 
Lucky Star

It was unmistakable on her face

BY

Kavita SIngh

* * *

ISBN 123456789012345   
© Kavita SIngh 2020   
Published in India 2020 by Pencil

 _ A brand of_  
One Point Six Technologies Pvt. Ltd.   
123, Building J2, Shram Seva Premises,  
Wadala Truck Terminal, Wadala (E)  
Mumbai 400037, Maharashtra, INDIA   
** E** connect@thepencilapp.com  
 ** W** www.thepencilapp.com

 _ All rights reserved worldwide_

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Any person who commits an unauthorized act in relation to this publication can be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages.

DISCLAIMER: _ This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, events and incidents are the products of the author's imagination. The opinions expressed in this book do not seek to reflect the views of the Publisher._

###  Author biography

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  Contents

1. Chapter 1

2. Chapter 2

3. Chapter 3

4. Chapter 4

5. Chapter 5

6. Chapter 6

7. Chapter 7

8. Chapter 8

9. Chapter 9

10. Chapter 10

11. Chapter 11

12. Chapter 12

13. Chapter 13

14. Chapter 14

15. Chapter 15

###  Epigraph

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  Foreword

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  Preface

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  Acknowledgements

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  Introduction

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  Chapter 1

## _ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

#### _ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

###  _ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

  * No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'
  * _ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

  1. _ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_
  2. _ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 2

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 3

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 4

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 5

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 6

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 7

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 8

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 9

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 10

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 11

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 12

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 13

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 14

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Chapter 15

_ Get out,' she shouted at the top of her voice_ .

_ I stood flabbergasted at my put. I never thought she would be saying this to me. Does she mean what she uttered, or is it her anger talking? I wished I knew the answer_ .

_ She yelled once more, 'Didn't you listen to me? I said, get out of my house right now.'_

_ No, she wasn't joking, not this time. I do admit I had committed a mistake, but that shouldn't have been the reason to toss me out of the house. Therefore, to defend myself, I hollered, 'I will not leave this is my house too.'_

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

_ Now, this was something I didn't anticipate to listen. I didn't have to talk so much, I cursed myself. I spoke, supporting myself, 'How can you be doing this to me? I do accept I made a mistake, but that doesn't imply you should call the cops.' I proceeded with pleading eyes, 'And, you're dropping me because I spoke the truth, I poured my heart out. Is this the reason you're abandoning me?'_

_ 'I don't know anything, now leave,' was her only reply. Having no leniency on me, she began pushing me towards the door_ .

_ 'But...' I attempted to talk. I was being dragged out of my own house. The only question was, Why? Only because I expressed the truth. 'Please... please... no... Don't do this to me,' I begged_ .

_ She had already made her mind. She was not going to entertain me in any way. With all her strength, she kept pushing me towards the main door. 'You don't belong here. Go away from this house and never show your face,' she talked in anger and utilized all of her strength to push me_ .

_ I attempted to block her, but that was something inconceivable. After several minutes and some pushes, I found myself out of the house_ .

_ She stood before me holding the main door and mouthed, 'If you ever attempt to come here again, I swear to god I will call the police.' The way she held the door, it appeared she was prepared to slam it on my face_ .

_ 'But where will I live? I have no place,' I spoke, hoping she overlooks her anger_ .

_ However, here reply tore me apart. She said, 'I don't care, go wherever you need to. From today, you're dead to me. I wish you were dead the day you were born.' She cursed and set about closing the door_ .

_ 'But... Mom-' Before I could complete up my sentence, she slammed the door on my face_ .

*********

I opened my eyes in fear, and all of a sudden, the bright and hot sun hit my view. It was over two hours I was napping on the pew in the garden. I felt a slender line of sweat beginning from my temples and moving gradually towards my cheeks. That incident, it indeed destroyed me. I pulled myself up and sat on the place with a pounding heart.

I picked my sack, which I used as a cushion while resting. Opening it, I started searching with the hope of finding something to eat as I was feeling hungry. I looked in each compartment of my sack yet found nothing leaving a white envelope. I knew what was in the envelope only I did not desire to recall. Therefore, I ignored it. Then there was a headset, some torn papers, and wrappers. Only it had nothing to eat. I was starving.

When I woke up that morning, I didn't realize my life was going to take such a U-turn by the afternoon. For a second, my brain went blank, and all of a sudden, it yapped, _ What next?_ Which left me alarmed.

Fortunately, I had my cell phone with me, and before dozing, I had called one of my best friends, Sameer. I had narrated the entire issue to him on the call as well as my biggest concern and which was none other than a house.

Sameer calmly listened to my trauma and replied, 'I'll do something,' and hung the call.

Yes, just three words that's it, and nothing else. Sameer was weird, and possibly that is the reason he was my best bud. And after two hours later the call I saw him entering the garden.

Sameer was tall, six-five, and weigh near two forty pounds. He was from Kerala, and like most of the South-Indians, he also had dark-colored skin and an accent of Keralan. It used to get difficult sometimes to decipher his language.

When I initially met Sameer I believed, he was at most a jerk-asshole wanted to be a contestant on a television show called Roadies. He even went to Pune for audition however was turned down. Sameer had just two concerns in his life: first to be a Roadie and second girls. It was nearly two years, I knew Sameer, and in those two years, he had proposed six girls. However, none of them accepted his proposal, poor guy. But, an idiot asshole.

