Bridges and Barriers

Annual Day

The school’s annual day was in full swing, and the backstage was buzzing with excitement. Savi was right in the middle of it all, guiding kids, adjusting costumes, and ensuring everything went according to plan. She had experience handling such events from her college days, and though nerves still fluttered within her, she found joy in the chaos. It reminded her of the cultural festivals she used to manage, the thrill of bringing everything together.

Amidst the commotion, her eyes fell on Sai, who was dressed in a traditional *navari* sari, just like her. The sight of her little girl fiddling with the tiny nose pin brought a wave of warmth to her heart. Sai, her daughter, her little reflection. Savi couldn’t resist the smile tugging at her lips as she knelt down beside her.

“Are you ready, princess?” Savi asked, gently smoothing down the folds of Sai’s sari.

Sai nodded eagerly, though her nose pin slipped off again, drawing a light laugh from Savi. “You’re just like me,” she said, clipping it back in place with careful hands.

“Pari Mamma,” Sai asked, her small voice tinged with hope, “will Papa be here?”

Savi’s heart melted at the question. “Everyone will be here,” she assured her.

Hand in hand, they made their way towards the edge of the stage, peeking from behind the curtains. The excitement was contagious. They both knew the family would call once they arrived, but the anticipation was too much to contain.

Meanwhile, in the audience, the Thakkar family had arrived. Isha and Bhagyashree were already engaged in their usual playful banter, their joy infectious. The entire family was excited to see Sai and Savi perform. Rajendra adjusted his seat, ready to cheer, while Tara and Lucky whispered excitedly about the performances to come.

Rajat, coming straight from a long day at the office, arrived a little later. After greeting his family, he made his way backstage, eager to see his girls. As he approached, the sight that greeted him stopped him in his tracks. Savi and Sai, dressed identically in their elegant *navaris*, were a vision. His heart swelled with pride and affection.

Before he could say anything, Sai spotted him and ran towards him, her face lighting up. Rajat scooped her up into his arms, planting a kiss on her cheek. “My God,” he said, admiring her from head to toe. “My princess looks like a star.”

Sai giggled, enjoying the attention.

Rajat turned his gaze to Savi, still holding Sai in his arms. “And what do I say to you, Mrs. Thakkar? Is there ever a day when you don’t take my breath away?”

Savi blushed under his gaze, her smile shy. Rajat reached out, giving her hand a gentle squeeze.

“Go sit down,” Savi urged softly. “You can’t stay here with us.”

“But I want to be with my girls,” Rajat protested playfully.

Savi and Sai shared a laugh at his mock-pout, but she insisted. “The audience isn’t allowed back here, Mr. Thakkar. Go on, now.”

Reluctantly, Rajat set Sai down and made his way back to his seat, casting one last look at them before he left.

As he returned to the seating area, Rajat noticed Ashika sitting in the audience with Arsh. He was momentarily taken aback but chose not to dwell on it. It wasn’t his business anymore what Ashika did. His focus was on Savi and Sai.