Beyond The Pain

Ash Verse

Inspirational Thriller Others

Ash Verse

Inspirational Thriller Others

44 mins

childhood trauma patriarchy resilience family secrets

Introduction:

The story begins by describing Anni's difficult childhood, where she was unwanted and belittled by her parents. She suffered bullying and isolation in school, which led to her craving a son. Despite her efforts to prove herself as a good wife, her husband's affections turned to their daughter, causing Anni to feel disappointed and enraged. The situation escalates when Anni escapes with her child and seeks support from her uncle, who helps her rebuild her life. However, her husband reappears, demanding dire consequences for their daughter, which ultimately leads to Anni taking her own life and leaving her child behind.

The story explores themes of trauma, resilience, and the devastating impact of patriarchal expectations on women's lives. The handwriting is clear and legible, making it easy to follow the narrative. The background of the image features a colorful fabric with a mix of red, yellow, and green hues, adding a pop of color to the overall scene. The green cloth beneath the paper provides a subtle contrast to the vibrant background.

Genera: Psychology thriller, Leberty friction, women friction

Prologue :

"On August 15th,when India celebrates its independence day, a girl named Aanvi was born. "

"While India was rejoicing its freedom, Aanvi's life was about to begin a struggle that would take away the meaning of independence from her life."

Have you ever think about that Aanvi's birth coincided with Indians freedom celebration but her would take different path. While India danced to the rythum of free,Aanvi's life was about to take a turn that would test her struggle strength and resilience.

Just think that, "what struggle would Aanvi face in her life, and would she navigate the complexity of growing up in a world that celebrates freedom, yet bound her with it's own expectations?"

"Let us uncover the truth... Come, let us discover the secrets that lie within Aanvi's story. The journey begins now, as we delve into the depths of her struggles and the darkness that surrounds her."

" To be continued "

Chapter 1:

"Shadow's of Betrayal"

"Bound by tradition and expectation, Aanvi's parents longed for a son to carry their legacy forward. But fate had other plans. When their daughter was born, they struggled to accept her, their hearts heavy with disappointment. Though they kept her by their side, Aanvi grew up in a silence that spoke volumes – a silence of unspoken love, of unmet emotional needs, of a childhood spent searching for validation in eyes that seemed to look right through her."

"A life lived in the shadows of what could have been, where love was a distant echo, and acceptance a luxury she could hardly afford."

"Eight winters have come and gone, yet Aanvi's heart remains frozen in time. A silent, broken soul, she navigates the world with eyes that once sparkled with innocence, now dimmed by the weight of unspoken pain. She doesn't know the warmth of love, the comfort of gentle words, or the safety of unconditional acceptance. Her world is one of quiet desperation, where smiles are rare and tears are hidden."

"A childhood lost in the shadows, where love's absence has become her only truth."

Just think, "What will be the long-term impact of Aanvi's unfulfilled emotional needs on her relationships and self-perception as she grows older?"

"As Aanvi navigates the shadows of her past, the weight of her unfulfilled emotional needs threatens to define her future. Will she find the strength to break free, or will the darkness consume her?"

"Let's uncover the truth..."

" To be continued"

Chapter 2:

"The Dark Turn"

As time passed, and Aanvi reached the eighth grade. Despite her growth, she remained introverted, struggling to make friends due to the societal barriers of her caste. Now, at twelve years old, she faced a new, humiliating challenge.

As she stood up to answer a question in class, her skirt was stained, visible to everyone. The other children erupted into laughter, their cruel taunts cutting deep into her soul. The teacher's call to her parents only added to her trauma, as they refused to acknowledge her pain, ignoring the phone call.

Aanvi spent the rest of the day locked away, unable to face the world. She returned home, her heart heavy with shame. But instead of comfort, her parents' response was one of anger and blame. The next day, when her father took her to school, the ridicule continued, and his anger boiled over.

The outcome was devastating: Aanvi was pulled out of school, forced into a life of domestic drudgery. Her days blurred together in a haze of chores and silence. Yet, despite everything, the lessons she had learned remained etched in her mind. She was a bright student, but fate had other plans.

And so, Aanvi's story took a dark turn, one that would shape her future in ways she could never have imagined.

"What challenges and difficulties might Aanvi be facing??" just think about it.

To be continued......

Chapter 3

"The Unbearable Loss"

As the days went by, Anvi's mother's health took a devastating turn... She was standing on the terrace, chatting with the neighbors, when she suddenly collapsed... The neighbors rushed to Subhash, their voices filled with panic... 'Shubhangi has fallen!'...

He scooped her up and rushed her to the hospital, his heart racing with every passing moment... The doctor's words cut like a knife... 'It's a serious case... we need to admit her to the ICU immediately...'

The waiting room was shrouded in an unbearable silence... The weight of uncertainty hung heavy in the air... And then, the doctor emerged, his face etched with sorrow... 'I'm so sorry... we did everything we could... but it was too late... She had dengue, and it had taken its toll...'

The words hung in the air like a cruel taunt... The silence that followed was deafening... The loss, overwhelming..."

