10-12-2024, 12:07 PM
Chapter 5: New Boundaries
Sunanda, dressed in a simple yet elegant sari, sat opposite Dr. Prakash in his cozy consultation room. The walls were lined with certificates and framed photographs, a testament to his years of experience and his warmth as a caregiver. Dr. Prakash, a close friend and confidant, leaned back in his chair, studying a set of papers on his desk with a furrowed brow.
“Nandu,” he began, using the affectionate nickname reserved for their closest conversations. His tone was gentle but laced with concern. “Your reports… they’re not looking good.”
Sunanda’s heart sank. She’d always been meticulous about her health, a habit formed over years of balancing family and work. But ever since her husband’s passing, she had let that part of her life slip away. Meals had become irregular, workouts non-existent. Even her daily walks, once a cherished routine, were now a distant memory.
“What does it say, Prakash?” she asked, her voice steady but soft.
He pushed the papers toward her, pointing to specific markers. “Your blood pressure is higher than it should be, your cholesterol levels are concerning, and your weight has crept up. This isn’t the Nandu I know. You’ve always been so disciplined.”
Sunanda sighed, looking away. The grief she had carried since her husband’s death felt like a weight pressing on her chest. “I’ve been trying, Prakash. But… it’s been hard. Every day feels like a battle just to get through.”
He leaned forward, his expression softening. “I understand. Losing him has been devastating for you. But you need to take care of yourself. He wouldn’t have wanted you to neglect your health like this. You have so much to live for, Nandu.”
She nodded slowly, tears welling up in her eyes. Dr. Prakash’s words hit home. Her children, her responsibilities, her life—all of it demanded her presence and strength.
“So, what do I do?” she asked, her voice trembling but resolute.
“Get back to your old ways,” he said with a small smile. “Start with the basics. Regular meals, exercise, meditation… you know the drill. I can recommend a nutritionist and a personal trainer if you’d like. But more than anything, you need to find a way to heal emotionally. Grief is a heavy burden, but it doesn’t have to consume you.”
Sunanda wiped her tears and nodded again. “You’re right. I’ve been stuck for too long. It’s time to move forward.”
Dr. Prakash reached across the desk, placing a comforting hand on hers. “You’re stronger than you think, Nandu. And remember, you’re not alone in this. I’m here for you, always.”
As Sunanda left the hospital, the cool evening air greeted her. She paused on the steps, looking up at the sky. Her resolve hardened. This wasn’t just about her health; it was about reclaiming her life. She had lost so much, but there was still so much to fight for. And she would. One step at a time.
That evening, as Sunanda settled into her room with a cup of warm herbal tea, she decided to call Babu. She had been meaning to check in with him, especially after her conversation with Dr. Prakash.
The phone rang twice before Babu answered. “Hello, Amma,” he said, his voice calm but carrying a trace of tension she had come to recognize over the past few months.
“Babu, how are you?” she asked, her tone gentle.
“I’m fine, Amma. Just the usual college routine,” he replied, but there was something distant in his tone.
Sunanda hesitated for a moment before deciding to bring up her health. “I went to see Dr. Prakash today,” she began.
Babu’s voice immediately sharpened with concern. “Why? Are you okay? What did he say?”
“I’m fine, Babu,” she assured him quickly. “But he did mention that I need to take better care of myself. My blood pressure and cholesterol levels aren’t great, and I’ve put on some weight. It’s nothing alarming, but I have to make changes.”
Babu was silent for a moment, processing her words. “Amma, you should have told me sooner,” he said, a note of worry creeping into his voice.
“I didn’t want to worry you,” Sunanda said softly. “And I still don’t. That’s why I’m telling you now—I’ve already decided to make some changes. I’ll start eating better, walking regularly, and I’m even planning to rejoin the gym. You remember how much I used to enjoy it?”
“I do,” Babu said, his voice lightening slightly at the memory. “You used to wake up before everyone else and come home energized.”
“Exactly,” Sunanda said with a small laugh. “I’m going to get back to that. But you, Babu—you need to focus on your studies. Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine.”
