Puckish Puck: Magical Journey From East to West

By Nidhi Dubey

It has taken decades, a universe of human imagination to create this story. It starts with a compelling link of three generations - the link continuing, passing its magical desires through generations to an intriguing bold journey starting East and heading West.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Raider Publishing International
• Release date: Oct 18, 2011
• ISBN: 9781466116511

Book preview

Puckish Puck

By Nidhi Dubey

Published by Raider Publishing International at Smash Words

Copyright 2011 by Nidhi Dubey

SMASHWORDS EDITION

Contents

A Magical Journey from East to West

A Cute Little Devil

Cute Little Devil

The Last Words

Magical Hands

A True Love

Make a Christmas

Best Out of Worst; Light in Darkness

A Dream Becomes Reality

Living a Moment

Adventure

Europe Trip

Wish for a Wish and Dream for a Dream

Flying High and Falling Apart

Finding way/ Return

Engagement

Puckish Puck

A Magical Journey from East to West

It has taken decades, a universe of human imagination to create this story. It starts with a compelling link of three generations – the link continuing, passing its magical desires through generations in an intriguing bold journey starting from the East and heading west.

The Puckish Puck

Straight from Heaven, fell a star,

Tumbled down, down and down

Through mountains and pierced rivers afar,

Unveiled its lure in celestial town

Beneath the waxing moon,

Deep into thick woods

Far from earth, even beyond moon

Jigging and walloping into woods…

Lone enticer of young fairies and angels beauteous

Enigmatic soul within entices every soul,

Butterflies flutter around its wings wondrous-

There it goes, filling spaces and every hole…

Grasping universe within its engrossing charm,

Spreading love and destroying every ill luck

With its unseen, yet felt tenderness and with no harm,

It exists and will exist always- the Magic Charisma of puckish Puck!

As time passes, it becomes lost in unknown realms of its own quintessence. Each passing second is a mirror of what seems a thousand years. Lost moments can never be regained, but the memory of time can live forever through words. Words are eternal, when locked in a book. Only time knows the significance of words when freeing incarcerated memories. Time dies, leaving a legacy of words, and words are forever linked to memories. Memories give birth to desire; desire grows up and gives birth to dreams. Dreams breathe life and lead to obsession and passion. Everyone dreams. Dreams are inevitable. Some see dreams, smiling as their subconscious bathes in the mental cinema. Some wake from the pleasure of a dream aching to return to the slumber that houses sweet dreams, while some few wake from a dream, pack up, and begin the journey to find the ultimate dream. Every dream has its own price to come true.

Time has consumed three generations to give birth to this story, a very old story or fairy tale intended to establish a bridge between Eastern and Western notions of freedom. 

Nothing is impossible, every dream can be realised, and every wish can get an answer if we only have faith in it. Fairy worlds do exist; every moment can be magical, but only at its own price. Just as success comes with struggle, fairy tales come when we have faith and then one day, with time, we become part of them.

1

A Cute Little Devil

A January chill filled the air when Annu returned from her journey. Standing on the terrace, she watched the sunrise, feeling the warmth of its rays on her body. The dawn overwhelmed the sky and the winter birds provided a soothing song.

She was also singing as she spread rice and bread on the bird table. However, she could not see any birds from her garden terrace coming to eat it.

Annu’s moment of tranquillity was broken when one of her servants, Bai, came to her hysterical with excitement.

Bibi! Bai was respectful, always addressing Annu as ‘ma’am’. A girl is born!

Kusum had given birth to a baby girl. Annu was surprised and asked when her delivery date was. Bai replied that it was premature. Last night, after returning from Durga Temple, Kusum had not been feeling well, and so went to hospital for a check-up and…

No sooner had Bai spoken than Annu noticed a change in the sky. Its colour transformed from the peaceful hues of blues and cottony whites mixed with the reddish-orange of the sunrise to a pinkish-red, making the world seem different. An unspoken feeling loomed in the air, indicating that from that very moment Annu’s life would never be the same.

Suddenly, she heard a group of birds. She knew that lots of birds had arrived with the early sun and were eating the rice and bread. Annu took a deep breath, smiling mysteriously and whispered, Hum! So let’s see who has arrived. She touched the box with her trembling fingers, removing some coins and handing then to Bai.

Bai’s head was down. She lowered her head, focussing on the floor beneath her feet. Bai showed no signs of reaction. Annu raised her eyebrows and asked, Is there something wrong?

Bai was silent for a moment, and then replied, The girl is born with two black teeth. She is a premature baby. She is being kept in the intensive care unit. No one knows if she will survive.

Before Annu could respond to Bai, Bade Sahib, one of Annu’s brothers, joined the conversation, saying, She should die! She must not survive. She has taken birth at the wrong time. The Pandit has said she is born in Mool Nakshatra. According to the Hindu calendar and ancient customs, when a child is born during this period it is believed that it will bring ill luck to the family. She is not a child, but a devil. She will consume everyone. She will eat everyone up. She is a sin!

Annu did not reply. She was quiet.

Bai continued, The father is not allowed to see her until the rituals are done and a sum of fifty-one thousand rupees is donated. Annu remained silent, turning her attention to her wooden box. Taking the coins from Bai, she put the coins on the box and waved her hand to Bai as a signal to leave. Annu pulled the box close to her. She took a mysterious cloth out of the box. She smiled and whispered, Let’s hope you have arrived.

Bai ran to Annu, her face gleaming. Annu held her breath, wondering what else Bai had to say. Hesitant to ask, but showing full composure, she asked, What is it?

Papu has called. Annu was always concerned for her children, but she wondered why Bai could not wait to tell her what her youngest son wanted. He received the news concerning the case with the farmhouse. After ten years of struggling with the court, we have won! The court has ruled in our favour.

