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ATM Card
#TheWritingProject

Mr. Nabin signed the registry envelope. Then the ATM card that had been connected to the letter was then gently taken out from inside. He carefully examined the card's two sides. It is inscribed with Nabin Ghosal's name. Such cards have just evolved into his passion. His neighbour friend Shankar frequently uses the ATM when they go out together in the afternoon. Nabin is certain that he does it to brag. Nabin also wants to use ATMs to get cash so he can make purchases and pay with his card.

Mr. Nabin is a peace-loving, non-violent, and reserved man. After forty years of service at Samanta & Sons as a ledger keeper, he retired six months ago. His salary was average. He nonetheless secured a bank loan and enrolled his son in an engineering programme. He has found a way to live comfortably in a rented home. "There is no need to wait in line to withdraw money from the bank, dad; I'm getting you an ATM card", said the father's son, who is currently employed by an IT company.

He now holds that card in his hand. "Look, this is my ATM card," he stated as he displayed the card to his wife Paromita. "I'll be able to withdraw money as I like going forward. I shall withdraw 500 in exchange for Shankar's withdrawal of 200." After saying this, he sang and gave his wife a joyful embrace.

Paromita is a simple woman. Even though she was delighted by Nabin's sudden boyhood, she still felt ashamed. "Aren't we old enough to caress now?" she said shyly. "Have you forgotten that we will soon be in-laws?"

"The issue is that, my love. I was preoccupied with work while we were young. When so many years have passed since then, I don't understand." He sighed.

For their son, Paromita's mother's heart glowed with pride. "Is this card loaded with cash? Our son did it? Let's then take it to the goldsmith's shop. I have been fond of wearing earrings like my sister for a long time."

In this middle class environment, Nabin has never been able to grant their wishes or live a life of luxury. Paromita didn't complain either. However, he made an effort to fulfil his own and his wife's requests during their happy times.

He exclaimed in shock, "A goldsmith's shop using this card? You gave me a chuckle. Has he ever seen a card like this before? You know, these cards are only for big stores. I'll take you to the PC Chandra jewellers showroom after I get accustomed to it myself first. Make some tea now."

Shankar exclaimed as he turned the card over, "What a surprise! You now have a debit card from your son. Very good. But I have a credit card. Use, though, with caution."

Nabin was happy to see Shankar's dry face. Despite wanting to know the distinction between a debit card and a credit card, he refrained from speaking. If he were to inquire as to the difference, Shankar would begin to share his knowledge. He had put up with a lot of Shankar's insanity, but no longer. Shankar was incapable of properly raising his son. His son works as a...