The air was heavy with grief as everyone around him wept, and Subhash's heart felt like it was shattering into a million pieces. The ground beneath his feet seemed to crumble, leaving him standing on the edge of despair. When Anvi learned of her mother's passing, her eyes welled up with tears, despite the lack of love from her mother. The pain was palpable.

As Subhash carried Shubhangi's lifeless body to the cremation grounds, the village was consumed by an unbearable sorrow. The flames that took Shubhangi's body away seemed to devour a part of Subhash's soul. Anvi watched, frozen in grief, as her mother's body was reduced to ashes.

In a voice that cracked with emotion, Subhash turned to Anvi and revealed the painful truth: "I never wanted you. Society's expectations forced me to accept you and your mother. Now, she's gone, and my family can't bear the burden of raising you."

Anvi's uncle, Sham, stepped forward, his voice calm but firm: "Let's not make a scene here. Let's talk about this at home." But Subhash's pain and anger boiled over: "No, I'll tell everyone the truth. I was forced to accept you, Anvi, because of societal pressures. Now, with my wife gone, I don't want to see your shadow, a constant reminder of the tyranny that tore my family apart."

With those words, Sham took Anvi away, leaving Subhash consumed by his grief and guilt.

But the question remains: Were Anvi's uncle's intentions pure, or was he hiding his own demons? Only time will tell.

To Be continued....

Chapter 4

"A Web of Mystery"

When Anvi stepped into her uncle's house, she was enveloped in a warm, loving atmosphere that felt like a big hug! Everything was so different from what she was used to, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and wonder. The way everyone looked at her with kindness and curiosity made her feel special. And what really caught her attention was the way boys and girls were treated equally, without any bias or distinction - it was truly refreshing!

"Anvi, beta, come, let's get you settled in," her grandmother said, leading her to a cozy room. "How are you doing, dear? It's been tough for you, I know."

"Mummy ji, I'm...I'm trying to process everything," Anvi replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's just that...Mummy was...and now she's..."

"Shh, beta, don't think about that right now," her uncle, Mama, said gently. "You're safe here. We'll take care of you."

But as her grandmother emerged from the house, sweets in hand, to welcome her with a warm smile, Anvi's mind began to wander to her mother... The same roots, the same beginnings, yet her mother's story was shrouded in mystery. A faint whisper in the back of her mind seemed to echo: "Something doesn't add up... there's more to the story than meets the eye."

"Nani, can I ask you something?" Anvi said, looking at her grandmother with curious eyes.

"Of course, beta, what is it?" her grandmother replied, her eyes filled with warmth.

"Tell me about Mummy's life...before she married Papa," Anvi asked, her voice filled with a mix of curiosity and trepidation.

Her grandmother's expression changed, and for a moment, Anvi saw a flicker of something in her eyes...something that looked like a mix of sadness and secrets.

"Let's talk about that later, beta," her grandmother said softly. "For now, let's just focus on getting you settled in and comfortable."

The sweetness of the welcome couldn't shake off the feeling that there were secrets lurking in the shadows, waiting to be uncovered...

"To be continued"

Chapter 5:

"The Unspoken Anguish"

"When morning dawned, Aanvi's uncle gently asked, his voice laced with warmth and concern, 'Didn't you bring your school clothes? Go change, and I'll drop you off.' Aanvi's soft voice replied, trembling with vulnerability and a hint of desperation, 'No, I didn't bring them.' The words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of her unspoken struggles. Her uncle's tone turned soothing, 'It's alright, dear, don't go today. I'll pick up your clothes from your father's house by evening.'

"But Aanvi's words poured out like a dam breaking, a torrent of emotions that had been bottled up for far too long. 'You'll bring them, but you don't know... I've been out of school for two years. My parents took me out.' Her voice cracked with anguish, and her eyes welled up with tears that seemed to hold a thousand unspoken sorrows. Her uncle's curiosity was piqued, 'Why? What happened?' he asked, his voice filled with empathy and a deep-seated desire to understand.

"Aanvi's voice shook with raw emotion, each word a testament to the pain and frustration that had been building inside her. 'I'm trapped at home, doing chores all day - sweeping, mopping, cooking. My parents don't understand me. They wake me up early, forcing me to work like a servant.' Her words were laced with a deep-seated sadness, a sense of longing for a childhood she never got to have. 'Every mother supports her child, but mine... she just doesn't care.' The words cut deep, revealing the aching emptiness in Aanvi's heart.

"As she spoke, her voice trembled with a mix of anger, hurt, and despair. 'I'm a girl, just like any other, I want to go to school, to dream, to live. But my life has been ridiculed, my aspirations shattered.' The pain in her voice was palpable, a reminder of the countless dreams she'd had to sacrifice. Her uncle's eyes dropped, avoiding the piercing gaze of Aanvi's tears, which seemed to hold a deep-seated question: 'Why didn't my parents love me enough to let me be a child?'

"The conversation ended abruptly, with her uncle's words feeling like a dismissal of her pain. 'Don't ask about your mother, Aanvi. We have no answers. You've been up early, go rest.' But Aanvi knew that rest wouldn't come easily, for the wounds she'd revealed would take a lifetime to heal. The silence that followed was oppressive, a heavy blanket that suffocated the room, leaving Aanvi feeling more alone than ever."

