part - 3

"See that big building with the wall around it ? If you're not careful, you'll soon be counting bars there ." The girl grinned and pointed at a huge building .

Ram squinted and read the Tamil sign, Central Jail.

"Why? I haven't done anything wrong ."

"You don't have to do anything .Just don't get caught , that's all."

What does she mean , Ram wondered . Meanwhile the girl was already heading down the bridge with the sack on her shoulder. What was in it ? He had seen her putting plastic cups into it at the station.

" What are you carrying in that bag ?"

" Things. Bottles , paper."

Ram wondered what she was doing with them , but he felt shy for ask any questions.

It was still morning but the sun blasted down on the tar and Ram's bare feet burned . It was not like walking on a mud road . He was soaked with sweat . He tried hard to walk in the shade and keep up with the girl at the same time . She walked really fast. How far away was the food ?

To be continued .....