Rp. 2.000 Between 2012 and 2013

Rp. 2.000 Between 2012 and 2013

1^st Scene

On Saturday night, a girl with an attractive appearance sits on a park bench, but in inverse proportion to the expression appears on her face. The deserted park  with only a few people come and go, including several pairs of lovers who seem talking to each others, and of course a few sleepy stallholders sleeping in  their stalls in the outskirts of the park.

Ristha               : (talk to the leave that felt to the bench she’s sitting on) We’re in the same boat. Alone in the wide world. (short pause, then talk to herself) I did not expect that it will be like this. If I did, I wouldn’t fight for our relationship. All sacrifices I did for him is just for nothing, still our relationship broke up just because of our social status. (cry) How bad he is! He’s heartless, and made me really really disappointed. (cry louder)           

Arman             : (thrusting a handkerchief) Take it. Don’t you ashamed if someone look at you when you’re crying? They would think that you’re crying about your bad fate. They would say “what a poor girl”

                        

Ristha             : (angry, get up from her seat) Who are you? The person who wanna be a romantic hero, huh? You thought that I’ll take that handkerchief then say “thank you” with a look of awe and then melted; fall in love with you immediately? You got the wrong person! I do hate men, especially the man like you; bloody PLABYBOY!

                      

Arman             : Hei, wait! Why do you get angry? I didn’t mean that, I just can’t see a crying girl sit alone in the midlle of the night like this. Girls are the most gentle creature that must be protected, aren’t they?

                      

Ristha             : To be protected? Who do you think I am; a one-horned rhinoceros, huh?

                      

Arman             : No, you’re not a one-horned rhinoceros, but you are a komodo.. uupsss.. hahahaa

                      

Ristha             : Why are you laughing??! Is there any funny things here? You look so happy to laugh at others’ suffering. Men are jerk, it wouldn’t change until the end of the world! No man could appreciate and understand woman’s feeling!

                      

Arman             : Sorry, I do really sorry. I don’t mean to make you angry, I’m just trying to make you smile, and forget your ex-boyfriend that made you crying.

                      

Ristha             : I’m not crying because of my ex-boyfriend, eventhough he left me with those fake promises just for the girl who her mother asked him to turn on! I’m strong, and I’m not crying for him, so you should keep your mouth!

                      

Arman             : Don’t be shy, girl. If you’re not crying for your ex-boyfriend, how could you told me all he done to you? You’re so dissapointed to him, aren’t you? Just be honest, and tell me what’s going on exactly. Sharing to other people will make you feel better, trust me.

                      

Ristha             : Who do you think you are?! A Psychologist? A Theraphist for hopeless broken-hearted people? Or you are a magician that could change people feeling; from sad to happy as though as they just got a huge number of money from lotery?

                      

Arman             : I could be whatever you want, princess. (smile and stare at Ristha meaningfuly)

                      

Ristha             : Save all those craps for your self! (push Arman to the bench and go away)

                      

Arman             : Heiiii!! Don’t you need this? (grin while lifting Ristha’s bag)

                      

Ristha             : Give it to me! (try to take her bag, but Armand already hide it behind his body) Give my bag back! If you don’t give it back, I’ll scream and let people think that you’re a pickpocket!

Arman             : Go ahead! Don’t you see that this place is very very quiet? There’s nobody here. You see, those shopkeepers are fallen asleep. But, if you really want to scream, just go ahead and I’ll throw this bag to the river.

                      

Ristha             : You’re a really bad boy! What do you want exactly? Are you doing all this to get my name and my phone number? I’ll give it if that what you want, but please give my bag back, right now!

                      

Arman             : Woow! You’re an overconfidence person! I don’t want to get acquainted with you. I just feel so sorry to see a crying girl sat alone in this quiet park, and talking to the leaves and herself. You seem that you need to talk to someone, that’s why I come to you. I just want to help you, trust me.

                      

Ristha             : Really??! If that so, just give my bag back right now!

                      

Arman             : I do apologize, it would not that easy now. (short pause) Don’t you feel that here is so quiet? I’m sure that nobody sees us (evil smile, and come closer to Rostha)

                      

Ristha             : (frightened, stepback) Youuuu.... What... What you want?!

                      

Arman             : I’ve told you before (still give an evil smile and getting closer to Ristha, then whisper so slow to her). I want you (short pause) to tell me what’s going on; why are you crying like this, and sharing with me about your problem. Hahahhahha…..

                      

 Ristha            : (push Arman away) You really made me mad, bad boy!

                      

Arman             : I’m not a bad boy, lady. I just want to make you feel better. As I said; sharing will make you feel much better. Don’t you want this bag back?

                      

Ristha             : What a crazy boy you are! How could someone force others to share with him?! However, for my precious bag I’ll do that. You must promise me that you will give it back after i told you my problems.

                      

Arman             : That’s fine with me, lady!

                      

Arman sits on the bench, followed by Ristha. Ristha begins to talk about her ex-boyfriend who had made ​​her brokenheart. Arman listens carefully to every detail of her story while occasionally giving spontaneous responses then Ristha opens her heart. Two hours pass impercetibly, because both of them are very soluble in romance consultation session.

Arman             : Wow, it’s almost 11 o’clock. Your mom must be waiting for you. The sharing time is over, so as I promise, here I give your bag. Then you can go home now. By the way, do you mind if I take you home?

