The Destiny That Speaks

Chapter 9

The weekend arrives with a tinge of welcoming sun warmth, creating a cozy atmosphere. In the living room, Ravendra stood up with enthusiasm, waiting for the moment Azura would appear.

When the door of the room opened, Azura appeared with a bright smile on her face. She was wearing a simple yet beautiful dress, creating a sweet and graceful impression. Their gazes met, and in his gaze, Ravendra looked happy.

Ravendra reached out a hand, "Azura, you look so beautiful today."

Azura blushed, "Thank you, dear. You look good as always."

Their hands were clinging in warmth, creating a bond that flowed from the look of their eyes.

Ravendra smiled, "Ready to meet your parents?"

Azura nodded, "Of course, I have been looking forward to it. Come on, let's go."

The two of them walked towards the car that was ready to wait in the courtyard. Their journey to the Wijaya family home was filled with light conversation and jokes that filled the air with joy.

The car drove quietly on a not so crowded street. Azura and Ravendra sat next to each other in it, the twilight sun creating a warm feel around them. They look so familiar, like two friends who have known each other for a long time.

"You know, I really miss my parents" Azura said with a smile on Ravendra.

Ravendra returned his smile, "I know, that's why I'm inviting you to meet them."

Azura nodded, "Thank you, dear. I feel so happy right now."

Ravendra smiled gently, "I'm also happy if you're happy, Azura."

"Really, I am very grateful to have you beside me," Azura said sincerely, her eyes looking at Ravendra lovingly.

Ravendra grabbed Azura's hand and grasped it gently. "And I am grateful to have you, Azura. We're dealing with things together, and I'll never change them."

They continued their journey with warm feelings. Their conversation was really fun, as if they were a couple who had lived together for many years. There were jokes and laughter between them, as well as a meaningful look that intertwined.

"So, what are you going to tell the family about Leo?" ravendra asked, trying to distract Azura from daydreaming.

Azura pondered for a moment, "I'll tell them the truth. I'm sure they'll support my move to uncover Leo's evil plans."

Ravendra nodded, "I believe in you, Azura. We'll face it together."

As the car drives towards the Wijaya family home, Azura and Ravendra feel closer. They know that challenges still lie ahead, but with the love and support they have for each other, they can confidently overcome all those obstacles. This journey becomes the beginning of their common struggle, towards a hopeful future.

They both got out of the car and walked towards the main door. Azura is very happy, finally able to meet her parents after a long time without seeing each other.

The Wijaya family home is located in a quiet and stylish residential neighborhood. Surrounded by neat green gardens and trees that give a natural feel, this house reflects the elegant simplicity of its design. From the outside, the Wijaya family home has a traditional architectural style with a modern touch that is visible from carefully selected details.

The front yard of the house is decorated with colorful flowers and well-preserved ornamental plants. The paved driveway leads to the garage and the main door of the house. The terrace in front of the house provides a friendly and comfortable atmosphere, with inviting wooden furniture to relax outside.

The door opened, and in the doorway, appeared a pair of sharp and intelligent eyes. Azura's parents, the Vijaya couple, stood there with a warm smile.

Lady Dewi smiled, "Welcome, Azura, Ravendra. We're so glad you two came."

Azura could not help but long to embrace her mother, "Azura missed you so much, Ma. We are also happy to visit."

Mr. Raka nodded, "Let's go in, don't let them stand in front of the door."

When entering the house, a warm and welcoming interior atmosphere is immediately felt. Tiled floors with traditional motifs provide a distinctive touch and connect various rooms in harmony. The spacious living room features sofa-sheaths, warm colored carpets, and bookshelves with various collections that add to the warmth of the room. The soft illumination of the chandelier creates a comfortable atmosphere.

The open dining room is connected to a spacious kitchen. Wooden dining table with upholstered chairs gives a relaxed and familiar feel. The modern traditional-designed kitchen is equipped with modern equipment and efficient storage space.

A beautiful wooden staircase leads to the top floor, where there are private bedrooms including Azura's room. The Wijaya family home is an example of harmony between tradition and modernity. Its simple yet elegant design creates a comfortable and warm environment for the family. Azura felt familiar and comfortable in this house, especially since this was where she grew up and gathered with the family.

The two of them entered the house warmly greeted by a friendly family atmosphere. Inside, there is an appetizing aroma of cooking.

