The Destiny That Speaks

Chapter 10

The next day, Azura was curious about Lita's arrival at her parents' house. Azura still kept Lita's phone number inside her phone even though they hadn't spoken for a long time. He decided to take Lita to meet at their favorite cafe.

Azura sat on the balcony while staring at the clean and beautiful swimming pool. He picks up his phone and types a short message to Lita, inviting her to meet at their favorite cafe.

"Hi Lita, how are you? I miss you. Let's meet at our favorite cafe! I want to talk to you a lot."

After sending that message, Azura felt a little nervous. He knew that this meeting could bring a variety of emotions and perhaps also difficult secret revelations. However, he felt the need to gain clarity as to what was really going on.

Moments after sending the message, Azura's phone vibrated with a reply from Lita. His heart beat quickly as he opened the message.

"Hi Azura! I'm doing fine. I agreed to meet at our favorite cafe. What time do we meet?"

A relieved smile was engraved on Azura's face. He immediately replied to Lita's message.

"Hi Lita! All right if you agree. How about we meet at 3pm at Cafe Delight, our favorite cafe? I'll wait for you there."

Azura sent a message and then set her phone beside her. He felt a sense of tension and enthusiasm, as this meeting could bring answers to the many questions that stuck in his mind.

As planned, she gets ready to meet Lita at their favorite cafe at 3pm. Azura arrived at Cafe Delight a few minutes before 3 p.m. He chose a strategic table, where he could see the entrance clearly. His heart thumped as he waited for Lita to come.

Cafe Delight is a warm and cozy place, hidden among the ranks of modern office buildings. Once entering the glass door of the cafe, will be greeted by a friendly and pleasant atmosphere. The interior decoration is dominated by a soft palette of colors like beige, brown, and pale green, creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere.

The walls of the cafe are decorated with abstract paintings that give an artistic touch. Wooden tables placed around the room provide a warm atmosphere, and padded chairs with brightly colored pillows add comfort. A small fireplace sits in one corner, creating a warmer atmosphere, especially on cold days.

The lighting in the cafe is adjusted so that it is not too bright, providing a suitable feel for relaxing or chatting with friends. The atmosphere of the cafe is more perfect with a breath of fresh coffee aroma that fills the air, making it the perfect place for coffee lovers.

There are a wide variety of tables, from single tables to larger tables for groups. In the corner of the cafe, there are shelves containing a variety of magazines and books to entertain visitors who want to read while enjoying a drink.

Cafe Delight has a variety of menu options, ranging from coffee and tea, light snacks, to heavy dishes. Friendly and well-trained waiters are on hand to help you choose your favorite dishes. A soft musical sound rang out in the background, creating a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.

Overall, Cafe Delight is a great place to have a casual chat, meet up with friends, or just enjoy your own time while enjoying a warm and pleasant atmosphere.

Shortly after, the cafe door opens and Azura sees Lita coming in. Lita looked a little nervous, but she also smiled when she saw Azura. They nodded at each other as a token of greeting and Lita walked towards the table where Azura was already sitting.

"Hi Lita, it's so nice that we can meet," Azura said with a friendly smile.

They hugged each other like friends who missed each other. But in Azura's heart was stored a great anger because it knew if Lita had betrayed him in his previous life.

"Hi Azura," Lita replied, trying to smile despite being a little tense. He then sat on a chair in front of Azura.

"What do you want to drink?" azura asked, trying to open the conversation with a relaxed atmosphere.

"A glass of water, thank you" Lita replied.

Azura immediately called the waiter and ordered water for Lita as well as warm tea for herself. After the waiter left, the atmosphere started to feel a bit awkward between them. Azura decided to take the initiative.

"Lita, I'm glad you're meeting. I miss you so much. I want to talk about many things," Azura said, her eyes filled with hope.

Lita nodded and took a deep breath. "Me too, Azura. There's a lot I want to talk about."

Azura was relieved to hear that. At least Lita also had the intention to talk about everything that had happened. They then began to talk, opening up the sheets of the past buried in their hearts. Although there are awkward moments, but the longer they are more comfortable talking to each other.

Slowly, awkwardness began to disappear between Azura and Lita. They talked about their lives, work, and family. Azura tells about her current life with Ravendra, while Lita is reluctant to reveal about someone who is currently a part of her life.

Lita listened carefully, her eyes focused on Azura who was talking. The light of the lights in Cafe Delight radiated between them, creating an atmosphere full of warmth. A hint of smile adorned Lita's face as she felt the happiness emanating from Azura.

