"Hey bro, where's Biba?" Andi was at Tshabina and Tsabinu's house, specifically in Andi's favorite playground, which is the twins' house. Apparently, Andi just walked right in after the maid opened the gate, not sure if it's because they're so close or if Andi's just a little bit cheeky by nature. Tsabinu, who just finished jogging, turned to Andi while gulping down a glass of water he just poured.
"Still showering, it's early for you to be here, where are you off to?" Asked Tsabinu.
"Biba promised to buy me a labubu, so we're going to Pop Mart, that's why we gotta get up early," Andi replied, making Tsabinu nod immediately.
Andi stared at his male friend for quite a while; there was something he really wanted to ask and talk about, but he found it hard to express. And whenever the timing seemed right, Tshabina would always pop up. Even though Andi knew the twins weren't really comfortable discussing this, at least Tsabinu wasn't as sensitive as Tshabina on the matter, so Andi decided to muster the courage to ask to calm his curiosity.
"Bib, you're okay to talk about your former "besties", aren't you? You know the Z brothers?"
The Z brothers, Andi's nickname for the Danudara brothers, Zaeem, Zeremia and Zioh. Made Tsabinu feel a bit uneasy by just hearing that. The problem was Tsabinu isn't one to gossip and he isn't an open person, and of course he already knew his friend's habits.
Andi would definitely dig right down to the roots if he gave him the chance. But because Tsabinu knew that his younger sister had been sensitive lately because of Zioh's sudden return and the change in the guy's attitude, it seemed like he had to give in this time.
Because he knew Andi would bother Tshabina if he didn't feed his curiosity, Tsabinu finally reluctantly turned and looked at Andi. "Ugh, alright, rather than you bothering my sister, I'll give in. Ask away, as long as I can answer, I will." Tsabinu exclaimed, sighing.
Just a few seconds after Tsabinu finished speaking, Andi eagerly leaned closer to him, slightly bending forward as if this conversation was a top-secret matter that needed urgent discussion. Just look at Andi; he even tried to find the most comfortable position, pulling up the sleeves of his oversized jacket. You can really tell this guy loves to gossip, which is totally different from Tsabinu, who absolutely hates it.
"I swear, I've been curious forever, why don't Zioh and Zeremia want to join their dad's company? That company's huge, man, it's a fucking privilege! No need to even think, they'd be handed a position right away. But it's only Zaeem who took over, what's up with that?"
Hearing Andi's first question, Tsabinu fell silent for a few seconds, thinking and reflecting for a moment, sorting through what he could share and what was better off kept to himself.
"Hmmmmm, they really don't want to, and Mr. Bakti doesn't want to force them? As far as I know, Zioh has never wanted to join the company; he's talked about it a lot. And you remember, Zioh is really good at drawing, and that's a hobby he takes super seriously. But Zeremia…" There was a brief pause before Tsabinu continued.
"He used to really want to join the company, even wanted to major in management. But from what I know, he changed his mind about ten years ago. But just in case, Mr. Bakti has been teaching his kids about business and introducing them to the company since they were teenagers, but in the end, it's only Zaeem who continued it." Tsabinu explained just enough, and at that moment, he seemed to hope this lengthy explanation would be sufficient for Andi. But it looked like it wasn't.
"But isn't it weird, I mean—" Andi's words trailed off when they saw Tshabina heading downstairs in a cardigan with her hair still damp. Her arrival seemed like the greatest gift for Tsabinu; even without them realizing it, there was a little smile on his face as she approached. Tsabinu knew Andi wouldn't dare to bring up "Z Brothers" with Tshabina around, because she'd get sensitive at even the mention of "Zioh."
"What are you guys talking about? You look so serious." Tshabina asked as she walked towards the two of them.
"Nothing, right, bib?" Andi glanced at Tsabinu and then at Tshabina. "Btw, You're asking for a cold? Your hair's still wet." Andi instinctively reached out to touch Tshabina's half-damp hair.
Tshabina immediately shook the portable hair dryer in her hand while sipping the milk Tsabinu had just handed her. "I'll dry it in the car later, besides, you're so fussy about leaving at 5am. If we're late, you'll just be whining, and my ears can't take your nagging." Just then, Tsabinu received a message notification on his phone, making him read it with a serious expression.
"Alright then, let's go! Bye, Bibu!" Andi exclaimed while holding Tshabina's shoulder, but just as they were about to leave, Tsabinu hurriedly rushed back upstairs.
"What's wrong? You look super rushed." Tshabina asked immediately.
"Ah, I've got work, I was going to take a shower anyway, I'm all sweaty from jogging. And I'll probably be home late. If you guys eat out, make sure to order for Dad too. Take care of my sister, Andi, don't let anything happen to her." Tsabinu said as he rushed upstairs.
"Yeah, yeah, have I ever let anything happen to your sister? It was him, but he bruised her heart tho, not her body," Andi muttered quietly.
"Who are you talking about?" Tshabina snapped, annoyed.
"Uh... who could it be..." Andi exclaimed suddenly, and without any warning, he dashed off, leaving Tshabina behind.
