Ava ran straight outside, the warm sunlight enveloping her as she emerged from the house. Julien, with his majestic wings, came flying to the veranda, watching her go. Ava turned back, her eyes locking onto Julien's, and smiled. She had grown fond of his wings, despite their initial intimidating appearance. The way they stretched wide, their black feathers glistening in the sunlight, made her feel a sense of wonder. She remembered the first time she saw him with wings, how scared she was. But now, she felt a sense of comfort around him. Julien was wearing black pants, nothing on top, and his black scary wings looked very scary. Still, Ava smiled at him and went away.On the way, she started thinking,
"Why did I come here to meet him?"
She remembered the time in her mind when she saw Julien sitting in the dark and crying, and he held her hand. She felt a pang of sadness, knowing how hard it must be for him to live with such a heavy heart. Ava started remembering her lonely times when she too used to hold the hand of anyone who came near her in the same way and say,
"Sit with me for a while. I want to talk."
She knew how it felt to be alone, to crave human connection.Ava knew how Julien must be feeling. Maybe he is very lonely and no one comes to him. Maybe that is why he looks so scary. She felt a sense of empathy towards him.
Thinking all this, Ava reached Hazel's house, a cozy little bungalow with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow on the comfortable furnishings. Hazel welcomed her with a big hug, and Ava felt a sense of comfort and familiarity wash over her. She often came to Hazel's house, and it was her safe haven, her escape from the chaos at home. Hazel was her best friend and confidante, always supporting her through thick and thin, never judging her.Ava had already brought all the ingredients, and she started making Pistachio Rosewater Baklava for Hazel. The aroma of pistachios and rosewater filled the air, making Hazel's mouth water. Hazel was thrilled and asked,
"What did you go there to get?"
Ava smiled mischievously, her eyes sparkling with secrets, and said,
"A surprise gift."
Hazel's curiosity was piqued, but she was happy to wait, savoring the delicious treat.As they sat in the cozy living room, surrounded by warm colors and soft cushions, Ava felt a sense of peace she rarely experienced at home. On coming home, Ava's sister Kathy taunted her, saying,
"Where was Madam, today? I have heard that you did not have any class today."
Ava replied calmly, her voice steady,
"You were there, one class today. And it was very important. It's not necessary that you know about every class."
Kathy got angry, her face reddening with rage, her eyes flashing with resentment.
"Have you forgotten who you are?"
she spat, her voice venomous. Ava ignored her, used to her sister's behavior, and went to her room, closing the door behind her. No one else noticed her arrival, and Ava had become accustomed to being invisible at home. She had turned 21, and her life was at a crossroads. She had a well-shaped body, toned from years of dancing, and looked more beautiful than ever. Her hair was a little longer than her shoulders, usually kept straight, and her light brown eyes sparkled with a hint of sadness. She was in the final year of graduation, and whatever she could do, she had to do it now. She hadn't thought about what would happen to her after this, but she knew she had to make the most of her present, to seize every opportunity that came her way.
Ava was reminiscing about all her past birthdays, a habit she had developed over time. She would often think about her life, her relationships, and her place within her family. Despite the challenges she faced at home, Ava had found solace in her friendship with Hazel. She lived her life mostly through their interactions, finding comfort in their bond.As she lay down on her bed, lost in thought, Norman's voice interrupted her reverie.
"Ava, make tea for everyone."
Ava felt a surge of resentment, wondering why she always had to be the one to do everything.
"Why? Why should I make it? There are so many servants in the house,"
she muttered under her breath. She didn't mind helping, but she hated being taken for granted. Ava's family believed she brought troubles upon herself, and even her own siblings didn't like her. Her mother, who should have been her rock, didn't show her the love and support she craved. Even her Grandpa and Grandma seemed to favor her siblings over her. Despite all this, Ava remained a good person, pursuing her passions like plays and music. She knew she had to make the most of her time, as opportunities might slip away. After a while, her aunt called her to help in the kitchen. Ava reluctantly agreed, feeling unappreciated. As she worked, she thought about Dravid's words:
"Why do you do anyone's work after hearing their two fake loving words?"
Ava realized her family only showed affection when they needed something from her. As she sat alone, eating her meal, Dravid joined her, his presence a comforting silence.
"Brother, you go; if Grandpa sees you here, then..."
Ava didn't finish the sentence, knowing it was futile. Dravid's gentle caress on her head spoke volumes. After the meal, Ava retreated to her room, pondering Dravid's words. She realized her family's behavior was inconsistent, their love conditional. Yet, she loved them and chose to ignore their flaws.
Ava's thoughts drifted to Julien, and how he had treated her with kindness, despite her initial wariness. She remembered asking him to meet again, feeling a connection she couldn't explain. As she closed her eyes, Ava smiled, hoping for a brighter future, one where she would find true acceptance and love.