“Amma, it’s hard not to worry,” he admitted. “Especially after everything that’s happened.”
“I know,” she said gently. “But you’re doing well, and I’m proud of you. You’ve grown so much over the past year. Just remember, I’m always here for you, but right now, you need to take care of yourself, too. And let me take care of myself, okay?”
Babu sighed, a mix of resignation and relief in his voice. “Okay, Amma. But promise me you’ll stick to it. No skipping meals or walks.”
“I promise,” Sunanda said firmly. “And you promise me you’ll stop being upset about things you can’t control. Focus on your goals, Babu. Everything else will fall into place.”
“I’ll try, Amma,” he said, his tone softening. “Thank you.”
After they hung up, Sunanda sat quietly for a moment, the phone still in her hand. Talking to Babu always gave her a sense of purpose. She knew that her own strength would set an example for him.
With a renewed sense of determination, she finished her tea and started planning her next day. It was time to not just talk about change but to embrace it wholeheartedly.
Back in college, Babu found himself slipping into a steady routine, though the inner turmoil he carried never fully left him. The weight of his thoughts—about his family, Aruna, his mother Sunanda’s health, and his own struggles—gnawed at him silently. Sunanda’s recent call, where she reassured him about taking care of her health, had given him some comfort, but it also added a layer of guilt. He felt he should have been more attentive to her needs, especially after everything she had endured since his father’s passing. Balancing these emotions with the demands of his studies left him feeling stretched thin, yet he pressed on, finding solace in the small moments of distraction his routine provided.
Babu thought about his mother’s words, especially her determination to rejoin the gym and take charge of her health. Inspired by her resolve, he decided to take a similar step and started going to the college gym. At first, the experience was overwhelming—machines he didn’t know how to use, exercises he didn’t understand. He felt out of place among the regulars who moved with ease and confidence.
Fortunately, a senior student named Jean noticed Babu’s struggle and stepped in to help. Jean, whom Babu respectfully called “Jean anna,” became an unexpected mentor. Patient and approachable, Jean guided him through the basics, explaining the equipment and helping Babu design a beginner-friendly workout plan. Under his guidance, Babu slowly grew comfortable with the gym environment.
For Babu, the gym became more than just a place to work out—it was a sanctuary. The physical activity provided a way to channel his pent-up frustrations and silence the constant noise of his thoughts. Each lift, each sprint on the treadmill, felt like a small victory against the chaos he carried inside. Over time, the gym sessions began to ground him, offering a sense of control in a life that often felt overwhelming.
Babu’s friendship with Jasmine was another anchor in his life, something he quietly revered. What had started as light-hearted banter in the chemistry lab had grown into a bond that extended far beyond the classroom. Jasmine’s lively personality and natural curiosity drew Babu out of his shell, and their conversations often ventured into unexpected territories, filled with laughter and moments of genuine connection.
Their friendship took them beyond the confines of the college. Exploring the city together became a frequent activity—sometimes planned, but often spontaneous. They would visit bustling markets, savor street food at small, hidden stalls, or simply walk through quiet parks, talking about everything and nothing. For Babu, these outings were a respite from the complexities of his life. Jasmine’s company brought lightness to his otherwise heavy days, and her warmth felt like a balm to his restless mind.
Though he didn’t express it aloud, Babu deeply valued their friendship. In her presence, the pressures of family, studies, and his inner struggles seemed to fade, if only temporarily. For him, Jasmine represented a rare kind of joy—uncomplicated and sincere.
When Babu found out that Jasmine’s birthday was around the corner he decided to make it a Special one for her. On the night of her birthday, just before midnight, Babu and a few close friends quietly gathered in the backyard of Jasmine’s residence. Few decorations were made and a small table with a cake and some snacks were arranged. The dim glow of fairy lights added a magical touch to the atmosphere.
