divorce | Vikram Karve

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A Bottle of Whisky

April 3, 2024

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Disclaimer:

A few days ago my friend treated me to one of the best whiskies I have ever tasted (picture below)

The picture is just for you to see and not related to the fiction story below.

The whisky mentioned in the story is not this one.

And – the story is pure fiction – a product of my imagination.

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A BOTTLE OF WHISKY

Story By Vikram Karve

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A Bottle of Whisky – Story by Vikram Karve

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Part 1 – THE DEAD BODY

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I looked at the dead body – at the dead man’s face.

Even in death – he had the stamp of defeat on his face.

“Yes – it is him…” I said to the cop.

They covered the dead body.

We walked out of the morgue.

“The doctors will have to do a post mortem. They’ll do it straightaway – at night – and – we will get the body in the morning…” the cop said.

“Okay…” I said.

“If his family comes tomorrow – we can cremate him and complete the last rites tomorrow itself…” the cop said.

“That’s the problem – how do we inform his wife – his family…?” I said.

“Sir – you don’t have their address – phone numbers – anything…?” the cop asked me.

“No. His children have settled down abroad – in the US – and – his wife lives with them in America. I don’t have any contact details of his wife or his children. Tell me – did you not find anything on him – his wallet – mobile – some ID…?” I asked the cop.

“No, Sir – I told you – the only thing we found was a piece of paper with a mobile number written on it…” the cop said.

“That’s funny…” I said.

“Looks like he has been robbed…” the cop said, “except the piece of paper on which a mobile number was written – your mobile number. The dead man had nothing on him – no wallet, no mobile phone, no watch, absolutely nothing…” the cop said.

“Oh – so the robbers may have killed him…?” I said.

“I don’t think so, Sir – most probably he was dead before he was robbed – but – we will wait for the post-mortem report to confirm that…” the police inspector said to me.

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Part 2 – DEATH REPORT

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Well – Dear Reader – this was what had happened exactly one hour ago.

Around midnight – at 2330 Hours – or 11:30 PM – to be precise – a police patrol saw a man lying unconscious on the street in a sleazy “red light area”.

Actually – the man had fallen into a filthy gutter by the street.

They thought it was a drunkard – it was quite common to see intoxicated men wallowing dead-drunk on the streets in that squalid area.

However – on a closer look – than man appeared to be dead – so the cops called an ambulance.

The man was declared “brought in dead” by the doctors at the hospital.

On searching the dead man – the cops found nothing – except a piece of paper in his trouser pocket with a 10 digits – which the inspector correctly assumed to be a mobile number.

The inspector called that number – and – my mobile cell-phone rang.

I picked up my mobile phone.

“I am Inspector ‘XXX’ speaking from ‘YYY’ Police Station. A man was found dead and we found your mobile number on a chit in his pocket – you will have to come to the police station…” a voice said curtly.

“It is past midnight…” I said.

“So what – it is a police case…” the cop said rudely.

I identified myself.

I told the Police Inspector who I was.

There was a remarkable change in his tone – and – the cop said politely:

“I am sorry, Sir – I didn’t know…”

“That’s okay – where do you want me to come…?” I asked.

“Sir – we are in the civil hospital – I will send my jeep to pick you up…” the cop said.

“Don’t take the trouble – I will come down myself to the civil hospital – you just give me the directions and tell me where exactly…” I said.

“No, Sir – I will personally come and pick you up – please tell me your address…” the cop said.

Outside – it was pitch dark – and – it was raining heavily – and – I didn’t quite fancy driving on that harsh night in the torrential rain – so – I accepted the inspector’s offer to pick me up.

I told the police inspector my address.

I changed my clothes – and – I waited for the cop to arrive.

Soon – we – the Police Inspector and Me – we were driving in the police jeep towards the hospital to identify the body.

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The cop looked at me – and – he said to me:

“Sir – the place where his body was found – Sir – it is a “red light area” – that area is notorious for crime – vagabonds and urchins must have looted everything – there was nothing on him – no wallet, no watch, no mobile phone – nothing – only his clothes – and – this chit with your mobile number written on it…”

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I looked at the piece of paper on which I had written my mobile number – and – I said:

“I met him in my club – he wanted to have a drink with me – but – I was in a hurry – so – I told him that I would have a drink with him some other time – he told me that he had got a bottle of my favourite single-malt whisky…”

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“Single-Malt Whisky…? Imported…?” he asked me.

