Seven days a week. Three hundred and sixty-five days a year.

During all that time, Rudolf never felt he deserved a holiday. His only desire was for one thing: that his children would grow up comfortably, without lacking anything in the future.


Born into a wealthy family with businesses spanning Indonesia and Australia, Rudolf was never satisfied with how his family treated him during his childhood. Their obsession with work suffocated him under a mountain of rules, leaving him constantly questioning the balance of affection within his immediate family.

Fortunately, the Handani family instilled in him a tenacious and ambitious attitude, which led to his success as a chef and the owner of several restaurants, all while still keeping a watchful eye on the family business—a canned food factory.

In his dreams, he envisioned his children inheriting that same fighting spirit, but with a more balanced and stable life.


Unexpectedly, his heart fell for a widow with one child. Rudolf had missed ten years of guiding Erin, the little girl who would become his first child.

Shortly after officially becoming a father, all his carefully laid plans to discipline his children unraveled. He found himself wanting to give the entire world to his children. He just wanted to spoil her, as a reflection of the hopes he once had for his own parents. Especially when Nathan was born—Nathan and Erin's joy became his source of energy. He was willing to do anything to make his two children happy.


Years passed, and the excessive love he showered on them led to unexpected consequences. Nathan was caught several times nearly trying illegal drugs, and Erin became a party animal. It was a shock for both of them when Rudolf suddenly decided to take a tough stance.

He cut off their credit cards and moved the whole family back to Indonesia, forcing his children to become independent.

On this particular Sunday, with a rare bit of free time, Rudolf insisted that Erin accompany him. The older man, glasses perched on his nose, sat in the passenger seat while Erin drove beside him. The hot morning sun beat down, but it didn't deter Erin from wearing a black blazer over her blue shirt. Rudolf always wanted to laugh whenever he remembered why Erin insisted on dressing formally when visiting the factory. Early last year, she had been dragged out of the factory by security after using the restroom, unable to show her ID card. Her casual attire didn't meet company standards, and she ended up standing at the security post for quite some time until Rudolf and Nathan, fresh from the car wash, arrived. They could only laugh at the sight of Erin—sunburned, sulking, and fuming for three days afterward.

'Is this the right way, Dad?" Erin asked after making a right turn. The roads around the factory in Cikarang City, one of the biggest industrial city in SouthEast Asia were tricky, with all the buildings looking alike, much like a housing complex.

'Of course it is. It's not like you've never been here before."

'You don't remember that well, Dad. That's it up ahead, right?"

Sudu Food Jaya stood out with its large yellow building. The tall black fence was slightly ajar, and a security guard was keeping watch.

'Yes. Just drive straight in."

Erin sped up. As they approached the factory, the security guard immediately opened the gate wide, standing ready to greet them.

'Good morning, Mr. Rudolf, Miss Erin," the middle-aged man said respectfully. 'The third truck has left. Only the last one remains."

'Wasn't the last one supposed to leave at nine?" Erin asked.

'There was a slight issue with loading, Miss. But it's all sorted now and ready to go."

'What was the problem?"

'Come inside first," Rudolf quickly intervened, noticing Erin's face beginning to flush. Yesterday, he had tasked her with overseeing the stock delivery to the outlets as punishment for attending two parties while he and Christy were out of town. Seeing one of her tasks fall short, Erin was likely feeling guilty.

'Sorry, Dad," she muttered, stopping the car in front of the lobby.

'This was a surprise order. Our product went viral after being reviewed by Sarah Wilde, a rising online celebrity. There's no issue this time, but we must ensure it doesn't happen again."

'Yes, Dad."

'Let's go inside."

Father and daughter walked into the lobby together. Being a Sunday, there weren't many workers around—just a few staff members working overtime and three men in blue factory uniforms who greeted Rudolf and Erin.

They walked down a long hallway past the main room. On either side of them was the production area, where all the ingredients were processed into canned food, starting with various dishes made from fish, they walked past the traditional sauces production area until they reached the end of the room, where a heavy iron door awaited them. Rudolf struggled briefly to open it before it finally swung open with a loud bang.

They stepped through a plastic curtain, and a blast of cold air hit them. Erin quickly arranged her hair to cover her neck, shoving both hands into her blazer pockets. She shuddered at the sight of her father, casually walking in his regular t-shirt.

This was the giant cold room, the final stop for the canned food. Rows of shelves were lined up, organized by food type. The conveyor belt was still, but at least two people were on duty, manually checking the inventory. Fifteen workers in total filled the space, all clad in factory uniforms, with head coverings and gloves.

'Mr. Rudolf!" A heavyset man hurried towards them.

'Mr. Cecen, is everything secure?"

'It's all secure, sir," Cecen replied, making a gesture as if to shake hands but stopping short of actually touching Rudolf or Erin. 'The last truck just left. If today's shipment goes well, we'll add three more tomorrow."

'Oh, that much interest, huh?" Rudolf remarked.

