he had sponsorship deals with brands like Boost, Britannia, Fiat Palio, TVS, ESPN Star Sports, Sunfeast, Cannon, Airtel, Phillips, and Castrol India. Having joined Rajya Sabha in 2012, he became the first active sportsman and cricketer to have been nominated.

1) Mahendra Singh Dhoni – $150 million

MS Dhoni. Credits – Getty

Under Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the men in blue tasted unparalleled success in white-ball cricket. MS Dhoni is not only an astute captain but also remains calm and collected during adverse situations. Under the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman, India won all three titles including ICC T20 World Cup, 50-over World Cup, and the Champions Trophy.

Currently, his net worth is a stunning $150 million. Apart from cricket, he has endorsements with Pepsi, Reebok, and United Breweries Group. The 38-year old is also the co-owner of the franchise Ranchi Rays in Hockey India League and Chennaiyin FC franchise of the Indian Super League. Post the World Cup 2019, and Dhoni served the Territorial Army in a two-week stint in Kashmir.

Li Du was not just trying to create the chance for them to be alone; he went out of his way to entertain the other treasure hunters.
He and Hans gathered everyone, saying that they wanted to delegate jobs for each of them to prepare dinner. Their real motive was to remind everyone of one thing: "All of you can feel free to show your things to these three appraisers. If they offer to bring your items with them to help you find buyers, please do not reject them and hand your items to them!"
Feeling unsure, Turis asked, "Boss Li, isn't that risky? Without any security deposit, how can we pass our things to them? That can't be the case."
"Don't worry, everyone," Li Du said. "I've planned this out and would never allow anyone to lose money over this. Do you trust me?"
While the treasure hunters had initially shaken their heads against the suggestion, all of them eventually gave their agreement.
Lastly, Li Du said, "Remember what I've said to you guys: don't let the California chaps and the appraisers know of this—this is our own matter."
"Of course!"
"Everyone help yourselves. There's plenty of beer and steak. Come on buddies, let's get drunk!"
Hearing this, everyone cheered instantly, "Drunk, drunk, drunk! Let's get drunk!"
At the other side, the five of them started chatting. People like Ma Cheng and Frank were adept at social interaction. Furthermore, they had common topics to talk about, all having come from California. 
"Frank, my friend, it seems like our trades are similar. Both require us to keep gaining knowledge and expanding our horizons."
"Right, we always attend events at museums. During our free time, we also like to hole up in the library or watch documentaries covering various industries."
"Speaking of museums, you guys live in L.A.? Then you should be near The Getty Villa? Have you been there?"
"Of course, we visit it frequently. I like the colonnade and the Herb Garden there very much."
"Ha! We may have bumped into each other there before. They hired Du and me as maintenance consultants—Du's in charge of Ancient Greek Civilization while I'm in charge of Etruscan Civilization."
Hearing that, York exclaimed, "That's amazing! How have we never bumped into each other? What a shame!"
Ma Cheng patted his shoulder warmly. "Let me know beforehand when you next visit. I can help you save on the entrance tickets and parking fees."
"That's great," Frank smiled. "Parking there is tough, d*mmit, and the parking fee is 15 dollars!"
"Fifteen dollars?" Ma Cheng said in surprise. "Has it been a while since you last visited? It's now twenty dollars."
"Oh, d*mn!" Frank's eyes seemed to be less guarded.
After speaking about The Getty Villa, they also spoke about the Santa Monica Museum of Art and Long Beach's Museum of Latin American Art.
"If you always need to visit the library for reference books, then I recommend the Huntington Library in Pasadena," Du Dayuan said.