“Yes – he told me that he had recently returned from the US after visiting his children and wife there – and – he had got a bottle of my favourite whisky from the duty-free store at the airport…” I said.

“Oh – he must have really liked you…” he said.

“Yes – we were good friends when we were in the Air Force – and – later too – I kept contact with him after he retired long ago – and – after I retired 6 months ago – I met him once at his house – just before he flew down to America…” I said.

“Oh – Sir – what happened at the club…? How did you give him the chit with your mobile number…?” the cop asked me.

“Oh, Yes – I told you – I met him in the foyer of the club – near the reception area – he said that he had misplaced the visiting card I had given him a few months ago – and – he asked for my mobile number so – I asked the receptionist for a piece of paper – I wrote my mobile number on it – and – I gave it to him…” I said.

“Sir – you could have given him your visiting card…” the cop said.

“Actually – I was in a hurry to get home – and – he was totally drunk…” I said.

“He was already drunk – at what time – Sir…?” he asked me.

“Around 9:30 PM…” I said.

“Sir – you must have seen him drinking in the bar…?” he asked me.

No – I was attending a private party in the blue room – and – when I was walking towards the foyer of the club on my way out – he suddenly came lurching towards me – he asked for my mobile number – I could have given him my card – but – I was so disgusted seeing him in a drunken condition – that – I just wrote my number on a piece of paper – and – I gave it to him – and then – I walked to my car and drove off…” I said.

“What surprises me is why he went all the way to the filthy “red light area” which is quite far away from your club…” the cop said.

“Yes – that’s surprising…” I said.

“Or – maybe – the dead body is not your “friend” – oh – I am sorry, Sir…” the cop said.

“It’s okay – I told you – he was a good friend…” I said.

“Sir – maybe it is him – maybe not…” the cop said.

“What do you mean…?” I asked the cop.

“Sir – it is possible some other man “mugged” your friend – and – he took the “chit” with your number on it – and – the dead man is that man who mugged your friend and took the chit from him. But – that is a remote possibility – as I said – most likely it was your friend who is the dead man and he died before he was robbed – but – the post-mortem will give us a clue…” the cop said.

It was obvious that the cop hoped that I would identify the dead man – so that – the police could close the case.

Soon – we reached the hospital.

The doctors took us to the morgue.

I identified the body – it was him.

Yes – the “Dead Body” was that of my “Friend”…

They covered the body – and – we walked out of the morgue.

“We will have to do a post mortem. They’ll do the post-mortem straightaway – at night – and we will get the body early in the morning…” the cop said.

“Okay…” I said.

“Sir – I have already put my men on the job to get information from our informers in the area – so that we can rule out any foul play – and we can give clearance to cremate him once the doctors give their “all okay” report…” the cop said.

“That’s a good thing you have done…” I complimented the inspector.

“If his family comes tomorrow – we can cremate him and complete the last rites tomorrow itself…” the cop said.

“That’s the problem – how do we inform his wife – his family…?” I said.

“Sir – you don’t have their address – phone numbers – anything…?” the cop asked me.

“No. I don’t know the contact details of his wife or children. Tell me – did you not find anything on him – his wallet – mobile – some ID…?” I said.

“No, Sir – I told you – the only thing we found was a piece of paper with a mobile number written on it…” the cop said.

“Okay – let’s go to his house – maybe we will find some clue about the contact details of his family there…” I said.

“You know his house…?” the cop asked me.

“Yes – he had a bungalow in Deccan Gymkhana…” I said.

“A Bungalow…? In Deccan Gymkhana…?” the cop said.

“Yes – the Bungalow built by his father – and – since he was the only son – he inherited it…” I said.

“Oh – let’s hope he hasn’t sold it off and gone to live somewhere else – he seems to have been an alcoholic – and – alcoholics are always short of money…” the cop said.

“I don’t think he would have sold the bungalow – he was quite well-off financially – and – he was getting a decent pension…” I said.

“Oh…” the cop said.

“Well – I had been to his house around 6 months ago – he was living all alone – his wife had gone to live with his children who are settled abroad in America…” I said.

“Sir – you knew him well…?” the cop asked me.

