When paths collide again

4) I Need To Find Her

author POV:

As Mrs Thakur watched Aratrika settle into her new surroundings, she couldn't help but feel a warmth in her heart. She remembered the shy, creative girl who had lost her grandmother, and her desire to make Aratrika feel loved and welcomed grew stronger.

Mrs. Aunty's mind whirled with ideas, but one thought stood out - a welcome gift for Aratrika. She envisioned a bright smile on the girl's face as she unwrapped a thoughtful present.

The perfect gift came to mind - a new pair of shoes as her shoes are torn and a matching bag, just what a young girl like Aratrika needed to boost her confidence and feel part of her new community. Mrs. Aunty made a mental note to visit the shops the next day, eager to find the perfect pair that would make Aratrika's eyes sparkle.

Mrs. Thakur's eyes narrowed slightly as she watched Arath enter the house alone, a hint of concern etched on her Arath's solo entrance sparked a whisper of unease within her.

She wondered if everything was alright between them, her mind racing with possibilities. Had they argued? Was Aratrika feeling unwell? Mrs. Thakur's instincts urged her to investigate .

As she turned back to her tasks, her gaze lingered on the door, subconsciously waiting for Aratrika's arrival, her heart seeking reassurance that all was well in their little world.

You arrived early today? Mrs thakur asked to which arath replied

Yesss today was halfday in our school

Where is aratrika??? Arath
She was supposed to come with you she's new here
How can you be so irresponsible

She's not a kid she can manage on her own it's not a big deal

Arathhhhh Mrs thakur shouted as arath return towards his room her his mother completely

Four hours had ticked by since Arath's arrival, and Mrs. Thakur's initial concern had blossomed into full-blown worry. She had tried to distract herself with household chores, but her mind refused to let go of Aratrika's absence. The usual bustle of the house seemed muted, and the silence was oppressive.

Mrs. Thakur's eyes kept drifting to the clock, willing the hands to move faster, willing Aratrika to walk through the door. She had tried calling Aratrika , but her phone was unreachable, only adding to her growing unease.

As the minutes dragged on, Mrs. Thakur's imagination began to run wild. Had Aratrika gotten lost? Was she hurt? The possibilities swirled in her mind like a vortex, each one more terrifying than the last.

With a sense of growing desperation, Mrs. Thakur decided to take action. She couldn't just sit idly by, waiting for news. She needed to do something, to find Aratrika and bring her home safely.

Arath entered the dining hall, expecting the familiar comfort of a warm meal and his mother's gentle chatter. Instead, he was met with a sight that made his heart skip a beat. His mother, usually a pillar of calm, was pacing back and forth, her face etched with worry.

As he approached the table, Mrs. Thakur's eyes locked onto his, and Arath saw a flicker of fear in their depths. 'Aratrika?' he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

The unspoken answer hung in the air like a challenge. Arath's mind raced as he realized she was still missing. A spark of concern ignited within him, but it was quickly overtaken by a different emotion - a sense of responsibility.

Without a word, Arath turned and slipped out of the house, his eyes scanning the darkness for any sign of Aratrika. He knew his mother would worry, but he couldn't shake the feeling that he needed to find her , to protect her. The night air enveloped him as he walked, his heart pounding in his chest, driven by a mix of emotions - concern, duty, and a hint of fear.