To be honest, Saka was the kind of man who despised being in front of a camera. Unfortunately, this time he had no choice but to set that principle aside. For the launch of his latest product, he had to appear in the promotional video.
And not just any video—the concept was "daily activity," the very thing a man like him hated most.
Saka was never the type to show off, especially to women. Yet today, something felt different. The moment the camera started rolling, he found himself wanting to reveal the charm he usually kept hidden.
Not for the audience.
Not for the camera.
Only for one person: Cayra.
He wanted to know—would she be captivated, or would she burn with jealousy watching him?
Saka even prepared a little "surprise scene": taking off his shirt in front of everyone. He was certain the staff would scream. But the only reaction he truly wanted to see was Cayra's.
As expected, Cayra protested loudly. Instead of being angry, Saka felt a quiet satisfaction. A faint smirk played on his lips. Annoying her was far more entertaining than making a hundred people cheer.
For some reason, he kept holding something back inside him. Today, Cayra seemed different—captivating, especially when she directed the shoot like a true professional.
Maybe because his mind had been consumed by only one thought all day: how to ask her out.
Each time he glanced at her, his happiness became harder to hide.
When the shoot finally ended, Cayra was about to leave. But Saka stopped her. He knew her parents had been watching their every move, yet it didn't make him flinch in the slightest.
Without warning, he scooped Cayra up in a bridal carry and walked straight to his car. Even when her parents saw, he didn't falter—he greeted them politely, as though asking permission to take her away.
Their first stop was a boutique. He didn't explain, simply let Cayra choose clothes. What she didn't know was that the boutique belonged to his mother. Saka even had a quiet word with the staff, asking them to keep his identity secret. He still paid in full, just like any other customer.
After the boutique, they went to their old high school to reminisce. From there, to the lake that held their memories.
That night, Saka witnessed something more precious than anything else—the moment Cayra and Raka finally embraced. Tears flowed, hearts long frozen began to thaw. Saka stood silently, moved as he watched the reconciliation.
But one thing still lingered in his mind: the shopping bags from yesterday were left undelivered. So this morning, before heading to Manterra for the filming of his company biography, he decided to stop by Cayra's house.
Inside, he was greeted by Elan, busy with his laptop.
"Oh, it's Kak Saka. Come in!" Elan said cheerfully.
Saka nodded, arms full of paper bags. Elan gawked.
"What's all that, Kak?" he asked curiously.
"They're Ayu's," Saka replied casually.
"Ayu? Who's that?" Elan frowned.
Saka chuckled. "I meant Cayra."
Before Elan could ask further, another voice cut in.
"Good morning, Mr. Saka." Raka appeared in crisp work attire.
"Good morning, Mr. Raka," Saka greeted politely.
The two already knew each other. Raka once worked as an IT consultant at Ardhananta Group Media before moving to his uncle's company.
"What brings you here this early?" Raka asked.
"I came to deliver something for Cayra," Saka lifted the paper bags.
Moments later, Cayra's father also emerged, equally surprised. After hearing the explanation, he told Elan to call Cayra.
Soon, Cayra appeared in her work clothes. She froze at the sight of Saka with his pile of bags.
"These are the things you forgot yesterday," Saka said, handing her several.
Still puzzled, Cayra accepted them. But Saka didn't stop there.
"There's also something for Elan, Kak Raka, and Mr. Darma," he added, handing them each a bag. "And this one is for Aunt Widya."
Her father chuckled. "Thank you, Saka. You didn't have to go to the trouble."
"It was no trouble, sir."
Elan grinned mischievously. "I smell something suspicious. Could it be that Kak Saka brought gifts because he wants Dad's blessing to date Kak Caca?"
For a split second, Saka fell silent. Then, with a faint smile and steady eyes, he asked, "If that's the case… will you give me your blessing?"
"Of course! You should come here more often!" Elan replied without hesitation.
Laughter broke out across the room—everyone except Cayra, whose face flushed crimson.
When the laughter faded, Saka paused at the doorway. He leaned close to Cayra's ear, his breath warm, his voice low, almost commanding.
"Your family already accepts me. That means it's only a matter of time until you surrender too… and admit that you love me."
Cayra turned sharply, glaring as if to protest. But Saka only met her gaze with that faint, dangerous smile.
In that instant, the world shrank. No voices of her father, Raka, or Elan remained. Only the pounding of her heart.
And strangely—it wasn't anger she felt, but nervousness.
Saka's smile was too dangerous. A trap she wanted to fall into.
~~~
They arrived together at Manterra's office. Saka's workspace had been transformed into a filming set, complete with spotlights and cameras.