Then that made Tshabina reflexively chase after him with all her might, "ANDIIIII WAIT!! WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THAT!!"
---
When Zioh was about to leave his home, he paused for a moment, staring at the house being built right next to his. That house was just as luxurious as his, although the Danudara family's house was quite large and fancy because his father had renovated it a lot and purchased several plots of land on the left, right, front, and back to expand their home.
Still, the house next door was no less opulent as this area was an upscale housing neighborhood. However, it seemed that the owners had changed; it was no longer a family he recognized, nor a place he and his brother would often visit after school or on weekends. The nameplate displayed next to the gate was no longer a family name he knew.
"Who are the new owners?" Zioh asked his father's personal assistant, Mr. Kuswan, who had deliberately accompanied him when he wanted to leave the house.
Following his young master's gaze, the middle-aged man finally replied, "The family who owns a culinary business, sir, and his wife is a cosmetics entrepreneur." Said Mr. Kuswann explained.
Just after that old man responded, a black Mercedes suddenly stopped right in front of Zioh, which meant that his driver and manager had finally arrived to pick him up after a few minutes of getting the car from the parking lot. It took them almost 10 minutes to get the car from the parking lot. Was it that far?
"Please, sir." Mr. Kuswan called out, opening the back door for Zioh, prompting him to immediately get into the vehicle.
"Thank you, please send my regards to Aunt Enda, I'll come by to see her again later." Zioh replied, which was met with a nod from Mr. Kuswan
--
Tsabinu found himself entering a luxurious restaurant inside a 5-star hotel in Central Jakarta. This restaurant is a regular spot for Tsabinu's office when they need a meeting place. This restaurant was perfect for any occasion, from small gatherings to important meetings, thanks to its luxurious ambiance and extensive menu. Asian, Western, Chinese, wine, cocktails, tequila—you name it, they have it.
So no matter where their honored guests are from, they can entertain them at this restaurant. The Claid Hotel and lounge, where this hotel has several buildings connected by luxurious glass corridors, and on the upper floor, there's a lounge with a view of the capital city of Jakarta that's just breathtaking.
And now it's Tsabinu's turn. His young boss—or former best friend, maybe? —has come back to Indonesia, so it's his job to host and help him out while he's here. Although he holds the position of legal advisor, he's also considered one of the right-hand men of his big boss, Mr. Bakti and Zaeem. Besides their longstanding family ties, there's no denying that Tsabinu is a very diligent and talented person, which is why both Mr. Bakti and Zaeem really appreciate him and often trust him with various matters
In fact, Mr. Bakti has several loyal aides and subordinates, but when it comes to his children, he always trusts Tsabinu with this, as no one else can handle his kids as well as Tsabinu does.
"Good afternoon, sir. Do you have a reservation?" one of the restaurant staff greeted.
"I'm from INDTV Group, reservation under the name Mrs. Nathasya?" Asked Tsabinu politely.
"Ah, yes, sir. Mrs. Nathasya is waiting in private room 1, please, let me show you the way."
Tsabinu then followed the staff until he saw a woman in a business suit who was also looking at him.
"Hello, sir, I'm Natashya, Mr. Zioh Danudara's manager." Natashya greeted, standing up as soon as she saw Tsabinu arrive.
"Nice to meet you, ma'am, I'm Tsabinu, deputy chief legal advisor of INDTV Group, Mr. Bakti sent me here... Shall we continue in English?" Tsabinu replied in a friendly and polite tone, in the knowledge that Natashya was not from here. While continuing to look at his conversational partner, which actually made the woman in front of him a little captivated, as could be seen from her gaze that did not shift for several seconds. He had a certain charm, with his handsome face and soft voice. Tsabinu was indeed soft-spoken and gentle, which turned out to be one of his charms that could captivate many people.
"Ahhh...hmm...I can speak a little Indonesian, sir, but I apologize if there is anything that isn't quite right. Mr. Zioh is in the restroom for a moment."
Tsabinu smiled warmly again. "It's okay, ma'am, take your time." Now Tsabinu sat directly across from Natashya until the other guest finally joined them.
Tsabinu stared at the man with an unreadable expression. Seeing his friend, or former friend, whom he had spent almost every day with 10 years ago now sitting right in front of him was certainly not easy for him. After all the issues or misunderstandings, or whatever it was, honestly, Tsabinu was also confused about the changes and departures of those his friends; he just had to be stronger and more mature to face it, at least for his sister, Tshabina.
Memories of the past 13 years they shared flashed through Tsabinu's mind as he gazed at Zioh's face, a face he hadn't seen or communicated with in 10 long years. And now, his friend had returned after disappearing for a decade, but this time as his boss, the person he was now expected to serve. However, Tsabinu knew his place; the man in front of him was the young master, the son and younger brother of his superior who had been entrusted to him to facilitate all his affairs in Indonesia. It seemed Zioh also preferred to avoid any small talk or "idle chit-chat", so he had to restrain himself and adapt as best he could.
