A Cup of Tea

That evening, mom and dad just arrived to grandpa’s house in Banjarsari, Ciamis. She sat after shaking everybody’s hand.

“How is your way? Are you stuck in traffic jam?” Grandpa asked mom.

“No, fortunately the way was not crowded.”

“Thank God. Are you healthy?”

“Yes, I’m healthy. Alhamdulillah.”

“Alhamdulillah, we have to be worry for your trip. Are your parents healthy?”

“Yes, they are also healthy.”

After that opening conversation, granny came bringing some cups of tea.

“Drink it, Yum, long trip makes you exhausted.”

“Oh, thank you.”

“Are you still in college? I heard you are five years younger than Tonny.”

“Yes, I’m in Faculty of Law.”

“UII, right?”

“Yes. May I drink the tea?”

“Sure.”

Mom took the cup slowly and swallowed the tea quietly. Mom put the cup and leaned back. She looked at the floor, breathed out and swallowed her saliva. Suddenly, everybody had no words to say so they were thinking about words to say. It felt very long when mom was looking at the floor. And still, no word, quiet.

“Mom, have I tell you story about Yuma’s reading of poem?”

“I think no. What kind of poem?”

“Poem about how much she loves me.”

“Oh, hahaha. And then?”

“I never wrote or read any poem, actually.” Mom interrupted.

“Hahaha. He’s a good liar. I guess you know that.”

Mom smiled. Undeniably, her smile couldn’t hide her teary eyes.

After some conversation, everybody leaved the living room and continued their activities. Mom came to dad.

“Can we talk? Privately”

“Of course.”

They went to garden.

“I think your mom doesn’t like me.” Mom said hesistantly.

“Why?”

“The tea is not sweet. I will be her eldest son’s wife and this is my first visit. Plain tea? What it means?” Mom asked hoarsely.

“Hahaha. Do you know that Sundanese people don’t like sugar?

“Really?”

“Come to every house in this town. You won’t get sweet tea as you expect.”

Mom was getting shy.

“Let’s go back to my home, my mom cooked delicious –less sugar—food for us. And, if you want to rest, my sister has prepared her room for you.”

My mom smiled.