At that moment, Annu realised that something, which had seemed impossible, had actually happened. After a long battle, she could see the beginning of good days. The first ray of positive light was visible. Almost as quickly as it had come, the pinkish-red sky turned into a bright white. The entire sky glowed, as did Annu’s face as joy and peace began to fill her soul. She called Bai closer to her. Annu removed a gold chain from her neck and took the money lying in the box. She handed both to Bai. Take it, it’s a good omen. My devil has arrived.

Annu’s face was alive. The feeling she had at that moment exceeded even her most beloved moments watching the sunrise overhead. Take me to her, she continued.

But entry is forbidden, according to the Pandit, Bai said. Even Bade did not see her. She is very tiny, smaller than a palm. She is like a mouse.

Annu ignored Bai’s words. Moving quickly, she got dressed to go as if no force on Earth could stop her from seeing her little devil. And no force could. No one dared to stop Annu. Her driver was already waiting for her. When she arrived at the hospital, she stopped for a minute and whispered, I hope you have arrived.

Annu’s elation grew with each step she took towards the ICU entry doors. Kusum was asleep; she patted and kissed her forehead.

A nurse met her just before she reached the reception to ask about child and said, The baby is in an incubator and no one is allowed to see her. The condition of the baby is critical.

Unsure of how the nurse knew whom she was there to see, Annu asked impatiently, How was the delivery?

Very unusual, the nurse said. She caused no pain to the mother. She arrived before the natural time of delivery and is much smaller than the doctors expected. But even more unusual is the baby’s teeth. She was born with two black teeth. She doesn’t cry much. The nurse’s expression was clearly puzzled. In fact, she keeps laughing and seems to be excited, even in a critical stage. Her chances for survival are small. If she survives nine days her chances will be good, but the doctors do not believe this is possible.

Take me to her! Annu demanded.

The nurse instantly sensed Annu’s stubborn determination. She had no doubt that Annu would not leave without having seen this odd child. Are you sure? she asked.

Annu did not say a word but the look on her face and the intensity of her stare spoke loud enough.

Your wish, replied the nurse.

The nurse led Annu into the ICU. Family members had not been allowed to see the child. Annu was the first person to see her. Annu neared the horrid looking box that housed the baby. There she was – Annu’s little devil. A tiny baby, smaller than any new-born Annu had ever seen. Perhaps, smaller than anything she could have imagined.

Newborn babies are known for their constant sleeping and crying when awake. This baby was truly unique. Not only was she the size of a field mouse, she was quite alert. When Annu peeked inside the incubator, the baby saw her and started laughing. Annu’s soul filled with a happiness that she could not put into words. She took one of the silver coins she had removed from her box. The nurse stood close by, shifting from one side of the incubator to the other as if guarding this tiny, delicate creature. Annu circled the coin around the baby’s head in a ritual traditionally conducted when an auspicious event occurs, and then handed the coin to the nurse.

Annu’s patience was thinning. She wanted to touch the baby, to kiss her tiny cheeks, but tubes surrounded the baby. Annu placed her fingers lightly on the outside of the glass incubator. The baby had also raised her hands and tried to place a finger against Annu’s hand on the glass wall. She could feel the little fingers through the pane. The baby seemed to know her, as if she had been waiting for her. The moment was unique and inexpressible. Annu and the baby both sensed something strange, something that indicated they were acquainted long ago. Turning to face the nurse, Annu said, Don’t worry. The baby is safe with me. The nurse nodded, leaving Annu alone with the baby.

Carefully opening the glass incubator, Annu took a silk cloth she was carrying, tying it around the baby. In a miraculous sort of response, the baby smiled. Her two black teeth revealed her enigmatic magnetism. Annu drew herself very close to the baby. Her lips created a sense of comfort for the baby as she said, You have one more thing that no one has noticed; the twinkle in your eyes. You arrived with the first ray of the sun. You are my hope and you have to live. You are my puckish Puck. My Puck. I have to live one more time within you. You belong to me.

Annu’s instant love for the baby girl was apparent. She did not care that the infant was born with two black teeth or that others viewed this odd birth as a dark omen. Annu was also aware of the traditions and customs surrounding such events, and in her heart she knew her little Puck would grow to fit her name perfectly.

One day, the whole world will know you as Puck. You will have two very special characteristics. You will be a dreamer and you will shine like a star, piercing evil with your charm. You will move with your life by living every moment. Remember, you must not simply live life, but you must live every moment. I will give you my healing hands. Annu touched Puck’s little fingers and kissed them gently and looked at her, smiling.

Annu turned to leave, but when she neared the door, something stopped her. She turned around, facing the incubator. Opening her box, Annu removed a small glass angel. She walked back to the baby, placing the angel on top of the baby’s encaged bed and whispered, This angel will always protect you and guide you to the right path.

Puck was a unique name for a unique child. Annu chose wisely when selecting the name. The circumstances of Puck’s birth, the changing of the sky’s colour, the baby’s two black teeth, and her ability to smile, laugh and understand were mysterious events on their own. However, combined, the events of Puck’s birth led Annu to believe that some measure of the spirit of the Old English Puck was alive in this child.

Puck, in Old English folklore, was a half-tamed, woodland sprite. This sprite was known to lead others astray with echoes and lights in the night-time woodlands. Of all characteristics, the sprite was certainly mischievous, living up to the root meaning of the name: ‘unsettled’. Because of the association of mischievousness and evil, some fear the very aura that the sprite represents. Perhaps the fear is simply a lack of understanding, of being afraid of what one does not fully comprehend.

Throughout history, in mythology, Puck has been linked to other tales of hobgoblins and evil elves who serve the Devil. However, some have linked the name and the character with luck, much like what is expected from the leprechaun. I can imagine Puck as the Puck in The Sandman, playing tricks on everyone – but with a light heart and no evil intentions. I am certain Annu saw only the most sincere of hearts in Puck as well.