That's why Tsabinu stayed silent, not wanting to say a word, but Natahsya, who had stolen glances at Tsabinu several times, sensed a different tension from him right after Zioh returned. Tsabinu continued to observe in silence, at least until his boss found the best position in his chair. The first thing Tsabinu noticed was how Zioh had changed.
He was different from just a few years ago when they last met—taller, more muscular, and exuded an aura of coldness that seemed to chill the air around him. It felt like Tsabinu could hardly recognize him anymore; the cheerful and gentle Zioh he remembered was gone, he thought. And also, Tsabinu could smell the very strong scent of tobacco from this close. Didn't Natashya say he was going to the toilet? Ah...guess not, huh?
"Good afternoon, Sir. I'm Tsabinu, the deputy head of the legal advisor team sent by Mr. Bakti and Mr. Zaeem to assist you during your assignment in Indonesia. So please, if there's anything I can help you with or anything I can work on for the projects you're doing while you're in Indonesia, feel free to let me know." Tsabinu greeted him with excessive politeness. As soon as Zioh comfortably settled into his chair, Tsabinu immediately bowed his head to greet him.
"....." One second.
"..." Three seconds.
"...." Five seconds.
".....Tsabinu.....what should I call you, Bibu?"
"You can call me whatever you like, Sir," Tsabinu replied, still in a polite tone.
Zioh scoffed softly, a wry smile twisting his lips, mocking him with bitterness. "Both of you," he paused for a split second, glancing at his wine glass before looking back at him.
"Both of you haven't changed. One is still childish and naive, the other is still bland and boring. I suspect that both of you have been living very well all this time, so there's nothing that needs to be changed, isn't ?" Zioh said to Tsabinu, his tone overly low and flat, there was no intimidation in it but Tsabinu could feel that Zioh was mocking him too, but Tsabinu couldn't tell if it was a question or a statement because of how flat it was.
---
"Andi, I swear to God, I'm so fucking tired!" Tshabina whined while holding onto the queue barrier next to her, it was already 9 AM, meaning she had been standing for about 3 hours waiting for that damn doll keychain, but they still couldn't get in, Andi really was the champion of making Tshabina's life difficult.
Unlike Tshabina, Andi still looked fresh and energetic. He couldn't even stand still and kept glancing at the Pop Mart, checking if the doll was still in stock. "That's why I told you yesterday, if we could leave at 3 a.m.! You didn't want to, so don't blame me." Seeing Tshabina's tired face, Andi wrapped one arm around her. "Besides, don't be so dramatic. When you queued for Bruno Mars, you stood from morning till night without any problems, and you were grinning all day."
"It was different, Andi. That's because even though I was tired, it was worth it to meet a hot older guy with a golden voice. This is just to buy a monkey-like doll," Tshabina retorted with a grumpy tone, constantly shaking her aching legs.
"Don't be an ass, Lisa has one, that's why it's so popular. I don't want to miss out."
"You fomo freak, you'll be eating sh*t when it suddenly becomes a trend—" Tshabina didn't even finish her sentence before Andi yanked her away, cutting her off.
"THE BARRIERS ARE OPEN! HURRY!" Tshabina felt like her body was floating—crazy! Whether it was Andi's pull or the strong push from behind. Those FOMO people were actually pretty terrifying.
"Andiiii! Ahhhhh help!" Tshabina managed to scream, and for good reason! Not only was she being pulled by her hand, but she was also being pushed from behind. These fomo people are scary.
Finally, it was almost noon, she could even hear the Adzan, which meant it wasn't almost, but it was already 12 p.m., and the Labubu doll matter was finally over. Now Tshabina was resting her body on a seat in the middle of the mall, she looked to her left and right and saw mostly guys resting with shopping bags on either side of them, hah... they were in the same boat.
"Here, drink this, Butterscotch Sea Salt Latte, hehehe thanks for treating me, love." Andi said as he handed over the coffee to Tshabina.
"Hmmm....you're welcome." Tshabina sighed wearily. "Are we going home after this? Please say yes."
"Going home? You promised you'd help me find clothes and shoes." Tshabina who heard that spontaneously sighed deeply while holding her forehead. "Haaaa, it's not over yet."
---
Now it was 6:30 p.m., Tshabina's energy was completely gone, she walked with heavy breaths and both hands full of her friend's shopping haul, which was quite a lot. Tshabina's legs felt like they were about to fall off, she had been tortured by this weirdo for over 12 hours, she felt like going to the furniture store in the mall and lying down on the display beds there, she was that exhausted.
"Let's eat, Bib, and get your dad some food. Seriously, after eating, we're heading home." Andi said, looking around to see which restaurant they should visit.
"Hmmm." Tshabina replied, with the last of her strength, until the sound of a notification on her phone made her pause for a moment
+6289769304750: Claid Hotel and Lounge, Menteng, Central Jakarta no.xx, the owner of this phone is heavily intoxicated and unconscious, please, a relative may come and pick him up - Manager of Claid Hotel and Lounge.
In the next second, Tshabina ran as fast as she could, leaving the shopping place and her friend who had been shouting her name all along.