chapter 4

Amber's POV

He held my hand gently, inviting me to sit under a curved banana tree. I followed his steps with a relieved heart. We sat side by side, watching the waves get stronger and stronger.

We were both silent for a moment, letting the sound of the waves breaking on the shore fill the silence between us. Every wave that comes and goes brings irreplaceable peace. It felt like the universe was speaking to us, reminding us of the unstoppable power of nature.

"Ruby, I feel so tired of Nath's attitude towards me. Every time, he always manages to make my heart hurt and my mind disturbed. It feels like a never-ending torture. Tears just flow unstoppably, rolling me into uncontrollable weakness."

I stroked my stomach which now contained his child, a gift of love that should bring happiness. However, why did he have to do this to me? That question kept ringing in my mind, creating confusion and destruction in a heart that should be full of happiness.

In the silence that felt so heavy, I looked straight ahead, trying to find an answer that never came. However, beside me, Ruby held my hand gently. This touch gave a deep calm as if erasing every doubt and anxiety that existed. He is a true friend, someone who is always there for me, and I truly trust him with all my heart.

"Ruby... how can I get through all this?" My voice sounded bitter.

Ruby looked at me empathetically, her face filled with worry. He released her hand and gently answered, “Amber, I know how difficult this situation is for you. But believe me, you are not alone. I'm here for you, always.”

Ruby's words flowed like fresh water watering my dry heart. It felt like there was a ray of hope emerging amidst the darkness that enveloped me. I feel a little stronger, and a little more ready to face the challenges ahead of me.

"I know, difficult times like this are not easy to get through. But remember that you have the strength within you to get up and carry on. You are a strong woman, full of love and courage. Don't let Nath's attitude destroy your confidence," Ruby said with confidence.

I listened to every word he said carefully. Every sentence gives me new enthusiasm and encouragement. It felt like a small fire was starting to burn inside me, reminding me that I should never give up.

"Thank you, Ruby," I said in a grateful voice. "I know, you always understand my feelings. You are such a strong and wise figure, and I am very grateful to have you by my side."

Ruby let go of her hug and looked at me proudly. His face glowed with warmth and trust. "Amber, you are an extraordinary woman. I know how hard this situation is for you, but I am sure that you have incredible strength to face it. You are a strong and loving mother, and I have no doubt that you will stay strong for your child."

Hearing Ruby's words, my heart felt so moved. It felt like there was a small fire burning inside me, giving me new enthusiasm and courage. I feel confident that I can overcome all these obstacles and be a strong mother to my child.

"I promise, Ruby," I said with determination. "I will try my best to stay strong for my child."

Ruby smiled proudly, a smile that radiated confidence and hope. "I'm always there for you. You don't have to feel alone. We will get through all of this together.”

Without answering again. I immediately hugged him again. However, when I was very close to her, I could faintly hear Ruby's voice saying, "I'm sorry, Amber."

I was confused. Tears suddenly fell onto my shoulders.

"What's wrong, Ruby?"

~~~~

Feeling increasingly confused, I decided to let go of the tight hug. My gaze fell on Ruby, looking for an answer to the feeling of confusion that swept over me. In a curious tone, I immediately asked the question that was haunting my mind, "Sorry? Sorry for what you are sorry for?"

Ruby just smiled, but her smile felt so strange and inappropriate to the situation. My gaze became more intense when I saw the expression on his face that looked like someone who felt guilty towards me. As time went on, the confusion within me grew. Why is my life always full of confusion like this?

"Be honest, please tell me what you're really sorry for," I demanded with increasing anxiety. I couldn't ignore his attitude which was making me increasingly uneasy.

Ruby shook her head once again, increasing the curiosity I felt. I didn't understand what he really wanted to convey to me in such a vague way. As time went on, the confusion within me made me more and more uncomfortable.

I took a deep breath, trying to calm the anxiety that was present. A gentle breeze brushed my body, bringing a familiar scent to my senses. The scent was the scent of the veil Ruby was wearing. It felt so familiar as if it brought back long-buried memories.

I was shocked when I smelled the aroma, which I had felt on Nath's body. An awkward feeling suddenly enveloped me, and I couldn't help but look at Ruby with a sharp gaze. "You didn't betray me, did you?" I hissed in a tone full of suspicion.

Ruby looked surprised by my question. Her face reflected panic when I expressed my suspicions, further strengthening my belief that Ruby was involved in an affair with my husband, Nath.

"Ah, no! Everyone uses the same perfume as I do," Ruby answered in a doubtful voice.

"Impossible! The scent you wear is your own personal scent, there can't be many people out there who wear it!" I said with a look full of courage.

In a situation like this, I feel completely broken. Friends who have accompanied me and given me happiness amidst the sadness that surrounds my life, have now become thorns that pierce my heart.