Unfated

Chapter 6

'Another one from me.. to celebrate our successful interview!' I offered one extra paani puri to Veena, my best friend since the college days.

We both have given our bests in the second round interview at the Sujata Florals. 12 out of 43 candidates were selected for this round to fight for the five vacant positions.

'No..No..Naina, I want no more. I might actually choke.' Veena said chuckling. 'Besides, it is 6:30 already and Maa had asked me to get a suit Chhoti's school picnic tomorrow.' she sighed.

I nodded in understanding. Even though we both shared similar hobbies and aspirations, there were a little options for Veena to execute.

After her degree in Botany, Veena had to leave her studies despite her aspirations for Masters. Her father had left 5 years ago, leaving the impoverished family of Veena, her step mother and half sister.

Her step mother had been mean and toxic to her even when Veena's father was alive and now, Veena was living a life of a burden carrying the burden of all.

She did a Teacher's training course for an year, besides teaching at a local coaching centre. She has been bearing every need if her family, including her step sister's education with this meager earning. Only on my insistence, she had sat for this interview, which actually worked well. I feel she deserves a better life where should actually execute her real talent.

'Yes, we should hurry up then. The way things are, we should reach home before 8.' I explained.

^^^

'How could the both of us forget that it was was a weekly holiday at Prabhat Market today!' I slapped my forehead.

'It's okay, Naina. At least, this one shop was open and I could get this dress for chhoti.' Veena said, most calmly.

I smiled, realizing how happy Veena was to find a dress for her sister. She never saw her as a half-sister, neither did she fail to show any respect to her step mother. But, all people aren't same when it comes to such receptions and Veena's step mother was one of them.

As I thought, I felt a dry leaf touch my face. I realize the dust had started blowing.

'Veena, I think we are going to have a storm. Let's hurry.' I said.

'Oh no! There are no buses from here at this time, Naina, what if I don't get a rickshaw? My mother is going to kill me with her sharp words if I'm late in this weather.' Veena panicked. 'Besides, it's 7:40 already! I don't think anyone would go to my location at this time.'

I knew she was right but I placed my hand on her shoulder for consolation. 'Chill Veena! They might charge a little more but they'll go eventually. Let me see..' I walked near the main road and started looking across for a rickshaw.

My house was relatively at a place forward. I don't think I'll have a problem to get a rickshaw. But, about Veena..

'Bhaiya...Purani Railway Colony???' I waved at a rickshaw, who just shook his head and left.

'Purani Railway Colony?' I asked another, who didn't even stop.

There were rickshaws who didn't even respond to me.

'What will happen now, Naina?' Veena asked panicking.

The wind almost away my dupatta as I waved at another.

'Ashoka Road?' I now asked. It was my location.

'Rupees 500.' the driver said.

'What are you talking about? It's just 150. I can give you 200 or 250 at most.' I said getting annoyed.