                        

Ristha             : You don’t need to take me home, I have my own motorcycle. (give her hand to Arman) We haven’t know our each other’s name.

                        

Arman             : I’ve told you before; I don’t want to get your name. I just want you to share with me about your trouble. In addition, I do not need your empty hand. Do you have money and pen?

                        

Ristha             : What an arrogant people this guy is! (give Arman 1 piece of Rp. 50.000). Here are the money and pen?

                        

Arman             : Don’t give me that money, just give me two thousand rupiahs.

                        

(Ristha puts Rp. Rp 50,000 in her purse and takes Rp. 2,000 and gives it to Arman. Arman writes something on the money and returns it to Ristha.)

Ristha             : Arman 08579990013. Who’s Arman? The Debt Collector that can be hired to beat the jerk Andre up?

                       

Arman             : (smile and go away) That’s my name and my phone number. You seem that you want to get acquainted with me a lot, so I give it to you. Hahhaa.

                        

Ristha             : You’re overconfidence, man! (look at the money, smile and and then talk to herself) A nice guy; a little bit weird, unique. I have to save his number because I want to chat and share with him again. (take the cellphone from her bag) Ugh! It’s so bad, my cellphone is out of battery. I’ll save it immediatelly after recharge my cellphone, of course. (put her cellphone back to her bag and leave the park)

                      

2^nd Scene

On the next day, the sun is nearly over head when finally Ristha goes down from her bed to the living room. She still looks a mess with tangled hair, even she hasn’t changed her cloth since yesterday morning. The bell rings and she should open the door because all her family is on vacation to grandma's house in Java.

Mpok Inah       : Excuse me ma’am (stretch out her hand). Will you give some money?

                       My daughter and I haven’t eaten yet.

                      

Ristha             : (looking for some money in the pockets of her jeans and her shirt, fortunately she find a piece of Rp. 2.000 and give it to the woman immediately)

                       Here, for you. But sorry I couldn’t help you much.

                      

Mpok Inah       : I am very much grateful, ma’am

                        

(Ristha closes the door and sitting down to read a book. Suddenly she remembers something and runs toward the door. Se opens the door and looks to the right and left, but she has gone somewhere.)

Ristha             : Huaahhh… how can I forget? Why should I give that money where I wrote the phone number? Why didn’t I recharge my cellphone battery last night? I haven’t save Arman’s number to my cellphone. Now I don’t have that money, so how can I contact Armand? I wish I could meet him again… huhuhu….

3^rd Scene

Late afternoon on a street in the outskirts of Jakarta, a mother and her daughter  are walking hand in hand. Their faces show extreme fatigue since for a whole day begging  for food.

Lila                  : Mom, can I buy it?

                      

Mpok Inah       : We don’t have much money, kid. Today we spent so much money for our food and your book for school. We only have 2000 rupiahs now. If we buy that candy, what can we have for dinner?

                      

Lila                  : But I really want to eat that candy, mom. I haven’t tasted it, I really want to know how it tasted. My friends said that it is so delicious.

                      

Mpok Inah       : if tomorrow we have more money, we could buy it. But not now.

                      

Lila                  : but we still have 2.000 rupiahs, mom. We can use that money. I want to tell my friends how it tasted

                      

Mpok Inah       : Listen, kid. I’ve told you that we’re gonna use that money to buy dinner, so how if we buy that candy tomorrow?

                      

Lila                  : What food will we buy for dinner? Kerupuk again??

                      

Mpok Inah       : That’s the only food we could buy, kid. We have to be grateful for that. We are luckier that our neighbors who only have salty rice to eat.

                      

Lila                  : I won’t go to school tomorrow unless you buy it for me

                      

Mpok Inah       : You!!  (rise her hand to slap her child, but her hand hold up in the air) you don’t understand how hard I tried to get money so that you can continue your study at school. I do anything, upsidedown, for you. I want you to be better than me. You’re my only one and my only hope.

                      

Lila                  : Okay, mom. Lets go home now. I wish tomorrow we could get more money so that you could buy me that candy. (take her mother’s hand and then walk away with a huge of disappointment deeply in her heart)

4^th Scene

Half-hour later, a mother and daughter are in front of a small stall which looks very unkempt. The stallholder is asleep on a small stool that she deliberately puts at the door of her stall, possibly with the aim that no stalker comes into her stall and loot the contents of her stall during she was immersed in sweet dream with her sweetheart.

Mpok Inah       : Madame….  (shake the body of the stallholder gently, but there’s no reaction, then try it harder and harder)

                      

 Mpok Cucum  : (Shocked and glared so conscious because she realizes that the one who awakes her from her beautiful dream is Mpok Inah; the one who always owed her.) What do you want? Asking for me to lend you some other money?? How dare you!!

                      

Mpok Inah       : I’m sorry, but I don’t come for asking you to lend me some money. I just wanna buy that kerupuk for my dinner.

                      

Mpok Inah       : have you got money? Just give my money back!

                      

Mpok Inah       : I, am, sorry, ma’am.. I really want to pay but I don’t have enough money. I only have 2000 rupiahs to buy food for dinner.

                      

Mpok Cucum   : (sneering) how could your kid become smart if you always give her lack of nutrition. Your kid no need to go school, you’ll be nothing! It’s useless!

