Chapter 13

I entered and noticed Devu standing at the door, watching Malu leave. By the time I reached the hall after a bath, she was seated there, engrossed in her studies.

Upon seeing me, she offered to prepare dinner for me. She neatly stacked all the books and made her way to the kitchen.

It was only when I took a quick glance at the book she had arranged that I discovered it: a beautifully painted image of Krishna adorned the cover. I couldn't resist the urge to pick it up and appreciate its exquisite beauty. It wasn't just beautiful, but truly stunning. The smiling face of Krishna playing the flute captured my attention. It was then that my mind playfully reminded me that this was the accurate depiction, unlike the pictures I had encountered in history books.

Suddenly, she entered the room. At first, she seemed surprised to find me holding her book.

"Did you draw this?" I inquired.

She nodded with a small smile.

"What a talent... I'm at a loss for words. It's impressive. How did you manage this..." I commented, thoroughly impressed.

I observed her face flush slightly upon hearing my praise. It seemed her beauty had taken on a new depth. My mind yearned to capture her essence once more.

"Are there any other drawings like this one? Let's take a look..." I suggested, beginning to flip through the pages. Devu swiftly came over and retrieved the book from my hand.

"There's nothing more to it," she stated. "Come on, let's eat. I've prepared everything." With that, she gathered all the books and placed them inside her bag. I felt a twinge of disappointment, though I concealed it and joined her for the meal.

Although there weren't any standout dishes, her lentil thoran and sambar were quite delicious.

"You're not eating?" I inquired while spooning rice into my bowl.

She remained silent.

"Are you hesitant to sit with me? It's fine, come and eat... Or you can eat alone, if you prefer..."

She took a seat across from me at the table, still not uttering a word.

"Do you have a photo of your father?" I asked between bites.

"Yes, I do."

"Hmm... I'm not sure where to begin. I'm thinking I might need to report this to the police first..."

"No, Nandu... If you involve the police, they'll come to my house for an investigation. If they do, that Raghavan... he might create trouble before he even arrives. That ruthless man doesn't think twice about anything... No police, Nandu..."

I sensed there was more to her words. Raghavan could pose a threat if the police were to probe there. It was because his workplace was now this girl's house.

"Then where should I start my search?" I inquired, still unsure.

"I've searched everywhere my father might have gone. I have no idea where he is. I'm worried about more danger..."

"Hey... don't think like that."

"I'm scared... If my father doesn't return, then I'll be alone."

"Nothing like that will happen. Be brave. Now wipe your eyes and try to eat something."

She quickly stood up with a smile on her face.

"You can sleep in mom's room tonight..."

I told Devu, who was heading towards the bedroom at bedtime.

"No, I'll just lie down here..."

"It's fine, go ahead and lie down there..."

No matter how much I insisted, she refused to leave the room.

Finally, I gave her permission to use my bed. I opted to sleep in my mother's room as well.

In truth, I insisted she use the bed because I didn't want her sleeping on the floor.

It surprised me how my attitude towards her had changed in just one day.

To be continued...