When Aanvi asked why her mother, who comes from the same background, thinks differently, a question arose in her mind:

"Why did her uncle forbid her from asking anyone about her mother?"

This question now hangs in her mind, unanswered.

" To Be Continued "

Chapter 6:

"The Haunting Nightmare "

Aanvi was fast asleep when her mother's haunting words pierced her soul, echoing with venom and resentment. "You're the reason for my suffering. I'm glad you're here. When the doctor said 'Congratulations, it's a girl,' I felt like I'd been stained by your existence. If I had known you were coming, I'd have ended you before you took your first breath."

Aanvi jolted awake, her heart racing with terror. She let out a blood-curdling scream as her grandmother rushed to her side, concern etched on her face.

"Shh, my child, don't cry. What's wrong?" her grandmother asked, her voice soothing Aanvi's frazzled nerves.

Aanvi trembled, "Grandma, I had a terrible nightmare."

Her grandmother's gentle tone put her at ease. "Okay, what did you dream? You seem very scared. If you're comfortable, you can tell me."

Aanvi hesitated, "I want to tell you, but I don't have the courage."

Her grandmother's warmth and kindness reassured her. "Don't worry, tonight you'll sleep with me, and I'll make something for you."

As they sat down to eat, Aanvi's voice was barely audible. "Grandma, today for the first time someone hugged me, fed me, and gave me a bed to sleep in. Otherwise, I was always treated poorly."

Her grandmother listened attentively, her eyes filled with compassion.

In a mysterious voice:

_Why do her uncle and grandmother seem so reluctant to talk about

her mother?_

A question that lingered in Aanvi's mind, shrouded in mystery and unspoken words

" To Be continued "

Chapter 7:

"Climbing Towards Strength"

As Aanvi stepped into the garden with her grandmother, her eyes widened with wonder. The mango trees stood tall, their branches heavy with juicy fruit that seemed to beckon her. "How do I get to eat these?" Aanvi asked, her curiosity piqued. Her grandmother's response surprised her: "You have to climb the tree." Aanvi's heart skipped a beat. Could she really do it? Would she be able to navigate the rough bark and tangled branches?

Her grandmother's encouraging smile gave her the courage to take the first step. Aanvi grasped the trunk, feeling the rough texture beneath her hands, and began to climb. The branches creaked beneath her feet, and the wind rustled her hair, carrying the sweet scent of ripe mangoes. She plucked a few and held them tight, feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over her. For a moment, she forgot about her fears and doubts.

But as she began her descent, Aanvi's confidence wavered. The tree seemed taller than before, and the ground farther away. She struggled to find her footing, her hands trembling as she searched for handholds. Suddenly, her foot slipped, and she tumbled to the ground, skinning her knee. Pain shot through her leg, and tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.

Her grandmother's words echoed in her mind: "You'll learn from your mistakes." Aanvi looked up at her grandmother, who was watching her with a mix of concern and understanding. Slowly, Aanvi got to her feet, brushing off the dirt and assessing the damage. Her knee throbbed, but she knew it was a small price to pay for the lesson she was learning.

As Aanvi reflected on her life, she realized that she had already faced many challenges. She had been through tough times, and her experiences had shaped her into the person she was today. But with her grandmother's guidance, she began to see that she could rise above her struggles. Together, they worked on building Aanvi's strength and resilience, exploring ways to nourish her body and mind.

Aanvi's determination grew with each passing day. She practiced climbing trees, learned new skills, and discovered hidden strengths within herself. And though she still faced obstacles, she knew that she had the support of her grandmother and her own growing confidence.

As Aanvi looked up at her grandmother, she felt a sense of gratitude and admiration. Her grandmother had become more than just a family member; she was a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration. Aanvi knew that she still had a long way to go, but with her grandmother by her side, she felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

"To Be Continued"

Chapter 8:

"Aanvi's Unexpected Encounter"

One day, while Aanvi was playing with her friends in the lush green fields near her village, a furious bull suddenly appeared out of nowhere. Its eyes fixed intently on the group, and everyone panicked, running away in all directions. However, in the chaos, Aanvi's leg hit a stone, causing her to stumble and fall. The bull charged towards her, its horns gleaming in the sunlight. But Aanvi quickly got up and started running for her life. Though she managed to escape the bull's deadly horns, she didn't notice where she was going in her panic.

Exhausted and injured, Aanvi finally stopped running and looked around, realizing she was lost. The familiar surroundings of her village were nowhere in sight. She asked people around her if they knew where she was, but no one seemed to recognize the place either. Just as she was starting to worry, an old man appeared out of the crowd. He offered to escort her home, claiming he was headed in the same direction. Aanvi was skeptical, wondering how he knew her destination without her telling him.

"How do you know where I live?" Aanvi asked, her voice laced with suspicion.

"I know these parts like the back of my hand," the old man replied with a warm smile. "I can take you home safely."

Aanvi wasn't convinced, but she had no other option. She decided to trust him, at least for the time being. Just as the old man was about to reveal something important, a crowd gathered around them, and he said, "Let's get out of here first, and then I'll explain everything."

