Beyond the Melody

In the early morning light, before the sun began to rise, Sephia stirred from her sleep in the cramped quarters of her slum home. She quietly slipped out of bed, careful not to wake her mother. As she prepared for the day, she was thankful for the early hour that allowed her to bathe without having to wait in line. The shared bathroom was a necessity in their crowded kampung, but at least she could wash in peace.

As she stepped out of the bathroom, her mother's voice came from the kitchen, "Sephia, you're up so early again."

Sephia smiled as she dried her hair. "Yes, Mama. I didn't want to rush today. Plus, it's nice to shower before the others wake up."

Her mother placed a modest plate of nasi uduk on the table. "It's just a simple breakfast, but it should be enough for the day."

Sephia sat down, taking a bite and savoring it. "Thank you, Mama. This is more than enough."

Her mother glanced at her, a soft look of concern crossing her face. "Be careful today, okay? I know your job isn't easy."

Sephia nodded, swallowing her food. "I will, I promise. Don't worry." She grabbed her worn bag, slinging it over her shoulder. "I'll be home before Maghrib."

Her mother waved her off gently. "Just stay safe, Sephia. That's all I ask."

Sephia worked hard as a cashier and cleaner at a local café, her lack of skills limiting her opportunities for advancement, such as becoming a barista. Every day, she walked ten minutes to the bus stop, taking a bus that brought her close to her workplace. As she made her way, she would often hum her favorite song, "Menghitung Hari" by Krisdayanti, a melody that filled her heart with hope.

Once at the café, her colleague Rina greeted her. "Morning, Sephia! Ready for another busy day?"

Sephia smiled as she tied on her apron. "Always. Besides, it's nice when the café's full. Time goes by faster."

Rina chuckled. "I guess. Though, I wouldn't mind sitting down for a minute every now and then."

As the day progressed, Sephia juggled her responsibilities, taking orders and ensuring the café remained spotless. She waved at one of her regulars as he approached the counter.

"Good morning, Pak Joko! The usual?" she asked with a friendly smile.

Pak Joko nodded. "You always remember. Yes, please. One black coffee."

She quickly rang up his order and handed him his receipt. "Coming right up. Have a seat, and I'll bring it to you."

He smiled warmly. "Thank you, Sephia. You always take such good care of us."

Sephia couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as she turned to clean a nearby table. Knowing the names and preferences of her regular customers made her job more meaningful, even if she wasn't behind the bar as a barista.

One ordinary day, the café's atmosphere shifted when a sleek Subaru BRZ pulled up outside. The soft purr of the engine caught Sephia's attention as she wiped down a table. A man stepped out and entered the café, moving confidently to the counter. When he ordered a latte, his deep voice made her glance up—she froze in disbelief.

It was Reza, the famous Indonesian singer whose face she'd seen on countless magazines and billboards. Her heart pounded as she fumbled with the receipt. The barista beside her, Rina, whispered in shock, "Oh my God, Sephia... is that really him?"

Sephia nodded, trying to compose herself. "I think it is... Reza."

As she handed him the receipt, her voice was barely above a whisper. "Um, here's your receipt, Sir. Could I... um, maybe get your autograph?"