"Madamji coffee", said Mala; the kitchen help and placed the coffee mug on the dining table, front page of 'The Indian Express', newspaper in Vidya's hand. 'Madamji is very sad what babyji did was already too much on top of that Sir ji has sent babyji (Jasmine) away', thought Mala. Vidya as if shaken from her thoughts, avoiding eye contact not looking up muttered "thanku". Mala determined to talk, "madamji those 'Batra's'; seeing Vidya's questioning look elaborated,"at the end of this lane". Vidya nodded, at this excited Mala continued, "LakhiRam, driver there was saying 'Sirji' (Mr Batra) had come drunk, he was at the door for at least ten minutes before 'madamji' opened doors. Naturally 'Sirji' was furious. He could hear him shouting angrily". Vidya smiled, "subah -subah(in the morning) you start off. "No-no madamji, only the truth, you know 'aai shapath'(mother promise), she said. "Not so sure but LakhiRam even doubts of him having an affair", added Mala. At this Vidya kept down her paper and said "enough Mala, have you finished cleaning utensils. What about the left over? I asked you to take it to the orphanage". "I packed and gave it to Ramesh. He said children were very happy, especially with the uncut cake", suddenly realising she has again reminded her of Jasmine changed the topic. "Madamji the superintendent was asking for the school bags and dresses for the children. "OK I'll go myself in the afternoon and will ask him personally if anything else is required", she said. "Hey!bhagvan milk I had kept on the gas and ran away".
'Mala has been in my house for almost ten years. A marathi,very outgoing, more than a maid. Like a companion. Had come as a newlywed, to support her husband. Now, mother of two, a nine year old Chinki and seven years old Pinki; two girls. Her husband a mechanic in a garage is otherwise good except when drunk', "Madamji what will you have for breakfast", asked Mala, breaking her thoughts. "Not hungry, you go,; I'll make something myself". "Madamji don't stay without food the whole day". "I will eat, you don't worry", smiled Vidya.
Vidya took care of her children's illness, education, clothes and everything.
YOU ARE READING
The Twist
General FictionThis is the story of a carefree girl "Jasmine" who took everyone for granted. So far life had been kind to her. A certain incident changes her course of life. Her world is toppled down. Go with her ups and downs.