"It's not easy to enter that library, buddy, not easy," York said, shaking his head.
The trio laughed in unison; Du Dayuan said with a smile, "It would be easy if you were acquainted with Mr. Ding. His brother-in-law works in the library management."
Ding Xiaofeng gave a reserved smile before whipping out his mobile phone to show them a few photos—they were of his family and work. He pointed to a middle-aged white man in one of the photos and said, "This is my younger sister's husband. He is personally in charge of the rare books collection at the Huntington Library!"
York's eyes lit up. "The rare books collection? Is that the rare books collection with the Gutenberg Bible? Oh my god, that's really something."
Ding Xiaofeng nodded. "Look, I've conducted research there before."
He swiped the screen again and a new photo appeared—it was of him and his brother-in-law pouring over a huge thick book on the table.
"That's great," York said excitedly. "I've always wanted to go there. There's an extensive medieval Europe collection there."
"And a lovely garden with more than 1,200 types of flora in the rose garden," Ding Xiaofeng added.
"Right."
The two parties got along very well. Ding Xiaofeng made a phone call and then told the two of them, "Let me have your phone numbers. I'll give you a token gift."
Frank and York became guarded once again. But, since it was just their phone numbers and not anything private, they provided them to him.
Ding Xiaofeng then said a few more sentences before he hung up. In no time, the SMS alert sounded on their phones. Both of them retrieved the message to see a QR code.
"This is..." York started in surprise while reading the information from the QR code. "'Los Angeles' Huntington Library awaits your arrival. This QR code entitles you to a complimentary entry to the library during each weekend in October. You can also visit the library's rare books collection…'"
Ding Xiaofeng smiled. "I just called my brother-in-law to get you guys two monthly VIP tickets."
The expression on Frank's face was one of rare sincerity. "Thank you."
Du Dayuan had been periodically glancing at his watch and upon noticing this, York asked, "Du, are you in a hurry?"
Du Dayuan gave him a woeful smile. "We came to the party tonight, but we brought with us some items that should not be seen here. I would like to deposit them in the bank, but the bank's about to close soon."
"What items?" Frank asked.
Du Dayuan did not want to elaborate, but Ma Cheng said, "There's nothing we cannot disclose to our friends. It's actually some artwork made of rubies. It will be in the Phoenix autumn auction."
Frank noticed the small briefcase secured to Du Dayuan's wrist, and said in realization, "Oh, are they in here?"
Du Dayuan nodded nervously and whispered, "Hush buddy, there's too many people here. Some of them don't look that trustworthy."
"Of course," Frank said. "Although I'm friends with them, as your friend I have to warn you to be wary of these people."
"Maybe it's not so nice to say this," York added, "but as a friend, I've got to tell you that that fellow countryman of yours is not just some kind-hearted good guy."
Du Dayuan said, "Then I better put them in the bank. There's a Chase Bank here in Flagstaff, right? Our company's in partnership with them and can deposit auction items with them at no charge."
After spending all this time in Flagstaff, Frank and York were familiar with the city.
"Yes," York volunteered, "let me bring you there. In fact, we also have items with the bank. However, it's not a Chase Bank but First Financial Bank."
With an eager smile, Du Dayuan said, "That's great, thank you both."
York said, "We should be the ones thanking you instead. You've given us two valuable VIP tickets to the library."
　　
"Friends should help each other out, right?" Ding Xiaofeng smiled. "Come, let's go deposit our items first and then come back."


