chapter 26-Longing Under the Stars

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Lavanya woke at the sound of the alarm. With a soft sigh, she switched it off. Then she heard her mother knocking, only to realize she was in her parents' house.

"Open the door, Lavanya," she heard her mother calling.

With tiredness, Lavanya opened the door. Lovingly, her mother explained, "I heard your alarm, so I knocked on your door."

"Yes, Amma. Usually, in my husband's house, I start the chores early, so I always set an alarm."

Suddenly, her mother felt that Lavanya was no longer the little girl she once knew, but a grown woman taking care of an entire household. With softness, she asked Lavanya to rest a bit more and said she would call her around 8:30 am. But Lavanya refused, knowing her mother's care and concern. She explained that she would have to do this daily at her in-laws' home, so it was not an issue for her.

But her mother, being stubborn, insisted and asked her to sleep. With no other choice, Lavanya returned to bed.

In her village, Lavanya experienced a contrasting morning. She woke up to the soothing sounds of birds chirping at 8:30 am and the aroma of her mother’s cooking wafting through the air. Her village was a picturesque place, with lush green fields, traditional houses, and a close-knit community that always made her feel at home.

 Her village was a picturesque place, with lush green fields, traditional houses, and a close-knit community that always made her feel at home

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Later that day, Lavanya attended the ear-piercing function with her parents. The atmosphere was vibrant and festive. Relatives had gathered to celebrate, and there was a joyful buzz in the air. The child, dressed in bright traditional attire, was seated on the lap of a family elder who held them gently. Rituals were performed amid prayers and blessings, creating a sacred yet joyous moment.

 Rituals were performed amid prayers and blessings, creating a sacred yet joyous moment

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Lavanya moved through the gathering, smiling and greeting relatives. They were happy to see her and inquired about her husband and in-laws' well-being. They also asked, "How is married life treating you?"

Lavanya smiled warmly and replied, "Married life is good, thank you. It's a big change, but I'm adjusting. My husband and in-laws are very supportive."

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