Ravendra smiled, "The smell of cooking is very appetizing."

Madam Dewi laughed, "Ah could be my daughter-in-law, you will know what it feels like in a moment. Please sit down."

The four of them sat in a comfortable living room, chatting increasingly warm. Azura was so happy to see the wedding photos of herself with Ravendra framed beautifully on the wall. But it was clear that if Azura's smile was really forced, there was not the slightest happiness on her face. 'Azura the fool, ' Azura's inner self.

Azura's smile in the wedding photos displayed on the wall of the Wijaya family house looks so beautiful, but also keeps many stories behind it. Among the pictures, there was one photo that specifically caught Azura's attention. The photo depicts the moment the two of them stand in front of the altar, in the shade of a clear sky. Their hands held each other tightly, wedding rings shining on their fingers.

However, as Azura pondered at the photo, she could feel the unhappiness hidden behind her smile. Although she looked beautiful and hopeful, she recalled that she felt trapped in a decision she did not want. That smile seemed like it was an appearance he had to maintain, even if his heart was broken.

Seeing the wedding photos made Azura remember the complicated journey of her life. He looked at the picture with eyes full of emotion mixed between regret, breathless hope, and a burden that was too heavy. The moment has become part of her unforgettable journey, reminding her of the challenges and changes she experienced.

However, in the midst of all these feelings, Azura also realizes that marriage with Ravendra has a positive impact on her life. Although initially lived with doubts, Azura slowly felt a change in her. She appreciates Ravendra's efforts to make their marriage happy, and she knows that she has a responsibility to keep the relationship going.

While continuing to look at the framed wedding photos, Azura ponders about how she can create genuine happiness and build a strong relationship with Ravendra. He understands that there is a heavy burden he must bear, especially in confronting Leo and uncovering his evil plans. However, she also realizes that she is not alone, Ravendra and the people who care about her are by her side.

With her eyes fixed on the photos, Azura felt that she had changed ever since. She knew that the smile she showed might not really reflect the happiness of the moment, but now she had the chance to make that smile come true, both for himself and for his marriage.

As Azura is engrossed in her wedding photos, Pak Raka and Ravendra begin to melt the atmosphere with casual chats about the company.

Raka smiled at Ravendra, "What about your business these days?"

Ravendra said, "We are developing a promising new project. I hope everything goes well."

"Hopefully there's no such significant hurdle of business this time." Mr. Raka cheers. "Ravendra, we're glad Azura has someone like you by her side. You make her happy."

Ravendra nodded sincerely, "Thank you, Pa. I will always try to make her happy."

Azura felt her heart blossom hearing those words. At that time, between laughter and light-hearted stories, there was a close relationship between them. A warm feeling approached Azura, as if to take her on a new chapter in her life filled with love and peace.

The conversation continued to flow, filling the room with joy and closeness. Azura sees that the attention and warmth given by her parents to Ravendra is nothing but the fruit of their determination and struggle together.

While sitting together in the family room, Lady Dewi saw Azura who was looking far away. Azura's face looked so solemn, as if something was troubling her mind.

Even the Goddess Mother could not bear to see her daughter like that. "Son, is anyone bothering you?" ask her in a gentle tone, trying to open the chat.

Azura flinched from her daydream and turned to Bu Dewi. He tried to smile and shake his head. "No, Ma. Just a little bit of work in the office is mind draining."

However, Madam Dewi knew that there was something deeper behind her daughter's words. He felt something was wrong. "Azura, Mama knows that there's something you're craving. Do you want to tell Mama about it?"

Azura let out a long sigh, then she decided to tell him what was going on. He tells the story of Leo's sinister plans, how Leo tried to approach the clients of Ravendra's company, and all the evidence they have gathered together with the security team and the legal team.

The Goddess was surprised to hear the story. He felt very distrustful that Leo could do something so evil. "But, Azura, why would he want to do something like that?"

Azura shook her head, her expression filled with regret. "Azura doesn't know for sure either, Ma. Maybe because he wants to destroy Ravendra's company and take over everything."

The Goddess looked at her daughter with a look of concern. "But why would he want to do something that could harm himself? He knows that Ravendra is your husband."

Azura nodded slowly. "Azura thinks this is his revenge, Ma. He feels that Azura stole Ravendra's attention and heart, and this is his way to hurt us."

