Episode 14

Haunted by the spirit of Julia, Kevin found himself sinking into a profound depression, his behavior altering drastically. He would often sit silently, occasionally erupting into cries of terror, stricken by disproportionate fear.

This change did not escape notice, and soon the teachers began discussing Kevin's odd behavior amongst themselves.

"What's really going on with this Kevin student? During my lesson he just started shouting," asked Ms. Fitri, turning to Ms. Yasmi, Kevin's homeroom teacher.

"I really don't know, Ms. Fitri. I’m just as puzzled. It’s not just you; several other teachers have reported the same issue," replied Ms. Yasmi.

"Indeed, during my class too. What on earth is wrong with him? He's never behaved like this before," added the Chemistry teacher, overhearing the conversation about Kevin's unusual conduct.

"Yes, and that's why I plan to call him in today to find out what's really happening," Ms. Yasmi affirmed.

When the class began, Ms. Yasmi summoned Kevin to her office.

As he was studying, Kevin made his way to the office and entered the teachers' room, where only Ms. Yasmi was present, the other teachers busy with their own classes.

"Assalamualaikum, may I enter, Ms.?" greeted Kevin politely.

"Waalaikumsalam, come in Kevin," Ms. Yasmi responded from her seat.

"You wanted to see me?" Kevin asked.

"Have a seat, Kevin. There's something I want to ask you," said Ms. Yasmi gently.

Kevin sat down on the chair provided, facing Ms. Yasmi.

"Kevin, several teachers have reported that you've been unfocused, showing signs of fear and occasionally shouting out of nowhere in school for no apparent reason. Can you tell me what's really going on? I want to help you," Ms. Yasmi spoke softly.

"There's nothing wrong, Ms.," Kevin replied.

"Kevin, everyone has problems, but it's better to share yours. I might be able to help and give you some guidance," Ms. Yasmi gently advised Kevin.

"But you promise you won't tell anyone else?" Kevin asked.

"Yes, Kevin, I promise it'll be our secret."

Kevin began to open up to Ms. Yasmi about his torment.

"Well, Ms., lately I’ve been harassed by the spirit of Julia. She keeps saying she's going to kill me, and I'm scared," Kevin confessed.

"What’s this about Julia's ghost haunting you? Did you do something wrong to her when she was alive?" Ms. Yasmi pressed for the truth.

"Why would you say that?"

"Kevin, people haunted by their past misdeeds often live in fear and guilt. Take a drunk truck driver who hits a woman and then flees from the scene as an example; he'll forever be haunted by her image. It’s the same with you," she explained.

Kevin fell silent, contemplating Ms. Yasmi's words and finding truth in them. He then mustered the courage to tell her everything.

"Kevin? Why are you so quiet?" Ms. Yasmi prodded.

"Sorry, Ms., you’re right. I have to admit my guilt. Once, when Julia was still alive, I wronged her while I was under the influence of alcohol," Kevin revealed, struggling with his confession.

"Allah forgive you, Kevin. Now, where did this happen?"

"At a school party in Roy's villa," Kevin continued.

"Allah forgive you, so it's no wonder Julia took her own life."

"Edo was involved too, not just me. After... after I did what I did to Julia, I left her room and couldn't sleep. Later, I saw Edo enter her room, and I peered through the door gap. Edo did the same to her," Kevin admitted in a heavy voice.

"May Allah forgive all of you. I’m sorry, Kevin, but you must endure the consequences of your actions; it’s your bad karma. You must atone and perhaps pray for Julia’s forgiveness. I don’t know how else to help you," spoke Ms. Yasmi, unable to provide any solace.

"But I've already tried; Julia continues to torment me," said Kevin in despair.

"Guilt from life can follow into death, Kevin."

After their lengthy discussion, Ms. Yasmi allowed Kevin to return to class, although she couldn't offer him any help for his remorse towards Julia.

Back in his seat, Kevin found himself unable to focus, consumed by inner turmoil.

'If only I hadn't done it, none of this would have happened. Will I face the same fate as Roy?' Kevin pondered to himself.

"Kevin! Kevin!" Ms. Fitri interrupted his thoughts, noticing his distracted gaze.

"Yes, Ms.?"

"Can you explain what a cell is?" she asked.

"The cell is..." Kevin paused, unable to find the words.

"Can anyone help Kevin answer?" the teacher asked.

"I can, Ms.," volunteered Dara, raising her hand.

"Go ahead, Dara."

"A cell is the smallest structural unit of living organisms," Dara explained cleanly.

"Well done, Dara. Kevin, you need to pay attention. What exactly are you focusing on?" Ms. Fitri scolded.

"To help you focus, stand by the chalkboard corner until the end of the lesson. Understand, Kevin?" Ms. Fitri directed.

As the class concluded and the bell signaled the break, the students tidied their desks and prepared to leave.

"Let's end the lesson here," Ms. Fitri said, exiting alongside the students, including a contemplative Kevin.

"Kevin, let's go to the canteen," suggested Erin, taking his hand.

On their way, Kevin's shoe fell apart.

"Wait, Erin," he halted.

"What's wrong, love?" Erin inquired.

"My shoe's broken. I'll go switch to my gym shoes; I have a spare pair in my locker," explained Kevin.

"You go ahead. I'll catch up," he reassured Erin.

"Okay, but don't be too long."

"Sure, love," Kevin responded, heading towards the locker room to make the switch.

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