RIP Ajja

A Story by Chirag Kumar

I woke up early morning.
Today is my best friend's birthday. He's my bestie since childhood.
Took a bath, dedicated my morning prayers to him. After a hurried breakfast, I paced to a nearby sweet shop. He is crazy for sweet things :)
On my way I bought today's Bombay Times edition. That is his favourite, especially the models page ;)
He must be waiting for me. I broke into a sprint to reach his place. Knocked the door. Grandma opened the door. I barged in to hug him tightly. I do this every time we meet. But this time he wasn't there. Slowly and steadily, reality gripped me. I realized I was deluding myself of the depressing truth. Even with teary eyes I could clearly see the unfathomable which had already happened. I broke down.
Days back he left me to visit a peaceful place. I rarely saw him smile, but that day, he was smiling. I was so happy for him. I accompanied him to his final destination, lit his pyre and set him free from the cage of suffering.
I hope he is fine up there, relaxing above the clouds. I don't wish to trouble him now, like I used to do before. But this time, he might get angry, for I am not sharing these sweets with him.
Sleep well Ajja :)