Dastaan Jo Likhun

Ch 22. Graceful Gather

___________ Context __________

I have used images to aid in storytelling, so please read through the texts to get the subtext and play the bgm attached when prompted to get the full experience.

Context:

1. Endovascular treatment: This is a less invasive procedure than surgical clipping, and it may be safer. Has a better recovery time than open surgeries.

2. Rudraaksh: Rudra - Another name of Bhagwaan Shiv, aksh - Tears. Seeds born from the tears of Bhagwaan Shiv.

Dried seed of the genus Elaeocarpus specifically. These are auspicious and holy for every Hindu and are used as prayer beads.

Devotees of Bhagwaan Shiv, like Abhimanyu, also wear these beads as part of their devotion.

Note: This chapter involves multiple time jumps so please follow along and enjoy!

##########################################################################

Date: 14th March, 2001

Wednesday

[4 days after last ch.]

Time: 6:30 am

"No way!"

"Yes way!"

"I don't believe you," she whispered in disbelief.

"Ho hi nahi sakta...," she continued,

eating her sour-sweet grapes at the breakfast table.

"Mat karo," he dismissed her,

"maine khud apni ankhon se dekha hai,"

leaning towards her,

he slyly whispered.

Making sure that no one could overhear.

Especially his pouty brother, who was munching down

on his fruit salad with vengeance.

A few seats down.

Anisha also observed his strange behavior since a few days. "Matlab kaise bro ?," she whispered back... scrutinizing the fourth sigh he released. 'Definitely strange!'

"Mujhe pata hota to mai tumse help mangta ?," Neil whispered again, while taking a bite out of his sandwich. "Ladkiyon ko zada pata hota hai insab bare me," he justified at her questioning gaze. "Do you know something ?"

"Not much," Anisha replied, subtly peeking at Abhimanyu who looked distracted. His grey T-shirt collar was framed by his peculiar locket, around his neck.