                      

Mpok Inah       : it’s not always depend on the nutrition, but it depands on our kid’s willingness to study. If we fulfill their nutrition and take them to the the most expensive school but they are lazy and don’t have good behavior, that is useless. 

                      

Mpok Cucum   :  What do you mean by saying that? How dare you! GO AWAY!!

                      

Mpok Inah       : I didn’t mean anything, ma’am. I come here just wanna buy kerupuk. (look at her child)  Honey, could you take the kerupuk? (back to the stallholder) Here are the money, ma’am, thank you.

                      

(The mother and daughter left the stall hurriedly. The stallholder just puts her money into her purse which contained only a few pieces of Rp. 10,000,-.)

Mpok Cucum   : (pull back the money and talks to her self) people nowadays, wrote their cellphone number on a money to find their soulmate. Do they think that they gonna be called by someone who got this money?? Well, I prefer to call my sweet Mang Ujang than calling stranger’s number.

5^th Scene

Next day in a parking area in the traditional market. The situation is so quiet because it's still early morning. Recently there are several motorcycles parking there. Mpok Cucum goes rushing to her daughter’s bike, while her daughter  follows from behind, carrying her groceries. Ujang, the parking  man is in hurry  to see both of them.

Ujang              : Hi Mpok Cucum, going to the market earlier today? Let me help you, I don’t wanna let beautiful woman bring that heavy things. (pick Mpok Cucum’s groceries up and smile teasingly)

                      

Mpok Cucum   : hi. This isn’t heavy. Maybe things that Entin brings is heavy.

                      

Ujang              : (point at Entin) let me bring this, girl

                      

Entin               : You don’t need to. I can bring this by my self as always (go rushing pass Ujang)

                      

Mpok Cucum   : (pull Entin’s hand and whisper) hei, if someone is trying to help you, don’t reject it. It’s not polite

                      

Entin               : (point at Ujang) a guy like him is trying to help me? I don’t think he is doing that heartfelt. He is just wanna flirt you, mom! I wanna go. I don’t wanna argue with you only for (with a loud voice and look at Ujang) THE PARKING MAN! (leave her mother hurriedly) I wanna go to Bang Hasan’s kiosk to buy other things

                      

Mpok Cucum   : (come closer to Ujang) please forgive my daughter. She’s a good kid actually.

                      

Ujang              : nevermind, she’s still teenagers, unstable. I am also unstable sometimes.  

                      

Mpok Cucum   : unstable? Now the way you talk is like teenagers (pinch Ujang’s hand girlish)

                      

Ujang              : am I wrong? I always unstable when I’m missing you..

                        

Mpok Cucum   : don’t talk to me like that. How if im flying without wings?

                      

Ujang              : you’re not gonna fly. I took your wings. So you’re not gonna be back to heaven

                        

Mpok Cucum   : hahahaha just like Joko Tingkir story

                      

Ujang              : I’m telling you the truth. You’re as beautiful as angel

                      

Mpok Cucum   : please, stop flying me higher. There’s no angel who always go to the dirty market to buy some things.

                      

Ujang              : yes there is. And she’s standing in front of me now (give a very sweet smile that greeted by the same smile and Mpok Cucum’s small pich in his arm.)

                      

(Entin comes, she interruptes the intimacy of Mang Ujang and Mpok Cucum in a few minutes. She immediately puts groceries on the bike and sets it up to fit all. Mpok Cucum & Mang Ujang are flustered, do not think that Entin will come  back  so soon.)

Entin               : Let’s go home mom. We have to open our kiosk

                      

Mpok Cucum   : oh, what time is it now? Let’s go. (talk to Ujang and give him a piece of Rp. 2.000) Mang, sorry I have to go now. Here’s the parking tip

                      

Mang Ujang     : no need to pay. Keep that money. Free parking for you everyday

                      

Entin               : (smirk)  what? Don’t you need money? So how could you eat if you don’t have money?

                      

Mpok Cucum   : (glared at Entin, angry) Entin! It’s not polite! How many times should I tell you! (Give a sweet smile to Mang Ujang) I’m sorry Mang, she doesn’t mean to say that

                      

Mang Ujang     : I’m okay Mpok. Okay, just.. take care…

                      

Mpok Cucum   : I will. Here’s the money. (whisper) Take that. Don’t make Entin hightemper again just because you reject it

                      

Mang Ujang     : ok.thank you. (look at the money he already received).  Who’s Arman? Your ex-husband?

                      

Mpok Cucum   : Arman? Who is Arman? I don’t know him. My ex-husband is Bang Madun. Is Arman got some accident? Or a police who did hit and run?

                      

Mang Ujang     : no, im just asking the name on this money you gave me. I thought it is your ex-husband’s number

                      

Mpok Cucum   : ahh, just ignore it. People nowadays like to wrote their numbers as a famous people  

                      

Entin               : came on, mom. It’s going to late. You’re just like talking to the president

                      

                                                

(Mpok Cucum and Entin leave Mang Ujang right away. At the same time Mang Ujang stays in the deserted parking area. Suddenly from a coffee shop on that area appears the man with a stern face.)

Boris               : (approaching Mang Ujang and patting his shoulder) Hei you! Give the parking tip to me!

Mang Ujang     : Why should I give the parking tip to you? I take care of this parking area, so it’s mine.

Boris               : Don’t talk too much, just give the money to me unless this punch will hits  your face. (clench his fist as he glare)

Mang Ujang     : Are you trying to threaten me? Who the hell are you?

