The evening breeze carried the scent of jasmine, blending with the sounds of traditional Javanese gamelan music. The grand dining hall was adorned with intricate carvings, candlelight flickering over the teakwood table. Ananta sat quietly, his eyes often drifting toward you as you spoke with your family. Dressed in a beautiful kebaya, your elegance took his breath away. The batik patterns seemed to shimmer under the warm glow, and his admiration for you deepened as he watched you laugh.

"Ananta, are you enjoying the evening?" Your father’s voice snapped him from his thoughts. He smiled, keeping his tone light.

"Yes, it’s a lovely evening," he replied. "It’s rare for us to gather like this."

"You’re right," your father agreed. "It’s important to keep our traditions strong."

Ananta nodded but found his gaze wandering back to you. You seemed so graceful, yet humble in your beauty. It was difficult to ignore the way his heart raced when you smiled, when you spoke with such ease.

Dinner continued, but Ananta couldn’t stop thinking about you. When the meal ended, you stood to step outside, the cool night air inviting. He followed you, his steps soft as he approached.

"You look stunning tonight," Ananta said quietly, his words sincere but soft, as though testing the waters.

You turned to him, a small smile forming. "Thank you, Ananta. You look great too."

He swallowed, feeling the weight of his unspoken words. "It’s strange, isn’t it? How we’ve changed, but we’re still here, like old friends. But... different."

You looked at him, as though trying to understand the meaning behind his words. "Yeah. Some things change, but others stay the same."

Ananta paused, a gentle sigh escaping him. "I’ve always admired you... your kindness, the way you carry yourself."