“Of course – we joined the Air Force together as cadets – that was 45 years ago – we were ‘course-mates’ at the Academy – he was an ace fighter pilot – he stood first in our course – he won all the flying trophies – we all thought that he would reach high rank…” I said.

“And just see what happened to him…! Sir – what a sad end…” the cop said.

“Yes – a very sad and pitiful end to a good man…” I said.

A doctor gestured to the Police Inspector.

The Inspector excused himself – and – he went across to talk to the doctor.

After some time – the Police Inspector returned – and – he said to me:

“Sir – the doctors say that – prima facie – they don’t suspect any foul play – and – the cause of death seems to be cirrhosis of the liver due to excessive consumption of alcohol – but – they will give a full proper post-mortem report in the morning – then – we can get the death certificate – and – hand over the body for cremation…”

“Shall we go to his house and try to find out contact details of his families…?” I asked the cop.

“Yes – Yes – Sir – let’s go. I will tell them to send some force to break the lock and force the door open…” the cop said, “Sir – can you tell me the address of his bungalow…?”

I told him the location of the bungalow.

The Police Inspector spoke for some time on his mobile – repeating the location that I had told him.

Then – he said to me:

“Sir – let’s go to his bungalow…”

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So – we drove to the Dead Man’s House in Deccan Gymkhana.

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Part 3 – THE DEAD MAN’S WHISKY

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One hour later – we – the police inspector and me – both of us were sitting in the drawing room of the bungalow – while a constable sat in the police jeep parked outside. The rest of the police party had been sent back to the police station.

The door had been forced open – and after a brief search – we found a diary with the addresses and phone numbers of the dead man’s wife and children living in America.

I called the Dead Man’s Wife.

In Pune (India) – it was the unearthly hour of 2 AM.

In America – it must have been afternoon.

The Dead Man’s Wife picked up the phone.

I identified myself.

The Dead Man’s Wife recognized me – though it was more than 15 years since we had met – after all – I was her husband’s course-mate and squadron-mate – and – I had kept contact even after her husband had prematurely left the Air Force.

“Is everything okay…?” she asked me.

I gave her the sad news that her husband was dead.

“Oh – it was bound to happen – the way he was drinking himself to death…” she said.

“We will get his body in the morning – I will arrange to keep his body in the morgue till you come to Pune…” I said to her.

“Why should I come to Pune…?” the Dead Man’s Wife said.

“For his cremation – don’t you – your children – don’t you want to perform the last rites of your husband…?” I asked the Dead Man’s Wife.

“No – you cremate him – I will send you whatever money is required for the expenses…” she said.

“It is not a question of money…” I said to her, “won’t you like to see your husband for one last time…? Or – at least – wouldn’t the children like to see their father for one last time…?” I said.

“No – No – we are not interested in seeing his dead body – for us – he “died” long back…” the Dead Man’s Wife said.

For a moment – I was dumbstruck.

Before I could recover my wits – the Dead Man’s Wife said on the phone to me:

“Please cremate him – we really don’t have time to come to India now – but – we will try and come next month during the Christmas Vacations to “settle matters” – please get his death certificate – and – just see that our bungalow is cleaned and locked up properly…”

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I smiled to myself at the way the Dead Man’s Wife had said “our bungalow”.

She had abandoned her husband – but – she had not abandoned his bungalow.

It was “his” bungalow – given to him by his father – but his wife called it “our” bungalow.

I did not wish to speak anything further with the Dead Man’s Wife.

Also – it seemed that she too did not want to speak anything to me.

So – I said to the Dead Man’s Wife:

“Don’t worry – I am in your bungalow right now – I will do the needful formalities and paperwork…”

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Then – I disconnected the phone.

We looked around the house.

We found empty liquor bottles lying all around – and – there were a few full bottles of Rum – and – some cheap country liquor bottles – but – conspicuous in his drawing room display case – there was a bottle of Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

“This must have been the bottle he bought for you, Sir…” the cop said.

“Yes…” I said – and – I took out the big one litre bottle of Highland Malt Whisky out of the display case.

I noticed that the inspector was looking at the bottle with a look of genuine desire.

“Come on – let’s “kill” the bottle…” I said to him.

“Sir…?” he said, confused.

“Well – my friend had got this whisky bottle for me – I was going to drink the whisky with him – but now – he is dead – so why not the both of us have a drink and talk…? Anyway – we have to kill a few hours till morning – you like “Single Malt” don’t you…?” I said to him.

