21. THE DIARY

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In the days following the unsettling incident with Meera changed the atmosphere in Vikramaditya's mansion . But everyone had settled into a fragile peace after few days.  Vaidehi is seeking a moment of distraction and normalcy after a tiring shift. She had some sound sleep and then she decided to explore the attic. a space she never ventured into. She thought of finding Vikramaditya's childhood photos from the attic. 

The attic was a haven of forgotten memories . It is filled with dusty old trunks, faded photographs, and a multitude of other neglected items. As she sifted through the clutter, her fingers came across a weathered leather trunk, its surface covered in a thick layer of dust. Curiosity piqued, Vaidehi carefully opened it and discovered a collection of old books and documents.

Among the items was a leather-bound diary with a faded gold inscription that read "S.R."—the initials of Vikramaditya's late father. Vaidehi's heart raced with anticipation. She had heard stories about Vikramaditya's father but had never encountered anything so personal. She wondered what he must've returned in his diary. 

...........

As she began to read the diary, Vaidehi was drawn into the intimate world of Vikramaditya's father. The entries were meticulous and reflective, documenting his thoughts, experiences, and private emotions. Her eyes widened as she reached an entry dated December 12, 1985.

DECEMBER 12, 1985

My heart is heavy today. I have decided to marry Gayathri for my parent's sake. It is what is expected of me, but my heart still lingers with Chandini. She was a woman of extraordinary grace and warmth. Our time together was brief but profound. She was my true love, but circumstances dictated otherwise. I am bound to follow the path laid out before me. I hope she finds happiness, wherever she may be 

Vaidehi's heart pounded as she continued reading about Chandini. It is a name she had  encountered many times before. Tucked into the diary was a photograph of a woman who bore a striking resemblance to Vaidehi's own Aunt Chandini. The realization hit Vaidehi with a jolt. That chandini is indeed her father's elder sister chandini. 

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The discovery left Vaidehi stunned and anxious. She quickly closed the diary and returned it to the trunk, her mind racing with the implications of what she had just learned. She knew she needed to understand more about this connection, but she chose to keep the diary's contents to herself for the moment.

That evening, driven by a sense of urgency and curiosity, Vaidehi decided to visit her aunt, who lived in a village several hours away. She packed a few essentials and set out after dropping a message to Vikramaditya. But she didn't reveal the reason behind the sudden visit to her husband. her mind is filled with questions and a need for clarity.

..........

Vaidehi arrived at her Aunt Chandini's quaint village home as twilight descended. The serene surroundings contrasted sharply with her inner turmoil. She knocked on the door and Chandini welcomed her with a warm smile. She is seemingly delighted by the unexpected visit.

( Chandini : Vaidhu ! Nannu innalaki choodali anipinchindha neeku ? Nee pelli ela jarigindhi ? Andharu mee aayana gurinchi chaala goppaga cheptunnaru. Chala manchi vaadu anta kadha. Avuna ? ) 

Chandini : Vaidhu ! You decided to visit this after these many years ? How your wedding happened ? I heard people talking greatly about your husband. He seems to be a nice guy. Isn't he ? 

Vaidehi looked at Chandini with an unbelievable expression. She wondered if chandini is aware of who Vikramaditya is,

( Chandini : enti ? Endhuku em maatladatledhu ? ) 

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