Chapter 1 – First Glimpse
It was his brother’s wedding, held in their native village. The boy had arrived early for preparations. Days were filled with errands, laughter, cousins running around, and endless lists of work.
Around the same time, her family also came down. They were relatives, but since her father’s job kept them mostly out of state, the boy barely knew them. He had never seen the girl before.
One afternoon, while he was busy distributing wedding cards, her father called.
“Beta, if you need any help, I’m free today,” he said warmly.
The boy was relieved — he didn’t know many relatives personally. Together they went around for card distribution. When it was done, her father asked, “Drop me at my place, na.”
The boy agreed, parking outside their house for the first time.
And then he saw her. A flash — a girl running from the courtyard into the house. Only her back, her hair swaying, her quick steps disappearing inside. He blinked, curious.
Inside, he met her family. Her mother smiled, “Come, say hello.”
But she never came out. Maybe she was shy, maybe she was avoiding. He left, carrying just that blurry glimpse.
