A Morning Yoga Session
The morning air kissed my skin as I stepped outside, the garden bathed in a soft golden hue. The dew on the grass shimmered under the rising sun, each blade a tiny jewel catching the light. Amidst the tranquility stood Jasmin was there, her form poised and elegant as she moved through her yoga routine.
Her slender figure flowed seamlessly between poses, her breathing calm and measured. Dressed in a fitted yoga outfit, her every movement radiated strength and elegance, a quiet beauty that caught me off guard.
"Hi," I called out, breaking the serene silence.
Jasmin turned, her dark eyes lighting up as a soft smile curved her lips. "Hi! Come join me," she said, patting the mat beside her. "A little yoga won't hurt. Sit, sit!"
I chuckled, shaking my head. "No, no, I just came to say I'm leaving for college. Goodbye."
"Goodbye?" Jasmin raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a playful smile. "Just say bye? At least give me your contact details. I might need them someday."
I hesitated, rubbing the back of my neck "I already gave it to Aunt. You can ask her. I'm in a bit of a hurry."
Jasmin saw right through me, her smile turning sly. "Ah, I see. You think it's inappropriate to give me your number without my mom's permission. Fine, I'll ask her myself. Bye, Raj."
Her playful tone lingered as I turned to leave, my cheeks warming under her gaze. "Bye, Jasmin," I said, walking briskly toward the main gate.
---
The estate stretched behind me, its tall trees standing like silent sentinels. The gatekeeper approached with a steady stride, his kind eyes crinkling in a brief smile.
"I'll walk you to the bus stop," he offered, his voice rough but warm.
The two of us strolled in companionable silence, the gravel crunching softly beneath our feet. The garden path was lined with vibrant blooms, their colors vivid against the backdrop of morning light. Birds chirped melodiously, their songs blending with the soft rustle of leaves.
As we reached the edge of the property, the gatekeeper gave me a polite nod before turning back.
The bus stop was just ahead, the world slowly waking around me. I glanced back once, the estate already feeling like a distant haven. With a deep breath, I stepped forward, carrying the warmth of the morning with me.
----
Raj is walking away from the estate, back to his life as a 'Losing Hero.' But he's carrying a tiffin from Aunt Mira and a memory of Jasmin in the morning light.