The biggest hurdle wasn't their feelings, but the of dating. Maya was firm about her values—no physical contact, always meeting in public, and early curfews.

They get engaged ( tunangan ) but still keep it secret. This gives them a "socially acceptable" reason to talk and meet, even though religiously, engagement does not make physical touch halal. It is a band-aid on a bullet wound.

The afternoon sun dipped low over the Jakarta skyline, casting a golden glow over the crowded coffee shop where Alif sat nervously. He checked his phone for the tenth time. Today wasn’t just a date; it was a collision of two worlds he wasn't sure how to navigate.