At the stroke of midnight, they called Jasmine outside. Confused but curious, she stepped into the backyard, and the group erupted into a loud chorus of “Happy Birthday!” Jasmine’s eyes widened in surprise, a mix of shock and joy lighting up her face.
The party began with laughter, music, and light-hearted conversations. Jasmine couldn’t stop smiling as she cut the cake, her friends cheering her on. For a moment, everything felt perfect.
But then, as the celebration was in full swing, an unexpected guest arrived. Vicky, Jasmine’s ex-boyfriend, walked in, holding a bouquet and a lopsided grin. His sudden appearance startled everyone, especially Jasmine.
“Happy birthday, Jazz,” Vicky said, his tone casual, as if nothing had changed between them.
The mood shifted subtly, and the air grew tense. Jasmine looked visibly flustered, and Babu, standing quietly in the corner, observed the interaction with a sinking feeling.
The party continued, but the dynamic had shifted. Jasmine’s attention, once focused on her friends and Babu’s thoughtful gesture, now wavered between awkward exchanges with Vicky and trying to maintain the celebratory spirit.
Babu, who had been quietly enjoying her happiness moments earlier, felt a pang of discomfort. While he didn’t fully understand why Vicky’s presence bothered him, he couldn’t ignore the sudden weight pressing on his chest. As the night wore on, Babu found himself retreating into the background, a shadow among the cheerful crowd.
As the festivities began to wind down, Jasmine found a moment to pull her house helpers aside. She whispered to them, her voice a mix of annoyance and resignation, "Vicky sir will be staying with us tonight." The couple nodded, their expressions unreadable, as they cleared the last of the party mess.
Babu, who had been pretending not to listen, felt a knot form in his stomach. Babu's gaze fell on Vicky's discarded jacket, hanging loosely on a chair. A glint of foil caught his eye, and he couldn't resist the urge to check. His heart sank as his fingers brushed against several condom packets. He realized that Vicky had come prepared, and it was clear what he had in mind for the night.Just before leaving he watched as Jasmine led Vicky into the house, the two of them disappearing into her bedroom. He couldn't help but think about what might happen between them.
Continued in the next part………..
Sunanda, dressed in a simple yet elegant sari, sat opposite Dr. Prakash in his cozy consultation room. The walls were lined with certificates and framed photographs, a testament to his years of experience and his warmth as a caregiver. Dr. Prakash, a close friend and confidant, leaned back in his chair, studying a set of papers on his desk with a furrowed brow.
“Nandu,” he began, using the affectionate nickname reserved for their closest conversations. His tone was gentle but laced with concern. “Your reports… they’re not looking good.”
Sunanda’s heart sank. She’d always been meticulous about her health, a habit formed over years of balancing family and work. But ever since her husband’s passing, she had let that part of her life slip away. Meals had become irregular, workouts non-existent. Even her daily walks, once a cherished routine, were now a distant memory.
“What does it say, Prakash?” she asked, her voice steady but soft.
He pushed the papers toward her, pointing to specific markers. “Your blood pressure is higher than it should be, your cholesterol levels are concerning, and your weight has crept up. This isn’t the Nandu I know. You’ve always been so disciplined.”
Sunanda sighed, looking away. The grief she had carried since her husband’s death felt like a weight pressing on her chest. “I’ve been trying, Prakash. But… it’s been hard. Every day feels like a battle just to get through.”
He leaned forward, his expression softening. “I understand. Losing him has been devastating for you. But you need to take care of yourself. He wouldn’t have wanted you to neglect your health like this. You have so much to live for, Nandu.”
She nodded slowly, tears welling up in her eyes. Dr. Prakash’s words hit home. Her children, her responsibilities, her life—all of it demanded her presence and strength.
“So, what do I do?” she asked, her voice trembling but resolute.
“Get back to your old ways,” he said with a small smile. “Start with the basics. Regular meals, exercise, meditation… you know the drill. I can recommend a nutritionist and a personal trainer if you’d like. But more than anything, you need to find a way to heal emotionally. Grief is a heavy burden, but it doesn’t have to consume you.”