They love gold, and they love silver. Even more so, they love gems that dazzle, like stars across the skies. 
Firearms, jewelleries, and precious metals; A collector’s world will not be complete without antiques.  
Storage auctions, old goods trade, re-estate sales and gold-digging. But the truth is, if one wants to make money, then the supreme way is through searching for the legendary treasures. 
Holding the fort, there’s an ocelot, a wolf, and an Andes condor. At the side, there’s a loyal hound, an irascible ape, and an African honey badger. Who said that you can only rely on humans when treasure hunting?! 

Riley was not in the mood to waste another breath and hastily made his way to the stairs. Knowing her son, Madam Brown didn't follow. But, she frowned unhappily when the door just near the mahogany stairs opened. Riley had just stepped on the first step of the stairway when a swindling voice came from his back.
"Boy, you are ignoring your Auntie again?"
Riley glared in a sharp breathe while he turned around on his heels. Madam Brown felt pity for the woman downstairs.
Riley, who was much taller, was standing on the stairway, making him look much taller. He spoke coldly, "You deserved to be ignored."
Without wasting another breath, he hastily turned away and made his way upstairs. Madam Brown clicked her tongue and hid the obvious bout of laughter that threatened to outburst. On the other hand, her sister-in-law, Getty, stomped her foot angrily and shut the door heavily. All these fifteen years, she had been ruthlessly tortured by Riley's harsh words.
"Shameless!" Madam Brown muttered under her breath as she chuckled. Her so-called sister-in-law had divorced fifteen years ago when her daughter was 9 years old. She divorced and got nothing, and came to beg her brother dearest for a place. Why? Because she and her daughter had nowhere to stay. She had promised to move out after she found herself and her daughter a place to stay. But fifteen years had passed and that so-called promise vanished into thin air. 
---
Honeycomb Villa
Ruby stopped the car right outside the villa. The entire ride was quiet, despite the noisy and loud music. There seemed to be something amiss with Sara. She was extremely quiet and lost in her thoughts in the latter part of the ride. Ruby patted her shoulder worryingly, "Are you okay?"
"Huh?" Sara woke up from her daze and then nodded, "Yes, I am okay. I... I think I should go back to my villa."
"Why?" Ruby frowned disbelievingly.
"I...", Sara sighed and closed her eyes, "I want to spend some alone time."
"Mom made dumplings", Ruby declared.
"That's great. Won't you be happy to get an extra share?" Sara said as she got down from the car and rushed inside.
Ruby sighed and got down from the car. She tossed the car to one of the guards and followed inside.
"What happened to Sara? Did the two of you fight?" Inside, Ruby's mom sounded worried.
Ruby shrugged, "God knows what got into her head. She wants to spend alone time and that too, in her villa!"
Jane, her mom, sighed. Moments later, the two of them saw Sara had changed into a sweatsuit and headband adorned her head, preventing her bangs from covering her forehead. Her long, silky hair was tied into a ponytail. 
"Are you really leaving?" Jane asked worriedly.
"Yes, Auntie. Don't be worried. I just want to be alone", Sara forced a smile.
"Hmm", Jane nodded with a frown.
Sara started walking towards the entrance hurriedly. She was afraid of Ruby's Dad because he doted her very much. If he knew she was leaving, he wouldn't let her go. Thinking of it, she hurried her steps. But, just as she was about to, cross the doorstep, a boom echoed in the room...
"Wait!" the voice was filled with a doting edge, but one with firmness.
Sara sighed and closed her eyes while the lifted leg was frozen in the air. 
"Dad", Ruby walked ahead to support the old man descending from the stairs. He had a cashmere shawl draped over his body, covering half of his tall figure. Realizing the weight of the situation, Sara turned, not wanting to disappoint the old man, Robert.
Before she could say anything, the old man moved his lips, "Go home if you want. But I dare you! If you touched alcohol to vent out your frustration, I will break both of your legs!"
Sara was stunned. His words were not threats but instead, they sounded like a father scolding a daughter, who was away for a football training and insisted to play out agin after returning home. Her heart was filled with warmth as tears threatened to fall. She was lucky enough. She nodded nervously, "Yes."
Robert nodded in response, "You better remember your promise."
Jane and Ruby sighed when they remembered how he had made Sara vow not to touch alcohol ever again.
Then, Ruby spoke up, "Don't worry, Dad. I will check on her tomorrow."
"I am leaving", Sara's voice shook as she turned to leave. If she stayed a moment longer, she knew she would be unable to leave.

Warning: If you want to earn EXP, don't do it at the expense of my novel. ANY ZERO CHAPTER REVIEW  BE DELETED BY ME!
 
"Come at me with all your might. I will silence your cries at the expanse of night."

Sara James~ 23-year-old CEO, filthy rich, capable, arrogant, elegant, sharp and deadly dangerous!
Riley Brown~ 25- year-old, charismatic, wild natured, cool, carefree and the nation's prince!
She has a secret covering 7 years of her life.
He... is rather mysterious when it comes to dealing with life! They were not meant to be. But 'ENCOUNTERS' do happen!

"As a lady, have you ever chased a guy, so passionately and so romantically before?" she spoke as she twirled in front of the camera like a professional vlogger.
He amusedly tossed the camera away. It landed quietly on the velvet sofa. Then, with one swift movement, he lifted her and made her seat on the kitchen counter. 
He had his arms hooked tight around her waist. He slowly leaned closer and she closed her eyes in anticipation. But, instead of a kiss, she heard a hoarse whisper right beside her ear, "As a lady, have you been desired so much by a man before?"
Hearing his suggestive word, she blushed. Then, she prodded her forefinger and jabbed his chest in an attempt to push him away, "Mr. Brown, isn't it going out of the script?"
Saying so, she jumped down but was held back and pushed into a corner. He aimed at her lips, nibbling them gently, "Mrs. Brown, don't you like when it's out of the script?" 
"Mmm-hmm", she moaned, enjoying the kiss.


---
Hey, there! Greetings from the author. Mind you, I am a student... So, I may miss some updates. Hereby, I diligently apologize early!



Cover by WEBNOVEL

What Is Time? A Simple Explanation
Time is familiar to everyone, yet hard to define and understand. Science, philosophy, religion, and the arts have different definitions of time, but the system of measuring it is relatively consistent.