A makeup artist fixed his hair and face until he looked sharp. When the camera rolled, he smiled confidently, introducing Manterra with the ease of a professional host. The crew nodded in approval.
But minutes later, his tone shifted.
"In the past… I never had a dream. I didn't even know what happiness meant."
The room went still. Everyone was stunned. Cayra froze behind the camera, like a living statue.
Saka continued, his gaze searching. When his eyes found hers, he smiled faintly.
"Until I met someone… who showed me what happiness was. And what it means to dream."
He inhaled deeply, holding back emotion.
"She once told me: Live the way you want. Don't live just to please others."
The words struck Cayra like lightning. Her mind flew back to their high school days by the lake. That line… it was hers.
Saka lowered his head briefly, then spoke again, voice trembling.
"From that moment, I dared to dream. One day I decided—I wanted to build a skincare brand just for men. And yes, that dream almost vanished when we parted. I thought it was impossible without her."
He turned toward Cayra again, eyes unwavering.
"But when I returned from abroad, I heard her voice in a speech at a social event. That's when I realized—as long as her voice still existed, my dream wasn't dead."
A thin smile spread, warm yet aching.
"That person is here today. She's my first love. The one who taught me happiness can be simple—just making someone else smile."
Every eye followed his gaze to Cayra. There was no doubt whom he meant.
Cayra stood frozen, her face burning, her heartbeat out of control. It felt like the whole world had just uncovered their secret.
And with the camera still rolling, Saka closed with words that rang out steady yet tender:
"My love for her—no one can ever rival it. And I hope… she will always stay in my life. Forever."
The room erupted with applause. Cayra remained motionless, as if the brightest spotlight had just fallen on her—cast by the very man she least expected.
Saka ended with one last statement, his voice firm yet full of emotion.
"Manterra is not just a business to me. It's a journey, a dream, and proof that happiness can be created—for ourselves and for others. That's why I believe every man deserves to feel confident and take care of himself. As long as Manterra exists, that will always be our purpose."
Cayra should have called "cut." But silence held her frozen. Tasha finally stepped in.
"Cut! That's a wrap!" she called. The crew burst into motion, packing equipment.
Tasha approached, eyes sparkling. "Mr. Saka, that was incredible. I'm sure this video will go viral."
"Absolutely, sir. That story… honestly, it's the best I've ever heard," Yudha added.
Saka only smiled faintly. His gaze never left Cayra, who stood lost in thought.
Then, suddenly, she walked away. Not a word spoken.
"Oh, right, sir… who exactly was that first love you mentioned?" Yudha asked innocently.
Saka gave no reply. He walked out, following Cayra. Tasha and Yudha exchanged knowing looks and grinned.
"I don't think that question needs an answer," Tasha whispered.
Yudha chuckled. "Yeah. Let's just wait for the day they go public."
~~~
Saka caught up to Cayra in the garden behind Manterra. He grasped her arm, stopping her.
"Ayu… why did you leave? Did I say something wrong?"
Cayra exhaled shakily, eyes glistening. "Am I really… that important in your life?"
Saka's gaze was steady as he nodded. "Yes. Why would you even ask? Do you still doubt my love?"
She lowered her head, voice trembling. "Why did you have to say all that in front of so many people, Arda? I… I don't deserve it. Even if they don't know who you meant."
Saka stepped closer, his eyes soft but firm. "You feel undeserving? Ayu… it's precisely because of your flaws that I fell in love. I don't need you perfect. I only need you."
Her tears finally fell. "I'm scared… scared I can't love you as much as you love me."
He clasped her hands tightly. "Love isn't about who gives more. Love is about choosing each other. And I choose you. Every day."
Cayra closed her eyes, surrendering to the warmth of his grip. She let herself give in to the feelings she had denied for so long.
"I want you too, Arda," she whispered, voice shaking. "I'm tired of fighting it. I… I love you."
Saka's smile broke through—rare, genuine, luminous. He pressed his forehead gently against hers.
"Thank you," he murmured, as though every scar from the past had just been healed.
Beneath the soft glow of the garden lights, they stood together in silence that needed no words. For the first time, Cayra truly surrendered—not to fate, but to her own heart.
~~~
After leaving Manterra, Saka invited Cayra to have dinner together. Unlike before, Cayra didn't protest. She simply followed—as if too tired to argue, choosing instead to walk wherever he led.
The restaurant they entered was crowded, buzzing with conversation and filled with the aroma of freshly cooked meals. No wonder—it was one of the city's favorites.
"I'll head to the restroom first," Saka said before stepping away.
Cayra nodded, scanning the room for a table. She was just about to sit when a voice called out.