“Yes, Sir – I tasted it once – at a party…” he said, “Sir – I will get some glasses from the kitchen…”

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We sat on the sofa – sipping the Dead Man’s Whisky.

“Sir – what is the exact story of the “Dead Man”…?” the cop asked me.

“I told you – we were together in the Air Force – and – he was an ace fighter pilot – doing very well in his career – we were sure he would reach high rank – and then – one day – he suddenly resigned and left the Air Force…” I said.

“Resigned…? Why…?” the cop asked me.

“Yes – he quit when he was at his best – just when his career was taking off – for the sake of his children’s education…” I said.

“Sir – are you saying that he quit the Air Force for his “children’s education”…?” the cop asked.

“Yes. He had two sons – I think one was in the 9^th and the younger was in the 7^th class – and – he wanted them to be in the best school in Pune so that could prepare well for the IIT Entrance Exam. In those days – airbases were quite desolate – located at remote places which did not have good schooling facilities – and – there were no coaching facilities for IIT and other such competitive exams…” I said.

“Sir – he could have sent his wife and kids to Pune – and – he could have lived alone wherever he was posted…” the cop said.

“He did that – he lived as a “bachelor” in the officers’ mess for some time – but – once you get used to family life – it is difficult to live alone – and – his wife kept nagging him to quit the Air Force and come and stay with them – as she was finding it difficult to manage the two teenage boys alone. Also – his wife wanted him to supervise their children’s studies – as I told you – his main aim was that both his sons get into IIT – so – he was willing to do anything to achieve this aim…” I said.

“So – he quit the Air Force at the prime of his career…?” the cop said.

“Yes – in a nutshell – he gave up his career for the sake of his children…” I said.

“And, Sir – what about his children – did they do well in studies…?” the cop asked.

“His children did well – both got into IIT. His efforts had borne fruit – he had totally dedicated his life for his children – for 5 years – till his younger son finished his 12^thand gave the IIT exam – for all these 5 years – he did not take up a job – but – he focused full-time on his children’s studies…” I said.

“He was a doting father…!” the cop said.

“Yes – he was more than a “doting” father – he sacrificed his career for the sake of his children…” I said.

“And his children – they did well – didn’t they…?” the cop said.

“Yes – both his sons did well at IIT and got excellent grades. Then – like most IIT graduates do – both his kids went abroad to America for higher studies and they settled down permanently in the US…” I said.

“And your friend…? What did he do…?” the cop asked me.

“He tried to get a job – but couldn’t get a decent job…” I said.

“You said that he was an “ace” pilot – surely – he could have joined the airlines…” the cop said.

“Sadly – there was a glut of civil pilots at that time – besides – he was a fighter pilot – and – the civil airlines prefer transport pilots…” I said.

“That’s sad…” the cop said.

“Yes – that is the time he started regretting leaving the Air Force – he was unemployed – he felt humiliated at being treated as “good for nothing” in the civilian world – whereas he saw all of us who had remained behind in the Air Force – we were doing well in our Air Force careers and reaching high rank…” I said.

“It must have been depressing – you said he was a “flying trophy winner” – the best in his batch – it must have been terrible for him – he must have felt like a man lying in a gutter watching others climbing mountains…” the cop said.

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I smiled at the metaphor:

“lying in a gutter watching others climbing mountains”.

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Alcohol seemed to be unleashing creativity in the cop.

I wondered whether it was a coincidence that he had used the metaphoric example of a “gutter” – because – my friend – the dead man – he had actually been found lying in a gutter.

I decided to cut the story short.

Why speak ill about a dead man…?

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So – I said:

“Well – to put it in a nutshell – things went downhill after that – maybe because of his frustration – he started drinking heavily.

Meanwhile his sons got married and had kids – and – his wife kept going to her children in America for long durations abroad for “nanny” duties – and – maybe because of loneliness – he started drinking even more…”

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“Sir – he could have gone to America…” the cop said.

“He did go to America – but then – maybe because of his drinking – his children did not want him there for long – so – he would come back – and – his wife would stay on for months…” I said.

“Sad – to be unwanted by the same children for whom he had sacrificed his career…” the cop said.

“Yes – and then – things got even worse – there were all sorts of sordid rumours that he was seen in unsavoury company…” I said.

“Oh – so that explains why he was found in the “red light area”…” the cop said.

