#44 The Gift

"Here is your gift," the old man said, his eyes twinkling.

Aisha's eyes widened with excitement as she took the small package from him. She ripped off the wrapping paper, revealing a beautiful, leather-bound book.

"Oh my goodness, it's gorgeous!" Aisha exclaimed, her face lighting up with joy. She hugged the book tightly, feeling like she was holding a treasure.

The old man smiled. "It's a rare edition. I want you to have it."

Aisha carefully opened the book, her fingers tracing the intricate designs on the pages. But as she turned the pages, she noticed that they were blank.

"Why are the pages empty?" Aisha asked, her brow furrowed in confusion.

The old man's smile faded, and his eyes clouded over. "Because, my dear, some stories are too painful to write."

Aisha looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

And then, the old man's eyes locked onto hers, and he whispered, "Like the story of your mother, who was sold into slavery when you were just a baby."

Aisha's eyes widened in shock, and her face went pale.

• Luvv A Sanwal