CHAPTER 11
MAAHI
I was searching for Daadi when I find her and Vikram in the garden. The moment I approach, Vikram's gaze falls upon me. It's different this time - intense, troubled, vulnerable. The way Daadi stares back at him makes me wonder if I've interrupted a heavy conversation. What were they discussing? Vikram gets up abruptly and walks away, leaving me perplexed. Were they talking about me? I don't care. I make my way to Daadi, who looks utterly shaken.
“Daadi,” I sit next to her, concerned. “It's freezing out here; you shouldn't be without a shawl.”
I drape my own shawl around her shoulders. She looks at me, bewildered. I can sense something weighing heavily on her mind. Vikram must have told her something shocking. She grips my arms tightly and pulls me into an embrace. I hug her back, offering silent comfort. Whatever this is, I won't pry. If it's important, she'll share it herself. But if she needs my support, I'll stand by her unconditionally, no matter what she asks of me. We sit there for a long time, but she doesn't utter a word. I pray that whatever is troubling her resolves soon.