[The Legacy Series] REDAMANCY - Love's Timeless Path

7th Note

That afternoon, there was a lot of traffic on the Sudirman area roads, but Papa and I managed to get through the streets with ease in our car. I leaned my hand against the car window and rested my chin on it. A number of motorcycle riders attempted to squeeze through the small gap between our car and other cars. I've witnessed this a lot, and most of the time I don't comprehend their perspective. Why take the risk of going through that narrow space just to reduce the relatively insignificant mileage?

"What you did was a bit rude, but Papa can't stop you." Papa smothered his laughter and went back to engaging with the tablet in his hand.

I shrugged my shoulders. "It deserved him right, didn't it? Sikap dan kelakuan masih jauh dibandingkan sama Pak Juari." I made a light conversation, drawing parallels between Papa's younger brother and the driver who was taking us now. Inviting laughter from the middle-aged man behind the wheel.

Papa gave my back a soft pat. "At your age, Papa knows you don't have much experience with companies."

I observed his charming yet slightly aged face.

"You know why people keep a low profile when they do business?"

I shook my head.

"Because when you have a lot, you need to hide it. And when you have a little, you need to flaunt it. You have no experience and are at the bottom of the ladder." Papa saw me once more. "Even though you're used to seeing me. But because you don't really understand me yet, you have to act bigger than you actually are."

I looked into the pair of dark eyes in front of me. His piercing gaze, which never failed to appear whenever he brought up a business-related topic.

"You ought to project a constant sense of success. Even when you have nothing at all, don't be modest. People are always curious to find out when you really have nothing. But, if you can't fight it, compromise. Nggak semua yang terjadi harus kamu ladenin."

However, his warm, soothing voice always managed to comfort me.

"I believe that, as an adult, I had a part in what happened. To drag you into this chaos. I apologize." Papa smiled again. There was guilt on his face. "You are smart. However, the world is a place established by smart people but ruled by wise people. So be wise to read everything around you."

I patted his hand gently, as it was beginning to wrinkle. I am aware of his concerns. But despite all of this chaos, I also know why I'm fighting. My most essential possession that I'm trying to protect is nothing but myself. My objectives, my opinions. My honor, my pride – everything about who I am.

In the middle of my thoughts, I could almost hear laughter – the cadence of a voice blending seamlessly with the rustle of the hustle and bustle of the capital. A lovely but strong inside my head.

"I can see how gracious your heart is. You put goodness into everything you do, and I see a reflection of the incredible person you are in everything you do. You're building an honorable legacy in addition to striving for excellence. Just keep in mind that everything you do should serve as a reflection of the amazing person you are and the honor that permeates all of your endeavors."

Every time I remember how those voices and words affected me, I really want to thank Mama, who had a knack for playing matchmakers that night. How that dinner brought me to meet his gaze. A sincere and appreciative one held a curiosity that mirrored my own. How our smiles met, and for a split second, the world seemed to stop and allow us to acknowledge something truly remarkable.

I smiled, remembering how that voice filled my head again, and got the feeling that everything would be alright. It made me hold Papa's hand tighter.

"I know, and I won't make things worse. You may think I am still your immature and childish daughter. But I'm fine, Pa."

Papa proudly gave me a look. I loved his eyes, crinkling with the kind of wisdom that only fathers seemed to possess. I wouldn't lie; I always enjoyed it when we talked about life, dreamed, and the intricate dance of joy and challenges that came with it. His words, laden with experience and genuine understanding, lingered in the air like the sweet aroma of coffee on a lazy Sunday morning.

As Pak Juari drove, the scenery changed, but the warmth of our conversation lingered. The wide road appeared to elongate in front of us, reflecting the boundless opportunities Papa had mentioned. The rhythm of the wheels on the asphalt created a reassuring background that heightened the peace of our time together.

I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for this time spent with my father. His guidance was like a compass, providing direction and reassurance in a world that often felt chaotic. The car became a vessel for not just physical movement but also for the exchange of heartfelt words.

During the talk, I kept thinking about our special times together, the comfort of Jendra's hug, and the unwavering support that defined our bond. With a fond smile, I began recalling his unwavering encouragement and the shared dreams that wove our relationship into a beautiful tapestry. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the love and connection that colored my life.

I put my head on Papa's arm and hugged him. Stroking my face on the sleeve of his suit.

"Thank you, Pa."

"What's for?"

I chuckled. "For everything. Including having amazing colleagues like the people in your circle. Oom Prabu, Oom Mahesa, Oom Linardi, and your amazing activities."

His eyebrows shot up as he tried to understand what I had said.

"I'm glad I got to know them." I closed my eyes. Remembering all Papa's activities with them that I had gone through with Jendra. I always express my gratitude for what happened between me and him during every special occasion my father and his friends built.

Ten blessed years.

I smiled again.

'Ah, I think I can't wait to get to the apartment and meet my favorite man.'