As she left the hospital, Annu’s heart was happy and content. Halfway home, she instructed the driver to stop. She got out of the car and instructed the driver to go on. She wanted to walk. With every step, Annu relived every second of her moments with Puck in her mind. She felt such gratification. She felt it all.

Glancing down at her watch, Annu noticed the time was nine o’clock in the morning. She stopped at the nearest telephone booth and made a call. Continuing her walk, Annu stopped at one of her favourite local sweet shops to buy something special. She looked around at the vast selection of delicious creations, selecting only what she felt was deserving of this unique moment in her life. Almost as if the treat was fragile, Annu held it gently, looking it over carefully and admiringly. She smiled, closed her eyes, and tasted the sweetness as it melted in her mouth. Purchasing extra pieces, Annu distributed them among the beggars resting outside a nearby temple. Giving always filled her with joy, making her heart swell gloriously. Annu continued her walk.

Annu wished she could have spent more time with little Puck, but was relieved to be back home. She called for Bai, instructing her to make lots of sweets and to distribute them throughout the neighbourhood.

Bade came for breakfast and asked about you. I told him that I did not know where you went, Bai said as she nodded in agreement at Annu’s instructions.

It’s okay, Annu replied, smiling as she walked away.

Annu entered her brother’s room. The smile on her face would not lessen. She was ecstatic with joy. Bade was sitting in his favourite chair, reading a newspaper as he sipped his favourite Nilgiri tea.

I see you are returned. Where have you been? asked Bade.

Yes, I got something for you; your favourite sweet. Now relish these sweets and drink tea later, Annu said, mentioning nothing about her trip or visit.

She is a devil, a sin, and an ill omen to our family, Bade said firmly without taking his eyes off the newspaper. I will not eat any sweet to celebrate her birth. She should die.

Annu was silent for a moment. Then quickly she tore the newspaper from her brother’s hands. She has arrived in this world with her luck and she will fight for her life and will survive. Annu breathed in deeply and then added, We have won the court case on our farmhouse and this sweet is for that. I had almost lost hope over that piece of land. 

Bade smiled, indicating Annu had piqued his interest. Hum. Go on. Tell me more. For ten years all I have earned has been paid to the advocates for this court battle. Is it true that the judge ordered our opponents to pay all of the investment on this case?

Annu nodded.

That is definitely a miracle. Honestly, I was very worried, managing my daughters’ marriages, but now I believe that miracles do happen. Bade took a deep breath and looked at the newspaper that lay partially wrinkled on the table. Good to know God exists. He grabbed a sweet, gulping it down, unlike Annu’s savouring of every bite. You are right. Who are we to decide? I apologise. Bade gulped down another sweet, licking the sugary substance from his fingers. "Oh, this sweet is my favourite! I love this sweet.

I am really busy. I have to perform some rituals to welcome my Puck. So inform the Pandit about it while passing through the temple, won’t you? Annu asked.

Puck? Bade questioned. You have named her when no one knows whether she is going to survive or not? 

Her name is Puck and it is going to be Puck and she will survive. She is a warrior; a real warrior, like me. She will fight back. She will fight for her life. This is just the beginning, she will stand undauntedly amidst the thorny lanes, you will see, Annu said calmly and with a confident smile. Bade said nothing in reply.

Annu visited Puck every day, not missing any chance to see her little devil. Many times the baby’s condition worsened. She experienced severe breathing problems, but she always fought through them. Many times, the doctor would instruct Annu to stay only a few more minutes, and then there were nights when Annu stayed just to watch over her. She had seen her little Puck several times. Others did not welcome this new baby, while others kissed her goodbye. However, Annu knew in her heart and in her soul that Puck was here to stay.

Every day, Annu went with some fairy tale books and read to her.

Finally, nine days passed. Puck survived. No one believed it. No one wanted to believe it. Chaos was everywhere as Annu’s family participated in religious rituals. It was then that Kusum’s husband Kamal saw Puck for the first time.

Annu was inside with Kusum and Puck. She was too small for new clothes from the market, Annu had to knit a woollen dress for her, but as soon as Annu put it on her, she started crying non-stop. For a while they could not understand why, but then Annu noticed rashes on her body, her skin was very delicate. Now Annu had no other option but to dress the baby in silk cloth. Puck loved to play with her hand and chew it until she fell asleep. Friends and relatives came to see her after donation to poor people, Pandit and saints, with mantras. Kusum had come in front of Kamal with Puck in her arms, but the baby’s face was covered, Annu had sprinkled ganagajil holy water around to purify all bad karma and energy, and then removed the cloth from Puck’s face. Puck looked at Kamal with big eyes and gave a big smile, revealing her two black teeth.

Everyone came to see her, and, strange as it may seem, all agreed that the baby looked sweet. Her hands were waving at Kamal as if she wanted him to take her in his arms. Kamal’s eyes were filled with tears as he first touched her finger and then her hands. She was so small, no bigger than his palm. He raised her high and whispered in her ears, Hi Oma’s Puck and papa’s little princess; welcome to our life.

Everyone threw rice and flower petals on them, an Indian tradition. He held her close to his heart. She was very much awake and seemed to be enjoying those first moments with her father. Now, according to Indian ritual, her father had to give her her first shower. A servant had brought a silver bowl with water. Kamal stood there for a while, as if he was not sure. The priest was chanting mantras; Annu came close to Kamal and asked him softly, Is everything all right?

He was unsure, and Annu asked the servant to take the bowl back and fill it with milk and a rose petal. Kamal smiled as Annu had known without using words what Kamal was missing.

He asked Annu to come close and he whispered, Maa, she is more yours than mine.