After they moved away from the crowd, Aanvi asked him to explain. The old man gestured towards a bus that was pulling up to the stop and said, "Let's catch that bus. We can talk on the way."

As they boarded the bus, Aanvi was puzzled by the old man's actions. She couldn't understand why he was being so secretive. The bus ride was long, and Aanvi's mind was filled with questions. When their stop arrived, the old man started talking to someone else, and Aanvi thanked him, deciding to continue her journey alone.

The Mystery Remains

Aanvi couldn't shake off the feeling that the old man was mysterious. She wondered who he was and why he had helped her. The encounter left her with more questions than answers, and she couldn't stop thinking about it. Was he a guardian angel, or was there something more to his actions?

The intriguing part is that who those old uncles were has now become a mystery for Aanvi and... for you as well.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 9

The Secret Legacy

One day, Aanvi found herself lost in thought, wondering why her grandparents had never spoken about her Nana or shown her any pictures of him. She had always felt a void in her life, not knowing much about her father's side of the family. Just as she was lost in thought, her grandmother called her downstairs for lunch.

"Aanvi, come down for lunch," her grandmother said, her voice warm and inviting.

Aanvi joined the family, exchanged greetings, and began eating. However, her curiosity got the better of her, and she asked her grandmother about her Nana.

"Nani, why haven't you ever told me about Nana?" Aanvi asked, her eyes filled with curiosity.

Her grandmother's demeanor changed instantly. "Let's not talk about this now, beta," she said, her voice laced with discomfort.

Aanvi's mama advised her not to bring up the topic again, but Aanvi couldn't help asking why her mama had never married.

"Mama, why haven't you ever married?" Aanvi asked, her voice filled with genuine concern.

Her mama's reaction was unexpected; he seemed taken aback and left the table abruptly.

Frustration and Confusion

Aanvi felt frustrated and confused. She wondered why everyone was being so secretive about her Nana and her family's past. She decided to retreat to her room, overwhelmed by unanswered questions.

As she lay in bed, Aanvi's thoughts drifted to the mysterious old man who had escorted her home. She still had no idea who he was or why he had helped her.

A New Twist

Just as Aanvi was about to drift off to sleep, she noticed smoke filling her room. She quickly realized that the gas stove might ave been left on. Her grandmother, who was out with her mama, rushed back home, and they managed to rescue Aanvi.

The old man reappeared, claiming to be a friend of Aanvi's Nana. "I'm a friend of your Nana's," he said, his voice filled with a mix of warmth and caution.

However, he refused to reveal more about her Nana's whereabouts or his own connection to the family. "I can't tell you more about your Nana," he said firmly.

Aanvi was both grateful and puzzled by his actions. "Who are you, really?" she asked, her eyes locked on his.

The old man smiled and said, "That's not important right now. What's important is that you're safe."

The Mystery Remains

Aanvi was relieved to have some answers, but many questions still lingered. Who was the old man, really? Why had he helped her? And what secrets was her family hiding?

As Aanvi navigated this complex web of secrets and mysteries, she began to realize that the truth might be more complicated than she had ever imagined. With each new revelation, more questions arose, and Aanvi's determination to uncover the truth grew stronger.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 10

The Grandfather's Enigma

One day, Aanvi sat in her room, lost in thought. She couldn't shake off the feeling of curiosity that had been plaguing her for a while. Her grandfather's friend had visited her recently, but when she asked him about her past, he had refused to tell her anything. Specifically, she wanted to know why they had come to save her, but he had remained tight-lipped.

Aanvi thought about it day and night, her mind racing with questions. She was eager to know more about her mother and grandfather, but no one seemed willing to share any information with her. Her grandfather's friend had also refused to reveal the truth about their intentions, leaving Aanvi with more questions than answers.

Just then, her grandmother entered the room, concern etched on her face. "What's wrong, beta?" she asked, using a term of endearment. Aanvi looked up, her eyes searching for answers. "If you don't tell me about my mother and grandfather, how can I know anything?" she replied, her voice laced with frustration.

Her grandmother's expression softened, and she asked Aanvi what she wanted to know about her grandfather. Aanvi's eyes lit up with curiosity. "Can you show me what he looked like?" she asked, her voice filled with longing.

Her grandmother nodded and took Aanvi to another room. She opened an almirah and searched for something, her hands moving carefully through the contents. After a few moments, she pulled out a framed picture and handed it to Aanvi. "This is your grandfather," she said, her voice gentle.

Aanvi's eyes widened as she took in the image. She became silent, her gaze fixed on the picture. "Who is this?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Her grandmother confirmed that it was indeed her grandfather.

Aanvi was about to ask another question when her grandmother interrupted her. "That's enough, Aanvi. I can't show or tell you anything more," she said firmly. "Seeing your grandfather's picture will have to be enough for you." With that, she turned and left for the kitchen, leaving Aanvi alone with her thoughts.

Aanvi's eyes remained fixed on the picture, her mind reeling with questions. She felt stunned, as if she had been struck by lightning. The image in the picture seemed to hold secrets and stories that she was desperate to uncover. Who was this person, and why did Aanvi's reaction to seeing him seem so profound?