"Eh, isn't this Mbak Cayra?"
Her steps froze. Her eyes widened as she turned.
"Ra…ni?"
Yes. That woman—Rani. The one who ruined her engagement with Bima. (If you've forgotten, go back to Chapter 2.)
"Hello, Mbak. How are you?" Rani asked politely.
"Fine." Cayra's answer was curt, her tone sharp.
Rani gave a stiff smile. "You're still mad at me, aren't you?"
Cayra shook her head slowly. Honestly, she wasn't angry anymore. Once, yes. But time had eroded most of the wound. Still, seeing Rani's face left a knot in her chest. "No. I'm indifferent."
"Oh, I see. By the way, are you alone—?"
Before Rani could finish, a man's voice cut in.
"Babe, I've already paid for the food."
The man stepped forward—and froze.
Cayra crossed her arms, a mocking smile tugging her lips. Bima. Her ex-fiancé.
Her chest tightened. Her mother once told her Bima never liked Rani, that he only used the excuse of an arranged marriage. But if that was true, why had he just called Rani "babe"? Typical.
"Cayra? You're here? With who?" Bima asked, clearly startled.
"With whoever I want. Not your business." Her reply was sharp.
"Oh, right," she added, voice dripping with sarcasm, "didn't you once say you didn't like her because it was an arranged marriage? Then why did you just call her babe?"
Rani and Bima stiffened. Rani looked away.
"Cayra, we have nothing to do with each other anymore. So it's up to me who I call babe."
"I don't care either. But it's a shame you couldn't tell my mother the truth back then. Instead, you spun a story about your parents' debt to make it look like you were forced."
"Ca, at first it was arranged. But… over time, I realized maybe Rani is my fate."
"Good for you. Just make sure you don't offer her the same thing you once offered me."
"What do you mean?" Bima's tone rose.
Cayra scoffed. "Forgot? Let me remind you. You once asked me for a secret marriage. And your salary… was never fully given. I hope you're not doing the same to her."
Rani turned to him, frowning. "Babe, is that true?"
"No, Babe. That's a lie. Back then, I was just testing her." Bima tried to calm Rani, but his eyes burned with anger at Cayra.
"Not every man likes a woman like you. Don't think just because you earn more, you can look down on men." He jabbed a finger toward her.
Cayra's brows furrowed. "Excuse me? Since when have I ever belittled a man's salary?"
"You said it yourself! When you broke off the engagement, you told me your salary was higher than mine."
"That was a fact. I wasn't insulting you. Think about it—what woman wants to live in misery after marriage? I could earn more, but you wanted me to quit my job, while only giving me half of your smaller salary. Does that make sense?"
"You're picky, Cayra. Don't think anyone will love you. No man can stand a demanding woman like you. Face it—you're not even attractive enough to be loved!"
Stab.
The words pierced deep. For a moment, Cayra's soul crumbled. The restaurant blurred around her. Whispers echoed—some pitying, some curious.
And then—
"Who said she's not worthy of love? I've loved her. Always. Anywhere, anytime."
The voice was low, firm.
Saka.
The restaurant fell silent. Cutlery froze midair. All eyes turned as he walked forward, his gaze cold, his presence commanding. Even without luxury, his aura screamed old money.
"What's wrong with Cayra saying her salary was higher than yours? That's not an insult, Bro," Saka said, stepping closer. "As men, we should respect women who can achieve more than us. That's strength, not a threat."
"You felt belittled just because she earns more, then you dared to say she's unworthy of love? That's a joke."
Bima clenched his fists. "Who are you? Daring to meddle in someone else's business?"
Without answering, Saka wrapped an arm around Cayra's waist. The simple gesture shocked her… and melted her.
"I'm Cayra's fiancé. I shouldn't even need to introduce myself, since my family's already been all over the news these past few days."
Bima narrowed his eyes. "And who exactly are you?"
"Saka Ardhananta Wiratama. Heir of the Ardhananta family. That name rings a bell, doesn't it?"
Shock flickered in both Bima and Rani's eyes. Rani dared to speak. "You're… the one who told me to DM Mbak Cayra about Bima?"
Saka nodded, gaze locked on Cayra. "That's right. If not for me, this man's lies would never have been exposed."
Bima swung a punch, but Saka blocked it with ease. Chairs scraped, gasps filled the air.
"Bro, you're military, aren't you? You should know better than to use violence against civilians. So tell me—who's really in the wrong here?"
"I know you're rich, but that's no excuse to insult me!" Bima roared.
