Sangeetha Kamath

  Rajendra stood at the doorway, his eyes scanning the hallway one last time. He had lived in this house for over 40 years, raising a loving family, celebrating countless birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, festivals, and weathering life's storms. But now, at the age of 85, he could no longer care for himself. His children had long since moved away, starting their own families. But the departure of his wife from the earthly realm was the final blow. The old man took a deep breath, his eyes misting as recalled the sound of his children's laughter, the smell of his wife's cooking, the hustle and bustle whenever his grandchildren visited. With a heavy heart, he locked the door behind him. He walked slowly down the garden path. The tree lined driveway replete with Gulmohars that his father had planted a generation ago seemed to weep crimson tears, showering him with fragrant petals. As he reached the gate, he turned back to look at the house one last time. The windows seemed to...

As the sun set over the ocean, a frail cat named Lola cuddled snuggly in Skye’s arms. Her legs barely carried her weight. But how she wished, driven by a deep longing to feel the sand beneath her paws one last time. Skye let her down gently secured to a harness. Lola padded silently across the sand. As she reached the water's edge, she paused, letting the foamy surf wash over her paws. She remembered the countless hours she'd spent on this beach, chasing frisbees and bounding playfully with Skye. Barely a few steps were taken and Lola was panting for breath slumping on the soft wet sand. She tried jumping onto Skye's shoulder like she did when she was a kitten. But couldn't muster any energy. Lola knew she was saying goodbye to her beloved Skye. With a final mew, she nuzzled her head against Skye’s heart as she lovingly picked her up again, tears streaming down her cheeks. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting the beach in a warm, golden light. And Lola was at peac...