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y room in Goa resembled a funeral scene. Despite the five-star luxury and the gold around
my aunts’ necks, people had a sombre expression. I had communicated my decision. My
mother had displayed her hysteria. Dad sat stone-faced, unable, as usual, to react to any conflict
situation. My aunts had gathered around my mother, offering fake sympathy and condolences. I could
sense their glee. I was providing family gossip for months.
Kamla bua had still not given up.
‘Brijesh said anything to you? Be honest,’ Kamla bua said.
‘I told you several times, he has nothing to do with it. He is quite sweet.’
‘So what is the problem, you mad girl?’ my mother screeched at the top of her voice.
She came and stood in front of me.
Slap! Before she could deliver another slap Kamla bua held her down. I didn’t react.
‘No, Aparna, no. Keep control. Sai Baba will make it all okay,’ Kamla bua said to my mother.
‘What will be okay? We are ruined. Look at her, still glaring at me.’
‘There’s no need to hit me, mom,’ I said, my face red as I fought back tears.
‘So what should I do to cure you of your madness? Look at Aditi. In third year of college she
was engaged. Married after a simple graduation.’
‘I am not Aditi.’
‘This is what happens when you educate girls too much,’ Kamla bua said in a low, consoling
voice.
‘It’s her father’s fault,’ my mother snapped. ‘He never said no to anything. Ahmedabad, New
York, Hong Kong, wherever she wanted to go, he would let her.’
‘Can you keep dad out of this, mom?’ I said, my voice muffled. I turned to everyone and folded
my hands.
‘All of you, I have a request. You are all my extended family. Yes, I take full blame for the
debacle that happened. You can judge me all you want. But can you please not judge my parents for
this?’
My aunts and uncles looked at each other.
I continued, ‘Treat it like a Goan holiday. That’s it. My treat. I need your support. My bigger
issue is Brijesh and his family. They will be hurt much more. I need grown-ups from my side to be
with me when I tell them.’
Nobody gave me a response.
‘Fine, I will talk to them on my own. Please enjoy your last day in Goa. Those wanting to fly
out earlier, talk to Suraj to change flights,’ I said.