To Be Continued

Chapter 11 :

"The Transfer"

Time passed, and Aanvi's curiosity about the photo grew stronger. She wanted to find out more about it. She quietly went to her grandmother's room and started searching for the photo. She looked everywhere, but it was nowhere to be found. Just as she was about to leave, she saw the wrapper on the bed. She was about to pick it up when her uncle came home, speaking loudly.

Aanvi quickly left the room and pretended to come out of the washroom. She didn't want to get caught searching for the photo. She walked out and saw her uncle and grandmother talking. Her uncle looked very happy, and Aanvi was curious. She asked, "Uncle, what's happening? You seem very happy today!"

Her grandmother also asked, "Yes, beta, what's going on?" Her uncle smiled and said, "I have some great news! My transfer has been approved!" Aanvi and her grandmother were surprised. They both exclaimed, "What?!"

Aanvi asked, "Where is your transfer, uncle?" Her uncle hesitated for a moment before saying, "London." Aanvi's eyes lit up with excitement. She loved the idea of going to a new place. But her grandmother didn't seem happy. She went to her room without saying a word.

Aanvi noticed that her grandmother was upset. She asked her uncle, "What's wrong with grandma?" Her uncle said, "Nothing, Aanvi. Let's focus on packing. We have to leave in a week." Aanvi was excited about the trip, but she was also worried about her school. She asked, "What about my school, uncle? You were looking for a school for me here."

Her uncle reassured her, "Don't worry, Aanvi. You'll study in London, and you'll go to a good school there." Aanvi felt happy and relieved. She thought that maybe this change would be good for her. But she didn't know what the future held. Would her life get more exciting, or would things calm down? Only time would tell.

Aanvi's mind was filled with questions and excitement. She couldn't wait to see what London had in store for her. Would she make new friends? Would she like her new school? The possibilities were endless, and Aanvi felt a sense of adventure wash over her.

"To Be Continued"

Chapter 12:

"Unpacking Dreams: A Family's London Odyssey"

The moment of departure for London had finally arrived, and Aanvi was both happy and sad. She was excited about the new adventure, but she was also going to miss her home and the memories she had made there. She thought about how her grandmother had made her strong and taught her what a family was and how to stand up for herself.

As they were about to leave, the car arrived to take them to the airport. Aanvi's uncle was worried about her grandmother, who had gone to her room without saying a word after hearing about their trip to London. Aanvi shared her thoughts with her uncle, who reassured her that everything would be okay.

Her uncle told her that fate had brought them together, and they would always be connected, no matter where they were. Aanvi felt comforted by his words, but she was still concerned about her grandmother not coming downstairs.

When they went to her grandmother's room, they found her lying on the bed in an unusual position, with one hand hanging out of the blanket and the other on the floor. Aanvi was shocked and cried out, thinking something was wrong with her grandmother. Her uncle was devastated, thinking his mother had passed away.

However, Aanvi's grandmother suddenly sat up and slapped the air, revealing that she was alive. She told them that the hand on the floor was a fake one, and there had been a misunderstanding. Aanvi's uncle asked her why she wasn't getting ready to leave with them, but she refused, saying she wouldn't be able to make it.

Aanvi and her uncle pleaded with her to come along, but she insisted that she would meet them later. With heavy hearts, they left for the airport, leaving Aanvi's grandmother behind. Aanvi was a little sad that her grandmother wasn't coming with them, but she was also excited about their new adventure.

As they reached the airport, Aanvi couldn't help but think about her grandmother and the strange scene that had unfolded in her room. She was grateful for the love and care she had received from her grandmother and uncle, and she knew that they would always be there for her, no matter what.

They finally arrived in London, and Aanvi was thrilled to be experiencing her first time at an airport. She was beaming with joy as she exclaimed, "Everything is so wonderful, but I wish my grandmother was here with us. It would have been so much fun!" Her uncle smiled and replied, "Yes, but your grandmother said she would join us when we go back to India for vacation. We'll make sure to bring her along then." Aanvi laughed at her uncle's words and teased him about being funny. Her uncle chuckled and said, "If seeing your smile is what it takes, I'd do anything and be anything, even if it's just being funny."

As they exited the airport, they were greeted by a man holding a board with Sham's name on it. He introduced himself as the person sent to receive them and handed Sham a bouquet of flowers and some chocolates for Aanvi. He showed them around, pointing out various shops, including a market, dairy shop, medical store, hospital, and daily grocery stores. Sham asked about the location of his office, and the man replied that it was near their house. He also mentioned that Aanvi's school was one of the best in the area and that the company would cover the school fees.

After a short drive, they arrived at Sham's office and Aanvi's school. Both looked impressive, with Sham's office having a beautiful marble design and Aanvi's school having a classic and cozy vibe. After a while, Sham asked about their house, and the man replied that they had already arrived. He handed Sham the keys and told them to rest and unpack, as they had a big day ahead of them. Sham would have a meeting with his boss at 7 am the next day, and Aanvi would have a test at school.