They held Puck together and gave her her first milk and rose petal shower, Puck seemed to enjoy it very much; she was smiling, sitting in the bowl with her black teeth visible.

He held her and kissed her forehead. He lowered his lips to a tiny ear and whispered with gayatri mantra, Hello my sunshine, my little princess.

Most of the family was still uncomfortable around Puck. However, with time, she found a way to reach their hearts. Nothing was easy for her; she always found it a challenge to turn people into friends.

As Puck grew, she brought many positive and magical changes to the family. Those who had believed that she was unlucky were amazed. Her parents’ lives had changed in unimaginable ways. Everyone who met her was astonished at her naughtiness, yet no one could doubt her imagination.

They used to live in one room in a tiny apartment before Puck was born, but Kusum got a better job and her father became more permanent in his job. In fact, Kusum got her dream job – nursing in the army. She had to go for a year’s training, which meant that Annu and Kusum’s elder sister, who was married to Annu’s oldest son, took care of Puck alongside her only daughter, Arti, who was three years older than Puck.

That year, Annu could not go for her annual holiday as Sobha, Kusum’s elder sister, was sick and Annu was taking care of both kids. It was also the time that Puck had started to crawl. One afternoon, Annu fell asleep on her relaxing chair; everyone else was also relaxing; no one noticed when Arti and Puck crawled towards the kitchen and somehow were able to climb to where there was a clay pot filled with fresh buttermilk. Puck got to the pot but could not stay there. Pot and baby fell with a clatter, Arti, who could run, joined in the fun and soon both were lapping buttermilk. With the noise, servants and Annu came running in, Puck was covered in buttermilk; Arti was eating merrily, enjoying the fun.

At first, Annu was angry, and shouted, What is happening here?

The servants started to take the children away when Annu stopped them. Puck made as if she had not heard Annu’s angry voice, but went on licking buttermilk with a smile.

Annu asked, although she knew, Whose idea was this?

Arti pointed at Puck. Puck now looked at Annu and gave her a mysterious smile and put a finger in her mouth. She was covered in buttermilk. Bai wanted to her to go away, but Puck started crying.

Annu said, It’s okay! Take Arti away and watch where the other kids are.

Puck went back to licking and was so lost in those simple moments that she did not hear Annu whisper, Hum, so we do have something more in common, I guess, a good appetite.

There was a smile on Annu’s face as she watched Puck playing innocently for a while and then she came close and sat next to the child. Puck was smiling while Annu was thinking; do you know who I am?

Puck looked deep into her eyes and said, Annu.

Annu was surprised. She looked around but no one was there. She took her in her arms and asked, What did you say?

Puck said, Annu, again. It was the very first word she had ever spoken. Annu was filled with joy. She looked around. It was Christmas day!

Annu noticed that Puck was holding something else in her tiny hand. Annu took her for a bath; she opened her fingers and two black teeth fell on Annu’s sari, Annu looked at them in amazement for a while and then tied them into the corner of her sari.

A servant came running with the message that Kusum was on the phone. Bai took over Puck and Annu went to take the call. Kusum had good news that the army had accepted her and she was going to Jashi. From there, they would move her to another city where they had a big army hospital.

Kusum sounded very confident and happy when she said enthusiastically, Maa, I got it. At last my dream has come true. Annu, I know that Puck is very lucky to have you. At last all your hard work has given you the fruit of success in your dream; I know how much you wanted this to happen. I am so proud of you.

Kusum was almost crying. Maa thanks for always being there for me and Puck.

Annu laughed as she replied, No, thank you for giving me such a special granddaughter. At last I have found someone I can live my dream through.

I hope she is not troubling you a lot.

Annu smiled and said, Not at all, don’t worry; everything’s fine. Just take care.

Both women hung up.

Annu now had so much going on in her head, she just needed to relax and let her thoughts cool down. and Bai came in. She had bathed Puck, but Puck was crying.

What’s the matter, Bai? Annu asked. I know, she said, answering her own question, she does not want to wear clothes, I guess. Annu laughed and said, Hum! Bring her to me.

Annu took an old silk shawl and wrapped it around her. Now Puck was at peace. She took her in her arms, put her on her chest and started singing to her. In no time at all, Puck had fallen asleep. Now, Annu was thinking, where did Puck get her name, ‘Annu’? As far as she could remember, no one called her Annu. While thinking, Annu fell asleep too.

Annu kept the black teeth safely. She fixed one to a black thread like a pendant and wore it proudly round her neck to remind her of Puck’s first Christmas gift to her, along with her first word, ‘Annu’, and gave the other to Kusum.

After a while, Kusum returned, and they moved to Jashi, another city in the same province.

The years quickly passed. Puck was now two years old. She had started saying a few words when Annu had seen her last. Annu went to Jashi to visit them just before going on her annual holiday. Kamal’s job was still in Bhopal, so Kusum was alone with Puck and her mother, except for servants and a babysitter. Kusum mentioned several times to Annu that the family house was special and she must come to visit her. Kusum was at work the day Annu arrived. She had wanted to surprise her daughter-in-law, so had not mentioned her visit. As the taxi took her from the station, Annu was busy in her thoughts about the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. The military area was far away from the city, guarded by huge amounts of wire boundary fencing. They had to stop at the big main gate. An army guard asked the driver several questions, and then asked very respectfully, Who would you like to visit?

Annu answered, My granddaughter and her mother, Lt. Kusum, and handed him a piece of paper with the address.

That’s okay, he replied, but make sure the taxi is registered first.

Annu was holding her pendant with the black tooth while she waited for the driver. Wow, she was thinking, I was worried about them living alone. It seems they are safer here than anywhere else.

