After returning from Christmas at her parents', Anisa settled into a new, quieter rhythm at home. Living alone, free from the oppressive presence of her in-laws, brought a peace she hadn't known in months. 🌄
With the new year, she focused on growth. She decided to introduce a "live sketching" service at her studio. After discussions with her team of twenty artists, the plan was set: artists would attend events; weddings, parties, corporate functions, and create custom sketches on the spot for clients. It was interactive, personal, and perfect for the upcoming Valentine's Day season, which she hoped would drive initial demand. Having weighed the investment against the potential returns, she planned to launch it next month.
Meanwhile, at the publishing house, Kirana dove into the new year's editorial schedule with her signature diligence. Her work continued to elevate the magazines, earning her the respect and willing cooperation of her colleagues. ✍🏻
Unbeknownst to her, Yusuf was struggling. His attraction had deepened into a state of acute awareness. He found himself arriving early, unconsciously waiting for her, watching her from a distance; her focus, her laughter with colleagues, the way she solved problems. Yet, he actively avoided direct, unnecessary contact.
The reason was a physical one he couldn't control. In her presence, his heartbeat would accelerate unnervingly, and he feared saying something unprofessional, something that would betray the tumult of feeling he was trying to master. So, when she came to his office for work-related matters, he kept his answers brief, his gaze fixed on his papers or computer screen, communicating with a professional detachment that masked the unsteady current running beneath. He engaged with her work, but carefully avoided engaging with her, creating a fragile, invisible barrier to protect both his composure and their professional dynamic. đź’“