Clocks are based on seconds, minutes, and hours. While the basis for these units has changed throughout history, they trace their roots back to ancient Sumeria. The modern international unit of time, the second, is defined by the electronic transition of the cesium atom. But what, exactly, is time?

Scientific Definition



 Time is a measurement of the progression of events. 

Physicists define time as the progression of events from the past to the present into the future. Basically, if a system is unchanging, it is timeless. Time can be considered to be the fourth dimension of reality, used to describe events in three-dimensional space. It is not something we can see, touch, or taste, but we can measure its passage.


The Arrow of Time

 The arrow of time means time moves from the past into the future, not in the other direction.

Physics equations work equally well whether time is moving forward into the future (positive time) or backward into the past (negative time.) However, time in the natural world has one direction, called the arrow of time. The question of why time is irreversible is one of the biggest unresolved questions in science.

One explanation is that the natural world follows the laws of thermodynamics. The second law of thermodynamics states that within a closed system, the entropy of the system remains constant or increases. If the universe is considered to be a closed system, its entropy (degree of disorder) can never decrease. In other words, the universe cannot return to exactly the same state in which it was at an earlier point. Time cannot move backward.


Time Dilation


 Time passes more slowly for moving clocks. Garry Gay, Getty Images

In classical mechanics, time is the same everywhere. Synchronized clocks remain in agreement. Yet we know from Einstein's special and general relativity that time is relative. It depends on the frame of reference of an observer. This can result in time dilation, where the time between events becomes longer (dilated) the closer one travels to the speed of light. Moving clocks run more slowly than stationary clocks, with the effect becoming more pronounced as the moving clock approaches light speed. Clocks in jets or in orbit record time more slowly than those on Earth, muon particles decay more slowly when falling, and the Michelson-Morley experimentconfirmed length contraction and time dilation.

Time Travel


 A temporal paradox from time travel might be avoided by traveling to a parallel reality. MARK GARLICK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY,

Time travel means moving forward or backward to different points in time, much like you might move between different points in space. Jumping forward in time occurs in nature. Astronauts on the International Space Station jump forward in time when they return to Earth and its slower movement relative to the station.

The idea of traveling back in time, however, poses problems. One issue is causality or cause and effect. Moving back in time could cause a temporal paradox. The "grandfather paradox" is a classic example. According to the paradox, if you travel back in time and kill your grandfather before your mother or father were born, you could prevent your own birth. Many physicists believe time travel to the past is impossible, but there are solutions to a temporal paradox
The human brain is equipped to track time. The suprachiasmatic nuclei of the brain is the region responsible for daily or circadian rhythms. But neurotransmitters and drugs affect time perceptions. Chemicals that excite neurons so they fire more quickly than normal speed up time, while decreased neuron firing slows down time perception. Basically, when time seems to speed up, the brain distinguishes more events within an interval. In this respect, time truly does seem to fly when one is having fun.

Time seems to slow down during emergencies or danger. Scientists at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston say the brain doesn't actually speed up, but the amygdala becomes more active. The amygdala is the region of the brain that makes memories. As more memories form, time seems drawn out.

The same phenomenon explains why older people seem to perceive time as moving faster than when they were younger. Psychologists believe the brain forms more memories of new experiences than of familiar ones. Since fewer new memories are built later in life, time seems to pass more quickly.

　　The training of a team gave Wang Qi a more refined feeling. When conducting an offensive tactical drill, the offensive supervisor coach carefully arranged each person's running position, refining when to start the ball-free running, running speed, Where to go to meet and so on.

　　When defending, there is a defensive supervisor coach. He will arrange what everyone should do in various situations. Someone wants to block, some have to defend, some have to make up...

　　There are special arrangements for even blocking the side of the block.

　　And these are not so detailed in the youth team.

　　All this is novel to Wang Qi, he is like a hungry and long-lost desert traveler to see the oasis!

　　So after he had a full drink, he plunged into the lake and swam in the lake...

　　When he was still immersed in the sea of ​​knowledge, the Serie A stadium came on schedule!

　　It's so sudden, it's so natural, the inside of the team is filled with a strong battle cloud, and the atmosphere has become dignified, which is related to the current situation and to their upcoming opponents.

　　For Florence, this time has entered the most difficult schedule, the last round they just defeated the San Siro stadium, this round they will continue to go to the away game to challenge strong opponents.

　　In this round, their opponent is Juventus, who is known as the "old woman"!

