Life by Design

She turned down invitations to kitty parties, and the ladies often quipped, “What do you do all day?” She had quit her job, but was always busy – writing, painting, building an enviable online profile. She volunteered, enrolled for many courses, and managed to complete ten of those. They never understood what she did. Some … Continue reading Life by Design

Sordid tales

“We respect a work-life balance. A policy is being laid down that no official emails will be sent on weekends, and employees are free to not take a call on weekends.” The board room resounded with applause, to welcome the CEOs initiative. At long last, the core team could have some family time on weekends. … Continue reading Sordid tales

Unsafe

It was their first honeymoon together – second for her, and fifth for her husband. Both had been married and separated before, but they claimed to have found their final destination in each other. He clicked several pictures of her under the long-leaf pine tree at the entrance of the Taj Mahal. “Will you pine … Continue reading Unsafe

Interrupted bliss

It is rare that I get treated to such luxury. I might as well take a nap before the real owner arrives. “Bow-wow”, it is time to move away quietly. https://only100words.xyz/2019/12/26/three-line-tales-week-204/

Sculptor’s Story

Constructing a memorial is no mean task. Each stone speaks the story of ideals, values, sacrifices, suffering and pride. The stories of those the warriors left behind are heart-breaking. They hadn’t asked for this, but are carrying forwatd the tradition with pride. I put aside the hammer and chisel, and think… the stone I’ve used … Continue reading Sculptor’s Story

Pilgrimage

“I need money for my annual trip to Ajmer, to thank Gods for their mercy throughout their year.” “Well… travel, food, lodging and boarding expenses, coconuts, flowers, sweets for the temple and chaddar for the Dargah, cash for the donation box, fees paid to so-called guides and middlemen … amounts to a neat sum, and … Continue reading Pilgrimage

Netted

There is an alien amidst us, unprotected… Are you sure? He must have lost his waterproof jacket. My fear is that the nets will come scouring for him, and take a lot more... https://only100words.xyz/2019/12/19/three-line-tales-week-203/

Mysterious

“It is the sixth year in a row that I’ve come here to celebrate a quiet Christmas.” “What is so special about this place?” asked Rocky who had to travel a long way with the supplies. “How often do you come here?” Ronald changed the topic. “Whenever we receive an order for supplies…” “Have you … Continue reading Mysterious

Raison d’etre

No, we are not going to jump out… We just need to know your arrival by sight, smell or the sound of your car. We will then rush back to the entrance door, and position ourselves to jump over you. That’s not an attack, it’s an expression of love. We do nothing but wait for … Continue reading Raison d’etre

Crashed

“Succession planning is imperative for any organization. These are the new recruits who will be groomed for top management roles.” There is hope sparkling in some eyes, and many others are downcast, with perspiring brows. It had happened several times in this board room. Careers soared and crashed – at the pleasure of the Almighty … Continue reading Crashed