FF - Plot twist

Chapter 12 - The Confrontation

Making herself seated on the sofa in the most comfortable position possible with a cup of tea within her reach, she turned on the TV and resumed knitting as she watched random news channels. But a knock on the door along with a ‘Is anyone there?’ disrupted buaji’s blissful environment. Cursing, she attended the door only to find a sales man.

“Maam, I am sure you need..” he started.

“We don’t need your vaccum cleaner, chopping board, clothes, mobiles, books, toys, storage boxes or anything!!! If any of you sales people show up at my doorstep one more time…” she left the sentence incomplete, and he got the meaning.

He soon galloped out of laxmi nagar.

Slamming the door shut, “These people don’t see any other house or what!! He was the 5th sales man that came to my house today.”

Before she could take a few steps, the door bell rang once again. Now determined to strangle whoever the person was, she yelled opening the door.

“HOW MANY TI…..Oh, Latha ji. You. Sorry, I thought someone else. Come in, come in.” She apologised the lady and invited her in.

“How are you, Madhumatiji?” Latha asked.

And then the old friends talked for about 30 minutes from India’s burning issues to the daal they burnt when they were young. Buaji walked her to door and gave directions to the address she asked for.

“Why don’t you come with me? It’s been so long since we all friends hung out together. Suji and Roja are at savitri’s place. You and Savitri would meet often as you both live in same area. They would be happy to see you.” Latha did not request but almost ordered.

“I can’t. No one is home and Shashi is alone. I have to look after him.” Buaji declined. She already was impatient for Latha to leave.

“Arre! Don’t say no. Come with us just for five minutes.”

“No, Lathaji. How can I leave my brother alone at home?”

“If you are not coming with me then I won’t talk to you ever.” She blackmailed.

“Please do that favour!” buaji thought extremely frustrated but decided to go half way to their friend’s house and quickly return, getting rid of that stupid clingy friend.

Locking the door, she hid the key behind their secret pot for Khushi in case she would take time to get back. Latha nearly dragged her despite the drizzle that had just started.

Using the chance, Shyam sneaked out of his hiding spot and entered GH. He wobbled to Shashi’s room. Knocking down a flower vase, he smirked slyly as  Shashi woke up with a startle.

“Namaste, Mausaji!” Shyam greeted.

~*~*~

After leaving their house, Khushi decided to take a stroll in a deserted area near Laxmi nagar as she still felt like being alone. The chilly breezes, the dancing of leaves and the peaceful ambiance did bring a small smile to her lips. She savoured her solitude. This seclusion was much needed to clear her head and worries, lest she might distress her family.

Looking up at the sky, “Hey Devi Maiyya! What do I do? Am I doing the right thing by concealing Shyamji’s matter? Should I tell Arnavji and everyone? No, Shyamji might harm anyone. He is a vile person. This must be hidden. And the Raizada’s family will fall apart. They can’t take in the grimly truth.  *Releasing a deep breath* But am I over worrying? Indeed Shyamji must be out of their life but….. Am I being a coward?!! Ahh! Devi Maiyya, please tell me what to do. Show me a way!” Khushi prayed.