　　Juventus is the real giant of Serie A. It is a football club in Turin, Piedmont, Italy. It was founded on November 1, 1897 and is one of the oldest clubs in Italy.

　　So far, they have won 29 Serie A championships, proud of the Serie A!

　　Inter Milan won 18 times, ranked second, Milan won 17 times, ranked third, the gap between them and Juventus is obvious.

　　Juventus can be called "the king of Serie A"!

　　Juventus's league titles are mostly concentrated in the three dynasty stages, the Carcano dynasty, the Trapattoni dynasty and the Lippi dynasty.

　　From 1930 to 1935, Juventus coach Calcano led the team to the Serie A five consecutive championships.

　　This era is known as the Calcano Dynasty.

　　From 1976 to 1986, gold medalist Trapattoni won six Serie A championship trophies for Juventus.

　　This era is known as the Trapattoni dynasty.

　　From 1994 to 1998, from 2001 to 2004, Lippi coached Juventus twice and led the team to win five Serie A championship trophies.

　　This era is called the Lippi Dynasty.

　　In the 2004-05 season and the 2005-06 season, Capello twice led Juventus to win the Serie A championship. However, after the phone door scandal broke out, Juventus two Serie A championship trophies were stripped.

　　The impact of the phone door on Juventus is huge. The team is deprived of the Serie A title and is also downgraded to the Italian Second Division.

　　Before falling into the second division, Juventus suffered a heavy blow in personnel. Gianluka Zambrotta and Lilian Thuram went to Barcelona together, Fabio Cannavaro and Ferreira Emerson went to Real Madrid, Vieira and Ibrahimovic became Inter Milan players.

　　Only Nedved, Piero, Camoranesi, Buffon and Trezeguet stayed behind.

　　In the tough years, Juventus was reluctant, young players grew up in the second division, Antonio Nocerino proved his strength in this year's league, Juventus' strength in the second division No one can shake in the middle, and finally succeeded in returning to Serie A with the first result of the second division.

　　Returning to Serie A, Serie A is now the world of Inter, Juventus can only continue to introduce reinforcements to enhance their strength, in order to regain the Serie A championship.

　　In the past few years, it has been continuously supplemented.

The strength of Juventus is slowly increasing. Although it has not yet reached the Lippi era, it has greatly improved than just returning to Serie A.
　　The road to regaining glory is always bumpy. Last season, Ferrara and Zaccheroni took over the team one after another. The league ended up with a fifth place with 55 points and missed the UEFA Champions League.

　　After the end of the season, there were major personnel changes in the club, and the son of the lawyer's brother, Umberto Agnelli, Andrei Agnelli, became the chairman of the club.

　　Former chairman Branco gave up the position, the sports manager was held by Marotta from Sampdoria, the former sports manager Secco was dismissed, and Del Neri was hired as the head coach from Sampdoria.

　　This season, Juventus' goal is to regain the qualification of the Champions League and enter the championship group.

　　However, in the first game of the season, they lost at the foot of Barry on the road and broke the biggest upset in the first round.

　　In the second round, they beat Sampdoria three to three at home. They won the first victory in Serie A in the third round and won Udinese four to zero.

　　This big victory gave Juventus confidence, they beat Cagliari at home, and in the next Italian national derby battle away draw Inter!

　　After thirteen rounds passed, Juventus also climbed to fourth place in the standings, a difference of seven points from Milan at the top.

　　Obviously, Juventus would not be able to lose points in a team like Florence if he wanted to narrow the gap with Milan.

　　What's more, they are home games in this round, so the Turin Sports News commented: "For this weekend's game, Juventus has only one goal - to beat the purple lily in the quagmire, take all three points!"

　　The Milan Sports News analyzed: "The last round of San Siro's game was disastrous for the Violet. They not only did not realize the "full body retreat" before the game, but also lost the team's number one star - Gilardino !

　　In the last five rounds, Zi Li scored only four goals, two goals were not scored, showing how weak their offense is, and the old woman completed nine goals in the last five rounds!

　　The offense is weak, let's take a look at the defense. Zi Li lost four goals in the last five rounds and the old woman lost four goals.

　　From the loss of the ball, the two teams are comparable.  But this means that the two teams have the same level of defense.

　　Zi Li's away game this season has a record of four losses and two draws. She has not won the game. The old woman's home record is three wins, two draws and one loss.

　　Moreover, in the history of the two teams in the past five years, Florence has only achieved a record of three draws and four losses in the Allianz Arena, which is completely at a disadvantage.

