Chapter 53

Aurora's POV
With a heartwarming smile, I was ready to face the challenges ahead, turning a new page in my life, towards a future filled with hope and love.
Today was a new and meaningful day for me—I was officially a Master of Management student. The atmosphere in the classroom felt fresh, and even though my classmates were all new and I didn't recognize any of them from the previous class, our enthusiasm for learning made the atmosphere feel warmer.
Even though none of my classmates were in the same class, it didn't dampen my determination to focus on this course. I knew that continuing my education was a good step for me, and I was determined to maximize every opportunity I had. These classes were new opportunities, connecting with people who also wanted to learn and grow.
In my heart, Roline continued to inhabit every corner of my mind. With every step I took on campus, I hoped to distract my mind from the worries and sadness that were gnawing at me. Hopefully by focusing on this study, the burden of my thoughts about Roline would be reduced a little. However, deep in my heart, I knew that the hope of finding Roline would never disappear.
Every time her name crossed my mind, I prayed to God that she would be found soon, healthy, and reunited with us. In every opportunity, there was a hope for the beautiful moments when we could spend time together as a family again. When college started, my hope for Roline's return became the motivation that drove me.
I made a schedule of classes, started reading the literature given, and prepared to attend each session with full attention. Despite my nervousness, I felt a sense of optimism and new enthusiasm flowing through me.
With determination and love for my family in my heart, I promised to be my best in this class. When the bell rang, signaling the start of the first session, I took a deep breath and prepared to start a new chapter in my life. Now, my steps are set, and hope always accompanies this journey.
My schedule has increased after officially becoming a master's student. Every day feels busy, but I try to balance all the responsibilities that exist. In between time at home, I supervise Roland and Ronald who are now learning to walk, a moment that is so happy and full of challenges. Sometimes, I feel overwhelmed with doing college assignments, but I try to make the most of every minute, including finding quality time for the children.
Despite all this busyness, I still try to be a good wife to Dante. My hope is to be able to support him wholeheartedly while maintaining our happiness as a family.
"How was your day, Aurora?" Dante asked one afternoon as we sat together at the dining table, listening to the food I had so carefully designed.
Hearing his caring voice made me feel appreciated. “I’m very busy, Dante. There were a few tasks to catch up on today, but Roland and Ronald were also very fun. They’re starting to walk, although they sometimes fall. I can’t help but laugh at their efforts,” I replied, a smile spreading across my face as I thought about the children’s antics.
Dante smiled, looking at me gently. “I like seeing you happy. We’ll accompany them through this whole process together. You’re doing great,” he said, lighting up the fire in my heart.
“Thank you, honey. But sometimes, I feel like it’s not enough. I can’t seem to give it my all at once,” I said, honesty overflowing in my eyes.
Dante shook his head, wiping away any nagging doubts. “You’ve done your best. Don’t be too hard on yourself, Aurora. We’re a team, and we support each other. If you need help, let me know,” he said in a calm, comforting tone.
I felt the weight on my chest lighten a little at his words. In this busyness, I realized how important it is to have each other’s support. “Okay, I’ll try not to worry too much. We’ll get through this together,” I said, determined to keep going despite the obstacles.
We continued our conversation over dinner, sharing stories and planning the next steps we wanted to take as a family. Quality time with our kids and each other made us feel connected. When we faced challenges out there, our love and support became an irreplaceable strength in walking this path.
With hope and longing for Roline in my heart, I continued to try to move forward in finding myself and our family.
*
This weekend, I was so excited to take Roland and Ronald to the zoo. After a busy week of college and taking care of the house, I felt like it was the perfect time to relax and enjoy some time with the kids. Of course, I also wanted to give them a fun experience, seeing various animals that might fascinate them.
“Are you ready?” Dante asked, his voice flowing softly in the bright morning air.
I looked at him with a big smile, “I’m ready! I want the kids to have a fun day. We all need a break from this busy routine.”
I also thought about inviting the babysitter, who was already part of our family. “Oh, and I’ll invite our babysitter too, so she can enjoy some time with us. We can take turns looking after the kids, right?” I said, excited to share this happiness with others.
Dante nodded in agreement. “Great idea! The more, the merrier. Plus, we might learn from each other how to take care of kids at the zoo,” he said with a smile.
After all the preparations, we called the babysitter to tell her about our plan. She seemed happy and excited to join, and that made me feel better. It’s always nice to have a little help when we’re going through a special moment like this.
We packed up and prepared snacks and supplies for the day. Roland and Ronald, still little but already able to feel happiness, looked cheerful and full of energy as we were about to leave.