22. Death of Shivayya’s mother

CHAPTER 22

Death of Shivayya’s mother

Laxmi was in the university hostel. It was 5pm and her cell rings. It was Shivayya. “Laxmi, my mother is no more.”

Laxmi was shocked. “When did she die?”

“Just 10 minutes ago. She remembered you a lot before dying.”

“My Theory exam is over. I will be home soon.”

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Many people had come to pay their last respects to the body of Varalaxmi. Laxmi came. She started crying on seeing the body.

Suddenly Bhaskaraiah’s secretary’s cell rang. He approached Bhaskaraiah.

“Minister is on the way here. He will be here in one hour’s time.”

Shivayya said seriously, “We don’t need to wait for anyone as Laxmi is already here. Take the body.”

The dead body was carried away and burnt on a funeral pyre.

Shivayya and others reached home. Just then the minister, Manohar and their followers arrived in 10 cars. They approached Bhaskaraiah.

Shivaram asked, “Where is sister’s body?”

Shivayya said coolly, “You don’t have to shed crocodile tears now.”

Shivaram was shocked. They all sat on chairs.

Shivaram looked at Bhaskaraiah. “What to do. Ever since I became the minister, I have been so busy. I tried to find time to visit you all but I could never make it. I could not even see her dead body.”

He started crying loudly. Then he went and placed the bouquet on his sister’s photo. “I wanted to see you so badly. I could not see you or even your dead body. Now I have to be satisfied with your photo.”

He approached Bhaskaraiah. “You have to be courageous, bhava.”

Bhaskaraiah nodded. Laxmi observed her father.

Shivaram asked, “When did you come, my dear?”

Laxmi said, “I came when aunty died.”

“Will you come home with me?”

Laxmi shook her head. “No. You went. I will come later.”

Shivaram looked at Manohar. “This is my daughter, Laxmi.”

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Laxmi was getting ready to go. “Uncle, your health is not so good. You must take tablets at the proper time. As soon as my practical exams are over, I will come here itself directly.”

Bhaskaraiah looked at her with tears in his eyes. “I am happy that you have not forgotten us like your father.”

“Don’t mention my father. I am like your daughter. I have already become a member of your family even though my marriage is yet to take place.”

Bhaskaraiah looked at her happily. “I am very lucky to have you as my daughter-in-law. I know you will look after me very well. But after your exam, you go to your house. I will come to talk about your marriage. Then you can come here as my daughter-in-law.”

He looked at Shivayyya. “You go and leave her at the bus stop.”