Rotten Beans (part 1)

Eve gently positioned Rizki into the wheelchair, embracing her role as his caretaker as they embarked on their journey to the "Tempeh Factory." The vibrant forest atmosphere slowly gave way to a different ambiance as they ventured beyond the trees.

During their journey, Rizki's curiosity took hold, and he turned his gaze to Eve, his expression contemplative. "I've been wondering, why did you choose me out of everyone? Couldn't you have just asked me directly?"

Eve's response held a touch of melancholy as she shook her head, "It's not that straightforward. As someone of my position, seeking my father's approval is necessary for such matters. Approaching you directly might not sit well with him, and he might have arranged for me to meet someone else entirely."

Understanding the complexities of her societal role, Rizki nodded in acknowledgment. "So, your father's opinion carries significant weight in this decision."

Eve's sigh confirmed his understanding, "Yes, that's how things work for us."

Rizki's inquiry persisted, his eyes fixed on hers, "But why me? What made you choose me specifically?"

Eve's expression shifted, emotions crossing her features as she recalled certain moments. Her voice carried a bittersweet tone as she explained, "You saved my youngest sister inside that cave. Your strength, resourcefulness, and ability to tackle challenges caught my attention. Plus, having a companion with tan skin like you is considered an honor. And," she added, placing a hand over her heart, "you're the only one who appreciates certain qualities without any hidden motives."

Rizki's cheeks flushed at her candid revelation, taken aback by her openness. He stumbled over his words, flustered, "I... I didn't expect you to bring that up."

Eve chuckled softly, her eyes reflecting both amusement and fondness, "Well, it's the truth."

Unyielding in his curiosity, Rizki persisted with another question, "Have you ever considered other races besides humans?"

Eve's expression grew more solemn as she answered, "The races don't exist in harmony with one another. Each is focused on their own survival. While humans might show interest in my physical attributes, I would never consider..."

Rizki's grin widened as he playfully interjected, "I heard from someone that your curiosity in the cave was the reason we got caught."

Plak!

A sudden impact on his head made Rizki yelp in surprise and pain. He quickly rubbed his head, feeling the sting from Eve's palm hitting him. She looked flustered and embarrassed as she retorted, "Don't tell anyone about that!"

A sudden impact on his head made Rizki yelp in surprise and pain. He quickly rubbed his head, feeling the sting from Eve's palm hitting him. She looked flustered and embarrassed as she retorted, her voice carrying a mix of exasperation and amusement amidst the surrounding noise, "Don't tell anyone about that!"

The bustling crowd around them continued with its own rhythm as Rizki shook his head, a rueful smile forming. "From public display affection to public display violence in a split second," he quipped, his tone a mix of mock complaint and amusement.

Eve adopted a pretend innocence, her voice laced with mischief as she replied, "I have no idea what you're talking about."

Rizki decided to distract himself from the playful exchange, pulling out his phone with a mischievous glint in his eye. Eve's attention shifted, and she seemed intrigued by his actions. Just as she was about to ask, Rizki surprised her by taking a selfie with her. The unexpected movement caused her to roll her eyes playfully, though her features held a hint of surprise.

In response, Rizki couldn't help but chuckle, and the sudden laughter made him lose his balance. He toppled onto the ground, eliciting an amused gasp from Eve. She quickly moved to help him, her concern evident in her eyes. "Careful there! Are you okay?"

Rizki's grin remained as he quipped, "If someone in a hospital had you attending to them, I'm pretty sure they'd make a speedy recovery."

Eve's expression softened, a gentle smile touching her lips. She gestured for Rizki's phone, watching as she looked at their selfie picture. Her comment drew a chuckle from Rizki, "Looks like our painting done in a matter of seconds."

Eve tilted her head, confusion evident in her eyes. "Painting? I thought you said it's called a photo?"

Rizki's cheeks turned a shade pinker as he corrected her, "Oh, right, my apologies. I misspoke. It's actually called a photo."

Eve's curiosity remained unabated as she studied the image, then looked at Rizki. The conversation took a light turn as he playfully teased, "People might end up getting better quickly if they knew you were taking care of them. Though I might roll away instead of recovering if you're the one doing the caregiving."

Eve's cheeks took on a hint of color as she lightly swatted his arm, her voice carrying a mix of embarrassment and amusement, "You're too much!"