'Overwhelming, sir. Honestly, it's a bit much, but we can handle it. HR said they'll bring in new employees on Monday."

'Good. And make sure to monitor everyone's health. I heard many workers haven't been taking their vitamins from the factory, even though it's crucial for keeping them healthy."

'Yes, sir. I've already stressed to everyone the importance of maintaining their health."

'Alright then, you can get back to work."

'Thank you, Mr. Rudolf, Miss Erin."

'Erin, come this way…" Rudolf motioned to the left, heading towards a darker area.

They approached a small, steep iron staircase. Erin followed her father up slowly, the air growing colder as they ascended.

Erin shivered as they reached a half-floor, where a large area surrounded by an iron fence gave them a view of the entire factory below.

'Wow! I never knew about this place, Dad," Erin said, her eyes sweeping across the factory floor and the frosted glass, taking in the full expanse of the cold room from above.

'Here…" Rudolf led the way to a platform that jutted out like a balcony—a perfect spot for a leader to stand during announcements.

Erin stood beside her father, hugging herself against the cold.

'Look at all this. This place was built with the sweat and determination of the Handani family. It started with my grandfather's father, who insisted on producing canned food despite competitors spreading rumors that it was dirty and unhealthy," Rudolf said, guiding Erin forward until they were level with the edge. 'One day, you and Nathan will take over all of this. Whether you like it or not, you'll be involved."

It wasn't the first time Rudolf had this conversation. Since Erin turned twenty-five, he had often brought it up, but neither she nor Nathan had shown any initiative to get involved in the family business. If it weren't for punishment or obligation, they probably wouldn't discuss it at all.

Rudolf could sense Erin's reluctance from the deep breath she took.

'I used to feel the same way you and Nathan do," he continued. 'I had dreams of becoming a chef, too. But in the end, I had to return and take care of everything. Unless you're lucky enough to marry a man with a strong business sense who can help you run things, this responsibility will fall to you."

Despite the cold and her pale skin, Rudolf noticed a blush spreading across his daughter's cheeks. Erin's eyes met his, filled with questions she seemed hesitant to ask. She bit her lip, uncertain.

'Why? Is there something you want to tell me?"

Erin tapped the floor with her foot, wrestling with her thoughts before finally speaking. 'Dad, what's your definition of adulthood?"

The unexpected question caught Rudolf off guard. He tried to read Erin's expression, but it mirrored his own confusion. 'I'd say adulthood is when someone has the courage to take responsibility for the choices they make."

'Then, can maturity be judged by people who don't know us well? Shouldn't maturity be determined after getting to know someone better?"

'Maturity can't be judged instantly. If someone makes that claim, it probably means their childish side is too dominant, leading them to conclude that someone else isn't mature."

'Can being friendly and cheerful give the impression of immaturity?" Erin asked quickly.

Rudolf's eyes narrowed. 'Who would think that?"

'No one, Dad…"

'If you're asking, there must be a reason. Is this about a man?"

'Dad… no, I just want to know what you think."

'Are you trying to get a guy's attention again?"

'Dad, you're making it sound bad."

'If this is really about you, then it is bad, Erin. I've already told you—I asked you to focus on the challenge from your aunt to create a project at that company, but instead, you're worried about how men perceive you?"

'We were just talking about this earlier, Daddy. You said I should have a husband with a strong business sense, right?"

'Yeah, that's right. So now you're focusing on men?"

'Not like that…"

'And now you're worried that men think you're not mature enough?"

'Dad, come on! It's not like that. I didn't say that…"

Erin knew it was a mistake to be dishonest. From the look on her face, Mr. Rudolf could already tell he was right in his assumption.

In truth, he found it rather interesting—any man Erin was pursuing who had rejected her likely had strong principles. This piqued Rudolf's interest even more.

'If that's the case…" Mr. Rudolf paused, making Erin hold her breath, 'it doesn't matter to me. What's important is that you can set your priorities. First, complete Berta's challenge. Then, follow the rules set by your parents—no more playing games. If you can be disciplined in those areas, it shows maturity. Whoever this man is, he'll likely notice that."

'Out of all my behaviors so far, what do you think I should change to seem more mature?" Erin dared to ask, sensing a green light from her father's statement.

'The answer is simple: be disciplined with yourself. When you do that, the aura of maturity will naturally radiate."

That wasn't the answer Erin wanted! She'd hoped her father would give her advice on how to dress or what colors to wear.

'Regarding your appearance, don't change anything about yourself just for someone else. If you do that, it'll never end," Mr. Rudolf added, as if reading her mind.

*

Today, Erin wasn't late to the office. But Mrs. Berta was far too early.

At fifteen minutes to eight, Mrs. Berta was already raging in the WhatsApp group, her messages in all caps, demanding everyone to gather immediately.

Erin and several employees who were still on the first floor scrambled in a frenzy. Luckily, she was wearing flats today.

