REDAMANCY - Love's Timeless Path

6th Note

(Haira)

—

"Can you stop teasing Jendra like that?" I tapped Pradipta on the shoulder with the rolled file I was carrying. Making the man next to me chuckle before pressing the button for the elevator we took.

Pradipta Hardana.

Originally, he was my father's loyal assistant, whom he brought with him to the family since he was great with his brain. But now, he is someone in my great social circle. Papa happily 'lent' him to me to learn more about the company and the circumstances around us.

"Care to tell me why you've been rolling your eyes in that rather rude manner yesterday during our lunch when you talked to Jendra?"

"Nothing; sometimes I'm just annoyed. Despite his handsome and cool demeanour, he had a surprisingly gentle side when it came to you, Mbak." he grinned. "It seems his passion, interest, and kindness toward you are positively overflowing. That's why I like to tease him."

"He's just very affectionate, that's all."

"Affectionate? More like completely smitten," Pradipta teased, pretending to swoon dramatically. "How does he manage to keep up with it? It must be exhausting to be loved that much."

I rolled my eyes. "Well, I happen to enjoy it. It's sweet, and it keeps things interesting. Besides, who wouldn't want to be loved?"

Pradipta chuckled again.

Lost in the quiet hum of the office after chatting with my assistant, I found myself drawn into the depths of my thoughts. The conversation had taken an unexpected turn, leading me to reflect on the unwavering support and understanding that defined my relationship with Jendra.

As I absentmindedly gazed out the alley we walked into, memories of him flooded my mind. He was more than a boyfriend; he was my pillar of strength, a source of encouragement, and an ally in the face of the world's expectations.

He had this amazing way of showing compassion — an authentic care that went above and beyond what was expected. It wasn't just about grand gestures or lavish displays of affection; it was the everyday details, the small gestures, that whispered love. He made sure I felt appreciated, whether it was with a comforting pat on my shoulder after a trying day at work or a thoughtful note stuffed into my purse.

The thing that really got to me was Jendra's unwavering faith in me. He supported me, acknowledging my abilities without downplaying my status as a woman in a society where prejudices and stereotypes frequently attempted to limit my goals. His encouragement came from a genuine respect for my uniqueness rather than from a need to fit in with society's norms.

I thought back to all the times he had stood up for me and inspired me to follow my goals. He congratulated me on my accomplishments as though they were his own and supported me through my losses by lending me his steady hand and consoling presence.

But seriously. Before I met him, I couldn't help but hate myself for being born as a woman. Until that fateful night. It was the first time I stood in for my mother to deliver a speech at the inauguration of the Andaru Foundation.

I still clearly remember that time when I met a man who looked at me with dazzling eyes and praised what I conveyed on stage. A man who was more beautiful than any woman I've ever met. A man who did not blame my existence as a woman. A man who smiled and said that I looked like a queen.

"Can I be your king?"

I burst out laughing; my face was incredibly hot. Even though I was so embarrassed at that time, I thought I was happy, so I said,