It was the first time she had been in an army area. It was so clean and well decorated, so different from the city. Roads were painted white along their edges, very well made, with speed limits before every important building. The army standard was everywhere you could put a flagpole. There were green trees with benches in between. It all reminded her of brother’s holiday camp, even down to the men in white shorts and shirts. Annu took a deep breath at the army shopping complex. No need to go outside for anything, she thought. And, as she discovered later she did not have to pay any taxes in the shops.

Annu was surprised to see the kind of house they had. It dated from British occupation, colonial times, a detached bungalow surrounded by an expansive garden guarded by an imposing gate; some houses even had a gatekeeper’s room at the entrance. After a while, the taxi was in front of a big gate. Annu was surprised to see that the house was another big British-type bungalow. The driver stopped and opened the gate, and they drove in through a large, well-maintained garden. An elderly gardener was there, watering the plants.

The driver asked, Which house would it be? There are two.

Annu looked around and saw, in front of one house, a tulsi with small temple and a Ganesh statue, almost the same as she had at her home. She pointed to it and said, That one, please!

The driver took the car into the shade in front of the door and stopped. He looked back at Annu and said, We’ve arrived.

Annu’s eyes were still busy moving this way and that as the driver opened the taxi door and helped her out. In the garden, there was a fountain and she noticed three children were playing under a tree while a babysitter was minding them. Puck saw Annu and speeded towards her. Annu’s eyes were weak; she was trying to recognise Puck. She saw a baby crawling very fast in her direction. By the time the babysitter had asked who she was, the baby and other older children had reached her.

The baby clutched Annu’s feet, stood up and said, Annu- Oma!

Annu took her into her arms and started kissing her forehead. You still remember me, she said.

The taxi driver was waiting to go away; Annu took some money from a purse tied onto the corner of her sari and gave it to the driver.

He looked surprised and said, It’s too much and I don’t have change.

Annu smiled and said, It’s okay! Buy some sweets for your kids. Annu asked the babysitter, What is your name and where is Kusum?

The woman replied, Indu, maybe you have forgotten me, I am a sister of Bai.

Annu looked surprised before saying, Oh, oh! You are right! I remember you now; you were very small when I saw you last time.

She should be coming any minute; she is at work; it’s lunchtime. Do you want to go inside the house? You must be tired from the journey. Kusum did not mention that you were coming. She bent down and touched the feet of Annu.

Annu put her hand on her head and said the blessing, May God always bless you.

Two children were staring at Annu, who stood still for a moment and said, No, I’d rather stay outside with the children, but tea would be perfect. If you could just arrange my luggage inside, that would be most helpful. Do you have any men who could assist, as they are heavy?

Yes, one army man is in charge of the household, I will call him and ask him to bring a relaxing chair outside for you.

Annu pointed to her luggage and said, There must be a sweet box in one of those suitcases. Please get it on a plate for the children, Indu.

Meanwhile, Puck was playing with Annu’s tooth pendant. Annu came close to the children. They were looking very cute. She bent down and said Puck, are you not going to introduce me to your friends?

Puck still stumbled over her words but said, pointing a finger, This is Pinky and Bunty. Then, pointing towards home, she said, They live right up front.

The children were looking curiously at Annu, who then asked them, Are you going to be my friend?

Bunty ran away and, after a moment, Pinky followed him. Puck held Annu’s ear and kissed her on the cheek. By now, Indu had come out with a servant carrying a relaxing chair and a table. Indu put the plateful of sweets and chocolate in front of Annu. Bunty and Pinky were still looking at Annu with curiosity. Annu opened one sweet wrapped in shiny paper and put it in her mouth.

Wow! she said, This is the best sweet I ever had. She put one in Puck’s mouth. Puck pointed a finger at Bunty and Pinky as if to say ‘can we give them to my friends too’.

Sure, said Annu, if they become my friends too.

Puck was silent now, looking at them, calling them with her hand. They whispered something to each other; Annu was enjoying their childishness.

Then Bunty came close and asked, How many chocolates shall we all get?

Annu laughed and said, We share whatever is on the plate.

She took a chocolate, unwrapped it and held it towards Bunty. He wanted to take it, but then Annu pulled it back.

Aha! she said, Are we friends?

Bunty looked back at Pinky, who nodded to signal okay. Bunty moved forward, saying, Okay! Friends.

Pinky ran closer and started jumping up and down, shrieking, Me too, me too!

Annu laughed and gave a chocolate to Pinky. Annu heard the noise of a car. An army jeep stopped in front of the house as Annu put her glasses on. Two women in white uniforms, wearing army caps, came out of the car.

Bunty and Pinky ran towards them, shouting, Mummy, mummy.

Indu went to Kusum and told her that Annu was here. However, all Kusum did was to ask her to arrange lunch. She still hadn’t noticed Annu. Then, with a gasp, she did and walked towards her rapidly, then touched her feet. When did you arrive and why didn’t you tell me? I would have picked you up.

Annu was fascinated by Kusum’s uniform, spotlessly white, with a shiny star on the shoulder and a black nameplate. Annu raised her hand and stopped Kusum touching her feet, took her in her arms and gave her a warm hug; Kusum was not expecting that; it was the first time Annu had been so affectionate. Kusum felt the warmth; Puck was holding Annu’s legs.

Annu explained, I wanted to give you a surprise, Kusum.

Kusum responded, What a pleasant surprise! Thank you for coming. Have you seen inside yet?

Annu answered, No! I wanted to enter your dream place with you, first time.

Annu could see in Kusum’s eyes how much her being there meant for Kusum. They started walking towards the front door; Kusum called Indu and asked her to take care of Puck.