Boris               : You are going to fight me, huh? I’m the person who has this parking area, so the parking tip you received is belong to me.

Mang Ujang     : Do you think that I’m scared of you just because of those tatoo in your bloody body? No, I’m not scared of you at all! Just wanna let you know, I’am good in martial arts. And also, this place has been my livelihoods field since many years a go. I take care of this parking area, so the parking tip is belong to me not belong to you that hide in that kiosk and come just to ask for the parking tip.

Boris               : You talked to much, dude! (punch Mang Ujang’s face, but missed because Mang Ujang deftly dodge)

Mang Ujang     : (shake his head) ckckkck.. I’ve told you that I’m good in martial arts. Do you want to know how good I am?

Boris               : Don’t be too confidence, dude. It’s only the beginning. I just play, not serious yet. This time I’ll beat you harder. Get ready for it! (braced)

Mang Ujang     : (braced) Just do it! I used to fight with the man like you, and I’ve never be beaten down.

The situation is getting hotter, both parties feeling right and strong. Both are quiet, look at each other in the highest mental stress and emotional. Every deep breath they take like seconds ticking time bomb waiting to explode.

Mang Ujang     : (give a smirking smile) Come on, champ! Are you scared of me? You didn’t make

                         any move.

Boris               : I’m not scared of you! How could it be, I’m stronger than you! Which one do you prefer? Left or right? Left means hospital and right means grave.

(In the high tense situation  which is almost broken in battle, a young lady appeared with the porters from the direction of the market.  She goes directly to Boris  who is in anger.)

Sinta               : (tweak Boris’ ear) Abang, What the hell are you doing here?! I’ve been

                         looking for you. There are so many groceries that need to be loaded.

                         How could you chat here instead of help me to bring all this?

Boris               : (surprised at the arrival of his wife, suddenly the anger that was already almost at its peak vanished nowhere, changing the look of anxiety and fear of his wife) I’m really sorry, baby. I just want to look at this parking area a while. It’s almost full here.

Sinta               : What’s for? As I know, this is not yours!

Boris               : Before it’s not mine, but start from today it’ll be mine. (Try to let his wife’s hand go from his ears slowly)

 Mang Ujang    : He is going to snatch my parking area, ma’am. It has been mine since many years a go, how could he came then claimed it’ll be his? I won’t let it happen.

Sinta               : (tweak Boris for the second time with stronger power and talk with a high voice) Abaaaaaaaaaaanggg... are you trying to be a thug again? You said that you won’t be it agin for me, why did you try to snatch this man’s parking area?

Boris               : It’s not like that, baby. It’s a misunderstanding. I don’t wanna take this parking area from that man, I just try to expand my area.

Mang Ujang     : It’s not the way of expansion, dude! If you take what is belong to other people that mean you snatch not an expansion! (talk to Shinta) He threaten me, he said which one I prefer; left or right hand. Left means hospital and right hand means grave. Is that the way of expansion ma’am?

Sinta               : (Glare while strengthening her hand of tweaking Boris’ ear) Is that true Bang?

Mang Ujang     : I’m swear, that’s true Ma’am. I’m not lying to you. Just blame your husband who cannot stop being a thug. Or maybe you can use a rope to bind him in the door so that he cannot going somewhere to disturb anyone again. (give a smirking smile to Boris)

Boris               : (glare at Mang Ujang angrily.) Fuck you! Just fight me If you a really man, and I’ll make you turn into pieces!

Mang Ujang     : You see ma’am. He’s trying to threaten me again.

Boris               : (glance at his wife, really afraid of her) I didn’t mean that, baby. I mean I’ll make the goat meat turn into pieces.

Sinta               :  What meat?! You already clearly said “I’ll make you turn into pieces!” to him! I know what it’s exactly means. (short pause) Ok, it’s over, don’t talk too much. Let’s go home, and don’t forget to bring the groceries. (point to a pile of groceries behind her)

Boris               : There are a lot of groceries, what did you buy anyway?

Sinta               : I bought our daily need, of course. Oh yeah, I forgot to pay the porter, please pay her. And listen, you have to pay her with money not threat. Once more I hear you theaten people; I’ll cut your nose off! (walk across the street)

Boris               : (scream) Baby! The all money is in your hand, how could I pay her?

Sinta               : (look back and think a while) Hmmmm... I don’t care how you could pay her, but she should be paid anyway.

Mang Ujang     : (go to the porter and give her a piece of Rp. 2.000) Here is the money, it’s mine actually, but you can take it. It’s for your help in bringing her groceries.

Ucil                 : (return the money to Mang Ujang) But it much less Mang, usually at least I get five thousands rupiahs to help people to bring their groceries.

Mang Ujang     : That’s Ok then. But you must ask for the rest to that guy, the man who has many tattoos. (point to Boris)

Ucil                 : If that so, two thousand is ok Mang. It can be used to buy some banana fried over there. (re-take the money she gave to Mang Ujang and go toward the baker fried)

Mang Ujang     : (aprroaching Boris) I already paid the porter. You can go home now; your wife is waiting for you, so don’t be late unless you’ll get another hit. Anyway, you shouldn’t ask for the parking tip of this area to me, you should ask for the tactics to conquer wife. I’ll give it free, hahhaha..

Boris               : Fuck you! Our business is not finished yet! You’re lucky today; let’s see if you still be lucky tomorrow!

