The Rollercoaster Ride

PART-5

Bhaiya = Elder brother
Beta = Son, Beti = Daughter

The girl was lost in thoughts, the piece of paper clutched in her hand, and a gentle smile playing on her face. The dusty morning air was full of the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the soft lapping of the river against the bank created a soothing melody. Her mind was a thousand mile away, replaying the stranger's words when a familiar voice pierced her ears.

"Ira!!" Nakul, her 24-year-old brother, stood a short distance away, panting heavily, as if running from ages. He bent forward, his body forming a bow from his intense exertion. Drenched in sweat, he took a moment to catch his breath. Then, with a deep sigh, he approached her. His footsteps firm on the grassy bank.

"What is this, huh!? Do you have any idea how worried we were!?" His eyes filled with a mix of fear and frustration. "And you are wandering in the town alone!? Don't you know how dangerous it is!?"

Ira's gaze dropped to the ground. Her clenched fists and pressed lips were mirroring her inner emotions. Nakul took a deep breath, calming himself. "Listen, Ira, I understand you are going through a tough situation, but it doesn't mean you'll strom out of the house like that."

Ira's fingers tightened around the paper, her thoughts a jumble of emotions. She lifted her gaze to look into his eyes, her voice devoid of any emotions. "Get out of my way. I'm not in the mood to fight."

Nakul narrowed his eyes at her words and mockingly replied, "Huh? Like you'll win."

Ira clenched her jaw. Her greeted teeth were reflecting her irritation. She hissed in a whisper, "Shut up."

Nakul rolled his eyes annoyingly and gently put his hands on her shoulder. "Ok! Let's not fight. Come home with me. Mummy and Papa are worrying for you."

Ira retorted and removed his hands harshly. "No! I won't!"

"Really, then what will you do here, catch fish and sell them for living?" He commented nonchalantly on her rebellious behavior.

She didn't utter a word. She turned her head to the side. Nakul gently stroked her hair, his voice softening. "Ira, c'mon, let's go. I promise, no one will say anything to you."

She ignored him and continued gazing at her surroundings. The river's water reflected the sun's warm rays, creating a sparkled diamond-like effect. The gentle breeze blew through her hair, carrying the scent of nature in its lap. The morning blue sky, so soothing, stood in contrast to her turbulent emotions. They seemed much more satisfying and peaceful for her at that moment.

Nakul pulled her hair in frustration, making her yelp due to the sudden encounter. "What the hell!? Are you planning to make me bald!?"

"Why are you ignoring me!?" he asked annoyingly.

"Isn't it simple? Cuz I want to ignore you, duh," she replied with the same intensity, rubbing her head.

"Shut up!"

"You shut up!"

The silence that followed was oppressive as none of them spoke anything. Ira took a deep breath and tried to compose herself. "Listen, you go. I'll come... "

"Shut up and come with me!" Nakul held her hand and was about to drag along when she yanked harshly.

"No!" Ira's words spilled out like pent-up strom. "They don't want a daughter... they want a robot. They want results but wouldn't let you study. A garden left unwatered, yet expected to bloom." Words were coming out of her mouth in a desperate mocking tone.

"Ira..." Nakul's voice trailed off.

She sniffled. "No, Sometimes, I really think, why in the world they got married? And if did, why did they have to have us when they can't handle parenting!?"