Difficult Goodbyes

As the days passed and the routine of hospital visits and treatments settled into a semblance of normalcy, Meera and Maya began to worry about Avin's prolonged absence from his own life and responsibilities. Despite his insistence that he was where he needed to be, both women knew the sacrifices he was making.

One afternoon, after a particularly grueling session at the hospital, the three of them sat in the small, sunlit garden adjacent to the treatment center. It was Meera who broached the subject that had been weighing on her mind.

"Avin, it's been nearly a week since you've been here. You've put your life on hold for us," Meera said, her voice laced with gratitude but also concern. "You should go back to Kerala and continue with your studies. We'll manage here; Maya and I are strong together."

Maya looked at Avin, her eyes echoing her mother's sentiments. "Amma's right. You've done more than enough, and we can't keep you from your responsibilities. You have your own future to think about."

Avin looked between the two, torn. His instinct was to stay until he was no longer needed, yet he understood the logic in their words. After a moment of silence, he responded, his voice steady but filled with emotion.

"I know you're both strong, and I know you can handle this. But it's hard to think of leaving when I want to support you both through everything," Avin admitted. He paused, then continued, "However, I also know that being responsible means taking care of my own commitments. I'll go back to Kerala."

Maya reached out and squeezed his hand, appreciative of his willingness to help but also of his understanding of their concerns. "Thank you, Avin. For everything. You've been our rock these past days."

"Thirumbi varum, Maya. I'll come back soon," Avin promised, using his limited Tamil mixed with his native Malayalam, trying to bring a smile to Maya's face. "And until then, I'll keep calling every day. You won't get rid of me that easily."

They shared a light-hearted moment, smiling through the underlying sadness of the impending departure. The next day, Avin packed his belongings, his heart heavy yet hopeful. Before he left, he pulled Maya aside for a private moment.

"Take care of your Amma, and remember to take care of yourself too," he said, his tone earnest. "And remember, I'm just a phone call away. Any time, day or night."

Maya nodded, feeling the sting of tears as she hugged him goodbye. "I know, and thank you. For everything."

As Avin departed, Maya watched him go, feeling a mixture of sorrow and gratitude. His presence had been a source of strength, but his departure was a reminder of their own resilience. She turned back to her mother, ready to face the next phase of their journey together, fortified by the knowledge that Avin's support, though now from a distance, was just a call away.