"You know, Lita," Azura said softly, "As time goes by, I really feel happy with Ravendra. At first, I might have been hesitant because of this matchmaking, but it turns out that she was more than just a good husband. He's a listening friend, an ever-present companion, and he really loves me."

Lita looked at Azura with an understanding look, her lips curled in a sincere smile. "I'm glad to hear that, Azura. You deserve that happiness."

Lita lied with her words. He is disappointed to hear Azura who has now been happy with Ravendra.

Azura nodded, her eyes shining with gratitude. "Thank you, Lita. And yuuu? How's yours?"

Lita shook her head with a faint smile. "I'm still looking, Azura. I haven't found what you've found. But listen, the most important thing is that we're happy with our choices, right?"

Lita lies again, actually she already has a lover but she cannot reveal it to Azura. Let this be a secret for him and his secret lover.

On the other hand, Azura guesses that Lita is not willing to reveal who her lover is because according to Azura, her current lover is Leo. Perhaps the reason Lita did not want to tell him who her lover was because Lita knew that Leo liked Azura, as well as Azura. But that was Azura's past, now Azura only loves Ravendra. Azura knew of their plan, they were currently launching the action.

Azura nodded, feeling pleased with Lita's response. It is true, at this time he is very happy, but if he remembers the events in his previous life, it is very painful.

Azura is aware of what he has done, betraying Ravendra by cheating, stealing the company's assets, and the worst thing is to kill him. It was really the cruel Azura. Therefore, it is very feasible for Azura to get the right reply from his lover and also his best friend who stabbed him from behind.

Azura recalled the previous life, supposedly the current moment was the moment where Lita persuaded her to betray Ravendra by going into Leo's arms. It was clear in Azura's memory when she complained that she was no longer strong enough to have her marriage with Ravendra.

Azura daydreamed remembering that time...

Lita sat beside Azura in the same seat as at this moment, her face full of worry. "Azura, I know you feel trapped in this marriage. You have to be honest with yourself. What do you want? Is this really your happiness?"

Azura stared blankly outside the cafe, her expression full of consideration. "I don't know, Lita. This marriage is not what I imagined. But I don't want to hurt my parents. They love me very sincerely, they want me to be happy."

Lita grabbed Azura's hand gently. "Azura, you also deserve your own happiness. You can't live for someone else forever. What do you feel for Leo, do you feel alive and happy with him?"

Azura shook her head slowly, yet there was doubt in her eyes. "I know I feel attracted to him, but I can't get away from Ravendra. I've tied the sacred promise of marriage."

Lita clasped Azura's hand tightly. "But what do you want, Azura? Do you want to live your life feeling trapped and unhappy? You have the right to seek your own happiness."

Azura felt the conflict in her heart deepening. "But what about the wedding vows, Lita? I can't betray Ravendra."

Lita looked at Azura sincerely. "Azura, it's time you spoke honestly to yourself. Are you really happy? And can you really ignore your feelings for Leo?"

Azura felt her tears begin to pool. He felt trapped at a difficult crossroads. "I... I don't know, Lita. Everything's so complicated."

Lita embraced Azura understandingly. "I just want you to find your happiness, Azura. Whatever your choice, I'll support you."

Azura felt lucky to have a wholehearted friend like Lita. He knows Lita cares for him and just wants the best for him. In the silence of the cafe back then, Azura thought through Lita's words carefully, knowing that a big decision awaited in front of her.

Lita sat in front of Azura with a determined expression. "Azura, you must listen to your heart. What you feel for Leo cannot be ignored. It's about your happiness, not about anyone."

Azura felt the pressure getting bigger. "But Lita, it's not just about me. It's also about my family, about marriage. I can't ruin everything."

Lita clenched her hands, trying to convince Azura. "Azura, you have the right to follow your heart. Your marriage to Ravendra may have started with those promises, but now you also have to think about whether it still makes you happy."

Azura felt her heart raging. He does not love Ravendra, his feelings for Leo are so strong. "But what about Ravendra, Lita? I can't just hurt her, she doesn't have any faults, she's just stuck by this matchmaking."

Lita approached Azura and grabbed her friend's hand gently. "No one wants to see you suffer, Azura. If you really love Leo, you should talk to Ravendra. He should know how you feel, too."

Azura felt her tears begin to flow. "I'm scared, Lita. I'm afraid I hurt Ravendra. I'm afraid I'm gonna decide something that could ruin everything."

