Chapter 3 Over time

The next morning at Ario and Nara's house started with a calm atmosphere. Nara had just woken up and started her morning routine, while Ario was already at the dining table, reading the newspaper while enjoying a cup of coffee. Nara joined Ario at the dining table, wearing comfortable casual clothes.

"Good morning, Ario," Nara greeted with a bright smile. "You're up so early."

Ario lowered his newspaper and smiled at her. "Good morning, Nara. Yes, I do like to wake up early. I've prepared breakfast."

Nara looked at the table that was prepared with various delicious dishes and felt touched. "Thank you. You're always so considerate."

"This food is nothing compared to our happiness," Ario replied as he poured Nara coffee. "We have to start the day well."

After breakfast, the two of them decided to go about their daily activities. Ario went to the office while Nara chose to tidy up the house and prepare some things for the social event they had planned for the weekend.

At the office, Ario sat at his desk, finishing up the piled up work. Although he was focused on his work, his thoughts often wandered to Nara and how they could plan a future together. When his coworker, Dimas, approached to chat, Ario couldn't help but talk about Nara.

"Dimas, I just got married, and everything feels so different now," Ario said, looking over the reports. "Nara is a wonderful person."

Dimas smiled broadly. "I'm glad to hear that, Ario. It sounds like you've really found the right person. How's your married life going so far?"

Ario nodded, looking pleased.

After a few months of marriage, Ario and Nara felt a change in the rhythm of their lives. Their new home began to feel more comfortable, but new challenges also emerged, especially related to Ario's work and household responsibilities.

One morning, Ario entered the dining room with a serious expression. Nara was already sitting at the table, ready with a simple but delicious breakfast. "Good morning, honey," Nara greeted, while arranging the plates.

Ario returned her greeting with a small nod. "Good morning. I need to talk about something important."

Nara frowned, sensing something was wrong. "Sure, what's wrong?"

Ario sat down on the chair and started the conversation. "There have been some big changes at the office. I might have to work longer than usual, and I also need to think about some new projects that will take up time."

Nara looked at Ario with concern. "Are you feeling burdened? I know you are very dedicated, but don't let work interfere with our time together."

Ario sighed. "I just don't want work to interfere with our personal lives. I know we've built a lot together, and I don't want to lose that."

Nara reached for Ario's hand and held it gently. "We'll get through this together. Communication is key. As long as we're open and supportive, I'm sure we can get through any challenges."

As Ario left for work, Nara felt a little anxious about how this change would affect their relationship. However, she decided to stay positive and find ways to support Ario without neglecting her own needs.

The days that followed at Ario's office became increasingly stressful. Ario worked late and often came home late. Jessica, Ario's secretary, noticed the tension on Ario's face and offered to help him out more than usual. She began helping out with extra work and providing coffee and snacks.

One night, while Ario was still working in his office, Jessica knocked on the door and came in. "Ario, I finished the report you asked for. Is there anything else I can help you with?"

Ario looked up from the pile of files and saw Jessica. "Thanks, Jessica. I'm just trying to finish a few things before I go home."

Jessica came over and placed the files on Ario's desk. "I can help you organize your schedule to be more efficient. Maybe that will ease your burden a little."

Ario smiled tiredly. "You've been a great help, Jessica. I really appreciate your support."

Jessica smiled and stood near Ario's desk. "I just wanted to see you feel less stressed. You've been working hard, and it shows."

Ario felt a deep sense of gratitude. "I know, and I really appreciate it."

When Jessica was done helping, she got up to leave. However, before she left the room, she turned and looked at Ario with a gentle gaze. "I just want you to know, Ario, that I'm here to support you, no matter what."

Ario felt touched and said, "Thank you, Jessica. I couldn't have done it without your support."

Jessica nodded, giving one last smile before leaving the room. Ario continued his work with a lighter feeling.

At home, Nara was preparing dinner. When Ario finally came home late that night, Nara was waiting attentively. She saw Ario looking tired and greeted him warmly.

"You came home later than usual," Nara said, as she prepared the dishes. "Is everything okay?"

Ario sat at the dining table and felt the warmth of Nara's attention. "Yes, there's just a lot of work to be done. I'm sorry for coming home late."

Nara put the plate in front of Ario and sat down beside him. "Don't worry. We can get through this together. I'm here for you, and we can figure out how to organize things better."

Ario felt very grateful for Nara's support. "Thank you, honey. I know we'll get through this."

That night, they had dinner together warmly and supported each other. They talked about their hopes and plans for the future, trying to overcome challenges in a positive way.

Over time, Ario began to find a balance between his work and personal life. Nara's support and Jessica's help helped ease his workload. Ario and Nara grew closer, and they learned to understand and appreciate each other more deeply.