Residents were alarmed by a foul smell, initially assuming it was a dead cat or dog. However, the stench persisted for days, prompting them to investigate. To their shock, they discovered Reza's decomposing body, partially devoured and unidentifiable. Lizards, common in the area, were likely responsible. Reza's father, initially unconcerned by his son's week-long absence, was contacted. The gruesome state of Reza's remains, identifiable only by his ID, suggested murder. This incident followed the unsolved murder of Bian the previous year.
"Only bones left, so it was him that stank yesterday," remarked Winda.
"Who could have killed him? Maybe it was one of his friends, under the influence of drugs," speculated Meli.
"Don't jump to conclusions. Maybe he had a heart attack while alone," Rita countered, reluctant to assume the worst.
"Then why was he in the bushes? That's strange," retorted Meli.
"You were the one who mentioned drugs. Maybe he overdosed," Winda chimed in.
"That's possible. Reza's father didn't want an autopsy, perhaps afraid of finding drugs in his son's system," Rita whispered.
Meli fell silent, acknowledging the possibility. To avoid the shame of a potential drug overdose, Reza's family opted for a swift burial without bathing the body, fearing further deterioration. The brief ceremony involved prayers and a hasty burial, devoid of tears from a family weary of Reza's recklessness.
"Poor parents, having a son like that," Meli remarked, resuming her gossiping.
"Your parents are more unfortunate, having a child who steals other women's husbands," Rita spat back.
"What's your problem? Jealous of my life?!" Meli retorted angrily.
"Crazy! As if I'd envy a homewrecker!" Rita snapped.
As Meli lunged at Rita, Winda intervened, conscious of the other mourners' judgmental stares. The last thing they needed was a brawl during a funeral. Frustration mounted, knowing Meli and Rita's history of animosity despite being friends since high school.
Meli's insecurity fueled her disdain for anyone seemingly better off, creating friction with Rita who valued mutual support and harmony.
...****************...
Yogi devoured Salsa's cooking ravenously. Andini, returning from a client meeting, was enraged by his parasitic behavior. Her patience exhausted, she snatched the plate and slapped Yogi's face with it, splattering him with food.
"All you do is eat! Have you ever considered working?!" Andini yelled, furious.
"Damn, you're such a bitch," Yogi snarled, wiping his face.
"At least I can earn a living, unlike you!" Andini retorted.
"You're proud of your dirty money?" Yogi sneered.
"Don't you dare insult my money! You live off it, you dog!" Andini screamed.
Despite Bu Semah's presence, Andini continued her tirade. She was fed up with Yogi's disrespect. If not for their mother, Andini would have washed her hands of him. She pitied Bu Semah, whose love for her son blinded her to his flaws.
Slap!
Yogi retaliated, slapping Andini. Refusing defeat, she grabbed an iron rod left by a worker.
Clang!
Thud!
Pain shot through Yogi as the rod connected with his head. Blood trickled from a gash on his temple. He struggled to his feet, fueled by humiliation and rage, determined to retaliate.
"Stop! Please, stop fighting!" Bu Semah shrieked.
"She started it! I was eating, and she attacked me with my food!" Yogi defended himself.
"This is what you're defending, Mom?! Do we mean nothing to you?" Andini cried, tears streaming down her face.
"Enough, Andini! He's my son too. If you're angry, be angry with me!" Bu Semah sobbed.
"See, Mom?! Aren't we your children too?" Salsa interjected, equally upset.
Bu Semah, overwhelmed by her daughters' accusations and her own guilt, wiped her tears. She hadn't meant to take sides; she merely yearned for Yogi to contribute, even minimally.
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