Adjusting Waves

As Avin journeyed back to Kerala, the rhythmic motion of the train mirrored the tumult of his thoughts. His return to the familiar settings of his university and the daily routines of student life felt strangely foreign after the intense emotional experiences of the past week. This chapter delves into Avin's adjustments and reflections as he tries to find normalcy amidst concerns for Maya and Meera.

Back in Kerala, Avin found himself sitting in his first class since his return, his notes open but his mind wandering. His professors and classmates welcomed him back, unaware of the emotional weight he carried. As he tried to focus on the lecture, his thoughts drifted repeatedly to Coimbatore, to the hospital's sterile halls, and to Maya's resilient but strained smile.

During a break, Avin stepped out onto the lush campus grounds, his phone in hand. He dialed Maya, needing to hear her voice, to know that she and her mother were managing without him.

"Maya, how are things going? How's Amma?" Avin asked as soon as she picked up.

"We're managing, Avin. It's tough, but we're getting through the days. Amma sends her thanks and love," Maya responded, her voice a mix of weariness and determination.

Hearing her voice, Avin felt a pang of guilt for not being there, but also a resolve to support Maya in any way he could from afar. "I'm just a call away, remember. Anytime you need to talk, or if you need anything," he reassured her.

Later that evening, Avin sat by the window in his dorm room, watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of orange and purple. The beauty of the scene brought back memories of his conversations with Maya about dreams and the future. He recalled Maya's aspiration to become a pilot like her father, and how she spoke of her father's legacy with such admiration.

Avin pulled out an old journal and began to write. He wrote about his experiences over the past week, about Maya's strength, and about the lessons in resilience and compassion he'd learned from being with her and her mother. Writing became a way for him to process his feelings and to keep a record of this significant time in his life.

That night, Avin dreamt of a different world where he and Maya were exploring new skies together. In his dream, they were both pilots, flying through clouds, their troubles far below them, unencumbered by the gravity of real-world worries. This dream reinforced his admiration for Maya's ambitions and solidified his desire to see her achieve all that she dreamed of, no matter the obstacles.

Waking from the dream, Avin felt a renewed sense of purpose. He decided to focus on his studies and to excel, not just for his own future, but to be someone reliable and strong for Maya. He planned his next visit, aiming to return to Coimbatore during his upcoming break, hopeful to bring some relief and happiness to Maya and her mother.