I come from a family of six - my dad, mom, grandparents, my sister Ruhe, and me, the youngest. We live in Kerala, India, and our family follows a traditional, orthodox lifestyle.
Growing up, I was deeply involved in church and other activities. As a studious and active child, I was often a favorite among both parents and teachers.
Now, I lead a simple life with a regular routine, staying true to my roots and values.
But everything changed when I became a teenager. Meeting him was the biggest turning point in my life.
Chapter 1
First Love
I thought it was just a mere crush, but no, I liked him more than just a friend. Austin, my neighbor, my first male friend, and more than that, my first love.
I had known him since a very young age. Both of us were part of the church choir, and at first, I couldn't stand him because he used to tease me endlessly. But things changed when I started talking to him more, spending more time together, and actually getting to know him.
Our routine was simple:
Every day, we would see each other at school, walk back home together, chat every single night, and spend time together on weekends.
I don't even know when I started falling for him, or why. What did I see in him? Was it his cute, chubby face? Or the way he sang? Or maybe it was how he cared for me? Or how he always looked after his mother? Oh yes, he loved his mother more than anything.
But things took a different turn. He had a crush on a girl named Amaya, who had recently moved from the US and settled in India with her family. She was one of the prettiest girls in school, with cute wavy hair, and she had a huge fan base.
Luckily for him, she was now in my class.
He asked for my help with this situation, and, being me, I said "yes."