CHAPTER 23 : Saru

What is happening? What am I seeing? My life feels over now that I see my parents carrying out my funeral. My heart has shattered, and my body has become still. I can't feel anything. My throat is choked with disbelief. I can't believe all of this is happening to me. Is this a nightmare?

I couldn't take it anymore; I just ran out of the building as fast as possible. I knew Harsh was behind me, shouting my name and asking me to stop, but at that moment, I couldn't face anyone. As I reached the gate of the society, Harsh grabbed my hand, making me stop.

"Where are you going, Saru? I know this is very difficult for you to handle, but it's not your fault," he said, holding me. I didn't reply; I merely stared at the ground, tears filling my eyes. "I forgot what parents can do to their children. I forgot how cruel they can be, how stupid they can act, blaming everything on their kids," he said in frustration. "You don't need to worry, Saru. I'm with you." He wrapped his arms around me for comfort. I looked into his eyes and replied, "Nothing can break me. I'm not going to feel guilty about anything. I know someday my Nana will forgive me and give me a tight hug. If someone compliments me, I'll say thank you! Then, an IIT or IIM boy will propose to me, and I will say yes!".

Harsh replied, hugging me, "Yes, Saru, I knew you would be very happy in the future. But please don't cry. Let's go to your apartment." After a moment, he added, "Your forehead is hot; you're running a fever. We should head to your apartment so you can rest." I wiped the tears from my face and replied, "Yes."