Sunanda wiped her tears and nodded again. “You’re right. I’ve been stuck for too long. It’s time to move forward.”
Dr. Prakash reached across the desk, placing a comforting hand on hers. “You’re stronger than you think, Nandu. And remember, you’re not alone in this. I’m here for you, always.”
As Sunanda left the hospital, the cool evening air greeted her. She paused on the steps, looking up at the sky. Her resolve hardened. This wasn’t just about her health; it was about reclaiming her life. She had lost so much, but there was still so much to fight for. And she would. One step at a time.
That evening, as Sunanda settled into her room with a cup of warm herbal tea, she decided to call Babu. She had been meaning to check in with him, especially after her conversation with Dr. Prakash.
The phone rang twice before Babu answered. “Hello, Amma,” he said, his voice calm but carrying a trace of tension she had come to recognize over the past few months.
“Babu, how are you?” she asked, her tone gentle.
“I’m fine, Amma. Just the usual college routine,” he replied, but there was something distant in his tone.
Sunanda hesitated for a moment before deciding to bring up her health. “I went to see Dr. Prakash today,” she began.
Babu’s voice immediately sharpened with concern. “Why? Are you okay? What did he say?”
“I’m fine, Babu,” she assured him quickly. “But he did mention that I need to take better care of myself. My blood pressure and cholesterol levels aren’t great, and I’ve put on some weight. It’s nothing alarming, but I have to make changes.”
Babu was silent for a moment, processing her words. “Amma, you should have told me sooner,” he said, a note of worry creeping into his voice.
“I didn’t want to worry you,” Sunanda said softly. “And I still don’t. That’s why I’m telling you now—I’ve already decided to make some changes. I’ll start eating better, walking regularly, and I’m even planning to rejoin the gym. You remember how much I used to enjoy it?”
“I do,” Babu said, his voice lightening slightly at the memory. “You used to wake up before everyone else and come home energized.”
“Exactly,” Sunanda said with a small laugh. “I’m going to get back to that. But you, Babu—you need to focus on your studies. Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine.”
“Amma, it’s hard not to worry,” he admitted. “Especially after everything that’s happened.”
“I know,” she said gently. “But you’re doing well, and I’m proud of you. You’ve grown so much over the past year. Just remember, I’m always here for you, but right now, you need to take care of yourself, too. And let me take care of myself, okay?”
Babu sighed, a mix of resignation and relief in his voice. “Okay, Amma. But promise me you’ll stick to it. No skipping meals or walks.”
“I promise,” Sunanda said firmly. “And you promise me you’ll stop being upset about things you can’t control. Focus on your goals, Babu. Everything else will fall into place.”
“I’ll try, Amma,” he said, his tone softening. “Thank you.”
After they hung up, Sunanda sat quietly for a moment, the phone still in her hand. Talking to Babu always gave her a sense of purpose. She knew that her own strength would set an example for him.
With a renewed sense of determination, she finished her tea and started planning her next day. It was time to not just talk about change but to embrace it wholeheartedly.
Back in college, Babu found himself slipping into a steady routine, though the inner turmoil he carried never fully left him. The weight of his thoughts—about his family, Aruna, his mother Sunanda’s health, and his own struggles—gnawed at him silently. Sunanda’s recent call, where she reassured him about taking care of her health, had given him some comfort, but it also added a layer of guilt. He felt he should have been more attentive to her needs, especially after everything she had endured since his father’s passing. Balancing these emotions with the demands of his studies left him feeling stretched thin, yet he pressed on, finding solace in the small moments of distraction his routine provided.
Babu thought about his mother’s words, especially her determination to rejoin the gym and take charge of her health. Inspired by her resolve, he decided to take a similar step and started going to the college gym. At first, the experience was overwhelming—machines he didn’t know how to use, exercises he didn’t understand. He felt out of place among the regulars who moved with ease and confidence.
