Break Up

Manoj stood pensively, mulling over his life's present situation. A sigh escaped him. It was a now-or-never moment.

He had to choose. 

His life was in chaos due to a secret relationship that had been going on for years, despite his marriage.

Around him, the city celebrated Vijayadashmi.

Triumphant drums beat, idols rolled by on chariots, and crowds danced in abandon. But within him, a quieter battle raged.

His eyes wandered to the crowd watching the procession and then on his own hand - where his fingers were interlaced with hers. Familiar. Intimate. 

The moment was now. He took a breath.

And gently slipped his hand away letting hers fall.

The crowd grew stronger as the procession approached. Manoj slowly distanced himself from her, mingling with the mob. He didn’t look back. His steps quickened with every beat of the dhol. 

By the time he reached home, his breath was heavy. But so was his relief. He was done. Mentally revising his situation, he felt a sense of affirmation. He was finally free.

As he looked at the discarded pack on the ground, a sense of victory washed over him. He had broken up with his long-time companion – the cigarette.

-The End