“His wife must have heard about his sordid affairs – so – she abandoned him here – and – she went to live permanently live with her children in the US…” I said.

“It must have broken him – poor man – it must have been very sad…” the cop said.

“A sad end to a good man…” I said.

I finished off the whisky in my glass.

It looked at my watch – it was almost 5 AM.

So – I said to the inspector:

“Shall we go…? It’s almost morning…”

“Yes, Sir…” the cop said, “I will just check up with the doctors…”

The police inspector made a call – he spoke for some time – and then – he said to me:

“Sir – everything is okay – death was due to “cirrhosis of liver” – we can take the body now…”

“That’s good…” I said.

“Sir – “Vaikunth” or “Kailas” – which crematorium do you prefer – I will tell them to make the cremation pass accordingly…” the police inspector asked me.

“Wherever you want – and – I don’t want any rituals – let’s keep it to the bare minimum – I want to get over with his cremation as fast as possible…” I said.

“You are right, Sir – if his own wife and children are not even interested in seeing him for one last time – why should we bother about having rituals and ceremonies…?” the cop said – and – once again – he spoke on his mobile phone.

“Sir – shall we go…?” the cop said.

I got up from the sofa.

The cop picked up the Whisky Bottle – and – he said to me:

“Sir – the “Dead Man’s Whisky” – there is still plenty of whisky left in the bottle…”

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I looked at the cop and remaining whisky in the bottle.

“You keep the bottle…” I said to the cop.

The cop looked at me – and – he said to me:

“No, Sir – I think you should keep the “Dead Man’s Whisky” – as a token of remembrance of your friend…”

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He gave me the bottle of whisky – the “Dead Man’s Whisky”.

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EPILOGUE

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So – I took the bottle of Whisky with me.

But – I didn’t finish off the bottle.

I kept the bottle of the “Dead Man’s Whisky” on my writing table – as a souvenir – a reminder – and – I promised myself – that I would not touch the bottle the whisky till I wrote this story and posted it on my blog.

And – now that I have done so – now that I have written this story – I think I deserve to finish off the “Dead Man’s Whisky”.

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Dear Reader – I am feeling sad – as I pour myself a drink of the “Dead Man’s Whisky”…

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VIKRAM KARVE

Copyright © Vikram Karve
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© vikram karve., all rights reserved.

Disclaimer:

This story is a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the story are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
E&OE

Copyright Notice:

No part of this Blog may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Blog Author Vikram Karve who holds the copyright.

Link to my original post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve:http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2017/02/the-dead-mans-whisky-fiction-short-story.html

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“fait accompli”

March 13, 2024

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“FAIT ACCOMPLI”

Story By Vikram Karve

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Place:

A Corporate Office in Mumbai

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Dramatis Personae:

A Man

A Woman (His Ex-Wife)

Their Daughter (Pooja)

A Lady Office Colleague of the Man (Mala)

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A MAN – A WOMAN – AND – THEIR DAUGHTER

STORY BY VIKRAM KARVE

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The moment the man sees his “Ex-Wife” – he becomes furious – very angry indeed.

“What are you doing here…?” the man shouts at his “Ex-Wife”.

“I came to see you…” the man’s “Ex-Wife” says.

“Why have you come to see me…? I told you very clearly that I don’t want to see your face for the rest of my life…” the man says to his “Ex-Wife”.

“Even I don’t want to see your face. But – I desperately need your help…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Help…? You need my help…? What help…?” the man says.

“You will have to look after our daughter…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“What…? You want me to look after Pooja…?” the man says.

“Yes. You will have to take care of our daughter Pooja from now on. I want her to live with you…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“You want Pooja to live with me…?” the man says, surprised.

“Yes…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“I just don’t understand. I still remember how viciously you fought the custody battle for Pooja. You called me a “dangerous” man – you said that our daughter’s life would be in danger if she lived with me – because I was a “violent brute” – and now – you want to leave our daughter with me…?” the man says.

“I made a mistake…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Your lawyer – he threatened me – that if I didn’t give up custody of our daughter – you would even file “domestic violence” and “dowry harassment” cases against me – and you would get me arrested…” the man says, angrily.

“I am sorry – he told me to do it…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“You made all sorts of false allegations against me. You told them that I regularly beat up Pooja – you told them that Pooja won’t be safe with me…” the man says.

