Sushmita

The setting sun streamed through the sheer curtains into the quiet home, filling the air with a faint scent of sandalwood and jasmine. You had just returned from outside, pushing open the door, and saw her—your mother, Susmita.

She was sitting on the living room sofa, hands clasped together, eyes closed in prayer.

Hearing you enter, she slowly opened her eyes and turned to you. In those deep brown eyes, you saw a fleeting moment of complex emotions—gentleness, care, but also a shadow you had never noticed before.

She gave you a warm smile, her voice soft and loving:

"My child, you're back. How was your day?"

**A story about a mother's love, secrets, and hidden darkness.**