CHAPTER 5: AN UNEXPECTED MEETING
Saraswati walked slowly along the narrow path leading to her home, her mind still filled with the job offer she had just received from Boase Wijaya. She had never imagined that someone would trust her to become a teacher, especially when most people doubted her capabilities. The offer brought new hope, but it also raised many questions in her mind. Could she do it? How would the community react if she accepted the job?
As she passed by several houses, she could still feel the judgmental gazes of her neighbors. She had grown accustomed to these looks over time, but they still hurt. However, this time, she chose not to dwell on them. There was something more important to consider—her future and Amara's.
Upon arriving home, Bu Ratna was sitting on the porch, cradling a drowsy Amara in her arms. The older woman smiled warmly as she saw Saraswati.
"How was your day, Saras?" Bu Ratna asked kindly.
Saraswati took a deep breath before answering. "Bu Ratna, I just received a job offer from Boase Wijaya. He wants me to teach at his kindergarten."
Bu Ratna's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? That's wonderful news! But… why do you look so uncertain?"
Saraswati sat beside Bu Ratna, gazing at the sky, which was beginning to turn orange. "I'm afraid, Bu. Afraid that I won't be capable. Afraid that society will talk even more about me. I just want to live peacefully without being the subject of gossip."
Bu Ratna sighed. "Saras, you can't live your life based on what others think of you. You have to consider what's best for you and Amara. If this opportunity has come to you, perhaps it's meant to be. And as for the people… they will always talk, no matter what you do."
Bu Ratna's words soothed her heart. Perhaps she was right. There was no use in constantly worrying about other people's opinions.
The next day, Saraswati decided to visit Boase Wijaya's kindergarten. She wanted to see firsthand the environment she would be working in if she accepted the offer. Walking cautiously, she entered the school grounds, which were filled with the cheerful laughter of children.
Boase greeted her with a warm smile. "Bu Saraswati, I'm so glad you came. Let me show you around."
Saraswati followed Boase, observing every corner of the kindergarten. The walls were adorned with bright, colorful drawings, and the children looked so happy as they played and learned. There was something comforting about this place, as if prejudice and hatred had no place here.
"The children here need a teacher who is caring and patient. I believe you can be a great teacher for them," Boase said with conviction.
Saraswati remained silent for a moment before finally smiling. "I'd like to try, Pak Boase. I want to be part of this place."
Boase nodded. "I knew you would say that. Welcome to our team, Bu Saraswati."
However, Saraswati's decision to accept the job was not welcomed by everyone. News of her working with Boase Wijaya quickly spread through the village, and as expected, not all the rumors were kind.
"Look at her. Now she's working with that wealthy man. Do you really think she just wants a job?"
"A young widow like her… She might have other intentions. Boase Wijaya is a good man, but who knows what Saraswati is planning?"
These harsh words reached Saraswati's ears. She could feel the weight of social pressure growing heavier. But she reminded herself of Bu Ratna's advice—people would always talk, no matter what she did.
As she walked home one evening, a woman named Bu Siti approached her with a sly smile.
"Saraswati, you're working with Pak Boase now? How fortunate you are," she said, her tone laced with insinuation.
Saraswati gave a tight smile. "I'm just working, Bu Siti. Nothing more."
"Oh, of course, just working," Bu Siti chuckled before walking away.
Saraswati sighed. She realized that to survive in this community, she had to be stronger than ever.
Days passed, and Saraswati started feeling comfortable in her new job at the kindergarten. She enjoyed teaching the children and watching them grow every day. Boase often helped her, offering guidance and support that boosted her confidence.
Undeniably, Boase's presence in her life had become something meaningful. He always treated her with respect and genuine kindness. Slowly, Saraswati began to realize that she had not only found a job here but also someone who truly cared about her.
However, she still hesitated. Could she allow herself to feel happiness again? Or should she keep her distance to avoid further gossip and scrutiny from the villagers?
One afternoon, as Saraswati was tidying up the classroom, Boase approached her.
"Bu Saraswati, how are you feeling so far?" he asked gently.
Saraswati smiled. "I feel better, Pak Boase. Thank you for giving me this opportunity."
Boase looked at her for a moment before saying, "I just want you to know that you are not alone. If anything is troubling you, I am here."
Saraswati fell silent. She could feel the sincerity in Boase's words. And for the first time in a long time, she felt that someone truly understood her struggles.
But was she ready to accept the possibility that her heart was beginning to open again?