“Please don’t rake up the past. I said I am sorry for what happened…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“By peddling all sorts of lies – you managed to win custody of our daughter – and worse – you even managed to curtail my visiting rights by projecting me as an “evil influence” …” the man says.

“I told you – what I did was very wrong – I am sorry for whatever I did to you…!!!” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“And now – you want to hand over our daughter Pooja to me…?” the man says.

“Yes. I want you to take her with you and look after her…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“But why…? Why do you want Pooja to live with me…?” the man says.

“She is not safe in our house…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Pooja is not “safe” at your place…? What do you mean…?” the man says.

“My husband…” his “Ex-Wife” says, hesitantly.

“Your new husband…? What about him…?” the man says.

“I suspect that he indulges in “inappropriate behaviour” with her…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Inappropriate Behaviour…? What do you mean by “inappropriate behaviour”…?” the man says, confused.

“You know what I mean. Please don’t ask me anything…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“No. You will have to tell me exactly what “inappropriate behaviour” your husband is doing to Pooja. Does he…?” the man says.

“Please. Please. Please. I don’t want to speak on this disgusting topic – otherwise I will break down. You please take Pooja with you. I beg you…” his “Ex-Wife” says, in a beseeching voice.

“Bloody Pervert – Let’s go right now and report him to the police…” the man says, angrily.

“No. No. Please…” his “Ex-Wife” pleads.

“What do you mean “NO” – the filthy bugger is sexually abusing our daughter – he must be arrested and taught a lesson he won’t forget…” the man says, furious.

“I don’t have any proof…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“What do you mean that you don’t have any proof…? You just said that he indulges in “inappropriate behaviour”…” the man asks his “Ex-Wife”.

“I have not actually seen him…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“You have never seen him doing anything wrong – like touching her inappropriately…?” the man asks his “Ex-Wife”.

“No…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Then – how can you…?” the man says.

“I can see it in his eyes…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“What do you mean…?” the man asks his “Ex-Wife”.

“The way he looks at her – I can see the lechery in his eyes…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“So – you just suspect that he has evil intentions…?” the man says.

“I know he has bad intentions…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“How do you know he has lecherous intentions…? Did Pooja say anything…?” the man asks his “Ex-Wife” says.

“No – she is too small to understand these things…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“So – are you just imagining all these things…?” the man says.

“No – my “motherly instinct” tells me that something is wrong…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Motherly instinct…? I really don’t know whether to believe you or not. Knowing your devious nature – I wonder whether you have some ulterior motive…” the man says.

“No. No. Please believe me. He is a filthy pervert. Our daughter Pooja is unsafe with him – it is unsafe for her to stay in our house…” his “Ex-Wife” says

“Well – when I saw him last – he certainly didn’t look like an obscene pervert – in fact – he looked like a suave gentleman – so refined and soft-spoken…” the man says.

“Yes – he looks like a polite gentleman – but – that’s from the outside – for the sake of society. From the inside – behind closed doors – he is a depraved disgusting sadist…” his “Ex-Wife” says – and she breaks into tears.

“Sadist…? Your new husband is a sadist…? Did he do anything to you…?” the man asks his “Ex-Wife”.

“I don’t want to talk about it. You just take our daughter Pooja away from him…” his “Ex-Wife” says

“But – how can you continue living with such a sadistic pervert…? Why don’t you leave him…?” the man says.

“How many husbands can I leave…? My first husband turned out to be an alcoholic – I left him. Then – my second husband – you – you were a “wife-beater”…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“How dare you call me a “wife-beater”…? I beat you only once – and – you deserved it…” the man says.

“What do you mean “I deserved it”…?” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“You committed adultery – you betrayed my trust – you were unfaithful, disloyal – you were cheating on me – and I caught you red-handed in bed with that filthy swine – who is now your husband…” the man says.

“You thrashed us badly – violence is not justified…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“What did you expect me to do in the situation…? I cannot tolerate betrayal of trust – and – you betrayed my trust…” the man says.

“Even if I was wrong – you shouldn’t have beaten me so badly…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“I lost control of myself…” the man says.

The man pauses for a moment.

He looks at the woman – his Ex-Wife.

_________

Then – the man says to his Ex-Wife:

“Tell me one thing.

How do you know that I won’t lose control of myself again…?