When Sameer arrived, he was worn out and was loaded with sweat. He came towards me, and sitting beside, he handed a paper that stated the address and phone number of a person named Rahul.

'Who is Rahul?' I inquired, gazing at the paper.

'Umm... is my friend.'

'Is he a house broker or what?'

'No, he isn't.'

'Then?' I gave a scrutinizing look. My eyebrows rising an inch.

'Actually...' Sameer looked here and there, stealing his eyes. It was as if he was concealing something, and after a little pause, he proceeded, 'You'll not leave alone. You'll live with him.'

'With him? That's fine. Does he leave alone?'

Sameer talked something, but he spoke so low that it wasn't audible.

'Will you be loud, asshole? I didn't hear you,' I said with an irritated tone.

'Umm... I said,' this time he was audible, 'he lives with his family. And you will be living with them.'

'What?' I yelled. I was startled, and went along, 'And what do you mean by family?'

'Family means... _ family_ ,' he said with a creepy grin on his face.

'Is it accurate to say that you are insane, Sameer?' I saw him shrugging. I continued, 'I'm not going to stay with any unknown family. I don't even know them. And by the way, who the hell are they?'

'It would be nice if you simply hear me once, Vivan,' Sameer requested.

'Okay, I'm wholly yours merely solely for two fucking minutes.'

He nodded and told me that he attempted his best to get me a house. However, it was hard to get one on such short notice. Consequently, having no other choice, he went to Rahul's house. Rahul was his childhood and a dear friend. When he narrated my episode to him, he immediately called his dad and persuaded him for my remain. Sameer too had a bit of share in convincing Rahul's dad, as stated to me by him. They made a hard attempt and inevitably succeeded.

Besides, he made me realize that I had no other alternative than taking it. And he was correct because beggars can't be choosers. Therefore, reluctantly, I chose to go.

My new family was in Vikhroli, which was in the Suburbs of Mumbai. I had never visited there, yet faith, it could take you anywhere I realized then. However, one reason for me accepting was I didn't have to pay rent. That was the only thing which had brought a grin on my face. Although I needed to pay no rent, I had to pay for food. Yet, it was a good deal, Sameer and I both concurred.

Being curious, I asked, 'Sameer, who all are in his family?'

'Rahul... _ my friend_ , his parents, and... nobody.'

'Are you certain only three peoples?' I asked with doubt. I felt like he was hiding something.

'Indeed, just three. Wait for a minute, Rahul has a sister named Kaveri. However, she is married now and lives with her husband. That makes just three of them,' he answered, being confident.

'Okay, I believe you. So, Sameer, tell me how much I have to pay them now?' I inquired.

'For this month, I had paid on behalf of you.'

'What? Why?' I was stunned once more.

'Since I figured you might not have enough money

with you so... I paid,' he answered casually, and with a smile all over.

I fell quiet, and my lips curved into a grin. Sameer was my true friend. He stood up for me when I needed someone the most. Jay McInerney once said _ The capacity for friendship is God_ ' _ s way of apologizing for our families_ . Today, I felt it so genuine.

'So, we will see in the following month,' Sameer stated, breaking the silence. He included, 'When does our college re-begins?'

'Yes, in the following month. Only fifteen days to go.' I forwarded my right hand and added, 'Okay, buddy, thank you for everything. Now, I believe it's time to say goodbye.'

He grabbed my hand, and we embraced each other as we invariably get along.

While getting apart, Sameer stated, 'If you need any more help, never hesitate to give me a call.'

'I won't,' I answered, picked my bag, and the two of us went towards the garden's exit gate.

Reaching the exit, he took a left turn, as he wanted to get a bus to get home, and I made a right and started walking towards the railway station, or I can say towards my new house and my new family.

###  Appendix

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  Glossary

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  Bibliography

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  List of Contributors

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

###  Notes

_ Her anger raged. It was unmistakable on her face and eyes. Controlling it, she silently passed into my room, which was adjoining to her and came out a minute later with a bag-pack filled with my dress. It was the same sack which she gifted me a month before on my birthday. She tossed the bag out of the house as the main entrance was open_ .

_ She talked once more in a moo but in a firm tone, 'Leave... now,' she continued, pointing her finger towards the door, 'if you do not leave in good order, then I have to call the cops. You did a lot today, and you do not deserve to stay in this house.'_

## Lucky Star

  1. Cover
  2. Title page
  3. Blank Page
  4. Copyright Page
  5. Author biography
  6. Table of Contents
  7. Epigraph
  8. Foreword
  9. Preface
  10. Acknowledgements
  11. Introduction
  12. Chapter 1
  13. Chapter 2
  14. Chapter 3
  15. Chapter 4
  16. Chapter 5
  17. Chapter 6
  18. Chapter 7
  19. Chapter 8
  20. Chapter 9
  21. Chapter 10
  22. Chapter 11
  23. Chapter 12
  24. Chapter 13
  25. Chapter 14
  26. Chapter 15
  27. Appendix
  28. Glossary
  29. Bibliography
  30. List of Contributors
  31. Notes

