Chapter 14 Part III

“The doctor didn’t come with you today, Thara?” a vendor in the market who was well-acquainted with her family asked when Sakunthara walked past her vegetable stall.

“He didn’t come, Auntie. Today he’s on call. I’d like some Chinese long beans and cucumbers, please, Auntie,” she answered in a friendly and amicable manner. She picked out some Chinese long beans and beautiful cucumbers and handed them to the vendor. The chili dip had to be eaten with vegetables.

Due to the older woman’s conversation and the name of another person, the one following behind did not smile. All along the way with her, he frequently heard this type of question.

“And who’s that you came with? So handsome!” the older woman vendor asked in a joking manner, continuing the conversation.

“A friend of the doctor’s.” Sakunthara chose an answer that best evaded explanation. Since he didn’t live here, the people around here barely knew him.