The evening sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the bustling streets of Bangalore. Maia stood on the sidewalk, her heart racing as she took in the unfamiliar sights and sounds. The vibrant chaos of the city felt alive, yet inside her, shadows lingered. She had left everything behind, her hometown, her memories, and the unbearable quiet that enveloped her life after the loss of her child.
“Hey! You okay?” A voice broke through her thoughts. She turned to see a tall man with tousled hair and bright eyes, leaning against a lamppost, an easy smile on his face.
“I… yeah, just taking it all in,” Maia replied, her voice barely above a whisper. She instinctively tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, feeling vulnerable under his gaze.
“First time in Bangalore?” he asked, stepping closer, his interest genuine.
“Sort of. I moved here a couple of weeks ago,” she said, her heart fluttering at the kindness in his eyes.
“Nice! I’m Aryan,” he said, extending a hand. Maia hesitated for a moment before shaking it. The warmth of his grasp sent a small thrill through her.
“Maia.”
“Great to meet you, Maia! You need a guide? I promise I know all the good spots around here,” he said, his enthusiasm infectious.
“I don’t want to impose,” she replied, trying to mask her intrigue.
“Nonsense! I insist. Plus, I could use a break from my usual routine,” he said with a laugh, the sound bright and inviting. “What do you say? Ice cream?”
“Um, sure. I could go for ice cream,” she said, surprised at her own willingness.
As they walked, the sounds of traffic and chatter filled the air. Aryan pointed out various landmarks, his voice animated as he described the city’s history. Maia listened, captivated not just by his words but by the way he effortlessly made her feel at ease.
“Here we are!” Aryan announced as they arrived at an ice cream parlor. The bright pink and blue decor was whimsical, a stark contrast to the heaviness that often weighed on Maia. “What’s your favorite flavor?”
“Coconut,” she said, a faint smile breaking through her somber demeanor.
“Classic choice! I’ll get us two scoops, then,” he said, striding confidently to the counter.
As he ordered, Maia’s gaze wandered to the colorful posters on the walls, depicting ice cream sundaes that seemed to leap out at her. For the first time in a long while, she felt a flicker of joy.
“Here you go!” Aryan said, handing her a cup of rich, velvety coconut ice cream. “Let’s find a spot outside.”
They settled on a small bench under a sprawling banyan tree, its roots twisting like fingers around the earth. The sun began to set, painting the sky with...