At the bustling shopping mall, Maya and Ram set out to find clothes for Ram.Each outfit he tried on seemed to accentuate his features, and Maya, with her keen eye for fashion, meticulously picked pieces that suited him perfectly. Among their purchases was a school uniform, which fit Ram like it had been tailored just for him.
As Maya continued her shopping, she encouraged Ram to try on the uniform. "I think this will be just right for you," she said, handing him the neatly pressed attire. "Go on, give it a try while I finish up here."
Ram stepped into the fitting room, the uniform feeling slightly unfamiliar but comfortable. When he emerged, he noticed that the tie was crooked and the collar needed adjusting. A seasoned saleswoman, observing his struggle, approached with a warm smile.
"Need a hand with that tie?" she offered, her tone friendly and professional.
"Yes, please," Ram replied, grateful for the assistance.
As she deftly adjusted the tie, her eyes widened in recognition. "This uniform looks just like the one my grandson wears at Khanna University of Arts, Commerce, and Science. Do you go there, by any chance?"
Ram nodded. "Yes, I'm starting there soon."
The saleswoman's face lit up. "My grandson is a student there as well. It's quite a coincidence!"
Just as she was about to share more about her grandson, Maya appeared, her voice gently urging Ram, "We need to get going. We have another appointment to attend."
"Thank you so much for your help," Ram said to the saleswoman, who nodded with a smile.
That evening, Maya prepared a lavish dinner with a variety of delectable dishes. For Ram, it was a culinary revelation. He marveled at the food's exceptional taste and presentation.
"It looks very tasty," Ram said, thoroughly impressed. "I've never had food like this before."
Maya smiled. "You didn't get this type of food with Uncle James, did you? Don't worry, Aunt Maya will treat you better than him."
Ram smiled and tasted the food, noting both its exquisite flavor and the beautiful presentation. "It's delicious," he said appreciatively.
As they ate, Maya offered some advice. "Ram, your life in the jungle was very different from life here in Mumbai. You lived with animals, but here you need to follow social norms and show respect to others. Avoid unnecessary conflicts and be polite to your elders and teachers."
"I don't plan on fighting with anyone," Ram assured her. "I'm from the jungle, but I've been taught not to engage in disputes."
Maya nodded. "That's good. But remember, people here can be more unpredictable than animals. They might try to pick fights with you without reason. Just avoid confrontation if that happens."
"I'll do my best," Ram assured her. "I have no intention of getting into disputes. I'm ready to adapt.", continuing to enjoy his meal. Maya watched him with a smile, pleased with his understanding.
The following morning, Ram began his day with his usual routine of exercise and meditation. After a refreshing shower and a worship ritual for Lord Shiva, he dressed in his new clothes and joined Maya at the breakfast table.
Maya handed him an old Android phone. "This phone has my contact information saved on it. If you need anything or just want to reach out, you can call me."
Ram accepted the phone gratefully. "Thank you, Aunt Maya. I appreciate it."
She also gave him a purse with some money. "Here's some money for your personal use. You can spend it as you need."
After breakfast, Maya drove him to Khanna University of Arts, Commerce, and Science. At the front gate, Ram looked back at her with a mix of apprehension and anticipation.
"Good luck, Ram," Maya said, her voice encouraging. "You'll do great."
"Thanks, Aunt Maya," Ram replied, stepping out of the jeep. "I'll see you later."
As Maya drove away, Ram took a deep breath, his heart pounding with the excitement of new beginnings. With a determined stride, he entered the college, ready to embrace the next chapter of his life.
Maya arrived at the HK Group of Companies, a towering edifice symbolizing power and influence. She took the elevator to the top floor, her mind focused and determined. As she entered the office, she used her pass card with practiced ease. The room was bathed in natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a warm glow on the figure seated behind the desk.
Harikrishna was standing by the window, his gaze lost in the sprawling cityscape below. He was deep in thought, a hint of contemplation etched into his features. When Maya entered, he turned, acknowledging her with a nod.
"Is everything going well?" Harikrishna asked, his voice carrying a tone of calm assurance.
Maya, confident and composed, replied, "Of course. What could go wrong with me handling things?"
On the desk, a nameplate read Harikrishna. The name was a testament to the man's influence and authority.
Harikrishna gestured to a nearby chair, inviting Maya to sit. As she did, he continued, "How is the child doing?"
Maya's face softened. "He's a nice boy—completely different from his father in nature. He has the same kindness and sweetness as his mother. But when it comes to skills, he's not inferior to his father. Given the right opportunities, he could even surpass him."
Harikrishna leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful. "Have you told him about his past or his parents?"
Maya shook her head. "No. I don't want him to be burdened by sorrow. Revealing the past might make him unhappy, and I prefer to shield him from that pain for as long as possible."
Harikrishna's eyes narrowed slightly as he considered her words. "One cannot escape their destiny, Maya. No matter how much we try to protect them, reality has a way of catching up. It is not our job to shield them forever, but to prepare them to face what comes with strength and resilience. We must guide them with wisdom and allow them to confront their destiny when the time is right."
Maya nodded, understanding the weight of Harikrishna's words. "I'll take care of him," she assured him, her voice resolute. "You can count on me."
Harikrishna's expression softened into a smile. "Good. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. We must help him recognize his own strength and potential. Encourage him to strive for greatness, to see setbacks as stepping stones, and to never shy away from facing the truth."
Maya nodded thoughtfully. "I'll remember that."
Harikrishna then changed the subject. "Do you have any information on James? His whereabouts?"
Maya's expression turned serious. "After he entrusted the child to us, he disappeared without a trace. We know he was closest to Ram's father, and his skills were second only to Ram's father. If he wishes to remain hidden, no one can find him."
Harikrishna smiled faintly. "James is a shadowy figure who values his anonymity. For now, let him be. If you hear anything about him, let me know immediately. His skills and loyalty might be needed in the future."
"Understood," Maya said, rising from her seat. "I'll keep you informed."
As Maya left, Harikrishna's thoughts turned inward. He gazed out at the city below, reflecting on the future of the child and the challenges that lay ahead. I hope Ram enjoys his life to the fullest while he can. The path may be fraught with obstacles, but each step forward is a testament to one's courage and spirit. It is in the moments of struggle that true character is forged.
With that thought, Harikrishna turned back to his work, ready to face the challenges and opportunities that awaited.