Mang Ujang     : Are you sure? What if I across the street and tell your wife that you are trying to threaten me again? (mocking laugh)

(As he is defeated by Mang Ujang, Boris is in rush to carry his wife groceries and followed her no longer respond to taunts Mang Ujang. Mang Ujang continue monitoring the situation and seeing all the bikes since the day moves to the afternoon.)

Mang Ujang     : How funny he is! A thug that so scared of his own wife. Physically, he must be stronger than his wife. Fortunatelly my ex-wife is not that grumpy, if so maybe I’ll be so thin because of that. And thanks to God that my lovely dear; Mpok Cucum is also not that grumpy. She’s as delicate as angels in heaven. Mpok Cucum.. Mpok Cucum.. I love you fulllll…

6^th Scene

Three days later, 2012 is about to end in less than an hour. Rista and her colleague, Riana spend the New Year’s eve in the park close to Rista’s house. The same park where Rista and Armand met five days ago. Rista still remembers that day.  The park is quiet as usual, since no people wanna spend their special night in that narrow and unkept properly park.

Riana              : You’re a really crazy girl! How could you be so crazy about him! I cannot belive that you muff this New Year Eve just for waiting that guy here! It’s impossible that Armand will come here to night; maybe he’s celebrating this evening with his friends, his girlfriend or may be with his children and wife. Who knows that he’s a married man? It explains why he seemed not interested in getting acquainted to you that night. And, you didn’t ask him if he still single or not, did you? My feeling says that he is a married man, but don’t be sad baby; there are many boys out there! (Pinch Ristha’s cheeks and smiles mischievously)

Ristha             : How could you say all that?! You broke my heart, you know? You should pray for the good things, and don’t let me down as you did. (pinch Riana’s waist)

Riana              : You’re too hopeful about that guy, baby. In fact, you’re know nothing about him; you even didn’t know if he’s interested in you or not, did you? As your bestfriend, I just don’t wanna see you flying high and then tumble down because you cannot get what do you expected. I really wonder how could you fall in love with him this fast. You just met him once, baby. Is he only your impigement of the Jerk Andre?         

Ristha             : Huhhh! How fussy you’re! I won’t take you here if I know you’ll be that fussy to night. I’d better to come here alone than with the fussy girl.

Riana              : Come on, don’t be mad at me that way. I just wonder what really happen to you. How could you change like this. Is Armand that handsome?

Ristha             : Actually, it’s not about handsome or not. It’s about this.. (Point to her chest with her face full of love)

Riana              : (push Ristha’s head) Huh! You’re affected romantic as though as in the Korean Dramas!

Ristha             : It’s the truth! He’s an unique man, no one like him. He’s a funny guy, and also romantic. In addition he’s very kind as well. How could I didn’t fall in love with him, eventhough it’s our first meet?

Riana              : Baby, you cannot judge a man only in once meet. It could be his camouflage to get your heart. The first impression might be good, but who knows if the truth is not that good?!

Ristha             : I’m sure that Armand is not the type of the guy you said. I’m sure that Armand is the prince who God sent for me. He’s the man who made me move on from the Jerk Andre, he’s also the man who can make me feel better; relieved, peaceful and cheerful. He’s the man I’ve been looking for. That’s why I will do everything to get the money where he wrote his number, so that I can call him and make a date with him.

Riana              : Including going arround the housing to chase the beggar you gave the money to? And go to some traditional markets and intersections just for meeting her? It’s a bit thick I think. Why don’t you meet the chairman of the beggar confederation, then you ask him the place of every beggar usually in, and go to their place one by one to find the beggar you gave the money to, huh?

Ristha             : it’s a briliant idea! Is there any such of that confederation, anyway?

Riana              : People who are in love always losing their mind! How could you think that there’s such of that confederation, baby? No one in the world, in fact!

Ristha             : Damn! Why did you tease me intsead of help me? But, really I am sure that he’s the one.

Riana              : Eventhough he has children and wife?

Ristha             : Just one question; are you my friend or not? Why do you always say all those craps? You seemed that you wanna see me down, you know?

Riana              : I don’t mean that actually. I just don’t wanna see you hope too much from him; I just worry about you. What if he isn’t as good as you thought? However, if you still waiting for him, it’s up to you. I cannot do anything, I just try to give you advices. You can do everything you want, and I’ll just wait and see. You’re a mature woman; you should know which one is good for your self.

Ristha             : Okaaayyy baby... You’re my best friend and my most fussy friend as well, hhahaa..

Riana              : You’re kidding me, huh? Let’s go to find some snacks instead of talking about that guy, anyway. (silence for a moment as she look arround) Look, there’s a baker fried seller over there. Let’s buy it!

(Riana rose from her bench followed by Ristha. They both comes to  the baker fried who hangs not far from where they are. They bought a number of quite a lot to both of them, then Ristha gives Rp. 20,000,- to the baker fried then she gives Rp. 2,000,- as change.)

Riana              : Save the change, Ma’am.

Iwit                  : (smile) Thank you.

Ristha             : There’s something weird with the money that she gonna give us. I think I’ve seen that money before.

Riana              : Oh God! Everyone except the blind has ever seen the money. Every two thousands rupiahs is like that!

Ristha             : But, this one is different. It seemed so familiar to me… (Silent and frowning, and then slapped his own forehead) Oh Gosh! How could I forget that money?! It’s the money Armand wrote his name and his number on!

