THE STORY OF LIFE | A 21ST CENTURY RAMAYANA

LONDON

"Maa, you should have come with us."

Ram hugged Kraanti, the noise of suitcases and people shuffling around stealing the two away for a moment.

"No dear, its okay. You go, and make sure everything gets done properly. And yes, all of you take some time out to relax."

"Sure Maa," he added. "I just hope they dont..."

Ram stopped, knowing better than to scare her before they'd be left alone.

"Child," she replied calmly. "Sumitra and I have seen this for years now. We will take care, dont worry. Everything will pass, soon."

The others followed on behind him slowly, in turn to bid adieu.

"Take care child," Sumitra said as she ran her hand over Siyas hair. "Take your medicines on time. And call us everyday."

Siya nodded, hugging her tightly. A part of her didnt want to go, or leave them behind in the slightest.

"See you soon Maa," she said, taking their blessings and walking away.

The family followed her as they stepped out of the mansion, on their way to the airport.

"Siya," Ram asked softly as the two sat in the last seat of the SUV.

"Youre happy right?"

Siya smiled a little.

"Ofcourse Ram, Im really excited. Maybe my face is a little tired to show it but, I can assure you, Im really happy."

Ram nodded, running his hand over hers.

"Ill make sure we see a nice doctor there too, Ive talked with some friends, they've arranged an appointment."

"But Ram, we dont need to.."

"Siya," he whispered, gazing deep into her eyes. "I can do everything for you. All I want is to see you happy, healthy and safe."

Siya smiled, gulping to hide the tears of her happiness from falling over.

"Hello?! Bhaiyya?"

Lakshmans voice broke through as the two turned to see all the others looking at them intently.

"We've reached," Urmila said, hiding a little giggle. "Dont worry Di, you'll get a lot of time to talk on the flight."

"Hey!" Siya scorned.

"I was joking," she laughed, bringing everyone to a lighter frame of mind.

"Lets set off then," Ram beamed. "Shall we?"

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"And that is where we'll be staying for the next two weeks."

Ram pointed out at a beautiful, scenic two storied cottage, at a place on the outskirts of London. The area was quite empty, away from the hustle of the city. It was just the recluse they needed and deserved.