Monday, February 10, 2014

behind the mask - short story 1

This tall man had a huge smile on his face and the sound of laughter was even louder than his gestures . He went past - spreading joy and happiness - all the children celebrating the birthday of their friend  Baby, in a beautiful luxurious villa in Mahim,Mumbai . Baby looked the prettiest girl on earth in her gorgeous crystal white frock with beats all around and light pink laces throughout the edges.She was the princess of the evening. She had to blow the candles away but she was eagerly waiting for her father to arrive . He was expected to arrive any time from work . He had already sent a monstrous cake for her beloved daughter . But unfortunately got caught in a very important business meeting. The gathering kept looking at the door . Every now and then people had smile on the face merely looking at this shining smiling face and pleasing laughter of the tall man . He seemed to be happiest among all . Baby was getting anxious and this man too was waiting for her dad to arrive more than anyone else . Finally the Dad arrived and the girl rushed towards the Dad to hug her. Dad lifted her in his arms and kissed her . Soon people gathered around the cake. The candles were blown and the cake was cut with cheers all around . The party was almost over in an hour  . Everybody but children was drained . The tall guy spread cheers and happiness all around as he laughed loud for one last time before he faced the wall. He took out his smiling mickey mouse mask and wipe his tears off. This Kids entertainer rushed to the Dad for payment and requested for a piece of cake too . He took 50 Rs note from dad , went to the medical shop , bought the medicine and spurted for his home. He could not afford another loss in a day. He had lost his elder daughter last night. He reached his home in Dharavi Slum, gave medicine to her daughter and then slid the piece of cake towards her and smiled. He was not laughing . The little girl hugged him. He kissed her on head. Tears came out of his eyes. She was his princess. Sitting in the corner , his wife had a light smile behind the tears.