The morning sun painted golden hues across the city as two cars pulled out from Phuby's mansion gate—one was the luxurious Alphard arranged specifically for Hana's visiting family, and the other was Om Luky's old secondhand car, gifted to him by Phuby months ago.
Excitement buzzed in the air. Hana's parents were finally in Cirebon, and today was the perfect day to show them the roots of their daughter's new life. With Phuby behind the wheel of the second car, Hana sitting beside him and Mrs. Wulan in the back with Om Luky, the convoy made its way to Toko Kue Palm Sari.
The shop was bustling with customers—locals dropping by for their daily pastries, teenagers posing near the café corner, and a few regulars sitting casually as they sipped on es kopi susu. Hana's parents were amazed by how lively it all was. They were warmly greeted by Kotim and Dhe'ik, who briefly explained their roles in delivery and operations, while Apood and Amad waved from behind the counter.
"It's beautiful," Hana's mother said in English, her face lit with awe. "You really built this, Phuby?"
"Well… with a lot of help," he chuckled, scratching his head.
Mrs. Wulan took pride in introducing her daughter-in-law-to-be's parents to the cakes and breads they proudly sold. They gifted the family a full sample box of bestsellers, including some batik-wrapped packaging as a memento.
After the shop tour, the convoy headed downtown for a full-day cultural excursion. They visited a well-known batik artisan in Trusmi. Hana's father marveled at the delicate patterns while her mother enthusiastically picked up fabrics. Hana whispered translations in Japanese, bridging the language gap. Meanwhile, Mrs. Wulan showed off her favorite motifs, pointing out how traditional they looked when worn.
"Phuby, this would look good on you," Hana teased, holding up a sarong.
He made a mock-pained expression. "Only if you wear the matching kebaya."
Their laughter filled the room.
Next came food.
They visited a humble warung famous for spicy nasi lengko and empal gentong. Plates of sambal-drenched rice, grilled meat, and fiery dishes lined the table. Phuby dove right in, his family following with ease. Hana kept pace, sweat beading on her forehead but her smile never fading. She'd learned to handle Cirebon spice after months of living with Phuby.
Hana's father, curious but cautious, picked a piece from Phuby's plate. "Just a little," he said, taking a bite.
Seconds later, coughing erupted from him as his eyes widened and sweat poured down his face. Hana burst out laughing.
"Dad!" she exclaimed. "I told you it's too spicy!"
He gasped for water, fanning his mouth. "I feel like a dragon!"
Even Om Luky couldn't help chuckling as Mrs. Wulan slid over a cup of iced tea.
Later that afternoon, as they drove through the city streets, the second car—Om Luky's gifted one—began to jerk and sputter.
"Astaghfirullah… it's the engine," Om Luky muttered, pulling over near a quiet intersection.
They all got out, assessing the car with worry. Hana's parents looked on curiously, while Hana shielded her eyes from the sun.
"It's okay, we can call a mechanic," Phuby said, already pulling out his phone.
But halfway through the call, an idea struck him. He turned toward his family.
"Actually… maybe this is the perfect time."
"Perfect time for what?" Om Luky asked.
Phuby gave a small smile. "To finally get you a proper car."
They looked at him, confused. Within an hour, a sales agent from a luxury dealership arrived. By evening, parked in the mansion's driveway, gleaming in sleek black with custom detailing, was a fully upgraded BMW M5 Competition, priced at Rp5.450.000.000.
The car shimmered under the golden dusk light. Hana gasped, stepping forward with wide eyes. "You're serious?"
"For all of us," Phuby said. "This isn't just for fun—it's safety, reliability, and… okay, maybe a little fun."
Om Luky was speechless. He walked around the car, running a hand gently across the hood.
"You've done too much, Nak," he murmured.
"It's for the family, Om," Phuby said with a grin.
As the group admired the vehicle, Hana's mother leaned in slightly with a teasing smile. "So, Phuby… when will you marry our Hana?"
The question fell like a lightning bolt.
Phuby's face turned red. "Eh?!"
Even Hana's eyes widened as she turned to her mother, half laughing, half panicked. "Mom!"
Mrs. Wulan stifled a giggle. Om Luky choked on his drink. Hana's father raised a curious eyebrow.
"I mean," her mother added, smiling sweetly, "You two look so happy. Just wondering!"
Phuby scratched his head again, laughing nervously while Hana nudged him, her own cheeks flushing.
The day ended with shared laughter, a new car, unforgettable memories, and a question that now lingered in the air between them.