Tara finds solace in Mumbai as she navigates life after her troubled marriage.
Sunlight filtered through the curtains, gently waking Tara from her slumber. As her eyes fluttered open, confusion washed over her. She found herself in a new room, in a new bed, yet an overwhelming sense of serenity enveloped her. Her fingers instinctively reached for her phone on the side table, but the moment she lifted it, the device rang, jolting her back to reality. Tara glanced at the screen, her heart sinking. Vikram had persisted, calling her twenty-five times throughout the night. His name and a picture of his smiling face stared back at her. The sight made her hand tremble, and the phone slipped from her grasp, clattering to the floor. The relentless ring continued for a brief moment before falling silent.
Peering out at Mumbai through the mist blowing in from the sea, Tara observed the city in its tranquil state. The roads lay empty, devoid of the usual hustle and bustle of cars and buses. She stood by the window, lost in thought, until dawn broke, revealing the city awakening around her. Fisherwomen walked confidently down the streets, swaying as they carried baskets filled with fresh fish. Newspaper boys pedaled by, expertly tossing papers onto balconies, while children gathered at bus stops, backpacks slung over their shoulders. Somewhere, a man tiptoed back into bed, hoping to avoid detection by his wife.
A sudden knock on the door startled her. A voice called out, inquiring about laundry. Tara quickly glanced at her watch, realizing she needed to change into her tracksuit. The aroma of fresh bread wafted through the window, igniting her hunger. Heading downstairs, she spotted Neville, who was busy directing guests to the open-air breakfast feast. The atmosphere at Rustom’s resembled a British garden party, with Neville moving gracefully, serving hot croissants, butter cubes, and scones at each table.
“Would it be eggs for you, ma’am?” he asked politely. Tara responded with a smile, “I am a vegetarian, but I would love some hot coffee and a platter of fruits.” Neville nodded, assuring her that it would be prepared. He also mentioned that Rustom had sent her an invitation to join him for dinner that evening. Just then, Kabir appeared beside her, startling her with his cheerful voice. “The chosen one!” he exclaimed, making her laugh. She welcomed the distraction and was relieved to have company for dinner.
Kabir explained that Rustom’s invitations were selective, making her feel special. They shared a light-hearted banter, which helped lift Tara’s spirits. As Kabir pointed to the sky, he mentioned the stars that existed around them, invisible yet ever-present. Tara found his perspective intriguing as they discussed the concept of destiny and the paths they had taken to meet.
As they conversed, Kabir took a candid photograph of her, capturing a moment that felt significant. Tara reflected on her past and the scars she carried, both visible and invisible. Kabir’s gentle demeanor made her feel at ease, and their connection deepened as they shared thoughts on life’s heartaches and the healing process.
When Kabir reached out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear, Tara felt an unfamiliar warmth, a mix of comfort and vulnerability. Their gazes locked, and for a brief moment, the world around them faded away. Kabir suggested they explore the city together, and despite her hesitations, Tara found herself drawn to his kind eyes. Trusting her instincts, she decided to accompany him, eager to see where this new chapter in her life might lead.