"Insult?" Saka's voice was ice. "I'm only speaking the truth. And I will always protect my fiancée from a mouth like yours. If you call that an insult… isn't it you who just insulted her?"
He leaned forward, his tone cutting. "Remember this—a real man never hurts a woman, not even with words. If you dare say that to her again, I'll make sure you face the consequences."
The restaurant buzzed with whispers again—but this time, every eye admired Cayra and Saka.
Cayra's chest tightened. Tears welled—not from weakness, but from the overwhelming relief of being defended. Something she had never felt before.
Saka reached for her hand. Warm. Steady. "Let's go."
He led her out, leaving Bima and Rani frozen. The restaurant doors swung shut behind them, and Cayra lowered her head, hiding the shimmer in her eyes.
For the first time, the shame Bima tried to plant turned into gratitude—because she was no longer alone.
~~~
EPILOGUE ✨
The second restaurant was quieter, refined, almost empty. The faint sound of cutlery and soft music filled the air. The price tag explained the privacy.
Dishes were already served, but Cayra hadn't touched a bite. She only held her spoon, lost in thought.
Saka, too, was silent. Only glancing at her now and then, then back at his plate.
Her chest ached. Saka's silence when angry was worse than an outburst.
"Sorry," she whispered, almost drowned by the music.
He stopped mid-movement. "Sorry for what, Ayu?"
"Arda… I'm sorry for making you upset."
He set down his fork and spoon, reaching for her hand. His gaze was soft, yet firm. "You did nothing wrong. Don't ever apologize for what isn't your fault."
"But… I saw your face. You were angry. Was it because of Bima?"
His jaw tensed. "Don't say his name." His eyes hardened. "Yes, I was angry. Not because he was there, but because he dared to insult the woman I love. Who does he think he is?"
Cayra blinked. "The woman you love?"
Saka smirked. "Of course. Who else? Or do you think I was protecting some random stranger?"
Her heart flipped. She laughed lightly, embarrassed. "Arda… let him say whatever. I don't care."
"But I care." His tone rose, then softened again. "Why didn't you fight back?"
"I wasn't silent because I was scared," she said firmly. "I just didn't know what to say. And then you appeared, so I didn't need to speak. Because you spoke for me."
His lips curved, eyes amused. "So, you like being protected by me?"
"Of course. What woman wouldn't want to be protected by the man she loves?"
His smile deepened. "Finally… you admitted it without pride."
"Yes," she muttered quickly, hiding behind her spoon. "What's the point of being prideful with a man as kind and handsome as you?"
Saka chuckled. "Your sweet talk's getting better." He gestured at the table. "Come on, before the food gets cold."
Just as Cayra lifted her spoon, a thought struck. "Wait… why did Rani say it was you who told her to DM me? How did you even know about my engagement with Bima? And why did you do that?"
Saka paused, smiling faintly. "Looks like that secret came out sooner than I planned. If Zira knew, she'd kill me."
Cayra frowned. "Zira? You and her… kept something from me?"
"Not like that." Saka exhaled. "I first heard about you through Zira, when I signed up as a donor at NARA. We hadn't met again yet, but… I knew your stories from her. Your relationship. Your engagement. Even… your heartbreaks."
Cayra blinked, stunned. "So you and Zira… were in cahoots?"
"Call it that if you want." He shrugged. "But my goal was simple—I wanted to protect you. Even before we met again."
Cayra folded her arms, half-annoyed. "Since when were you and Zira that close? And how much exactly did you two know about me?"
Saka held her gaze. "Since that bet in high school. Zira always knew your feelings… and by accident, she became the bridge that showed me you never truly forgot me. Even as adults, she told me how often you still mentioned my name."
Cayra's head spun. She massaged her temples, recalling countless times she vented to Zira, never imagining her words would reach him.
Seeing her struggle, Saka squeezed her hand again. "Ayu, don't be mad at Zira. She's the best friend you've got. Same with Vey, even if she's not always around. Without them, you and I wouldn't be sitting here right now."
Cayra went quiet. Then slowly nodded. True—she wasn't angry. Just… surprised. In the end, she realized one thing—having friends like Zira and Vey was a blessing.
"Arda," her voice softened, "thank you for protecting me today. For the first time, I felt… worthy. Because someone stood up for me."
His smile deepened, his grip tightening. "From now on, it's my turn to protect you. Just like you once protected me, back when I didn't even have a dream."
For a moment, they only looked at each other. The world stood still.
Then they laughed softly, brushing away the tension, finally tasting their meal.
Warm. Simple. But so undeniably romantic.
That night, Cayra and Saka didn't just confess love. They found the true meaning of a relationship: to protect, to cherish, and to complete each other.