　　Therefore, no matter from the player configuration, strength and recent state, as well as the historical record, the old woman won at home is not much problem, the purple lily this battle is more fierce! "

　　Florence's most circulated "Florence Pravda" is also pessimistic about his team: "If Viola can retreat from the Allianz Arena, it can be said to be a miracle.

　　As Gilardino was injured, Serbian Mikhainovic lost the sharp knife that attacked the city, and Kuma-Babaka had been injured in the knee joint. Sefirovich and Ndiaye were in a normal state. What does Lily take to score?

　　Midfielder?

　　Guard?

　　The front line is lacking. It is said that Mikhainovic went to the reserve team to prepare for the player. As a result, he returned empty-handed...

　　It is reported that the club is looking for a forward candidate, ready to introduce a powerful forward when the winter transfer window is opened, in order to change the status quo of the front line weakness.

　　This season, Violet has continued to slump in Serie A, especially the away record, which can be described as 'bad' - four negatives and two levels!

　　Such a bad road record, in order to retreat from the Allianz Arena, the difficulty is huge.

　　If you lose to the feet of the old woman, the purple lily can only enter the relegation battle in advance.

　　However, we still hope that the purple lily can create a miracle and can retreat from the Allianz Arena. "

==WARNING==READ ME==
Assalamualaikum
Hope this synopsis finds you well. 

This is not my work. I just copy the translated novels here without so many changes. I just like these novels so I want to share with everyone. 
You are being reminded that the translated chapters are so terrible. Peace

Enjoy Reading.

***

Paul memandang wajah Lin lin yang tertidur di pangkuannya, dia terlihat lelah. Paul mengedarkan pandangannya ke seluruh apartemen, sudah rapi seperti sedia kala seperti yang dia inginkannya. semua pria Cohza terbiasa mandiri sedari kecil dan tentu saja rapi dan tidak jorok.

"Maaf ya membuatmu capek," kata Paul masih betah mengelus rambut Lin lin di pangkuannya. Hal yang selalu Paul lakukan pada Pauline saat mereka masih kecil. Paul tau dia terlalu terobsesi dengan adiknya. Paul sudah berusaha menghilangkan rasa itu dari dulu tapi selalu gagal. Pada akhirnya Paul menyerah dan memilih mengikuti arus, mencintai Pauline dengan sepenuh hati. Tapi cintanya malah membawa kehancuran untuk keluarganya, dan Paul sama sekali tidak bisa mencegahnya.

Paul tahu apa yang sudah di alami Lin mey. Ia kan selalu mengawasi adiknya Pete, jadi apa pun kegiatannya pasti Paul tahu. Walau dia pernah kecolongan saat mendengar Pete menikahi rautan pensil yang adalah adik dari Lin mey itu.

Lin mey hanyalah wanita yang bernasib sama dengannya. Dibutakan cinta dan rela melakukan apa pun demi orang yang dicintainya. Lalu apa yang terjadi? nyatanya Lin mey hancur juga persis seperti dirinya.

Paul meminum kopi di depannya dengan sekali teguk, itu sudah menjadi kebiasaannya yaitu meminum kopi seperti meminum air putih. Tanpa menghirup aromanya, tanpa meminumnya sedikit demi sedikit agar terasa nikmat, toh menurut Paul hasilnya tetap sama, supaya tidak mengantuk.
Setelah tandas, Paul yang awalnya mau meneliti pekerjaannya jadi mengurungkannya dan memilih menggendong Lin lin ke kamar lalu merebahkannya pelan.

Cup

Setelah mencium keningnya Paul menyelimuti Lin lin lalu keluar dan menutup pintunya pelan. Paul mengusap rambutnya dan menghela nafas lelah.

Tiga bulan, sudah tiga bulan Paul tinggal dengan Lin lin. Jadi sudah sewajarnya jika Paul mulai mengetahui apa yang disuka dan yang tidak di sukai Lin lin. walau Lin lin selalu terlihat antipati dan ketakutan melihatnya tapi Paul tau apa saja yang bisa membuat Lin lin tersenyum secara sepontan atau cemberut karena dongkol.

Paul selalu menuntut Lin lin agar menjadi Pauline, tapi semakin mirip bukannya Paul menjadi puas tapi paul semakin menyadari bahwa Lin mey bukanlah Pauline. Walau wajah sama, kelakuannyapun di setel sedemikian rupa tapi Paul bukan merasa bahagia justru dia semakin tertampar dan menyadari bahwa Pauline sudah mati dan wanita itu bukan Pauline, dia adalah Lin mey. wanita yang di siksa Pete dan di serahkan padanya agar perlakukan seperti budaknya.

