
After the decision to renovate her workplace cafe was taken, Lia was happy to welcome this big change project. However, as with any other renovation project, this takes longer than expected. The cafe had to be closed temporarily during the renovation process, and Lia had to be idle for several weeks until everything was finished.
Faced with this situation, Lia felt a jumble of joy with the coming changes and was anxious because of the uncertainty. She felt sad that she had to leave the cafe where she used to hang out with her friends. However, Rico warmly supports her and assures her that temporary unemployment is not a bad thing.
"You can use this time to rest and pursue other things that you like" Rico said excitedly. "It's also a great opportunity to reflect back on what you want to achieve after the cafe is renovated."
Lia smiled at Rico and felt lucky to have a friend like him who always provided support and motivation. Although he still felt somewhat anxious, Rico's words made him feel better.
Over the next few weeks, Lia strives to fill her free time with a variety of fun activities. She visited art exhibitions, took dance classes, and read books that had been delayed. Lia was delighted to be able to explore her other passions and find happiness in them.
Rico also often invites Lia to take a walk and try new interesting restaurants and cafes. They both laugh and share stories, making time spent without work even more enjoyable.
However, behind the smiles and cheerfulness, there was a sense of unease in Lia's heart. Although she is grateful for Rico's support, she longs for the Son's company. Son, as an industry photographer, is very busy with his work that requires a lot of travel. Their activities together became limited, and Putra often had to be absent from their meetings because of his busyness.
One night, Lia pondered in her room, looking at her phone that never rang. He felt lonely and was unthinkable by the difference in their situation. "Did I hang my feelings on my son too much?" thought in the heart.
Rico, who had come to visit Lia in her room, saw an anxious expression on her face. "What are you thinking, Lia?"
Lia sighed and told her feelings about her loneliness and anxiety because she rarely met the Son due to her busy work.
Rico listened attentively, and then gently said, "Lia, you know that the Son also feels guilty for rarely being with us. His job does require him to travel a lot, but that doesn't mean he doesn't care about you. You're still best friends, and he's always there for you, though he may not always be physically present."
Lia was relieved to hear Rico's words and nodded. "I know, Rico. Sometimes I just feel lonely and miss him."
Rico smiled gently, "That's normal, Lia. But don't let those feelings ruin your relationship. You are still our closest friends, and we all support each other in our lives."
Hearing Rico's words, Lia felt calmer and felt lucky to have a friend like her. Although the sense of uneasiness was still there, Lia promised herself to better understand the situation of the Son and to always maintain their friendly relationship well.
Time passed quickly, and finally, Lia's workplace cafe was renovated. Lia was happy to see the cafe back standing beautifully and more modern. The renovation process does require patience, but the results are very satisfying.
Lia was happy to be back at the cafe where she spent so much time with her friends. He felt lucky to have friends as good as Rico and Putra, who were always there for him in both joy and sorrow.
Rico and Lia sat together in a corner of the cafe after opening hours. They enjoyed a cup of coffee while gazing out the window facing the street. Rico finally tried to express his feelings carefully.
"Lia, there's something I want to say" Rico said softly. "I'm glad to see this cafe is done renovating, and I'm also happy to see how close your relationship with Putra is. But I feel a little disappointed because it feels like you're always thinking about the Son and paying less attention to me."
Lia was surprised to hear Rico's words. He never intended to ignore Rico or make her feel less important. "I'm sorry, Rico. I didn't mean to make you feel that way. I really appreciate our friendship, and I'm happy to have a best friend like you."
Rico smiled bitterly. "I know you value our friendship, but sometimes it feels like I'm second only to Son."
Lia was sad to hear Rico's feelings. He feels guilty for perhaps unwittingly having given more attention to the Son than Rico.
"Listen, Rico," said Lia sincerely. "I do have a close relationship with the Son, but that doesn't mean you're any less important to me. You have always been there for me, supported me, and been a good friend. I probably think of Son a lot because he's busy with his work and meets rarely, so I feel the need to make sure he's okay too."
Rico nodded in understanding, but his sense of disappointment was still there. "I understand, Lia. But sometimes I feel like the third person in our friendship relationship. I want to be a special friend to you too."
Lia realizes that she must pay more attention to Rico's feelings and give more balanced attention to her best friend. "I promise you, Rico, I'll pay more attention to your feelings and make sure you know that you mean a lot to me, too."
Rico smiled happily at Lia's promise. "Thank you, Lia. I know you are a good person who always cares about others, but please remember that I also want to feel special in our relationship."
Lia smiled and took Rico's hand lovingly. "Of course, Rico. You are special to me, and our relationship is a very precious thing. I promise to be more sensitive to your feelings and give you the attention you need."
Rico was relieved and thanked Lia. Their friendship relationship grew stronger as they both supported each other and tried to better understand each other's feelings.
Some time later, Rico feels happier and satisfied with his friendship with Lia. Lia was more careful in giving attention to his best friend, so Rico felt appreciated and cared for.
When Putra took the time to gather with them, Rico no longer felt jealous or neglected. He knew that the friendship between the three of them was something unique and valuable, and everyone had an important role in each other's lives.