Of Endings That Are Beginnings
It was New Year’s Eve. Nine-year old Ved was going to celebrate 31 st December at his friend’s house. Most of the colony’s kids were going to be there. There were supposed to be fireworks, music, dance and food for everyone. Ideally, Ved should have been excited. The party promised to be fancy and hip. But as he sat on the porch of his house, he couldn’t help but feel melancholic. Already he could hear music drifting from one of the villas in the colony. Everyone seemed to be in high spirits, welcoming the new year. Then why wasn’t he excited?! “That is a face doing some serious thinking.” His grandfather, whom he referred to as Thatha, said as he came out onto the porch and sat on one of the wicker chairs kept there. The air was chilly. He offered a cup of hot cocoa to Ved and leaned on the chair, sipping from his own cup. “What’s wrong?” Ved sighed. “Thatha, another year is ending. I am going to a party tonight. It is supposed to make me happy. But all I feel is sa...