63. VASUDHA'S STORY

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Vasudha sat down on the edge of her bed after spending some time with the baby. She tried hard to hold back her tears but she is unable to do that. She broke down as the her past took a toll on her.

Vasudha and Rajeev grew up just a few houses apart and their childhood was intertwined in a vibrant neighbourhood bustling with laughter and adventure. Their days were filled with innocent mischief like climbing trees, riding bicycles, and playing hide-and-seek in the sprawling park nearby.

One sunny afternoon, while hiding behind the thick trunk of a banyan tree, Vasudha giggled, waiting for Rajeev to find her. She could hear his footsteps approaching, and her heart raced with excitement.

( Rajeev : Dorikaav ! ) 

Rajeev : Found you ! 

he exclaimed and his face lighted up as he spotted her.

( Vasudha : idhi anyaayam !  Nenu chaala baaga dakkunna ! ) 

Vasudha : Not fair ! I was the best hider ! 

she protested by laughing as she stepped out from her hiding spot.

( Rajeev : Malli saari ninnu gelavanisthaanu. ) 

Rajeev : Next time, I will let you win.

he said with his eyes sparkling.

As the seasons changed, their bond deepened. On long walks to home from school, they shared secrets and dreams, laying the foundation for a love that felt destined.

...............

One evening, as they sat on swings under the fading sunset, Rajeev turned serious.  The innocent childhood is long gone and they are 14 years old now.

( Rajeev : Vasudha , nenu neeku cheppalsina vishayam okati undhi. ) 

Rajeev : Vasudha, there's something I need to tell you.

he said with his voice trembling slightly.

( Vasudha : enti adhi ? ) 

Vasudha : What is it ? 

she asked by  sensing the weight of his words.

( Rajeev : Nenu neeku padipothunna anipistundhi. ) 

Rajeev : I think I'm falling for you.

 he admitted with his eyes searching hers.

Her heart fluttered. 

( vasudha : nijam ga ? Nijam chepthunnaava ? ) 

Vasudha : Really ? You mean it ?

 she breathed and a smile is breaking across her face.

( Rajeev : avunu. Nuvvu naa jeevitham lo chaala mukhyamaina vyakthi vi. ) 

Rajeev : Absolutely. You're the best part of my life. 

he replied earnestly.

That moment marked the beginning of their romance. They exchanged shy glances, shared stolen kisses, and dreamt about their future together.

.............

An year passed and just when they were beginning to envision a life together, The day of his departure was filled with heartache. Rajeev always hated the toxic environment around him. The toxic environment that he sees looked like a heaven for Vasudha who is too innocent to understand that. 

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