Fortunately, a senior student named Jean noticed Babu’s struggle and stepped in to help. Jean, whom Babu respectfully called “Jean anna,” became an unexpected mentor. Patient and approachable, Jean guided him through the basics, explaining the equipment and helping Babu design a beginner-friendly workout plan. Under his guidance, Babu slowly grew comfortable with the gym environment.
For Babu, the gym became more than just a place to work out—it was a sanctuary. The physical activity provided a way to channel his pent-up frustrations and silence the constant noise of his thoughts. Each lift, each sprint on the treadmill, felt like a small victory against the chaos he carried inside. Over time, the gym sessions began to ground him, offering a sense of control in a life that often felt overwhelming.
Babu’s friendship with Jasmine was another anchor in his life, something he quietly revered. What had started as light-hearted banter in the chemistry lab had grown into a bond that extended far beyond the classroom. Jasmine’s lively personality and natural curiosity drew Babu out of his shell, and their conversations often ventured into unexpected territories, filled with laughter and moments of genuine connection.
Their friendship took them beyond the confines of the college. Exploring the city together became a frequent activity—sometimes planned, but often spontaneous. They would visit bustling markets, savor street food at small, hidden stalls, or simply walk through quiet parks, talking about everything and nothing. For Babu, these outings were a respite from the complexities of his life. Jasmine’s company brought lightness to his otherwise heavy days, and her warmth felt like a balm to his restless mind.
Though he didn’t express it aloud, Babu deeply valued their friendship. In her presence, the pressures of family, studies, and his inner struggles seemed to fade, if only temporarily. For him, Jasmine represented a rare kind of joy—uncomplicated and sincere.
When Babu found out that Jasmine’s birthday was around the corner he decided to make it a Special one for her. On the night of her birthday, just before midnight, Babu and a few close friends quietly gathered in the backyard of Jasmine’s residence. Few decorations were made and a small table with a cake and some snacks were arranged. The dim glow of fairy lights added a magical touch to the atmosphere.
At the stroke of midnight, they called Jasmine outside. Confused but curious, she stepped into the backyard, and the group erupted into a loud chorus of “Happy Birthday!” Jasmine’s eyes widened in surprise, a mix of shock and joy lighting up her face.
The party began with laughter, music, and light-hearted conversations. Jasmine couldn’t stop smiling as she cut the cake, her friends cheering her on. For a moment, everything felt perfect.
But then, as the celebration was in full swing, an unexpected guest arrived. Vicky, Jasmine’s ex-boyfriend, walked in, holding a bouquet and a lopsided grin. His sudden appearance startled everyone, especially Jasmine.
“Happy birthday, Jazz,” Vicky said, his tone casual, as if nothing had changed between them.
The mood shifted subtly, and the air grew tense. Jasmine looked visibly flustered, and Babu, standing quietly in the corner, observed the interaction with a sinking feeling.
The party continued, but the dynamic had shifted. Jasmine’s attention, once focused on her friends and Babu’s thoughtful gesture, now wavered between awkward exchanges with Vicky and trying to maintain the celebratory spirit.
Babu, who had been quietly enjoying her happiness moments earlier, felt a pang of discomfort. While he didn’t fully understand why Vicky’s presence bothered him, he couldn’t ignore the sudden weight pressing on his chest. As the night wore on, Babu found himself retreating into the background, a shadow among the cheerful crowd.
As the festivities began to wind down, Jasmine found a moment to pull her house helpers aside. She whispered to them, her voice a mix of annoyance and resignation, "Vicky sir will be staying with us tonight." The couple nodded, their expressions unreadable, as they cleared the last of the party mess.
Babu, who had been pretending not to listen, felt a knot form in his stomach. Babu's gaze fell on Vicky's discarded jacket, hanging loosely on a chair. A glint of foil caught his eye, and he couldn't resist the urge to check. His heart sank as his fingers brushed against several condom packets. He realized that Vicky had come prepared, and it was clear what he had in mind for the night.Just before leaving he watched as Jasmine led Vicky into the house, the two of them disappearing into her bedroom. He couldn't help but think about what might happen between them.
Continued in the next part………..
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