The Goddess was very surprised and disappointed. He never thought that Leo could be so evil. "Azura, does Ravendra know about this?"

Azura nodded her head. "Already, Ma. Azura had told him."

Lady Dewi grasped Azura's hand gently. "Good, Son. You already told him. It's a big deal involving the company and the family's reputation."

Azura stared intently at her mother's eyes, feeling a dilemma. "But, Ma, there are some things that Azura can't tell me."

The Goddess smiled gently. "Azura, if he really loves you, he will understand and support you in this situation. Be honest with her, for only with honesty can we face this matter together."

Azura pondered for a moment, contemplating her mother's words. He knew his mother was right. Honesty is key in their relationship. But his mother did not know the truth. He is not the Azura who used to be, Azura who is stupid and consumed by Leo's love. The former Azura was dead, the current Azura was Azura who was ready to take revenge and correct all her mistakes in her previous life.

Clasping her mother's hand, Azura smiled. "Thank you, Ma. Azura will try to talk to Ravendra about everything."

Madam Dewi smiled with satisfaction, feeling proud of her daughter who was getting mature in the face of problems. "That's it, baby. Believe in your relationship and in Ravendra. You two can face this together."

Azura nodded, but felt that she had lied to her mother. But he feels confident that he and Ravendra can overcome this problem, as long as they stay together and communicate well.

Azura smiled and spoiled by leaning on her mother like a child. He felt like a little boy who was next to his mother. He smiled widely and without hesitation, leaning with complete comfort on his mother's shoulder. A sense of warmth and affection emanated from every look and smile they both shared.

His mother took Azura to the kitchen to cook dinner. Azura is very happy because the last time she cooked with her mother was when a few days before she was proposed by Ravendra. The menu this time is the cuisine of the archipelago. Although Azura was very fond of steak, the archipelago cuisine remained her favorite as well.

Inside the warm kitchen, Azura felt nostalgia enveloping her. She followed her mother with a happy smile, remembering the good times when the two of them often cooked together. This was the moment he had missed since the beginning of his marriage to Ravendra.

"Remember, Ma?" asked Azura with great joy. "We cook together like this."

The Goddess nodded, her smile warm. "Of course, son. Those were precious moments for us."

The two of them began to help the housekeeper tidy up the prepared materials on the kitchen table. Fresh vegetables, fragrant spices, and special spices of the archipelago. Azura felt very enthusiastic about cooking again with her mother.

"Ma, I feel happy like I used to," Azura said as she looked at the vegetables in her hand.

Madam Goddess smiled gently, "Mama also feels the same, Son. You know, time goes by so fast."

Azura nodded in agreement. He felt like time had brought him back to these joyful moments in the kitchen, without the burdens and doubts that surround him now.

Meanwhile, Ravendra sits in the living room of the Wijaya family home, along with Azura's father, Mr. Raka. The two of them were still chatting in casual conversation, talking about various things ranging from work to hobbies.

"Ravendra, do you have any other plans for your company now?" ask Mr. Raka with interest.

Ravendra nodded, "Yes, Pa. I feel grateful to be able to develop this company by opening a new branch. But most importantly, I got Azura."

Ravendra nodded understandingly. He felt responsible for making Azura happy.

Back in the kitchen, Azura and her mother were cooking a delicious archipelago dish. Colorful food and fragrant scents fill the room. Azura takes pride in cooking for her family.

"Everything looks delicious, Ma," Azura said enthusiastically.

While cooking, suddenly Miss Dewi remembered something.

"Oh yes Azura, you know that last week Lita came home?" The Goddess suddenly remembered something.

Azura was surprised, "Right, Ma? Lita came here?"

The Goddess Mother nodded, "Yes, she came to just meet. You guys haven't seen each other in a long time, so he wants to say hello."

Azura tried to smile, but in her heart, there were doubts raging. The memories in his previous life still so clearly haunted his mind. He remembers how Lita betrayed him and became part of Leo's evil plan.

Azura spoke carefully, "Sure, Ma. I'm glad Lita came. We have not met for a long time. It's just, why come here, not to Ravendra's house."

Ms. Dewi tried to explain, "Lita thought that you were here, not at Ravendra's house. He just said he's grateful that you're okay."

Azura now understood, "Oh so."

Lady Goddess looked at Azura attentively, "You're okay, son?"

Azura smiled forcedly, "I'm good, Ma. Don't worry."

