Father

Meera grew up in a small, picturesque village surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. The village was a place where everyone knew each other, where life was simple but fulfilling. Meera’s home was a modest, cozy house nestled at the edge of the village, where the forest began. The house had a warm, welcoming feel, with a small garden out front where Priya, her mother, grew flowers and vegetables. Priya had moved to the village when Meera was just two years old, taking up a position as the local school teacher. She was well-respected and loved by the villagers for her gentle nature and dedication to her students. To the outside world, Priya seemed content, but there was a sadness in her eyes that never completely went away, a sadness she kept hidden from Meera. Meera was a bright, happy child, full of curiosity and energy. She had many friends at school, and her days were filled with laughter and play. Despite being a single mother, Priya ensured that Meera never felt like she was missing out on anything. The two of them were inseparable, and their bond was the envy of many in the village. However, there was one thing that set Meera’s family apart from the others in the village—they never attended family events or festivals with other families. Priya kept them away from such gatherings, always finding a reason to stay home or make other plans. Meera didn’t think much of it as a child, but as she grew older, she began to wonder why they were always alone.