They entered the house through a big, dark wooden door. The interior was spacious. Pride of place was given to a picture of Puck, Kusum and Kamal. Puck had her own small bedroom. The back door of the bungalow opened onto the back garden, with a small pool, complete with Puck’s rubber toys. At the bottom of the garden was a small wooden summerhouse, complete with living room, bedroom and bathroom; it was mostly used as a guesthouse. All Annu’s stuff had been put there. She noticed, and was touched by it, to see in one corner of the bedroom an old Annu family picture.

Annu was surprised to see Kusum’s world and delighted when her daughter-in-law said, Maa, it’s nice that you have come. All of us, especially Puck, have missed you.

Annu responded, Thank you. I wonder why I had not come before.

Ah well, you’re here now. You must be tired. Please get fresh. There is warm water in your bathroom, then it’s lunchtime and we’ll be waiting in the dining room for you to join us.

At lunch, Indu fed Puck. After lunch, they went into the back garden to relax in the sun on a shady couch.

Annu, said Kusum, I only have an hour for lunch, and now I have to go back. I will be back at 8 o’clock this evening.

Annu took a deep breath and said, That’s almost a whole day…

But, interrupted Kusum, tomorrow, I will work only till one. It’s all alternate shifts, long and short for a year, and for a month I do night shifts. I like it here. Puck always has company, a neighbour’s children. Usha is her name; her husband works abroad in Dubai, so she is alone with her children, too. Kusum, suddenly curious, asked, So did you like my dream?

Annu tapped the table. Aha! I like it; you can say I love it; your dream goes much further than my wildest imagination. Today I have seen the India we fought for. You know you should be proud of yourself, as I am proud of you. I wish I had you as my daughter instead of daughter-in-law, Kamal is very lucky.

Puck was on the ground playing with her toys. She held Kusum’s feet and stood up, trying to balance herself. Kusum’s eyes were wide open; for a moment she was silent, as she saw Puck standing up without support and trying to reach Annu. Annu looked down. Puck was close to her.

Kusum brushed away a tear. I always was afraid that while working I would miss all these first magical moments, but then, I guess she was waiting for you.

Annu took Puck in her arms and kissed her.

Kusum said, She is very attached to you. I remember being a bit worried when I had to leave Puck and go for training, but then I saw you standing right beside me; you have held Puck from the very first time like your own. Even when everyone doubted she would live, you believed in her. I would not have been able to do all this… She waved a hand at her uniform and the house. …Without you, Kamal never wanted me to go for training, but you made him understand and took Puck in your arms. Annu – I always had a desire for freedom to live as a woman. You made it come true. Coming generations will always respect and remember you as a guiding star in this family.

She noticed that Indu had come out and handed the sleeping Puck to her.

Indu said, The car is here, Usha madam.

Indu put Puck in her cot. Kusum stood up, touched Annu’s feet and went back to work.

That evening, while Annu was playing with the children in the garden, Indu was preparing dinner and Kusum had come home early. Annu had become a favourite of Bunty and Pinky, particularly when she told them fairy stories. Kusum also liked to join them and listen too, and now that Puck had started to walk, Pinky liked to hold her hand and walk slowly with her.

Annu remarked, It feels like heaven here.

Kusum riposted, Your being here makes it heaven. It was incomplete without you. You say you have to go next week, but please stay a bit longer. I’m sure Puck will miss you if you go.

Okay, I’ll tell you my secret, said Annu. I have a friend, a very old friend. Every year she comes from England to see me and we visit different parts of India, so I must go back home to welcome her.

Well, said Kusum, Kamal called to say he would not be able to come this weekend, so I was thinking of visiting him. If you want, you and your friend can stay here.

Annu liked the idea, but did have some doubts about being tied down.

Kusum saw this in Annu’s eyes. She came close and said, Do not worry. No one has to know; it would be a secret between us.

Annu laughed and said, I like the idea; let’s do it.

Indu called that dinner was ready, and the two women went indoors, bringing an end to their sad conversation about parting.

Usha and her children ate together with Kusum and Puck. Usha was a very outgoing woman. Annu liked that frankness. Usha was a regular smoker, which Kusum thought Annu would not like, but then she saw Annu getting along with Usha and the children. It was the first time Kusum had seen the real Annu, open-minded and very accepting. Kusum was surprised to see this angel in Annu, but then she knew now that it was the real Annu. They had exchanged so many stories of India’s independence war, present conditions and women in the past, and agreed about so much that Usha and Annu soon became good friends. Kusum was now sure that at least there was one person who was and would always be on her side.

After a few days, Indu, Puck and Kusum left for a while and Annu stayed on.

When they came back, Annu was looking so fresh and much younger.

Annu stayed for a week longer there, and enjoyed her stay. She kept herself busy by getting up early to wait for the bakery truck every morning at the main gate, also guiding people to work at home, and the gardener in the garden. She was very much involved everywhere. Usha now started coming almost every other day to have dinner. No one but Kusum knew about Annu’s visit to holy places. Kamal did not know.

After a long stay, Annu went back home with happiness on her face.

Now she started visiting Kusum very often and spent her annual holiday there. Kusum went to Kamal for a long holiday. Kusum never asked Annu about her friend, as she knew if it was necessary, Annu would tell her. She wanted some privacy for Annu. She now knew her more as a friend. Meanwhile, Kamal had bought the one-room apartment they used to rent when they got married. Kamal lived there with Kusum when she was in Jashi.

Time started passing by quickly. Kusum got a posting back to hometown, Bhopal, where Kamal worked. She had the option to stay there until retirement, but she would have to give up the possibility of promotion. Annu pointed out that with every promotion there would be a new posting.

She said, Imagine moving to a new place with Puck every few years. Kamal could not always get a house and servants; Kamal would be there with you, you would be able to save money and take care of Puck together.

