THREADS OF FATE ~

The Divine Dream

The sun had barely risen when the household was greeted by an unexpected visitor. Sita Devi, Vishnupriya's cousin and dearest companion, arrived at the doorstep of their home, her eyes filled with concern and affection. She had heard of Gaurhari's decision to take *sannyas* and came to offer comfort to her sister and the family.

"Didi!" Sita Devi called out as she entered the courtyard, her voice soft yet filled with warmth.

Vishnupriya Devi, who had been sitting by the window in deep thought, looked up and smiled at the sight of her beloved *sister*. Rising from her seat, she walked over to embrace her. "Sita," Vishnupriya whispered, holding her close. "It is so good to see you."

The bond between them had always been strong, more than just cousins, they were like sisters, each sharing a deep connection that transcended words. Sita Devi looked at Vishnupriya with a mixture of sadness and understanding. She knew the pain her *didi* was enduring, and she had come to be a source of strength.

"How are you, *didi*?" Sita Devi asked softly, holding Vishnupriya's hands in hers.

Vishnupriya smiled, though her eyes betrayed the sorrow she was carrying. "I am holding on, Sita. It has been hard, but we must be strong for Radhika, for *maa*."

Sita Devi nodded, her heart heavy for her sister's burden. She turned to see Radhika standing in the doorway, her eyes red from tears, yet still holding a quiet grace. "Radhika," she called gently, opening her arms.

Radhika walked into Sita Devi's embrace, feeling the familiar warmth of her *choti maa*. "*Choti maa*," Radhika whispered, her voice trembling, "I miss him so much."

Sita Devi hugged Radhika tightly, stroking her hair. "I know, *beta*. I know. It's not easy, but we must trust that your *baba* is on the path that was meant for him. He is always with you, even if you cannot see him."

Radhika nodded, though her heart still ached with the absence of her father. Sita Devi held her for a few moments longer, offering the comfort of a mother's embrace, knowing that sometimes words could not heal, but love could offer solace.

Sati Mata, who had been quietly observing from the corner, finally rose and made her way over to them. Her face was lined with both wisdom and sorrow, but she greeted Sita Devi with a soft smile.

"Maa," Sita Devi said respectfully, bowing her head slightly as she addressed Sati Mata, "I came as soon as I could. I wanted to be here for all of you."

Sati Mata smiled gently, placing a hand on Sita Devi's shoulder. "You are always welcome here, *beta*. Your presence is a blessing in these difficult times."

They all sat together, the silence heavy but comforting in its shared understanding. Sita Devi and Vishnupriya exchanged glances, both knowing the weight of the situation but also finding strength in each other.

As the morning progressed, Sita Devi helped around the house, her gentle presence lifting the spirits of the household. She moved with grace, her interactions with Radhika and Sati Mata filled with care and love. It was clear that she was more than just a guest-she was family in every sense, a source of comfort and a reminder of the bonds that held them all together.

Later, while Radhika sat quietly by herself, Sita Devi came and knelt beside her. "*Choti maa*," Radhika said softly, her voice still carrying the weight of her sadness, "do you think *baba* is thinking of us right now?"

Sita Devi smiled softly, brushing a strand of hair from Radhika's face. "Of course, *beta*. Your *baba* may be far from us in body, but his heart is always with you. He loves you dearly, and he carries that love with him, wherever he goes."