A Melody of Communication

The next day at campus, Frans picked up Viona from her class. Viona felt a bit awkward, remembering the time she spent with Steve the day before.

"Hi, dear," Frans greeted with a warm smile.

"Hi," Viona replied, trying to hide her nervousness.

Frans invited Viona to have lunch together at the cafeteria. During their conversation, Viona felt guilty for not telling him about her meeting with Steve. However, she was also worried that her honesty might hurt Frans's feelings.

After lunch, Viona decided to talk to Frans. She realized that honest communication was the key to their relationship.

"Frans, I want to tell you something," Viona said softly.

Frans looked at her with full attention. "What is it, dear?"

"Yesterday, Steve came over to my house. We spent time together, watched a movie, and he also cooked dinner," Viona said, lowering her head.

Frans was silent for a moment, then sighed. "I appreciate your honesty, Viona. I know Steve is your old friend. But please keep boundaries in our relationship."

Viona nodded. "I understand. I'm sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable."

Frans smiled faintly. "What matters is that we are open with each other. I trust you."

That conversation made Viona feel relieved. She was determined to be more careful in maintaining her feelings and Frans's feelings moving forward.

Even though Viona had been honest about her meeting with Steve, Frans felt there was a change in Viona's demeanor, leaving him confused about whether to approach her more intensively or give her space to think.

The feelings of jealousy that emerged in this situation were quite natural. However, it was important for Frans to manage those feelings so as not to ruin their relationship. Jealousy often stems from insecurity or the fear of losing someone. Therefore, building self-confidence and healthy communication with one's partner was essential.

Frans should try to invite Viona for an open discussion about his feelings. Expressing his concerns and listening to Viona's perspective could help reduce tension and enhance mutual understanding. Additionally, it was crucial for Frans not to rush into conclusions or let jealousy dominate his thoughts. Focusing on the positive aspects of their relationship and avoiding comparisons with others could help maintain harmony.

Giving Viona space to reflect might be necessary, but Frans also needed to remain present and supportive. Maintaining a balance between giving space and staying involved in a partner's life was key to navigating situations like this.

With a communicative and understanding approach, Frans and Viona could get through these challenging times and strengthen their relationship in the future.

As a final-year medical student, Frans was increasingly busy preparing for his internship stage and having intensive interactions with senior doctors. At this stage, medical students were required to follow enrichment programs at educational hospitals as preparation for entering the professional level. Subsequently, they underwent clinical rotations in basic and advanced levels for a total of four semesters. Each department provided updates on knowledge and skill guidance in the first week, followed by the application of theory through various cases in the following weeks, and the final evaluation of competency achievements at the end of the period.

Additionally, the doctor internship program in Indonesia lasts for one year, consisting of six months at health centers and six months at hospitals. This program aimed to improve the quality of health services and provide practical experiences in the field.

Given his tight schedule and high academic demands, it was natural for Frans to feel overwhelmed. It was essential for Frans to manage his time well, maintain his physical and mental health, and continue communicating with those close to him, including Viona, to receive emotional support during these challenging times.

As Frans became busier preparing for his internship and interacting with doctors, Viona felt that Frans was growing more distant. She speculated that Frans was jealous and assumed that Viona preferred Steve, which created tension between them and triggered small arguments.

"Why have you been so busy lately? Is it because you're jealous of Steve?" Viona asked with suspicion.

Frans sighed, trying to explain, "It's not like that, Viona. I'm really busy with internship preparations and need to interact a lot with senior doctors."

"But it feels like you're drifting away from me. Don't you care anymore?" Viona looked at him with tearful eyes.

"I do care, Viona. It's just that my time is very limited right now," Frans replied gently.

"But I feel neglected. Isn't our relationship important to you anymore?" Viona lowered her head, her voice trembling.

"Of course it's important. I just hope you can understand my situation right now," Frans said, trying to hold Viona's hand.

"Maybe I'm the selfish one," Viona pulled her hand away, feeling guilty.

"We just need to understand each other," Frans gazed at her hopefully.

"I will try," Viona nodded slowly, even though her heart still felt uncertain.

Conversations like this often occurred, with different tones and words, but the essence remained the same: misunderstandings and a lack of clear communication between them.

At the campus, Viona often saw a couple known as the "campus couple," James and Theresia, who seemed increasingly romantic. The sight of their affection made Viona feel envious and question her own relationship with Frans. Theresia, who assumed that Viona was happy because she never shared her problems, one day approached Viona at the cafeteria.

Theresia: "Viona! I have exciting news! James and I just planned a weekend trip together. You and Frans want to join? It'll be fun if we double date!"

Viona: (forcing a smile) "Wow, that's great for you. But... I'm not sure Frans can come. He's extremely busy with his internship preparations."

Theresia: "Oh, that's too bad. But are you two okay? You seem a bit gloomy lately."

Viona: (sighing) "Actually... I feel like Frans is growing distant. I'm afraid he's jealous because I met Steve again."

Theresia: "Steve? You mean your old piano teacher? What happened?"

Viona: "Yeah, him. We met again and spent time together. But I feel guilty, and now my relationship with Frans has become tense."

Theresia: "Viona, maybe you need to talk honestly with Frans. Explain your feelings and ask what he's feeling. Communication is important."

Viona: "I know, but I'm scared. I don't want to lose him."

Theresia: "Then don't let this misunderstanding drag on. Invite him to talk heart to heart. I'm sure you both can get through this."

Viona: "Thanks, Theresia. I'll try to talk to Frans later."

That conversation made Viona realize the importance of communication in her relationship. Even though she felt scared, she was determined to talk to Frans and find a solution together.

After talking with Viona, Theresia met James in the campus park to share the news.

Theresia: "Honey, I just talked to Viona. It seems they won't be able to join the double date this weekend."

James: (smiling) "Oh, is that so? Well, I thought it would be fun. But on the other hand, we'll have some time just for us, right?"

Theresia: "Yes, true. Maybe this is our chance to get closer."

James: "I agree. So, what's your plan for us?"

Theresia: "How about we go to the beach? Enjoy the sunset and have dinner by the sea."

James: "Sounds perfect. I'll take care of everything."

Theresia: "Thank you, sweetheart. I can't wait for it."

James: "Me too. This is going to be a special moment for us."

That conversation made James and Theresia excitedly anticipate their weekend together, further strengthening their bond without distractions.