Home For My Soul

82|Only Internship

Theo days no longer come to surprise me when I leave for work. I'm starting to feel lost. Even though on the lips I said no, I actually liked being able to meet him even if only for a moment. His work only irritates me, it's okay.

Our communication via mobile phones is also faltering. I sent a message hoping we could chat for a moment, he didn't even respond. On the contrary, when he had time to talk for a moment on a video call, I was at work.

On the other hand, no reporter followed me wherever I went. Looks like they're not interested in finding news from me, but Theo. It must be because I'm just a woman from a poor, ugly family. So, Theo's handsome face was more suited to adorning their headlines.

Norman is not what Theo accuses. My boss was very polite and did not invite me to eat with his parents anymore. Just one time. Which unfortunately was the trigger for my boyfriend's excessive jealousy.

Her secretary stretched her in her seat, distracting me. The digital clock on the computer screen shows five o'clock exactly. It's time to go home, but this afternoon, we all didn't go straight back to each other's homes.

“Come, Amarylis, we tidy up,” take him while carrying his mekap bag.

“No, Ma'am. This is enough,” reject me.

He swept his eyes over my hair, face, and clothes. “You're not wrong? It's a big event, when do you look like that? If you can't dance by yourself I'll help.”

“Thank you, Ma'am. Sorry, I had to turn it down,” I said again, be careful.

“Good. Wait for me, yeah. We go together.” He looked at me seriously. I laughed a little, then nodded.

Mr. Wiryawan has his sixtieth birthday today. So, his whole family wants to celebrate with the employees as well. Those who are not invited to attend due to the limitations of chairs can enjoy the food provided in the office grounds. Those of us who served close to her children were asked to come to her celebration in the hotel hall.

I actually feel bad about Mas Norman's invitation. I'm just an intern. Because Mr. Wiryawan also invited me directly, then I could no longer refuse to attend.

The atmosphere of the hall was already crowded with invited guests. The family's reception led us to our seats. My co-worker sat in the back row without a desk, but I was invited to the row of round tables that were near the stage.

Seeing me alone the employee who got the place of honor, I felt bad. The woman did not drive me to the wrong place, because my name was on the card in front of the chair she pointed at. The table is empty. Reading the name on my right, I knew this table was for the Wiryawan Family.

“The face of the girl is no stranger,” said a woman sitting in a chair behind me.

“You forgot? Photos and videos of him doing business with a man had circulated widely. That's theperson. The affair of Altheo Husada,” said another woman who also came from behind me.

“Yes, geez. You're right.” The first woman took a surprised breath. “What is he doing there? What after teasing Husada's heirs, he also wanted to hook Wiryawan's heirs?”

“Lo? Don't you know yet?” The second woman lowered her volume. “Norman gay. Therefore, she is not also married.”

The first woman took a surprised breath. Basic female. No matter where you are, there are always those who like to talk about the lives and personal choices of others. Good people like Norman are ugly.

When the atmosphere of the hall was stormy, I turned to the direction where the source of the sound came from. It turns out that Om Wiryawan who has arrived with his family for years. Aunt Wiryawan waved to me as our gaze met. I replied with a nod and a smile.

“Hai, Amaryllis. Sit over. No need to stand up until you stand up. As with everyone else,” said Aunt Wiryawan kindly.

We sat down with the brother of Om Wiryawan and their wife. I was the only foreigner among the family. I understand Auntie likes me, but giving me one seat at this table feels so overwhelming.

A short celebration begins first to celebrate the birthday of Om Wiryawan. I was left alone when they stood on stage. The celebration did not stop there, Om Wiryawan also announced his resignation and appointed Mas Norman as his successor.

The hall was boisterous with applause from the invitees. They seem happy with the decision. Mas Norman seems like a good boss is also a fun colleague so people like him. Hopefully Theo will get the same reception.

Norman delivered his first speech, so we were welcome to sit down. I surrounded the table with the wives, while the men were still standing on the stage. Not knowing how to behave, I just listened to Mas Norman talk.

“Iya, Aunt. Mas Norman is good to me,” I replied briefly.

“Sgratitude.” He patted my hand that was on my lap.

He did not continue the conversation that confused me myself. But I went back to the show and listened to Mas Norman. After the summit is over, food is served on the table. The old man and boy occasionally invited me to chat with them.

Norman insisted on driving me home. Though not yet the night is right and there is still public transportation that leads to my residence. As soon as his parents pressed, I could no longer refuse.

“Girls can't come home this night alone. Don't you know how many crimes have happened to women as young as you?” He shook his head.

“Then, Mas should drop off other single employees, not just me,” I reply.

“They have a private vehicle. Only you are not.” He smiled meaningfully.

“Ah.” I nodded in understanding. So, that's why he just drove me.

“Do not hesitate with me. We knew each other before you interned at my hotel. If anyone says slant that makes you uncomfortable, just ignore it. After all, it's only been a month and you won't hear their envy again.”

“Nobody says italic about me and Mas,” I.

She laughs. “I forgot. They must be more interested in talking about you with Altheo.”

“Yang's right, Mas. We do not discuss matters outside of work,” I said, reminding.

He just laughed. I shook my head, not thinking about the topic that became a favorite of many people. Om Azarya was young, but who would become Theo's wife was already a concern. He will not be married for another six or seven years.

“If I could talk as a friend,” said Mas Norman, suddenly serious. “Good girl like you, I think, doesn't like scandals. I was surprised to read the news about you coming with Altheo wherever he went after he got engaged.

“I don't know Jessica, but I know her family's reputation is good. Altheo's parents have set a woman who will be his wife, you should not disturb them. If you continue this, then you will have difficulty finding work when you become an alumni.

“No one has not known your face or your name since your friendly photos and videos went viral in the media. If you break up, you will also find it difficult to get a husband. You and your candidate will fall awake to get the blessing of their parents.

“As long as you can still escape, you should not approach a man who already has a fiancee. He will never choose you over the woman he is attached to. Believe this. Altheo is just using your feelings. Don't let him continue to ruin your reputation,”.

I wanted to tell him that I was his first girlfriend. We backstreet without anyone knowing we were in a relationship, long before Chika was present between us. But Norman is only a superior. My personal business is not for its consumption, so I choose not to discuss it further.

“Why do I feel Mas is not talking as a friend, but a brother who protects his sister?” I'm trying to melt the atmosphere.

“Kakak, yes?” He's laughing a little. “Is that me to you? A sister?”

“Of course not. Mas is my boss,” I replied, rectifying.

“I want more than that.”

“Hah?” muttered confused.

“I want more than a friend, sister, or boss for you.” He glanced at me before looking back at the street in front of him. “I want you to look at me as a man.”