As they entered their house, they were impressed by its beauty and coziness. Sham thanked the man for his help and asked Aanvi to help the helpers with unpacking. After a tiring day, they decided to call it a day and rest. Aanvi was exhausted but happy, and she went to bed feeling grateful for this new chapter in her life.

Sham would be starting his job at the office in 10 days, and Aanvi would be starting school on the same day. Sham had a meeting with his boss the next day and Aanvi's test was the day after tomorrow.

To Be Continued

Chapter 13:

"The New Beginnig"

The next morning, Sham woke up feeling refreshed and said, "Wow, I had a great sleep. What time is it?" He looked at the clock and saw it was 5:58. He said, "Oh man, it's almost 6 o'clock. I have a 7 am meeting, and I still need to get breakfast for Aanvi and do some household chores. I hope I'm not late."

He went to Aanvi's room and knocked on the door, but there was no response. He thought she might be in the washroom, so he knocked again, but still, there was no answer. He opened the door and found that Aanvi was not in her room. He got a bit worried and thought maybe she was downstairs. When he went downstairs, he found Aanvi sleeping on the sofa. He picked her up and took her to her bedroom, laid her down, and covered her with a blanket. He said, "She looks even more adorable when she's sleeping."

Then, he went to take a bath and started getting ready for his office. He made a delicious breakfast for Aanvi, which she loved. After finishing all the household chores, he left a note for Aanvi and went to office. He reached the office at 6:47 am, and his driver was waiting for him. He went straight to his boss's cabin for a 7 am meeting.

His boss, Mr. Roy, said, "I know you know how much time is worth. You're right on time for the meeting." Sham felt relieved that his first impression was good.

Meanwhile, Aanvi woke up and started looking for her mama. Then, she remembered that he had left for office. She found a note on the dining table that said:

"Dear Aanvi, Good morning! Hope you had a great sleep . I had a meeting at 7 am, so I had to leave for office. Please have breakfast, and don't forget to lock the main door properly. I'll take you out for lunch and dinner today. Be ready by 3 pm. Your school magazine is on the dining table. Read it, it's good for your English. Love, Mama."

Aanvi read the note and thought, "Oh yeah, Mama had a meeting today." She brushed her teeth, took a bath, and went to the home temple to pray. Then, she had breakfast while reading her favorite book, "The Word Will Change". She was on page 105 and read two paragraphs that caught her attention:

"A woman is not just a physical entity; she's a symbol of humanity that has supported men throughout history, faced challenges, and given energy to their lives."

"A woman is life-giving energy for men. Sacrifice is her duty, tolerance is her pledge, and love is her life."

The author of the book became her favorite, and she wondered why not all men think like him. She became curious to know more about the author and found out that his name was Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya.

After reading the book, Aanvi closed it and put her plate in the sink. Then, she started reading the school magazine, which she loved. At 3 pm, she got ready, and her mama came to pick her up.When she sat in the car, her mama asked her, "Did you have a good breakfast?" Aanvi replied, "Yes, Mama." And then her mama asked her what didpm, Aanvi said, "I was reading my favorite book, 'The World Will Change'." The author of that book was very inspiring, meaning that after reading that book, I was thinking that some men can think like this about women, and all women should read these thoughts, and I will spread this idea far and wide. They went out for lunch, had some street food, and spent time together. In the evening, they had dinner and came back home. They said goodnight to each other and went to sleep.

Then her mama remembered that Aanvi had a test tomorrow and went to her room and said, "Aanvi, you have a test tomorrow, and Principal Sir will be taking it, so you need to wake up at 6 am tomorrow." Hearing this, Aanvi's good sleep vanished, and she spent the whole night thinking about it, feeling tense and a bit restless.

Will Aanvi be able to answer their questions, and which section will she be assigned to?

"To Be Continued"

Chapter 14:

Facing Fears, Finding Strengths

After a whole night of thinking, the morning arrived, and Aanvi's tension and anxiety increased even more.

"Oh dear, that day has finally arrived," she thought to herself. "I wish it wasn't morning today. I wish it was the day after tomorrow."

Just then, her uncle saw her and said, "What's wrong, kiddo? Why are you taking so long? Be confident. It doesn't matter which section you're in. You just focus on your studies. If you do well, you'll get promoted. And once you're in a good section, don't mess it up, okay? Now, get ready and tie your hair up in a ponytail nicely."

Aanvi said, "But I got a cut on my hand yesterday. How can I tie my hair up? When did I get it?"

"I got it when we were having dinner and I bumped into the table," she replied.

"Oh, it's okay. Get ready, and I'll make your ponytail for you," her uncle said.

Her uncle warned her, "Don't say those silly things to the principal that you're thinking, like 'I wish it wasn't morning today' and all that."

Aanvi smiled and said, "I know that, uncle."

A few minutes later, Aanvi got ready and went downstairs. She asked her uncle, "How do I look?"

Her uncle had said that earlier because it was the first time she was wearing her school dress. When her uncle saw her, he said, "Wow, Aanvi, you look so beautiful." And indeed, she looked cute and beautiful in her school dress.

Then Aanvi asked, "Uncle, weren't you going to make my ponytail?"

Her uncle replied, "Yes, why not, my princess?"