Lin Mey akan melakukan apa pun perintah darinya, dan siap sedia saat Paul memanggilnya. Bahkan Paul yakin Lin mey akan menjilat kakinya jika memang disuruh, hal yang terpaksa L in mey lakukan dari pada menjalani siksaan dari adiknya Pete Allberald Cohza. Siksaan yang Paul yakin akan membuat orang memilih mati dari pada harus berada di dalamnya.

Paul mendudukkan pantatnya di sofa dan membuka laptopnya. Paul memegang dadanya yang terasa berdesir, entah rasa apa ini? Bukan cinta tapi bukan juga benci. Paul sepertinya mulai posesif pada Lin lin karena sudah tiga bulan sejak Lin mey tinggal bersamanya Paul tidak pernah lagi berkencan dengan model-model dan wanita penghibur lainnya, entahlah dia hanya merasa tidak berminat, justru akhir-akhir ini saat bersama Lin lin minatnya semakin meningkat. Ia membayangkan Lin lin mendesah dan menggeliat di bawahnya dengan keringat dan cengkraman kuat. 

Oh ... sialllll juniornya tegang sekarang.

Mungkin liburan cocok untuknya, dan Paul yakin Lin lin juga akan menyukainya. Karena Paul tau, memanjakan Lin lin cukup mudah. Ajak jalan-jalan, shoping atau sekedar ke pantai maka dia akan luluh dan melupakan kekesalannya dan entah kenapa saat Lin lin tersenyum Paul terpesona melihatnya.

***

" Cepat bereskan baju," teriak Paul pada Lin mey.

Lin mey yang asik berjemur jadi kaget, mereka sedang di hawai, dan itu baru beberapa jam, kenapa sekarang dia di suruh beberes? Katanya mau liburan sebulan?

"Cepetannn, si tusuk gigi udah brojol anaknya."

Lin mey semakin bingung.

"Ck ... Xia adikmu melahirkan," ucap Paul menjelaskan.

"Oh ...."Linmey lansung mengikuti Paul dan masuk ke kamarnya, dengan cepat dia membereskan barang-barang mereka, untung Lin mey belum membongkar semuanya jadi pekerjaannya tidak terlalu berat.

"Kakak ... semua sudah siap," ucap Lin mey saat semua perlengkapan mereka sudah di bereskan.
Paul mengangguk dan mengangkat koper mereka. Saat sampai di dekat mobil, suara ponselnya berbunyi.

"Iyaaaa ini aku sudah akan ke sana," kata Paul menjawab telpon sambil memasukkan koper ke kursi belakang.

"Tidak perlu, aku sudah tau tempatnya." Tanpa memperhatikan sekitarnya, Paul menarik Linmey dan mendorongnya masuk, dan sebelum Lin mey protes, Paul sudah menutupnya.

"Bawel, sudah aku mau nyetir." Paul masuk ke kemudi dan langsung meluncur ke bandara.

Perjalanan dari pantai sampai bandara memang agak memakan waktu, sekitar satu jam mereka baru sampai di bandara.

"Kamu urusi koper kita, aku urusi pesawatnya," kata Paul pada Lin mey. Tapi dia langsung heran saat tidak mendengar jawaban dan Lin mey.

Paul heran karena Lin mey tidak ada di mobil, kemana dia? Perasaan tadi Paul mendorongnya masuk mobil deh?

"Lin lin?" Paul menghubungi no Lin mey.

Tidak di angkat.

"Kenapa hilang saat seperti ini? Pasti dia ketinggalan di pantai, biar anak buahku saja yang mengurusnya nanti, dasar," gerutu Paul dan langsung keluar dari mobil.

Saat membuka bagasi bermaksud mengambil koper, mata Paul langsung melotot karena di sana Linmey sudah tergeletak pingsan.

"Lin lin." Paul mengeluarkan Lin mey yang sudah lemas itu.

"Ngapain masuk bagasi?" tanya Paul yang tentu saja tidak di jawab.

Paul langsung membawa Lin mey masuk ke dalam mobil dan membawanya ke rumah sakit terdekat.

***

"Jadi bagaimana keadaanya?" tanya Paul pada Dokter yang memeriksa Lin mey.

