That girl on the window sill

Bitter Memories

 Scratching her head, she couldn't help but wonder why he carried such a personal item with him. She stole a bookmark attached to the picture out of his bag.

He was homesick. Leaving home always left a void in his heart which longed to get back to home, and the photograph served as a medicine for his longing. Despite growing up and moving on from the feeling, he kept the picture close, finding solace in it. For the young boy, memories were still flooding back. He was transported to a time when his grandfather was alive, who had showered him with love and affection, the memories included his mom as well though caring, she would at times show her anger.

One particular incident stood out in his mind. It was a rainy day, much like today, and he had returned from school drenched to the bone. His mother, already in a foul mood, scolded him harshly for not taking an umbrella. Feeling the weight of her disappointment, he sought refuge in his grandfather's room, where the old man would often tell him stories and share sweets.

In that moment, he felt the warmth and comfort of his own home after a long time, a feeling he had longed for now as he sat in someone else's home, surrounded by strangers.

As he was lost in his thoughts, the girl returned. As he sensed her presence, he turned towards her to face her, his eyes filled with remorse. He knew he had caused her and her father troubles. With a heartfelt apology, he addressed both Elenika and her father, hoping to convey the sincerity of his regret but he also had a strange sense of gratitude for the unexpected trip down through the memory lane Dad signed at her daughter with an intense stare to not to react in any stupid manner. Elenika, though still curious and thinking about the photograph, decided to let the matter rest for the time being. She returned to her book, but her gaze would often wander to the young boy, thinking about the mysteries hidden within his backpack. Dad sighed at her.