After much thought, Kusum decided in favour of Bhopal with Kamal and Puck. Annu was thinking how, once again, marriage had become a hindrance to achievement. Why was it only women who had to make sacrifices for the family? Why shouldn’t men? However, she knew Kusum could be starting off the dream that Annu had in her eyes but could not fulfil. Annu smiled, as at least a breakthrough she was seeking for every woman had happened somewhere; she wished that the breakthrough had come via her daughters. Annu had more involvement in making decisions so she could set them free, but Kusum was her daughter-in-law and now, with Puck and Kamal, Kusum had obligations and limitations. Annu could take care of Puck, but she could not live Kusum’s family life.

Time started passing by once again.

Annu went back to her home afterwards, and got busy with her life.

In Bhopal, in the last few days of November during Puck’s seventh year, Annu was visiting. The family lived in the army area of Bhopal, in a house much smaller than the one in Jashi. It had two bedrooms and a small garden, which had been bare ground when they had moved in. Fortunately, Kusum and Annu’s hobby was gardening, and it took only a few seasons to get the garden flourishing. Bai still came in every day to cook and clean. However, Puck was now too old to need a babysitter and Indu had left. Annu also used to stay longer before leaving for her annual holiday, and she kept an eye on the little girl.

One afternoon, when Kamal and Kusum were not home, the two heard a knock at the door.

Who could that be? Puck asked.

If you do not open the door, we will never know.

But Maa asked me not to open doors for strangers, Puck replied.

Annu raised her head and peeked out of the window. It is some girl. She must be your friend. Let’s see.

Puck got up and ran to the door, opening it quickly to find a girl, who appeared to be about fourteen, with a slim body, brown skin, and curly shoulder-length hair loosely tied back with just a few curls falling on her face. She had a sweet smile and dimples and, with her big eyes and thick eyelashes, she looked like a doll. For a moment, she just stood there. Puck and the girl stared at each other. They were strangers. Puck rubbed the floor mat with her little toe. Her thumb was in her mouth, a common thing for a young girl to do.

Hey. Welcome to the neighbourhood. I am Kavita, which means poetry, the stranger said.

Annu replied softly, How could we be friends, when we do not know each other?

Kavita laughed and said, I am asking for friendship, not a business.

Annu was dumbstruck by this reply and asked Kavita, What do you mean?

Kavita replied confidently, Friendship has to be done instantly, heart to heart. There is only one rule and that is to accept the person in front of you with all her good and bad points.

In that one sentence, Kavita won Annu’s heart; she was so innocent, so open-minded, such a sweet girl. Annu sensed that Puck could not find a better friend than Kavita. Annu laughed and replied, Hum, you are right. Thanks for reminding us.

Puck stood still and silent, staring at the girl. Kavita looked at Puck as if she was scanning her inside and out.

Annu, her hand resting on Puck’s shoulder, said, Hello, Kavita. That’s a pretty name. This is Puck and I am Annu, Puck’s grandmother.

Kavita extended her hand toward Puck, but Puck was shy. 

Don’t be afraid. Kavita is your friend, Annu said. 

Not just a friend, but your best friend, Kavita added, as she leant over, planting a soft kiss on Puck’s cheek. I am fourteen and I am smart. I am very popular and you cannot find a better friend than me.

Annu did not need more of an introduction to Kavita. Now, in just a few moments Kavita had won her heart.

I like your spirit, Annu laughed.

Young and vigorous but still timid, Puck stood behind Annu, looking at Kavita.

Puck come and meet my friend, Annu said. 

Puck was still not sure. Kavita understood. She came close to Puck and raised her hand slowly and showed her palm to Puck while looking deep into her eyes. Annu was watching. After a moment Puck came closer. She slowly extended her hand to Kavita. The two girls shook hands and smiled. Kavita reached into her pocket. She handed the item to Puck.

Kavita leant over and kissed Puck’s check again and said, This is my friendship gift.

Annu watched the girls. They were both so cute and innocent. Puck was curious to see what her gift was. Pulling Kavita inside the house with one hand, she wriggled the wrapper off the gift with her free hand. It was a cake!

My mom bakes the world’s best cakes, Kavita said. 

Is it chocolate cake? Annu asked. 

Yes, it is. Taste it, it’s very good, Kavita offered a small piece to Annu as she asked, Are you a Brahmin?

Yes, Annu replied. 

Oh, then you must not eat the cake. It has egg in it, Kavita said.

Annu smiled and said, It also has the sweetness of your friendship. So, how do you define that? Your innocence is priceless and no religion can compare to that. And which egg are you talking about? They all laughed. 

Annu took a silver coin out of her sari knot and circled it around both girls and handed it to Kavita. This is my friendship gift to you with all my love and blessings. Spend it wisely. It is a silver coin. And, your mom really does bake the best cakes, Kavita.

Wow! This is a silver coin!

Are you hungry? asked Annu. 

Always! Kavita replied. 

Annu called for Bai. She ordered snacks and drinks for their visit. By then, Puck and Kavita were deep in conversation. Annu knew this was the beginning of a strong friendship.

Kavita was Puck’s first friend. The bond they shared was special and unlike any other. The girls barely noticed when Bai set the tray on the table.

I am a class leader in central school, you know, Kavita said proudly.

 That will be my school too, Puck said. 

Kavita told Puck about her school and the many stories that accompany the lives of young girls and boys. The girls’ laughter could be heard throughout the house. They sat close together, sharing and talking for hours.

You know what my name means? asked Kavita. 

Yes, you told Annu it means poetry, said Puck.

Kavita means poetry but the full form of my name by letter is ‘K’ for my personality, which is ’kool’, ‘A’ for my nature, which is adventurous, ‘V’ for my face, which is very cute or victorious, ‘I’ for IQ that is intelligent, ‘T’ for trustworthy friends, ‘A’ for my adorable lifestyle Now, what does your name mean?

