"Your nails look nice," I complimented my friend as she tapped her long, red-polished nails on the table while we waited for our food to arrive."Thanks!" she said, blowing at them gently with an arched eyebrow. "So, how do you keep them clean while you're cooking and doing other stuff in the kitchen?" I asked, trying to learn some tips and tricks."Cooking and cleaning?" she repeated ..read more

 We often seek happiness in external factors such as material objects, situations, and occasions. However, life is unpredictable, and not everything is in our control. It's best to avoid having expectations from anyone. This way, we can teach ourselves to find happiness in whatever we encounter. The power of pretending to be happy is extreme and can help us keep our pain at ..read more

Menon saw his wife, Sarita, flipping the pillows on their bed and checking under the comforter, ruffled sheets, and behind the chest of drawers. He asked irritatingly, "What are you looking for? And why aren't you dressed?" Sarita whispered, "I'm looking for my dignity?" And she continued to search other rooms.With crossed eyebrows, Menon followed her and asked, "Is that a new ..read more

Sarla asked, "Hey! Are you coming tonight?" There was a slight pause on the other end. Sarla urged, "Oh! Come on, the pandemic is over. We all have to meet in person. Everyone is coming!" Macy sighed heavily before responding, "What's the point of meeting? We talk on the phone every day. I have nothing new to add." There was a lack of enthusiasm in her tone.  "I ..read more

 "Congratulations! Your vitals are good, and you'll be discharged from the hospital today," announced the doctor as he reviewed the patient's medical file. The caretaker was thrilled. However, the patient seemed less than thrilled. Upon noticing his solemn expression, the doctor inquired, "Is everything alright? You don't seem very happy." After taking a deep breath, the ..read more

 I shouted, "Are the results out yet?"while quickly pulling on my pants and zipping them up, then pushed the door open. Mom was busy knitting, and she shook her head no."Mom!" I shrieked, refreshed the screen, and exhaled deeply. Our eyes met. She was calm, wearing a gentle smile despite my reaction. The results had not yet been released, so I sat beside her. "I can't take this waiting game!" I ..read more

 "It's raining! Get the air fryer out," urged Dev as he walked in with damp clothes."You do realize fried food is not good for your health. Your cholesterol has been high," said Tina with an arched eyebrow. Dev paused and took a deep breath, inhaling the Petrichor potpourri, a unique, earthy smell associated with rain."The season's first rainfall is always special, and it needs a celebration ..read more

"Mom, it's raining stones outside, and I have bruises all over," Jules exclaimed as she entered the house, holding her head and examining her arms. Curious, her Mom asked, "Raining stones? In sunny California?" She quickly looked out the window and saw a hailstorm. The wind was forcefully throwing ice balls, creating a sound similar to throwing stones when they hit the ground. "Oh my, I never ..read more

 The drive from the airport to the familiar streets was heart-wrenching, as many memories kept popping up. I reached the colony and met my friends with fond hugs, but my eyes wandered to a particular home. The familiar foliage and vibes couldn't keep me from knocking on the door. I hoped the door would open like old times when two familiar figures would hug me with warmth and unconditional love ..read more

 "I think we should take the south route," Aisha stated confidently.Mala interjected, "But there's always traffic at this time. Let's take the inner roads instead; it'll be faster.""I understand, but traffic helps me practice patience.""That's good, but I want to be on time for work. Can you exercise your patience when driving alone?""Don't worry; I'll ensure we arrive on time."Mala scoffed, "How ..read more