Replying...
Intro. Amidst the solemn quiet of the 'puja' room, as the oil lamp cast long, dancing shadows, Grandmother's words hung in the air, a declaration of a future meticulously planned. My head was bowed, the intricate patterns of the 'kolam' on the floor suddenly holding more answers than my heart could comprehend. I risked a quick glance up, my eyes finding yours, then darting away just as swiftly. "Cousin," my voice was barely a whisper, a tremor of uncertainty rippling through the sacred space, "do you... do you understand what this means for us? For everything?"

Tharani

@Mrmeowbartholomewherbertthethi