Riana              : Are you sure? Let’s go back to the seller, and ask for the money. (walk a half run back to the baker fried)

Ristha             : Sorry, Ma’am could you give me the money that you gonna give us before?

Iwit                  : (speak in a tone somewhat testily) Why should I give you that money to you? Your friend told me that I could save it. Why did you back and ask for that money again? If your friend didn’t give it with her willingness, just didn’t give it!

Ristha             : Ehm.. I don’t mean to take the change that my friend already asked you to save it Ma’am. I go back here to exchange my money with your money that you gonna give us as before.

Iwit                  : Oh I see. I thought you gonna take the change. Here’s the money.

Ristha             : Not this money, Ma’am. I need the money you gonna give us before.

Iwit                  : (frowning) Which one? I don’t remember because every money seems similar each other.

Ristha             : I mean the money that someone wrote a name and a phonenumber on.

Iwit                  : (Pull out a crumpled of Rp. 2.000 and give it to Ristha) Do you mean this one? What is it for anyway? I couldn’t use it actually; the market seller didn’t accept it when I tried to pay my groceries with it. He said that the money is not salable because it’s so crumpled and got written as well.

Ristha             : Yeah, the money is so crumpled, but it’s not about the money anyway; it’s about the value of the money itself. Eventhough it’s only a crumpled two thousands rupiahs It’s so precious for me, Ma’am. (Ristha dan Riana leave the baker fried that still being puzzled by their weird behaviour)

Iwit                  : (talk to herself) Look how teenagers are! Why don’t they write the number in phonebook or at least in a piece of paper instead of the money?  See, how difficult to find the money when you already lost it. Money is always going everywhere fast.

(Ristha is so happy. Finally , she found what she was looking for since yesterday. She got Arman’s  phone number  back!)

Ristha             : (clasp the money she already got) Oh thanks God, finally I got this precious money. Maybe it’s what called as be paired. Armaaannnd, Finally I get your phonenumber...

Riana              : You’re so dramatic this night, you know? Just call Armand right now, don’t clasp the money that way.

Ristha             : What should I say to him anyway?

Riana              : Don’t make it difficult, baby. Just tell him that you got some problems, and you want to meet him again to share about the problems.

Ristha             : (hug Riana) Thanks a lot, Baby! You’re my best friend forever, no one like you in the world, you’re the only one!

Riana              : (smiling while try to let go of Ristha hugging) Yeahhh I know that, but don’t hug me this way. Look, someguys see us as though as we’re lesbian couple.. Iiihhhh.. I’m a normal girl, and I still loving man anyway. You’d better call Armand right now than hugging me like this.

(Ristha takes her cell phone from her pocket and calls Arman nervously, but eventually she managed to bring Arman meet back at the park.)

Ristha             : I’ll meet him tomorrow in this park. I hope the sun coming fast, and makes tomorrow come fast as well.

Riana              : That’s really good! Faster is better. Now, what about going home? I’m already sleepy; I don’t wanna fall asleep here anyway.

Ristha             : Let’s go home! I wanna sleep too so that I’ll be much fresher when seeing Armand tomorrow. Anyway, Happy New Year Riaaanaaaa!

Riana              : it’s too laaatte baby.. It’s already 1 o’clock, you should say it an hour ago! And actually, we should buy some fireworks to celebrate the New Year Eve, and light it in 12 o’clock too! By the way, there’s no one light firecracker here, does no one know that this’s New Year Eve?

Ristha             : This park is always be quiet, that’s why I love to be here. You see, here are only a few people. Who will come to this quiet park in this New Year Eve, anyway? No one will come, they’d prefer going to the boisterous place, and celebrate the New Year Eve together there.

Riana              : Yeahhhh, not like you who prefer going here just for waiting your PRINCE!

Ristha             : Whatever you said, baby. I love to be here.

(Ristha and Riana leave the park and return back to their homes.)

7^th Scene

The next day. Hours are shown at a quarter pass 7, 15 minutes longer than the time in which Ristha promised to meet Arman again, but Arman still doesn’t come. As usual, the park is quiet and deserted. Ristha sitting alone on the bench, once she met Arman before. Riana decided not to accompany Ristha, because she thought it would be romantic if they were alone.

Ristha             : (for the umpteenth time look at her small clock embedded in his left hand) Hufttt…. It’s been 15 minutes late then the time we promised. Where’s he? Doesn’t he know that I’m going to be frozen here just for wait him?

Arman             : Seriously? I just late 15 minutes, not 15 hours anyway. Are you that missing me, so you couldn’t wait for just 15 minutes?

Ristha             :  (surprised and smiled sheepishly) Oh Gosh! Finally you come. Where you’ve been? I didn’t see your coming.

Arman             : You’re too busy with your dreaming. Just wanna let you know; It’s not good to daydream here; there are many trees that might be the sarang of ghosts.

Ristha             : Why did you talk about ghosts? What if one of them comes here because she thinks there’s a person called her name? Of course I’ll say that you’re the person who called her, hahhaa…

Arman             : (mocking laugh) You’re scared of ghosts, aren’t you? We shouldn’t scare of them because they are just in our imagination. They are not real; they couldn’t touch us that mean they also couldn’t hurt us. So, what are you fear for, huh?