Puck looked down. She did not know what to say. She raised her head slightly, lowering her gaze to the floor as if she was thinking. I don’t know. I have to ask Oma. 

Annu came into the room with a plate of warm, homemade biscuits.

Puck jumped to her feet, taking Annu’s hand, and asked, Oma, what does Puck mean? 

Annu looked at her and asked, Why? 

Kavita wants to know.

Annu went near Kavita and rolled her fingers through her hair with a 
smile and asked, Do you know any of the fairy tales? 

Not really.

Puck is a character in a fairy tale. Puck has many supernatural powers. Puck is very naughty but helps the needy. Puck is mischievous but she is a sweet devil, said Annu. 

Wow! Please tell me a fairy tale, demanded Kavita. 

Some other time. Now you both go and play, Annu answered, smiling.

Promise? Kavita’s eyes twinkled with excitement mixed with a ray of unseen hope. 

A friend’s promise, Annu assured her. Kavita jumped in a dance-like motion, excitement on her face. Take some snacks with you when you leave. And thanks for the cake. Do bring more next time.

Kavita took Puck’s hand. Leading Puck out of the room, she turned and called out to Annu, Yes, it is a friend’s promise! 

Annu rested quietly on the couch. Feelings of loneliness filled her heart. She knew that the new friendship between Puck and Kavita was only the beginning of a very special relationship, a very special bond between the two new friends. It was just the new beginning of Puck’s life. Annu closed her eyes and wished that they could be happy together and remain friends forever. 

As the days passed, Kusum started to receive more complaints from Puck’s school. Puck was a naughty child, but now she had Kavita, whose friendship made her even naughtier. Puck was always stubborn and a free spirit, believing she could live her life however she wanted and in whatever way she wanted. She did not care about the world’s opinion. She did what she wanted without thinking about anything. In school, Puck was famous for her mischievousness. Nearly every day, Kusum and Kamal would receive complaints about her behaviour. Puck studied in one of the famous army schools in India, where everyone knew Kusum, due to her designation and status in the army. 

Time passed. Each moment was special for Puck and Kavita. Every morning, they would leave together for school, talking along the way. They shared everything. Kavita told innumerable tales that always made Puck laugh. Unknown to the girls, those days were the golden ones of their young lives. After school, the girls would tell Annu about their day at school. Kavita brought a cake for Annu every time she visited and Annu prepared something special for her little friends every day.

Puck often took advantage of Kavita being older. She would fight with children her own age, sometimes just for fun, but always sure that Kavita would support her. The girls would leave school early and spend some time alone; they had special moments, which only they knew about. They had no thoughts about the future.

Once, they were sitting on the veranda, whispering to each other. Annu stood behind the window and tried to overhear. Puck was saying that she liked the way Kavita stole lunches the day before. Kavita, full of bravado, replied that she’d bought the lunches and other things with money she’d taken from her father’s wallet. Annu had heard enough, and could not stop herself from coming out. Now she was a bit worried, as she knew there is a thin line between naughtiness and thieving. They were too young to understand the difference between right and wrong.

Kavita noticed her presence. She looked shocked; Annu took over the situation very nicely and said, Aha! Here you monsters are.

Kavita said softly, Hi Annu.

Puck was silent. Annu sat next to Puck and signalled Kavita to come and sit with them. Kavita slowly came close and sat next to Annu; Annu took a deep breath and started playing with Puck’s hair when Puck put her head on Annu’s lap.

Then Annu said, I want to tell you both something very, very important. It’s just a sentence with only a few words, but you both have to think about them deeply every day of your life. The sentence is ‘live honestly not for anyone else but for yourself’. Then she put her arm around Kavita, who was still a bit uncomfortable. Annu said to her, Tell me one thing, what is the difference between right and wrong? Do not be in a hurry, take your time, and think before you answer.

Kavita looked down and said, Stealing is wrong.

Annu was relieved, because she could sense that Kavita realised her mistake and had accepted her weakness. Annu smiled and touched Kavita’s cheek. Puck was watching wide-eyed.

Then Annu said to them both, Dears, there is nothing right or wrong in this world, only people make it so. When you have to do things secretly and hide your eyes while talking about them, you should understand that you did wrong. Remember, in future, whenever you need anything come to me and I’ll take care of it. Okay? Promise?

Kavita laughed and hugged her tightly as she said, Promise!

This incident changed something inside all of them. With time, Puck and Kavita started getting closer to Annu, and Annu got peace in her heart as she and Puck shared a very special and secret bond now.

Apart from Annu, no one knew the girls left school early. Annu used to give them money and snacks every time they left home. She believed in freedom. She knew that freedom also teaches responsibilities, which are honed when hearts are set free from restrictions. She did not want Puck to feel that she was restricted in any way. Annu believed in limitless freedom, which meant no boundaries.

Kavita was a sweet child with a brave and daring personality. Annu liked Kavita’s frankness and her unwavering determination to break rules. Like Puck, she was also a naughty child. In Kavita’s company, Puck learnt to open herself to many new ways of having fun – and being mischievous. One of the girls’ favourite ploys was to be late for assembly. Then the girls teased the other students. Many times, Puck and Kavita stole lunches from students. Puck would wink and devour her stolen treasure. The girls would wait, watching as the students expressed their shock at finding their lunch boxes empty. While everyone was present in assembly, Puck and Kavita had a chance, in Cockney rhyming slang, to half-inch the rub-a-dub. That was one of their major adventures and they enjoyed it the most. 

One day, Puck was caught stealing. Kavita encouraged her, Be a professional! Magic does not lie in stealing but in stealing and not being caught.

Kavita candidly revealed the entire incident. When Annu heard this, she burst into laughter. Kusum did not find any part of Puck’s actions funny. Kamal’s