Lita smiled gently. "Trust me, Azura. Sometimes, we have to take risks to find true happiness. Don't let fear get in your way."

Azura pondered for a moment, listening to Lita's words carefully. She knows that Lita is right, she has to brave the reality and talk to Ravendra. In Lita's sincere gaze, Azura felt supported and understood that this decision was her own.

In Azura's daydream, he realized that he was very stupid. Get into the trap of Lita and Leo's plan to destroy Ravendra's company. Lita who pretends to be nice to him, Leo who pretends to love her, everything is perfect.

"Azura..," Lita disperse the reverie of Azura.

"Yes, Lita?" Azura surprised.

"No, it's just that I remembered something," Azura tried to calm down. "Oiya, mama told me if you visit my mom's house, tumben, what's wrong?"

"Oh that, just kangen the same aunt and also om. I haven't been visiting for a long time. I was hoping you'd be there too, but you weren't." Obviously Lita.

"Oh yeah, thanks for watching them." Azura was a little suspicious.

"Name-sama, Azura. I've looked at them like my own parents." Lita smiles.

They continued their conversation with warmth, enjoying the moments together amid the cozy atmosphere at Cafe Delight. But all of that is a charade. Each one has a plan behind their familiarity.

As they continued to talk, time went by quickly. They laughed, sometimes even felt sad, but in their hearts there was a kind of suspicion that started to appear. Eventually, they both feel that they have found something changed in their friendship.

Lita felt that this was not what she expected. The plan is to make Azura betray Ravendra, but what Azura feels now is such great love. Lita is thinking of putting together another plan.

When the sun started to set, they were still sitting in the cafe, chatting and laughing. Azura felt it was time to go home because Ravendra was coming home soon, Lita agreed.

After their meeting, Lita and Azura return home in their cars that are both red. They deliberately choose the same car color to be easily recognized when passing on the road. Azura remembered when he drove Lita to buy a Honda Jazz car that Lita had wanted for a long time...

Just then, the sky was clear and the sun was shining brightly above their heads. Azura and Lita walk through the car showroom in high spirits. Lita exuded a joyful look on her face, as if her long-cherished dream would finally come true.

Lita looks around the showroom, Honda cars with various models and colors attract the attention of Lita. At first Lita was confused to choose which car, but eventually she managed to decide to buy a car that is now in front of her.

Lita stood in front of the glittering Honda Jazz car in the middle of the showroom, her eyes twinkling. "Azura, look! This is the car I've been craving all along!"

Azura smiled at the reaction of her best friend. "Truly beautiful, Lita. Are you sure this is the right choice?"

Lita nodded in spirit. "Yes, Azura. I've been researching about this car and it feels like it fits my lifestyle. I want to feel the thrill of driving with this car!"

Azura nodded in understanding. "Goodoo. This is a big decision, so make sure you are not in a hurry. Try asking in detail, what you can get, what are the benefits, and what if there are obstacles."

Lita tried to discuss with the car seller who had followed her.

Lita smiled, "I'm interested in buying this Honda Jazz. Can you give me more information about the advantages I can get by choosing this car?"

The car seller happily explained, "Of course, the Honda Jazz is a very popular car for several reasons. First, it has efficient fuel consumption, so you can save on fuel costs. In addition, the Honda Jazz has a spacious and flexible interior space, making it very comfortable for the driver and passengers. In addition, these cars usually have good safety features, such as airbags and advanced braking systems."

Lita nodded her head in understanding, "Good, sounds favorable. But, what if I have a problem after buying this car?"

The reseller explained, "We have good after-sales service. The Honda Jazz usually comes with a factory built-in warranty for several years. In addition, we have authorized service centers in a variety of locations, so if you run into technical problems or routine maintenance, we will be ready to help you. You can also consider a car insurance program for additional protection."

Lita smiled, "Thank you for the explanation. I will consider all of this before making a purchase decision."

The seller smiled, "No problem, Mom. If you have any further questions or want to try the drive test, let me know. I'm here to help you."

After some discussion with the seller and also Azura, Lita finally decided to buy a red Honda Jazz car that she had long dreamed of. He wanted to have a car of the same color as Azura's. The buying process begins, with Lita checking every detail and feature of the car with enthusiasm.

When Lita arrived at the time she was about to take her car keys, her face was filled with happiness. He clasped the key proudly, as if grasping a dream that had finally come true.

