"Before this complex became large and luxurious, it was built on reclaimed land from a natural lake. You know how lakes can hold mysteries," Dahayu continued dramatically.
The listeners' reactions were predictable. They felt a mix of fear and excitement, letting out small screams. Each girl rubbed their arms to smooth down their goosebumps.
In another corner, Ranu Inten smiled slightly, almost invisibly.
It was lunchtime, and the cafeteria was packed with employees from various companies in the elite office complex, as well as random visitors or clients taking a break.
The man watched the bustling crowd, feeling a mix of emotions. Many glanced at him with a mix of fear and curiosity, or openly stared and greeted him. All because of the story circulating about the ghost he supposedly saw. "Ranu Inten Sees a Ghost". That would be the headline if the story were in a magazine or newspaper.
All this time, Ranu Inten had upheld his life philosophy of honesty and good behavior. This integrity had earned him a respectable job, the trust and respect of others. His honesty had become legendary within the company and extended to their partner companies. With his tenure and personal integrity, it was no surprise that a high position would soon be his.
His life should have been perfect, right?
But secretly, Ranu Inten felt empty, especially since meeting Saban, who had become his close friend. Ironically, while Saban felt insecure around Ranu Inten, Ranu Inten envied Saban's carefree and mischievous nature. Ranu Inten was always surrounded by serious and 'respectable' people. Saban, the playful one, was full of tricks, jokes, and other not-so-respectable behaviors. Yet, he received so much attention.
Male colleagues enjoyed Saban's jokes and stories, while women were captivated by his looks and charm.
Ranu Inten wanted to break out of his own limitations. He wanted to experience something new and different. He wanted to lie!
Unexpectedly, his story about a ghostly janitor standing in the corner by the old tool cabinet took very little effort. If what he did was a business, he was now making a huge profit.
