Kismet

Dear Lara,

How are you, my love? You must be busy with your work now that you’re back in Paris. I am still here, quietly trying to pick up the pieces since you left.

I always knew you couldn’t stay. Your time here was only ever a visit. But the love I found in you is something I know will take me a long time to let go of.

Let me tell you a story from before I met you in Mumbai.

I grew up in Kolkata, in a small town where life was never easy. I had to work hard from a very young age because my parents couldn’t afford my education. That never stopped me. While still in college, I worked at the local McDonald’s to pay my tuition. I finished my studies, found work, and tried to build a life.

But slowly, the city began to feel lonely. I realised I wanted companionship, yet all I found were longer days and more work. Then I lost my job. They were downsizing, and suddenly I didn’t know what to do with myself.

I began applying everywhere. One interview brought me to Mumbai. Leaving Kolkata didn’t frighten me. I stayed a few extra days in the city, waiting for a call from the company.

One evening, I wandered down Marine Drive and sat by the sea. And there you were eyes closed, face turned toward the breeze. When you opened them, you smiled and said, hello.

That was how we met. Pure kismet.

I wasn’t even meant to be in the city. Yet there you were, as though waiting for me.

The days that followed were beautiful. I got the job. We celebrated. We walked, talked, and filled the city with memories.

And then you had to leave.

My heart broke quietly. I was back in a big, lonely city again, the city that never sleeps. And now, neither do I. I spend most nights walking along the Drive, looking for you in the crowd, wondering why kismet brought me here only to take you away.

Lara, I love you. I hope we find each other again…If kismet decides to be kind.

Send me a postcard from Paris.

Yours,

Niren

If Ek Kahaani stayed with you, you might enjoy reading my new book Loneliness A One-Act Play. You can find it at Pari’s Books!