"Tidak apa-apa, dia hanya shokk, ketakutan dan sedikit kekuarangan oksigen. Tapi sekarang dia sudah sadar," kata Dokter mempersilahkan Paul masuk ke ruang rawat.

Tanpa menunggu lagi, Paul lansung masuk dan melihat Lin mey yang sudah duduk dan menyender di ranjang.

"Bagaimana keadaanmu?" tanya Paul.

Linmey diam saja. Dia malah memalingkan wajahnya dari Paul.

Memang apa yang harus Lin mey katakan padanya. Baru sejam yang lalu Paul memasukkannya ke bagasi dan sekarang dia bertanya keadaannya seolah tidak terjadi apa-apa.
Tidak taukah Paul, Lin mey sangat ketakutan di dalam sana, dia meringkuk dan merasa kebas di seluruh tubuhnya, dia sesak nafas, dia bahkan sudah membayangkan ajal yang akan segera menjemputnya.

Walau dulu dia pernah berusaha bunuh diri karena tidak tahan dengan siksaan Pete tapi selalu di gagalkan anak buah Pete, tapi bukan berarti Lin mey ingin mati konyol di bagasi dan sekarang Paul bertanya keadaannya? yang benar saja????

"Lin lin? Aku bertanya padamu." Paul memandang Lin mey tidak suka saat pertanyaannya tidak di jawab.

"Aku baik-baik saja," kata Lin mey masih tidak mau memandang Paul.

Paul duduk di tepi ranjang lalu menyentuh wajah Lin mey agar menghadap padanya.

"Kamu kenapa?"

Lin mey menggeleng, dia tidak mau membuka mulut karena khawatir tidak bisa mengontrol emosinya, dan mengamuk Paul. Lin mey masih ingat bahwa dia hanya boneka, apa pun yang di lakukan Paul padanya itu sudah menjadi haknya sebagai pemilik, dan sudah seharusnya Lin mey menerimanya tanpa bantahan karena ini jalan yang sudah di pilih olehnya.

Tapi bolehkah Lin mey menangis sebentar saja untuk meratapi nasibnya.

"Kamu kenapa sih masuk bagasi segala?" tanya Paul menggenggam tangannya.

Linmey langsung menoleh kearahnya? Jangan bilang Paul lupa bahwa dia yang memasukkannya ke bagasi.

"Lin lin?" Paul menunggu jawabannya.

"Kamu yang memasukkanku ke bagasi kakak," ucap Lin mey lirih berusaha menahan air mata dari rasa kesalnya.

"Apa maksudmu? Aku tidak mungkin setega itu, aku hanya memasukkan koper ke bagasi."

"Kamu nemasukkan koper ke kursi belakang kakak dan memasukkan aku ke bagasi sebagai gantinya," bantah Lin mey sambil menahan rasa ingin meledak.

"Tapi ... itu tidak mungkin. Astgaaaa benarkah?" Paul memandang Lin mey seolah baru menyadari apa yang terjadi.

Linmey memalingkan wajahnya lagi. Kesal bercampur gondok. Ingin sekali dia menjedotkan kepala Paul ke tembok biar lebih encer dan tidak pelupa. Tapi mau bagaimana, efek umur mempengaruhi sih.

"Maaf yaaa, setelah dari sini kamu boleh minta apa saja deh, sebagai permintaan maafku, tapi jangan minta cerai ya," kata Paul tersenyum manis.

Linmey memandang Paul semakin merasa tertekan. Bagaimana dia mau minta cerai kalau menikah saja tidak pernah, situ ngigo, erang Lin mey dalam hati.

"Sudah bisa jalan kan? Ayo pulang saja, besok baru kita lihat ponakanku," ajak Paul sambil membantu Lin mey turun dari ranjang Rumah sakit.

Lin mey yang sebenarnya masih lemas hanya bisa menurut mengikuti perintah Paul.
Memang siapa dia bisa membantah. Boneka tidak memiliki hak melawan perintah pemiliknya.

***

TBC

Satu malam mengubah segalanya.

Ratih Ayu Brawijaya. 
Menikah merupakan hal  yang sudah di atur oleh keluarganya. 
Namun, apa jadinya jika dia malah hamil saat melakukan kencan semalam?

Daniel Cohza Cavendish.
Manikah? tidak ada dalam kamus hidupnya.
Bahkan dia lebih memilih berpura-pura menjadi seorang Gay dari pada harus menikah.

Sayang, Semua harus dia pikirkan ulang ketika terlanjur menghamili seorang wanita.

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The Alchemists - Indonesian

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