But when Aanvi heard "princess," she said, "No, I'm not a princess. I hate princesses, and I love Avengers."

When she got ready, her mom made her ponytail, and then she went to see herself. As soon as she saw herself, she started trembling. She remembered everything that had happened earlier, and her clothes were stained. Just then, her mom saw her and rushed to her side. She calmed her down, hugged her, and told her not to worry. She explained that it was just a stain and that it would come off easily. Aanvi calmed down a bit, but she was still scared. Her mom reassured her and told her that they had to leave for school soon.

As they were about to leave, Aanvi's mom took the car keys and went outside. Aanvi followed her and stood in front of the mirror, adjusting her clothes. Then she got into the car with her mom and headed to school. When they reached the school, Aanvi's mom said, "Look, your school is here." Aanvi looked at the school and got lost in thought. Her mom thought that she might be excited to see the school after so many years, but Aanvi was actually remembering her past experiences.

Aanvi's mom noticed that her hands were shaking and realized that Aanvi's bad memories were resurfacing. She took Aanvi's hand and told her to take deep breaths. Aanvi did as she was told, and then they got out of the car. As they were walking towards the school, some children ran past them, shouting and laughing. Aanvi's mom went ahead, but Aanvi stopped for a moment, looking at the crowd.

Her mom came back and took her hand, telling her to forget about the past for now. Aanvi nodded, and they went to the principal's office. The principal asked Aanvi to introduce herself, and she did so confidently in English. Mr. Sham also introduced himself, and then they asked Aanvi why she had chosen that school. Aanvi explained her reasons, and they also asked her about her favorite activities. Aanvi told them that she loved reading books and shared some of her thoughts.

The principal was impressed with Aanvi's introduction and thoughts, and as a result, she was assigned to Section A. The principal told her that she would have to share her thoughts for five minutes whenever she joined the school. Aanvi agreed, and her mama gave her a treat for lunch. As they left the school, Aanvi's mama and Mr. Sham were both happy with the way things had gone on the first day.

To be continued...

Chapter 15

The Missing Piece

The next morning, Aanvi woke up, made her bed, and headed to the washroom to brush her teeth. After brushing and bathing, she went downstairs because she was hungry. She realized her uncle (mama) wasn’t there, so she went to his room and found him sleeping. She thought it was unusual for him to sleep in so late. Suddenly, his arm fell limp, startling her. Cautiously, she approached him and checked his breathing.

Just then, he woke up, saw her face, and burst out laughing. “Aanvi, I’m alive, you silly girl!”

Aanvi looked a bit embarrassed. “Uncle, you never sleep this late. What happened today?”

“Well,” he replied, “I had a late meeting last night and didn’t get a chance to eat when I got home. Never mind, let’s have breakfast and grab some groceries later. I’ll get ready.”

Aanvi agreed and headed out to the garden for a walk while waiting for him.

Then she saw a family of three — a mother, father, and their little girl — sitting outside their house, enjoying breakfast. The mother fed her daughter by hand, and the father pampered her. At that moment, Aanvi felt that no matter how much love anyone gave her, it could never match the love of a mother and father. Her own life felt incomplete. Thoughts of her past and old wounds surfaced. Her mother had left this world, and even when alive, she never truly loved her. Her father had cut ties. Tears filled Aanvi’s eyes, and she walked away with a heavy heart to her room, locking the door behind her.

Her uncle stood there for a while, wondering why she had run away. “I’m hungry,” he thought. Then he went inside and knocked on the door.

“Yes, uncle?” came her muffled voice.

“What’s wrong, beta? Won’t you eat?” he asked.

“No, I don’t feel like it. Please get some food for me, but leave me alone for now, please,” Aanvi replied.

She had spoken very rudely to him. After a while, she thought to herself, I shouldn’t have spoken to uncle like that. She went downstairs and waited. As soon as he arrived, she planned to apologize, but found him sleeping on the sofa. She gently woke him up.

“You left the room. How are you feeling?” he asked.

“I’m feeling good. Sorry, I shouldn’t have spoken to you like that,” she said.

“It’s okay. Sometimes frustration gets the better of us, and you were upset too,” he replied.

“Hmm... but weren’t you supposed to go out for food?” she asked.

“What kind of talk is this? How can I go without my partner in crime?” he teased.

Aanvi smiled. “Alright, let’s go now.”

After finishing their meal, they decided to head home and pick up groceries on the way. In the car, Aanvi felt a bit better. Her uncle asked what had been bothering her. She opened up, sharing that she had seen a lovely family earlier, and the way they showered their daughter with love had struck a chord. She realized that no one could give her the kind of love her parents could, and it had left her emotional.

Her uncle listened attentively and reassured her that he and her nani loved her dearly. But Aanvi pointed out that their love, though strong, couldn’t replace her parents’ love. Her uncle smiled and jokingly offered to be both her mom and dad, making her laugh uncontrollably. When he asked why she was laughing so hard, she teased him, and he ended up laughing too, commenting that her mind was working overtime.

They reached home, and Aanvi went to her room to rest. Her uncle went to freshen up and start work. Later, Aanvi went to the kitchen to grab a snack, and the sound of a plate falling echoed. Her uncle immediately went to see what happened and found that she had accidentally dropped it.

