Page 96 of The Art of Taking Second Chances

“Any better?” he asked, handing me a cold bottle of water.

“No, but I’ll be alright.” I twisted the top open and sipped.

He dropped onto the couch beside me and relaxed, our heads resting on the back, our chests rising and falling.

“Oh, I forgot to tell you.” He turned his head toward me. “The immigration attorney called. I was in a meeting, but he left a voicemail saying he has some good news. I’ll call him back on Monday for details.”

I looked up at the ceiling. Could this day get any more difficult?

“Thank you, Sujit.”

“Hey, haven’t I told you never to thank me?”

That’s what Sameer had said, you never have to thank me, Tara. A tear rolled down my cheek before I could stop it. Sujit saw it and moved closer.

“Hey, what’s the matter? You didn’t like the surprise?” He wrapped a gentle arm around me. “Was it too much bringing in my family without telling you first?”

“No, they are wonderful people.” I sniffled through my tears. “Everything was perfect. It’s just me. I haven’t been myself.”

“Yes, I noticed. Is that what you wanted to talk about?”

I wiped my tears and stood.

“It’s nothing. I’m overwhelmed seeing you after so long. I think I need some rest. Can you drop me back home?”

“Yes…of course…sure,” he said, and got up reluctantly. “Let me lock up.”

We drove back in silence.

“Thank you for the lovely surprise,” I said as he dropped me off, but he was visibly upset.

“Was it something I did, Tara?”

“No, Sujit.” I smiled. “Never. You can do no wrong. You’re a kind man. You’ll never hurt me in any way.”

Usually, when he dropped me off, I would ask him up. We would have tea or talk for a while. This time I bid him goodbye in the car and walked away without looking back.

Chapter 29

Tara

Aai came rushing to the door when I entered the apartment. She had changed out of her dressy saree into the simple cotton one she wore around the house.

“What happened?” she asked.

“Couldn’t tell him.” I slipped my heels off and kicked them against the wall. “He was so happy. It would’ve ruined his day.”

“You’re my good child. I don’t know if I’ve ever said it, but I’m very proud of you.”

“Don’t be,” I said brusquely. “Nothing I’m doing right now is worth being proud of.”

“Don’t say that, my rani.”

Just then, my phone dinged. Are you back? Sona texted.

Yes, I replied and started toward my room. “I’m going to take a shower,” I said to Aai.

Back in my room, the small carry-on I had brought along lay open on the floor, the paintings arranged on my work desk.

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