"Thank you, Azura" Lita said sincerely. "Without your support, maybe I haven't been able to step up to make this dream come true."

Azura smiled and nodded. "No need to thank me. I'm glad to see you so happy, Lita."

The two hugged each other warmly, celebrating this special moment together. Afterwards, they exit the showroom with Lita sitting in the driver's seat of her new car. Azura sat beside him, smilingly looking at her best friend with a face full of excitement.

The first trip with his new car became an unforgettable moment for Lita. Azura identifies that her best friend's happiness is a priority, and she feels good to be together in such moments.

Azura was curious about the choice of Lita who chose the color of her car, red like her car.

"Lita," Azura spoke in a soft voice, "there's something I want to ask you."

Lita smiled kindly. "Sure, Azura. What'sthat?"

"You picked a red car, just like mine, why?" Azura curious.

Lita nodded, looking not too surprised by the question. "Yes, it's true. Because you like the color red, so I chose a car with the same color as you."

"In hindsight, you often choose something similar to mine. Last time I bought a red bag, a week later you went along to buy the same bag." Azura was astonished.

"That's because we're really good friends. I must have what you have," said Lita.

Azura felt that there was something strange about Lita's nature, "What....no other reason?"

Lita smiled faintly, "Azura, red is indeed my favorite color, that's all. I'm happy to be your best friend, Azura."

Azura looked at Lita with enthusiasm, wanting to know what her best friend had kept secret. But Azura quickly got rid of her curiosity. He was sure that his best friend would never act strangely.

"Uhm, how was your match with Ravendra?" Lita suddenly switched the conversation. "I'm sorry if I suddenly ask, Azura. But how was your match with Ravendra? Are you sure this is the right decision?"

Azura smiled slightly nervously, "The matchmaking has indeed been arranged by my family as well as Ravendra's family. I know it's a strong tradition in the family, but I'm also worried, Lita. I want to pursue my dreams and have control over my own life."

Lita tried to understand Azura's feelings, "I understand very well your feelings, Azura. It is very important to follow our own hearts and dreams. Maybe you can talk about it with your family, try to explain what you feel and your ideals."

Azura sighed, "That's a good idea, Lita. I'll try to talk to my family about this. Thanks for the support."

Lita nodded, "Of course, Azura. There is always a way to pursue what you want. I'm always there to support you."

"But, after some rethinking, I didn't have time to discuss my future, my ideals. The invitation letter has been spread out, the wedding dress has been prepared, it looks like I have given up." Azura looks glum

Lita: "I can feel how difficult this decision is for you, Azura. Sometimes, family pressures and social expectations can be very strong. Remember, though, that life is yours, and you have the right to seek your own happiness."

Azura: "But what can I do now, Lita? Everything's been arranged so neat."

Lita encouraged, "Although everything is set up, there is no harm in talking openly with the family and Ravendra. Try to explain your feelings and your dreams. Who knows, they might understand your situation better than you think."

Azura tried to smile, "Thank you, Lita. I'll try to talk to them. I hope everything goes well."

Lita smiled, "I will pray for you, Azura. Do not hesitate to seek support if you need it. We always have choices in our lives."

"Thank you, Lita. You are my best friend." Azura smiled happily at the support of her best friend.

"No problem, Azura. I'm glad to be your best friend. Oiya, have you never investigated Ravendra's past? Maybe about her ex-boyfriend," Lita asked hesitantly.

"I don't care about Ravendra's past, Lita. I don't love her, I hate this matchmaking" Azura said. "In fact, I wouldn't be jealous if she had a boyfriend."

Lita nodded back, "Of course, Azura. I'm happy to be your best friend and support you in whatever you choose. Regarding Ravendra's past, it is indeed important to know more about our partner. But if you feel that this matchmaking is not what you want, then it is the top priority. Focus on what will make you happy."

Azura tried to let go of the heavy burden of her life, "Right, Lita. Ravendra's past is no longer my current concern. What matters is how I can pursue my own happiness."

"You're very brave, Azura. I'm sure you'll make the right decision for yourself, regardless of what happened in the past or the matchmaking plan." explained Lita.

Azura smiled, "Thank you for the support, Lita. You are an understanding friend."

Lita smiled, "Sama-sama, Azura. We're gonna get through this together."

From that memory, Azura felt very regretful about Lita's completely changed nature. Why could Lita be so cruel to him. But Azura is also relieved to have the opportunity to take revenge on Lita for her past betrayal.

***