-31- (9)

"What kind of man is that, son?" she asked. I was silent for a moment because I was confused by Mother's question.

"Anyone. As long as that can make Manis happy."

"Well, how do you know Manis wouldn't be happy if she married the village head Minto? Reportedly, the man really loves Manis. Even though she's a widower and an old man, then why? After all, your mother married your father when your father was not young anymore. And mom is happy, after all..."

I was silent again because I didn't know what else to say. If my mother saw what happened at the hospital at that time. I'm sure my mother wouldn't say it's that easy. Minto doesn't love Manis sincerely. But the ugly man only lusted after Manis. I'm sure, if there is a woman who is more than Manis in the future, Minto will definitely do what he did to Manis now.

"Looks like I have to introduce you to some girls, Juna. You still don't understand how you feel. And it looks so cute."

I just snorted when mom said that. In vain, I also told him. And what's even more futile is... why with this mouth, it's easy to really say everything in your heart when it's with your mother. Like I am a virgin child who just wants to get married.

*****

I haven't seen Arni in almost a week. Or it could be said that I ignored it. Completely ignore it. However, this wasn't due to neglect because I was hurt by her refusal at that time. But because my focus is now on Manis first. I have tried to dig up many things from uncle Sobirin, even though he returned to Kemuning 3 days ago because Manis's grandmother had returned some time ago.

She said, Minto really has the same heart as Manis. In fact, he was willing to every day, after returning from duty in the village, immediately go to accompany his beloved Manis. And it really drives me almost crazy! What the hell, he's quite old. Why does he act like a young man who is just in love? Motherfucker!

"The coffee, skipper ...," said Marisah who managed to break my daydream.

In front of me now there is a cup of black coffee, and also a plate of mendoan. Ah, I think my life is now bitter to beat this black coffee.