Neeta dreamt of Diwali that night, and her garden being illuminated by a hundred candles.
It was the 59th day of lockdown, and it was expected to last a few more weeks, since they resided in a red zone. Another 40 days meant the lockdown would end on First of July, and then … they would celebrate with a hundred candles to commemorate each day of survival.
The oil lamp which the fabled Paro had kept aflame for several years, till her beau returned, spelt hope.
It did not matter that Neeta had been suffering from a terminal disease.
P.S.
Paro is the protagonist of an Indian love story (like Romeo-Juliet)
Creative Experiments and More 
I think of how important life is while we yet breathe. It is precious.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It is consciousness as we know it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Well titled. And hope is certainly well portrayed throughout your story.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much, D.Avery!
LikeLiked by 1 person
100 days of lockdown. 100 days of survival. That’s worth celebrating. Light the candles.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes. Survival with mental health unaffected is certainly an achievement.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Indeed!
LikeLiked by 2 people
A story that is both appealing and sad. Well-done!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you so much!
LikeLiked by 1 person