Lady Goddess smiled in relief, "Alright, then."

However, despite trying to smile, feelings of doubt and suspicion continued to haunt Azura. He knew that he had to be careful, especially when it came to Lita. After the conversation with Lady Dewi was over, she walked into the room of her former self with mixed feelings. Has Lita really changed, or is there something going on behind her arrival?

'What did Lita want from my parents? Is it because Leo told him to? What else is Leo planning apart from destroying Ravendra's company?' The inner Azura was full of questions.

Azura asked permission to go to the room because she felt suddenly less well. But the truth is, Azura was shocked to hear the news if Lita came to her parents' house.

Azura lay on her bed first. She reminisced about her familiarity with Lita. In her room, she and Lita often spend time together. And sometimes they chat until late at night. Lita is the best friend who knows all the secrets of Azura. Lita finds out that Azura does not want her match with Ravendra to happen and hopes to live together with Leo.

Azura recalls the memories of her pouring out her heart to Lita one night. He cried when he found out he was going to be betrothed to Ravendra.

Azura recalled in the quiet room, she lay on her bed, letting tears flow down her pure white pillow. He reminisced about the moment he shared with Lita.

Azura stroked the pillow gently and muttered, "At that moment... I feel so bad, and Lita is the only one who knows how I feel. On that night, Lita was the place for me to let go of all the uncertainty and anxiety I felt."

Azura remembered their chat at that time...

"I'll be betrothed to Ravendra!" Azura sobbed, "They're coming next week for the engagement, what should I do?"

"I leave all the decisions to you, Azura. You either accept it or reject it, the decision is in your hands." Lita gave him a choice.

"I'm confused, Lita. I don't love Ravendra, but on the one hand I don't want to disappoint my parents." Azura. "I have to how?"

"Calm down, Azura. You can talk nicely with your parents, you can say if you currently like Leo, not Ravendra." Lita tries to come up with a solution.

"I can't, Lita. My parents would be angry if I suddenly said that I wanted to live with Leo. This match has been planned for a long time." Lirih Azura, "I feel like I want to go far away, leave everything!"

Lita hugged Azura tightly, "Azura, I'm here for you. We're gonna get through this together."

Azura smiled as she cried, "Thank you, Lita. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Lita stroked Azura's back, "Don't worry, I will still support you. Whatever your decision is, it's the best."

Azura dried her tears, "I'm very lucky to have a best friend like you, Lita."

Lita had listened to Azura's complaint, giving her unconditional support. However, at that time Azura did not know that behind their trust and familiarity, there was the evil plan of Leo and Lita that was so sad.

Azura sighed and muttered, "I have to be careful, especially after what happened to me and Ravendra. I don't want it to happen again."

With a mind filled with bitter memories, Azura felt tired and finally fell asleep, letting the dreams approach her in her quiet sleep.

An hour passed, when dinner arrived, Miss Dewi told Ravendra to wake Azura. Ravendra immediately went upstairs where Azura's room was. He had never entered Azura's room before. After marriage, Azura was immediately taken to Ravendra's house.

Ravendra opened the door slowly, fearing that she would shock Azura. This was the first time Ravendra had entered Azura's room. Unlike usual, Ravendra was nervous and her heart was beating so fast. Is this what it feels like to enter the room of a loved one?

Ravendra felt her chest pound as she entered Azura's room. The room was as neat as a girl's room. Azura can indeed be said to be a girl because until now Ravendra has not touched it. All this time they just sleep together in the same bed without having a relationship like husband and wife. Ravendra did not dare before Azura allowed herself to touch him.

Ravendra sighed slowly, "Azura..."

He walked closer to the bed, and he gently touched the shoulders of Azura who was still asleep.

Ravendra spoke softly, "Azura... Honey, it's dinner time."

Azura woke up slowly, "Hm? Oh, Honey... I'm sorry, I'm kind of asleep."

Ravendra smiled, "It's okay, honey. Come on, let's have dinner together."

Azura nodded and smiled gently. He felt warmth in Ravendra's presence, and it made his heart feel calm.

In the room filled with gentle light, Azura and Ravendra sat on the mattress so close, their gazes interlaced with intensity that revealed more than what words could say. All the doubts and obstacles that they have ever passed are now lost in the warmth of love that deepens.