Ristha             : Yeah, you’re right about that, but still… I feel so creep to talk about that… (shudder)

Arman             : Ok, stop talking about that, then. We’re here for sharing about your problems, not about those bloody ghosts, right? So just tell me, what’s going on, Baby?

Ristha             : Baby? Your girlfriend will be jealous if she hear you call me that way. Hahhaha

Arman             : I don’t have girlfriend, maybe I’ll have one if you let me be yours. However, I have 3 children anyway. Hahahha…

Ristha             : (laughs half-heartedly) How funny you’re, but please stop trying to make me laugh.

Arman             : Ok, what do you want to tell me? I’m ready to hear whatever you will say.

Ristha             : (silent for a moment and take a deep breath) Ehm… actually I don’t have any problems. I called you because I wanna meet you. I’ve planned to creat a story to tell you about, but then I decided to tell you the truth. I don’t wanna lie to you, and even I want to, I couldn’t  lie to you, I don’t know why. Maybe I’m the weirdest woman you ever met, but this is the real me. I just want to see and talk to you. Sorry for lying to you about my reason to meet, and also sorry for take your time for nothing, like I did.

Arman             : (smile gently) It’s Ok. I’m very glad to receive your call. I’ve been waiting for your call since several days ago. I realized that I was so stupid that night; I didn’t ask your number so that I could call you instead of waiting and waiting. Even, I still didn’t know your name until this moment. What’s your name anyway?

Ristha             : My name is Ristha, Arman. Actually I wanted to call you the day after we met, but the money you wrote your name and your number on is no longer in my hand. I gave the money to the beggar who came to my house before I save your phone number.

Arman             : Really? So, how could you call me last night if you don’t have my phone number?

Ristha             : It’s a long story, but the most important thing is that I could get the money back when I bought some banana fried over there. (point to an empty spot on the riverbank, where the baker fried hung last night)

Arman             : It’s what called as be paired. Lost, but then it rises again.

(Arman’s sentence makes Ristha’s heart beats faster and makes her face  like heat shock. She could only blush shyly without being able to answer. Suddenly, from their left side a woman comes up to Arman in haste and a half run.)

                                                   

Wati                : Man, you should go home right now. Adit got a serious fever; he’s always asking for you. I’ve called you many times but your cellphone couldn’t be reached. Thanks to God Somad tell me that he saw you here, so I come here suddenly.

Arman             : Tha, I do apologize, I have to go home right now; my son got serious fever. We’ll meet again tomorrow, and I’ll call you later, Ok?  (get up and leave Ristha who is being puzzled by what she heard already)

It’s made Ristha broken heart. Just one second earlier, she was so happy, suddenly God takes her happiness again. It was true what Riana told the other day.  She was so disappointed with Arman, but much more disappointed in herself.

Ristha             : (take her cellphone and starts calling Riana.) I’m really sad, Na. What you said about Arman is right. I fall in love with him too fast; he’s not as good as I thought.

(Riana)            : Wait.. What’s going on, Tha? What do you mean he’s not as good as you thought?

Ristha             : He has 3 children. I feel very guilty; I falled in love with other guy’s husband, I almost brake their family. What a bad girl I am?

(Riana)            : Hah??! You’re not kidding me, are you?! From whom you know that?

Ristha             : His aunty came here and told him that his son got a serious fever, and then he left me here alone.

(Riana)            : Did he say something before he left you there? What a bad boy he’s! I’ll brake his nose if I meet him!

Ristha             : He apologized, and asked me to meet him tomorrow. He said he’ll call me later.

(Riana)            : What did you say then? Are you gonna meet him again? Don’t do that, he’s a bad boy; has children and wife but still looking for other girls. Anyway, are you still in the park? Stay there, I’ll come in 10 minutes.

Without waiting for an answer, Riana hung up the phone. Ristha is only quiet, the other side she had fallen in love with Arman, but she is not willing to interfere other people relationships, especially his marital status. Suddenly, the phone in her hand trembled, a sign of sms from Arman, she doesn’t want to open, but finally she opens it.

“I’m so sorry about today, but I do really glad to meet you. I hope we can meet again in the park tomorrow and talk much more about you and us”

She feels sick to see the phone and wants to throw the phone into the river, but she  refuses it.. Her handphone suddenly rang again, Arman numbers on the screen. With all her heart she refused to answer it. A few minutes later the cell phone rings again and again for dozen times.

Riana              : (a half-run approaching Ristha) Tha, are you Ok? Your cellphone is ringing, why don’t you receive the call? Who’s calling you?

Ristha             : Arman.

Riana              : Ooh from that bloody boy. Let me talk to him. (take Ristha’s cellphone) Bloody jerk, how dare are you! Hurt my friend’s heart and then call her again! Don’t disturb my friend anymore, just take care of your children and your wife. And please be note; my friend does not want to see you anymore. She doesn not want to be the breaker of your family. So, go away from my friend’s life! (hang up the phone without give Arman any chances to speak up). It’s okay, baby. Don’t be sad, I’ll always be here for you, you know. You shouldn’t cry for that bloody boy. I told him to stop disturbing you.

Ristha doesn’t answer, she is just quiet. Riana knows exactly about Ristha, she is quiet too. She doesn’t want to force Ristha to talk. She just wants to wait and monitoring Ristha, hopes she does not do that stuff. It takes about half an hour.

(Arman suddenly appears and kneel down before Ristha)

Arman             : Tha, it’s a misunderstanding, and I can make it clear.