“I just came to get a snack,” she explained.

He gave her noodles and reminded her to behave, saying her high school was starting the next day.

“Tomorrow is the 10th already? How did time fly so fast?” she asked.

“Yes, it did,” he replied. “But you should be happy. You’re going to school after 1 years and 6 months, and not just any school — one of the best.”

Aanvi felt happy, finished her food, and went to bed. “Tomorrow is going to be the biggest day of my life,” she whispered.

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Chapter 16

🕯️Between Dreams and Shadows

Finally, the day had arrived. After one year and six months, Aanvi was going back to school. She woke up, stretched, and whispered to herself, “Today is the biggest day of my life!”

She hurried to the bathroom, took a refreshing bath, and brushed her teeth. Then, she put on her school uniform. Standing in front of the mirror, she paused, her eyes scanning every detail. Seeing herself in the uniform after such a long time made her heart swell, and tears pricked at the corners of her eyes.

Her uncle walked in, noticing her watery eyes. “Why are you crying, my dear? Don’t you want to go to school?”

Aanvi shook her head. “No… it’s not that. I mean, seeing myself in this uniform again… I honestly thought I’d never wear it, never go back to school. And yet… here I am. I’m so lucky that I finally get to go.”

Her uncle smiled warmly. “Don’t cry, beta. I know it feels overwhelming, but this is your first day back after so long. And trust me, you don’t look good when you’re crying. Come on — smile! Make a ponytail, have your breakfast, and pack your bag. Or else, you’ll be late.”

Following his advice, Aanvi tied her hair into a neat ponytail, ate her breakfast, and carefully packed her bag. Then, she stepped outside into the morning sun.

She saw her neighbors along the way and greeted each of them. They all showered her with smiles and best wishes for her first day back at school. Aanvi felt a flutter of excitement in her chest — her journey was beginning again.

Aanvi’s heart raced as she approached the school gates. The familiar building, once so intimidating, now seemed inviting in the golden morning light. Birds chirped, and the faint scent of freshly mowed grass carried a sense of calm she hadn’t felt in years.

Her uncle, noticing her hesitation, gently squeezed her hand. “Remember, beta, this is your second chance. Take it slow, but don’t be afraid to shine.”

Aanvi nodded, inhaling deeply. She stepped forward, crossing the threshold into a world she had left behind so long ago. The bustling corridors were filled with chatter, laughter, and the clatter of footsteps. Children her age passed by, some staring curiously at the new girl.

Her classroom awaited, and she was guided by a friendly teacher, Ms. Thompson, who introduced her to the class.

“Everyone, this is Aanvi. She’ll be joining us from today. Let’s make her feel welcome,” Ms. Thompson said.

Whispers spread across the room, but Aanvi held her head high. She scanned the classroom and noticed a few friendly faces. One girl, with braids tied neatly in pink ribbons, smiled warmly and waved. Aanvi returned the gesture shyly, feeling a flicker of comfort.

During the first lesson, Aanvi struggled at times to keep up with some of the new curriculum. But when she raised her hand to answer a question about history, her voice, though quiet, carried clarity and confidence. The teacher nodded approvingly, and Aanvi felt a surge of pride.

Recess brought new challenges. Children ran in groups, playing games and sharing secrets. Aanvi wandered to a quiet corner of the playground, clutching her notebook. Suddenly, the girl with the pink braids approached her.

“Hi, I’m Mia,” she said brightly. “I’m your desk mate! Do you want to play with me?”

Aanvi hesitated. Trust didn’t come easily. But something in Mia’s smile reminded her of her uncle’s warmth. “Okay,” she said softly.

As they played together in the playground, Aanvi laughed for the first time in months, feeling the thrill of freedom, of connection. By the time recess ended, a bond had begun to form. Mia walked her back to class, chatting about school and their favorite subjects. Aanvi felt a warmth she hadn’t known in a long time—a friendship taking root.

Yet, a shadow lingered in her mind—the unanswered questions about her mother, her grandfather, and the mysterious old man. She shook her head, trying to focus on the present. One step at a time, she thought. I can handle today. Tomorrow… I’ll worry about tomorrow.

When the final bell rang, Aanvi gathered her things and stepped outside. The sunlight fell on her face like a promise. For the first time in a long while, she felt a sense of hope. Her journey wasn’t just about surviving anymore—it was about discovering who she could become.

But as she turned the corner, her eyes caught a familiar figure in the distance—the old man who had once helped her. He stood silently, watching her with a knowing smile before disappearing into the crowd. Aanvi’s heart skipped a beat.

Why is he here? she wondered. And what does he know about my family that I don’t?

Her mind buzzed with questions, but one thing was certain: her life in London was going to be far more complicated—and far more thrilling—than she had ever imagined

Got it! You’d like me to add this new scene — the one with the mysterious old man, the car, Aanvi’s hallucination, and her uncle’s concern — to the end of your story.

Here’s your full story, smoothly rewritten with that new section integrated naturally, keeping grammar, pacing, and emotional tone consistent with the earlier part of your writing:

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Aanvi’s Return