Azura felt her heart tremble as Ravendra approached her gently. Their views met each other, like there was a separate language they understood. Gently, Ravendra raised her hand and touched Azura's cheek, flowing her love through that touch.

"Honey.." Azura's soft voice echoed between them, creating a soothing twang in the room.

Ravendra sighed slowly, turning her attention to Azura's soft red lips. So close, but there is still a distance to go. He grabbed Azura's waist and pulled her closer, until their breath almost fused, and carefully, his lips touched Azura's lips.

The kiss was like describing the entire feeling they had stored for so long. So soft and meaningful, like unspoken words. They felt a tremor in each other's heartbeats, something that was indescribable with words.

Azura felt Ravendra's hand stroke her back gently, while her own hand grabbed her shoulder with tenderness. They were fused in that moment, under the gentle light and the music of hearts that was pounding within them.

When the kiss finally stretched, the two couples were still glued to each other's eyes. Be careful they let go of the grasp, but still felt the warmth that came from that kiss.

With a meaningful look, Ravendra said, "Azura, I love you with all my heart."

A happy smile was engraved on Azura's lips, "I love you too, dear."

Their hands are still holding on tight, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in their relationship. Although this journey to love is full of obstacles, they know that together they can face a future full of happiness and unwavering love.

Azura and Ravendra came out of the room with mixed feelings. They felt a little clumsy after the kiss, like a new couple who had just tasted the first kiss. But behind all that, there was a sense of happiness that they could not hide.

They walked together towards the dining room, their hands clasped together signifying if they were a romantic, supportive, and happy couple.

With a smile on their lips, they continued to have dinner together. The dining table was filled with delicious dishes that most of the dishes had been cooked by Azura. The four of them shared stories and laughter, creating a warm and precious atmosphere.

The atmosphere in the dining room became increasingly familiar as Azura, Ravendra, Pak Raka, and Bu Dewi sat together around a beautiful dining table decorated with all kinds of delicious dishes. Soft lights and candles added to the warmth of the night.

Mr. Raka, who was sitting next to Azura, praised with a wide smile, "Azura, this is your cooking that is truly amazing. I can feel how much love you pour into each of these dishes."

Ms. Dewi added, "That's right, dear. You really have a talent for cooking. Every mouthful was truly appetizing."

Azura smiled and felt very happy to see both her parents enjoying her cooking. The look of pride in their eyes made him feel so satisfied.

Smiling, Ravendra nodded in agreement. "I agree completely. Azura's cuisine is really special."

Azura felt warm hearing the praise from Ravendra. He turned towards Ravendra and looked at her with love. "Thank you, honey. I'm glad you like it."

Mr. Raka then commented with a joke smile, "Ravendra, you should know, now you have a wife who is not only beautiful, but also good at cooking. You're very lucky."

Everyone laughed, and the atmosphere grew lively. This dinner together is not only about delicious dishes, but also about the precious moments they share together. Under the light of the crystal lamp, they felt an increasingly close happiness and closeness between them.

After dinner, they let him go home. Bu Dewi forced to offer them to stay overnight. It felt lonely without them in such a big and grand house. But Azura refused politely because Ravendra wanted to go home. They also cannot force.

The night begins to blanket the sky as Azura and Ravendra will return to their car parked in the front yard of the Wijaya family home. Their steps came to a halt for a moment, suffused with a heavy feeling of having to part from old man Azura.

Azura hugged her parents, "See you, Ma, Pa. Thank you for taking us warmly."

The Mother Goddess smiled gently, "We are glad to meet you, son. Don't hesitate to come at any time."

Mr. Raka embraced Azura lovingly, "Stay happy, Azura."

Azura felt like crying but was blocked in her throat, she tried to hold back her emotions. She felt sad to be separated, but also warm and loved by her family.

Ravendra held onto Azura's shoulder gently, "We'll meet again soon, Ma, Pa."

In a mixed feeling, they walked towards the car. As soon as they sat in the car, Azura could not help but cry anymore.

Azura felt tears welling up, "It always feels hard to part from them."

Ravendra embraced Azura gently, "I know, dear. But we'll have plenty of opportunities to meet again."

The setting sun grew further and further away on the horizon as their car left the Wijaya family home. Though saddened by the separation, Azura felt warm in Ravendra's embrace. His presence provides support and love that overcomes longing and separation. And in every kilometer they traveled, Azura knew that she was not alone on this journey.

***