Out of breath, Erin dashed to her position beside Mrs. Berta, not even having time to put her bag away. She grinned sheepishly when she caught a glare from her aunt.

"I can't tolerate this anymore. WHO DARED TO EAT DURIAN ICE CREAM IN THE OFFICE? If no one confesses, I'll have Amir pull up the CCTV footage right now!"

Erin glanced at Amir, who, of course, didn't look back at her. He had the taste of a mature woman—someone like Mrs. Berta, perhaps.

But today, Amir was wearing a pastel pink shirt, a sweet color against his sturdy, square frame. His facial hair was neatly trimmed, his mustache thinner. It seemed intentional that he didn't shave completely. Good—Erin didn't like overly smooth faces.

'Amir, FIND THE CCTV FOOTAGE AND SEND IT TO ME!" Mrs. Berta's thunderous command made Erin jump.

'Okay, ma'am." Amir answered, immediately sitting down and focusing on his computer.

The silence was broken by the sound of Mrs. Berta's loafers stomping down the stairs. As usual, Xavier was behind her, but he paused in front of Erin.

'Help me keep an eye on things, Miss Erin. Why are we making such a fuss over durian?"

'You want me to watch the CCTV all day?"

'Just sleep here if you need to. You don't have anything else to do." Xavier's tone was sarcastic as he adjusted his slippery glasses. He left with the same quick steps as Mrs. Berta.

Erin felt her head heat up with anger. How dare he speak to her like that?

She stomped her way back to her office, slamming the door halfway closed, and threw her bag onto the chair.

'Who does he think he is? Does he think he's the best? Does he think he can talk to me like that? Does he think I'm responsible for everything in this office?" With her hands on her hips, Erin paced back and forth. 'If he had any sense, he'd know my office is separate from the others! How was I supposed to know about the stupid durian ice cream? Ugh! This is putting me in such a bad mood!"

Erin kicked the wheels of her chair, sending it crashing into the wall.

'Stupid emotions!" she grumbled.

As she pulled the chair back, her eyes caught something unfamiliar on top of the CPU—a pack of three Sunpride bananas.

'Damn. Steve is still at it, that sneaky crocodile!"

Erin picked up the pack, sitting in her chair. She examined the bananas, still sealed, but as she lifted them, a piece of paper fell to the floor.

It was a torn piece of white paper, maybe from a failed print, but there was writing on it.

Erin picked it up and read the note:

A whole office is sad, missing your smile. Forget whatever you heard from me the other day. You are perfect as you are. Keep shining for the people around you. Sorry if I went too far.

Erin's eyes widened. Her shocked brain sent a wave of emotion rolling from her head to her chest. It felt cool, surprising, strange, foreign, and… real.

This isn't from Steve. This is from Amir!

Amir!

Erin covered her mouth, suppressing a scream. It felt like her energy, which was at twenty percent, suddenly shot up to a hundred! She could practically see a light bulb emoji above her head!

'Really?" Her smile couldn't be contained. She immediately reached for her phone.

In her WhatsApp messages, there was no chat history between her and Amir. Erin didn't like sending messages, and Amir had never initiated a conversation either.

You gave me a banana?

Message sent. Erin stared at Amir's boring profile picture while waiting for a reply. He only had a gray silhouette as his photo.

The message had a blue tick.

Amir is typing!

Amir: I thought I gave you guava earlier. Let's check again.

Huh? Erin looked at the bananas. There were three of them, still neatly wrapped in plastic.

Erin: No way. There are bananas here. Are you serious about giving me guava?

Amir: Yes, guava. How could it change?

Erin: I swear, this is a banana.

Amir: Really? No way.

Ugh! Erin was ready to type in frustration, but she realized something. Her frown softened as she caught on that Amir was joking.

Oh my gosh...

How could he be progressing this fast?

Erin even stomped her feet, channeling her excitement. She looked around for a moment, then had an idea.

She propped her phone against the monitor and opened the camera app. Her makeup today was very natural. She'd just learned Korean-style makeup, and Nathan had said it suited her better than the bold look. She straightened her wavy hair, parted in two, checked that the buttons on her shirt were in place, and adjusted her posture, holding the pack of bananas. Her finger hovered over the capture button, she closed her eyes with a big smile. Just one picture. But the result was perfect.

Excitedly, she sent the photo to Amir. Almost immediately, a blue tick appeared!

Erin's heart pounded as she waited for his reply. What would Amir say? Would he tease her? Compliment her? Ignore her?

She was so curious!

And then... the message arrived.

A thumbs-up.

A thumbs-up emoji!

What the heck?

Erin quickly replied with an 'I Love You" sticker. Amir was still online and read it right away.

And what did Erin get in return? Another thumbs-up emoji.

Undeterred, she sent two more 'I Love You" stickers.

Amir's reply? Of course, two more thumbs-up emojis!

'Hmph! Just wait! I'll make you fall in love with me!" she muttered in playful annoyance. But she still couldn't help smiling happily.

***