Taste of Cappuccino

In International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), there were two prominent cafes that captured the attention of the students: Zouq Cafe and Richamo Coffee Shop. These cafes had become the talk of the campus due to their extravagant decor and high-end ambience. Zouq Cafe, situated near the central mosque, boasted an elegant setting, while Richamo Coffee Shop, located alongside the IIUM River, exuded an air of sophistication.

Maruf, a modest student with a limited budget, viewed these cafes as places where people went to show off their wealth. He often found himself frequenting Evoke Cafe, a small and humble establishment where the food and drinks were affordable. However, the allure of Zouq Cafe and Richamo Coffee Shop proved too strong to resist, even though he felt a tinge of insecurity about his financial standing.

The grandeur of these cafes was evident from the moment one stepped foot inside. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the marble floors. Plush velvet sofas and polished wooden tables adorned the spaces, creating an atmosphere of opulence. Maruf couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions whenever he walked past them. He found it amusing yet also felt a hint of envy.

One sunny afternoon, Maruf decided to gather his courage and indulge himself in a small luxury. He had exactly RM20 in his pocket, and he wanted to experience the feeling of being "rich" even if it was just for a little while. With his heart pounding, he entered Richamo Coffee Shop.

As he approached the counter, Maruf glanced at the menu and his eyes widened at the prices. A simple cup of cappuccino cost RM10, a steep contrast to the RM2 he would usually spend on a regular Nescafe at Evoke Cafe. Nevertheless, he remained determined to treat himself. He ordered the cappuccino and handed over his RM20 note, his hands trembling slightly.

Once he received his coffee, Maruf chose to sit outside at one of the elegant tables and chairs. As he sipped the rich and frothy cappuccino, a wave of mixed emotions washed over him. He couldn't help but chuckle softly to himself, feeling the irony of his decision. He was fully aware that he could have enjoyed a more economical option at Evoke Cafe, yet he chose to spend more just to experience a taste of the "rich" life.

As he sat there, observing the bustling atmosphere of Richamo Coffee Shop, Maruf realized that wealth and luxury were not the key to happiness. He had entered this realm of grandeur, if only for a moment, and found it to be both moody and funny. The laughter that bubbled inside him was not a mockery of others, but rather a gentle reminder that contentment and happiness could be found in the simplest of moments, regardless of the price tag.

From that day forward, Maruf continued to frequent Evoke Cafe, where the warmth of friendship and the affordability of their offerings reminded him of the true value of life. He cherished those who gathered there, regardless of their financial standing, as they shared stories, laughter, and moments of joy.

Maruf had learned a valuable lesson through his short encounter with the world of ostentation. True richness lay not in the depth of one's pockets but in the depth of one's connections and experiences. And so, with a grateful heart and a smile on his face, Maruf bid farewell to the allure of Zouq Cafe and Richamo Coffee Shop, content in knowing that he had found his place among genuine friends and a simpler, yet richer, way of life.