
I really don't understand. What does Hadi mean by flaws in my and Dira's relationship? We've had a dozen years together, and he's only been a few weeks with Clarissa. How could he know there was anything lacking in our relationship?
Although Dira and I have a lot of differences, we are comfortable being around each other. He never complained about our relationship, neither did I. Everyone who is near us, even those who are new to us always say that we both fit in. What is lacking in our relationship?
“It seems like the comfort of making friends since childhood makes you not aware of it.” Aunt Zahara looked at me intently. “You don't know what Hadi means?”
Aunt Zahara also judged that there was something lacking in our relationship? How could they just say it now? Why did they never tell me before? “I don't understand what's going on. Why are you guys just talking about it now?”
“Because previously it was not a problem. You take good care of your relationship, you protect my sister impeccably, and she is happy with you. Everything changes when you hurt her. I'm aware that the flaws need to be corrected or you'll keep repeating the same mistakes. And Dira will also continue to relent.” It makes me more confused.
“What's lacking?” I'm getting less and less understood.
“It was your job to find out,” said Hadi did not want to know. “By the way, you brought a bouquet of flowers for Mama, what about me? Didn't you bring something for me?” He looked at the paper bag I was carrying.
I brought the bag closer to him. “This is for you, Adi, and Uncle.”
Hadi frowned and looked suspiciously at the bag before he reached out and looked at the contents inside. He took out a food box and his smile expanded. Not only him, I also smelled the scent coming from the box.
“Croced cheese and sausage made by Grandma Hagia.” His originally annoying face turned cheerful looking at the food.
“You really know how to change our stand, yes, Colin,” goda Aunt Zahara. I laughed a little at it. “My husband will definitely be jealous knowing you gave me a bouquet of red roses. But if she sees this croisan, this flower will be forgotten.”
Uncle Hendra and Hadi have similar characteristics. They are very affectionate, considerate, and overprotective in people close to them. But they are cold, talk as they are, and keep their distance from strangers beyond the confines of their family and friends.
“Lo? There is a section for Papa too?” tanya Hadi half protested.
“Absolutely you think I brought that much chrysanthemum just for you a?” I asked back in a mocking tone. “I also need the blessing of Uncle Hendra and Adi.”
Grandma cooked two boxes of chrysanthemums for Hadi and his family, so everyone definitely got a share. Croisan made by Grandma was originally Dira's favorite food. Ever since he brought the croisan as a gift for his family, they liked it too. Grandma was very happy because her cooking fans increased.
We spoke casually while enjoying the snacks that Mother Yuyun provided. Hadi and I took turns telling the funny thing we experienced recently to Aunt Zahara. He laughed every time we arrived at the tickling part.
I was struggling with myself when the incident on campus played in my head. In a way, I want to tell Hadi what happened to his ex. But on the other hand, I don't want to spoil the atmosphere by discussing the person my best friend avoided. So, I decided to tell the story at the right time.
The door of the room opened as we laughed at the joke I just told. I know it wasn't Uncle Hendra because it wasn't time to go home from work. We simultaneously turned to the door and saw the girl I missed standing there with a look of wonder.
“Hai, Dira. Comeon, enter. Sitting here,” invited Aunt Zahara while pointing at the empty spot by her side.
Dira crossed his hands in front of his chest while looking at his mother and brother in turn. “What is this, Ma, Brother? Why did you let this man enter our house and chat with you? Did you suddenly forget what she did to me?”
“He only came to deliver the chrysanthemums his grandmother made. There's your part too.” Aunt Zahara pointed towards the unopened food box.
“Why does he often bring Grandma Hagia's handmade chrysanthemums here? Why give all flowers? Who is the bouquet for?” tanya Dira looked at the bouquet that was on the table in front of Aunt Zahara. “ I don't want to accept any of these men's gifts.”
“Don't big head. The flower is not for you, but Mama.” Hadi bit the croisan in his hand, intending to tease his sister.
“Do you want your share or not? I'm still hungry.” Hadi glanced at the food box he had opened. There are still four pieces of chrysanthemum in it.
“For you guys only. I'm not going to accept food or other things from this man.” Dira turned her body and walked out of the room.
Me and Aunt Zahara exchanged glances, then chuckled. While Hadi was busy enjoying his third croisan. Still the first day, naturally Dira has not been able to accept my presence. I'm sure after coming to this house a few times, his heart will start to open up again for me.
We were discussing something light when the door of the room opened again. Adi looked at us with eyes that were still sleepy. Just like Lily, she must be on vacation from school and using her day off to study. He and my brother were both third-grade SLTP students. Next week they will face a final exam before proceeding to SMU.
“Croisan made by Grandma Hagia?” Adi's eyes widened looking at the contents in the box on the table. I'm asserting. He immediately picked up the box as Hadi was about to pick up the fourth. “Kakak must have eaten a lot. This is my part.” Hadi just laughed a little.
“Take it. There's still a Dira part he gave me.” Hadi patted the second food box on the table.
“Three croissants are enough for me.” Adi sat by my side, then took one croisan from the box. “Colin, have you completed the game event this week?” Aunt Zahara and Hadi groaned softly at the question. Only Adi and I like to talk about the game we play. For others, the topic is very boring.
I came home when it was dark. Uncle Hendra will arrive soon, which means Mama will also arrive at the apartment. Aunt Zahara invited me to dinner with them, but I was forced to refuse. Dira wouldn't like to see me and I didn't want to worsen our relationship.
My parents were home when I arrived. Mama invited me to clean up before we had dinner together. As usual, the ones dominating the conversation at the dinner table were Mama and Lily. Dad and I just listened.
“Lily,” my handkerchief while knocking on the door of her open room. “You have tutoring at school tomorrow?”
He lifted his head from the book he was reading. “Iya. I'm home at five in the afternoon. What's up?” tanyanya while shaking her head.
“Only ensure. I think additional lessons are not being held again ahead of the exam.”
“Les remains held until Friday. I'm actually sick of studying, but I also don't want to fail the exam.” He sighed softly.
“You will not fail. I'm sure your grades are even higher than mine,” I said encouragingly. He smiled thinly.
The next day, I arrived earlier than usual. Hadi has not been allowed to drive his own car, so I am not surprised to see him coming ushered Pak Sakti. I approached the driver's door and asked the man to do something for me. He turned towards Hadi asking for his permission. Although he looked reluctant, Hadi nodded in agreement.
“Thank you, buddy!” I wrapped my hand around his shoulder as we walked into our campus. He looked at me seriously. “I promise to be nice.”
“Good. Don't make me regret giving an answer yes,” he said. At first glance I was tempted again to tell him about yesterday's incident. But I returned to confine my intentions. I don't want to ruin his good mood.
In contrast to Hadi and his younger siblings who attended the best school nearest to their home, I studied at the school where Dad was the principal. I stared at the tall school building with a gate that was no less tall. The students in similar uniforms came out while chatting with the friends by his side.
It was not difficult for me to recognize the figure I was waiting for in the middle of the crowd. It was above average, so I could immediately see it among people dressed similarly. Ah, I forgot. He's not alone. There was Wyatt and Charlotte also walking with him.
“Hai, Colin!” greet Wyatt kindly. “Did you come to pick up Dira?”
“I have my own ride, thank you,” subtly reject Dira. He looked around, looking for his brother's car. “It looks like Pak Sakti is late to arrive.” He reached into his bag.
“Pak Sakti won't come even if you call him.” I patted my motorcycle seat. “I'll take you home.”