Unsaid Things - Part 1
The silk bedsheet creased under Aishwarya’s overstretched arm. For the next few minutes, she lay still. Her fingers brushed the tassels. She pulled the pillow close, then let go and slid out of bed.
After changing into loungewear, Aishwarya picked up a book, turned a page, then flicked it back. In the walk-in, she caught her reflection in the mirror and licked her lips. She tapped a lipstick but picked a lip balm. She walked back into the bedroom, brows knitted, pausing before the French windows still hidden behind heavy drapes. A touch slid the curtains to the edges. The petunias along the railing lifted the pink and grey of the room. But her eyes caught the knotted balcony swing, still. Aishwarya walked to the main door, turned the door latch, but let it go. She took off her joggers to slip into her Kolhapuris.
Stepping outside, she tried remembering the names of the two girls skating on the track, but a rolling ball distracted her. Aishwarya’s attention shifted to a child walking a poodle. Maybe I should get one. Every day, she walked to the end of their wing to grab her morning usual. At the takeout counter, Aishwarya stood facing the park with one leg resting against the wall. Nearby, a child squeaked excitedly as the mother struggled to get him in the car. On the other side, the father stood patiently by the door. Family outing, huh. Typical Sundays. She glanced around at the whirring sound. The condo valet had arrived. She set her coffee in the holder and pulled out of the driveway for her parlour appointment. By the time the services ended, a calm smile had settled on her lips. She stood in front of the mirror, her eyes squinting. “Umm… hair check, skin check, nails check. Thanks for the lovely eye make-up.” “You are welcome, Ma’am.” “Have a good day,” she waved at the staff. The sunlight hit hard as she stepped into the arcade. Adjusting her aviator, she crossed over to the store opposite. “Hi.” Aishwarya greeted the SA. “This dress caught my attention. Do you have it in another shade?” “I am afraid not. Would you try this instead?” The SA pulled a dress from the rack. “It matches your Birkin Picnic,” her eyes twinkled. A boy appeared with a glass of sherbet. “Yes, I would like to try it.” Aishwarya left the store wearing the new dress. She was taking out her car keys when a voice called from behind. “Excuse me.” Not a voice she recognised.