Riana              : You don’t need to explain anything, it’s already clear! Go away!

Arman       : Sorry, I don’t wanna talk to you. I wanna talk to Ristha, and I wanna make this misunderstanding be clear.

Riana              : She doesn’t wanna hear anything from the mouth of the bloody boy like you!

Arman             : Tha, please listen to me, and I’ll make it clear.

Ristha             : You have 5 minutes to talk.

Arman             : Adit is my son, but he’s not my own son. I’ve told you that I have 3 children, right? All of them are my adopted children. They were my nieces and nephew, but unfortunatelly my brother and his wife died in a plan accident when they were kids. I only have 1 brother, and my parents are too old to take care of them all. I was the only hope for them, and I do love them so much, so I decided to adopt them all. I take care of them as they are my own child, and they also love me as I am their own father because I adopted them since they were kids, and my face is so much alike their own father. I have all proof of the adoptation, if you still cannot believe in me. You also can ask my parents, my family, my friends and my neighbours. They won’t lie to you. I came here to ask you to come to my house so that I can prove what I said. Trust me, it’s not like what you thought; it’s a misunderstanding. Your friend may come with us, anyway. I just wanna you to know the truth, and trust me as you did.

(Ristha and Riana just keep in silent and look at each other for some time.)

Riana              : Ok we’ll go, but Ristha will go wih me, just show us the way.

(They were rushed to their motorcycles and go to Arman’s home.)

8^th Scene

(When they arrive in Arman’s home, they were warmly greeted by Arman’s mother who already looks old enough.)

Ibu Dirgo         : Come in, the wind is strong enough these days.

Ristha & Riana : Thanks Ma’am.

Ibu Dirgo         : So, you two are Arman’s friends, right? Which one is Ristha?

Ristha             : (smile) I am Ristha, Ma’am. This’s my friend; Riana.

Ibu Dirgo         : You’re really pretty and so cute as well. No wonder Arman fall in love with you that way.

Ristha             : You’re flying me too high Ma’am. We already met anyway, how could he fall in love with me?

Ibu Dirgo         : It’s not about the time; how long you’ve known the person, but it’s about this (point her chest) love can come wherever and whenever. Many people fall in love in the first sight, in other hand many people couldn’t rise their love to someone who they known since many years ago. Just ask your heart; it has all answer you’re looking for.

Arman             : They do not believe in me Mom, they thoght Adit is my own child. Please tell them the truth, I wanna make this misunderstanding be clear.

Without waiting too long, Mrs. Dirgo begins telling about her beloved son who passed away in the crash and leaving 3 children were later adopted by Arman, as just like Arman told in the park. Arman also showed the adoption certificates of the three children. Even Adit’s brother and sister; Silvi and Dylan are also there to clarify the issue of their father.

Silvi                : Do you believe in Daddy now? Grandma tell you the truth. Daddy is the best father in the world, he loves us as we’re his own child. He does everything to make us happy and to give us the best as well. He won’t lie to you because he always tells us about being honest.

Dylan              : Yeah what Silvi said is right. Daddy always reminds us to say the truth, even sometime it’ll hurt. He always says that honest is the most valuable currency in he world.

Ristha             :  I do believe your daddy.

Silvi                : That’s good, and I’m very glad to hear that. I don’t wanna see my daddy sad. He looks 10 years older than his age if he sad. Also, he always be so silent as well. I just wanna see my daddy happy, so please don’t make him sad as this afternoon again. Please keep his heart.

Ristha             :  Ok, I will.

The problem have been completed. One by one they left the living room; Mrs. Dirgo starts to leave  them  and back to accompany her husband who lies on bed due to weak stroke, then Silvi and Dylan  say goodbye to move into the living room to watch their favourite reality show, and Riana suddenly  also leave them to go to her uncle's house. Now, the room is only two persons; Arman and Ristha. Both just smile and look at each other.

Ristha             : I’m really sorry to accuse you that way. You’re a very kind person, you know. I do proud of you.

Arman             : It’s Okay, it’s only a misunderstanding, and it’s already clear anyway. The most important thing is that you believe in me now. You got so angry because you care of my marital status if I still single or maried, right? That means that you have a little feeling for me, isn’t it?

Ristha             : Nope! (with serious and monotone voice) Who said that I have a little feeling for you? (look at Arman so deeply, then paused for a moment that felt like a couple of centuries for Arman) Actually I have a heart that full of feelings for you! (smile mischievously)

--THE END--

Cast of Characters:

Ø  Ristha     : Ayu Atika Putri

Ø  Arman     : Juventus Aristokrat

Ø  Mpok Inah        : Citra Sari Dewi

Ø  Lila         : Lilis Olpiyanti

Ø  Mpok Cucum    : Siti Syarifah

Ø  Mang Ujang      : Herman

Ø  Entin       : Sensiana Paga

Ø  Boris       : Yosephani Kurniawan

Ø  Shinta     : Mardiana

Ø  Ucil         : Ester Geneng

Ø  Riana      : Dewi Lestyowati

Ø  Iwit          : Mariatul Kiftia

Ø  Wati        : Kalfana Kartik

Ø  Ibu Dirgo : Juwairriyah

Ø  Silvi        : Nabila Rufaidah Syahnaz

Ø  Dylan      : Diah

Ø  Narrator   : Elisabeth Besembun