Chapter 50

Aurora's POV
When I got my diploma in my hand, it was such a meaningful award for me. I knew that our future would be there, and with determination and determination, I was ready to face every new challenge that came, because I had a family that would always support me, no matter how heavy the burden we had to carry.
“Congratulations on achieving your bachelor’s degree, Aurora,” my mother said, and I couldn’t help but hug her tightly. The pride and love that radiated from her face made all the efforts and struggles so far feel very worthwhile.
After leaving the graduation room, I stepped outside with a heart full of joy. However, suddenly I was surprised to see a familiar figure standing in front of the door. It was Dante! He was carrying a very large bouquet of flowers, full of cheerful colors.
“Congratulations on your graduation,” he said, his warm smile making me feel like the world was shining brighter.
My heart burst with happiness. “Dante, can you walk now?” I asked, surprised to see him standing on his two feet. Gratitude arose when I saw that he was no longer confined to a wheelchair.
“Yes, I have! This is all thanks to you. Your support keeps me going so I can recover quickly,” he replied proudly and sincerely.
Tears of joy streamed down my cheeks. “I’m glad you’re back on your feet. It means a lot to us,” I said, squinting to capture all of this beautiful moment.
He handed me the beautiful bouquet of flowers. “This is for you, as a congratulation for all your hard work. You’ve fought so hard to achieve this, Aurora. Today is a celebration of all the effort and love you’ve given,” he said, captivating me.
I accepted the bouquet with trembling hands, gently touching the petals. “Thank you, Dante. This is a wonderful gift. But, more importantly, I’m so grateful that you’re here with me,” I said, feeling how much his presence meant to me in this special moment.
He held my hand, and for a moment, all the anxiety and meaning of the struggle disappeared. “Let’s celebrate today with enthusiasm. We’ll also find Roline together,” he said, affirming our determination to face all the challenges together.
This togetherness gave me new motivation. Even though the situation outside is still stressful, today is about celebrating the achievements and love that unites us. With each step forward, we are committed to overcoming the obstacles, in our search for Roline and in building a future together as a family.
As long as we are united, I know that nothing is impossible. And today, as all the challenges and sadness are pouring into the light of hope, I am grateful for all the little and big things that make me feel alive and loving.
After getting my bachelor's degree, my desire to continue my master's degree still burns in my heart. I feel that my knowledge is still limited and there are many things I want to learn. However, after everything that has happened and the situation that still demands attention, I know that there is no option to continue my education at this time. Besides, I also did not get a scholarship because my grades are so-so.
Now, amidst all the confusion and sadness that haunts me, my twins, Roland and Ronald, celebrate their first birthday. But there is a sadness that gnaws at my heart because Roline, my lost daughter, cannot celebrate this special day with me. This should be a happy moment for all my children, but the absence of one creates a deep emptiness.
Even so, I was determined to give Roland and Ronald my full affection. When they flocked closer, my eyes sparkled with love, seeing their innocent faces. Now they could call me ‘Mom’, and hearing that made my heart explode with happiness.
“Happy birthday, honey,” I said softly, kissing them one by one. “Mom loves you so much.” That sincere voice came from my heart.
The two babies looked at me with cheerful smiles, raising their little hands as if asking for a hug. I hugged them with love, feeling happy even though the shadow of sadness was still there.
“Even though Roline is not here, we are all still family, and Mom will make sure you grow up with love,” I said, trying to calm myself and give my all even though it felt difficult at this time.
In the midst of this heavy moment, I was determined to create happiness for Roland and Ronald. Even though my heart felt full of loss, I had to stay strong for them. The four of us were family—even without Roline by our side, her love would remain eternal.
I prepared a small party with a birthday cake, toys, and everything that could make them smile on this special day. Every laugh that came out of them was a reminder that even though our lives were not perfect, we still loved and supported each other.
Like a resurrection from the darkness, every second with my children was a reason to keep fighting. When singing the birthday song and seeing their smiles, my heart was full of hope—that one day Roline would return to my arms, and we would celebrate special days like this together again.
Today is about love, hope, and remembering that even though there are shortcomings, every little moment is still precious. I promise to always protect and care for this family's love with all my heart.
"Look at them growing up," said Dante, smiling proudly as he looked at Roland and Ronald playing happily with their toys. The sound of their laughter sounded melodious, warming our hearts amidst the sadness.
"Yes, but what about Roline? I'm sad, my heart has been fragile all this time. My daughter is missing and has not returned," I said, my voice shaking thinking about Roline's condition, who is still unknown.
Dante sensed the tension inside me, and he replied softly, “I know. We both feel it. But we have to trust in God to take care of her.”