At the custody hearing – you kept on saying that I am a “violent brute”.

If indeed I am a “violent brute” – why do you want to leave Pooja with me…?”

_________

The woman says to the man – her Ex-Husband:

“Pooja will be safe with you.

I know that you love her – you will care for her well – you will never harm her…”

_________

The man says to his Ex-Wife:

“I don’t know about that.

But – I can’t trust you.

You have a devious and vindictive nature.

My inner voice tells me that you have some ulterior motive…”

_________

After hearing these bitter words from her “Ex-Husband” – the woman pleads with her “Ex-Husband”.

_________

“Please – I beg you…” the woman says to her ex-husband.

“Tomorrow – you may say that I have kidnapped Pooja – and you will get me arrested…” the man says to his “Ex-Wife”.

“Please – I promise you…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Ha Ha – a “promise” – from a cheat like you…?” the man says, with a scornful look.

“I will give you whatever you want in writing – I will sign any paper you want…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Okay – we’ll see about that. But – before that – tell me how did you know that I would be here in Mumbai today…?” the man asks his “Ex-Wife”.

“I know that you come to the Mumbai Head Office every month…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“But – how did you know that I will be here today…? Have you got a “spy” in my office…? Who told you…?” the man asks his “Ex-Wife”.

“I promised her that I will not tell you…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Mala…?” the man asks her.

“Yes. Mala told me. In fact – our daughter Pooja is sitting in her office…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“What…? You have brought Pooja here…?” the man asks, taken aback.

“Yes – I have brought her to your office along with her bags…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“You packed her bags and brought her here…?” the man says, bewildered.

“You take Pooja with you to Delhi in the evening…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Are you crazy…?” the man says, perplexed.

“Mala said that she will manage the air ticket on the same flight…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“I am not talking about the air ticket. What have you told Pooja…? I doubt she even knows that I am her father. She was so small when you took her away…” the man says to his “Ex-Wife”.

“I have told her about you…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“You told Pooja that I am her father…?” the man asks his “Ex-Wife”.

“No. I told her that you were an “Uncle” – I have shown her your picture – I have told her you are taking her on a holiday for a few days because I have to go abroad for a few days on work…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“She doesn’t even know me. She won’t come with me…” the man says.

“She will come with you. In fact – she is quite excited about the flight journey and all the things you are going to show her in Delhi…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“You are a wily scheming woman – aren’t you…? And – what about your husband – that filthy lecherous pervert…?” the man says to his “Ex-Wife” says.

“He is away on tour…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Have you told him that you are sending Pooja with me…?” the man asks her.

“No. I have not told him anything…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“He knows you have custody. He may create trouble later…” the man says.

“He cannot do anything. She is my daughter – not his…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“I am not very comfortable with all this…” the man says.

“I told you – I will sign whatever document you want – on “stamp paper” – anything you say…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“I will talk to Mala – she is the legal advisor…” the man says.

“I have already told Mala – she is preparing the papers for us to sign – Mala said she will get all the formalities done…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“What…? Mala never told me all this…” the man says.

“Please. Don’t say anything to Mala. She is just trying to help…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“I am really angry with Mala. She has no business to interfere in my personal life…” the man says.

“She is just trying to help. Please try to understand…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“I still feel that you should leave your husband and live separately with Pooja. If you are short of money – I will try and help you out…” the man says to his “Ex-Wife”.

“I can’t leave him…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“Why can’t you leave him…? You divorced twice – do it once more. With your “talent” – I am sure you will easily find one more husband. Of course – with your luck – he may turn out to be even worse your previous husbands…” the man says.

“Please don’t be cruel…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“You will have to tell me why you can’t leave this bloody filthy sadistic pervert…” the man asks his “Ex-Wife”.

“I love him…” his “Ex-Wife” says.

“What…? You love him – that depraved sadist – the sick paedophile…” the man says.

“I can’t leave him. I don’t want to talk about him. You please take Pooja with you. Please – Pooja is your daughter – do you want something terrible to happen to her…? I beg you – please take Pooja with you…” the woman says beseechingly – and she breaks down totally and collapses into the chair.

“You go and sit in Mala’s office. You are a cunning woman. I am still not sure of your motives. Let me think the whole thing over…” the man says to his “Ex-Wife”.

The woman composes herself – and she looks at her “Ex-Husband” and speaks in a consolatory tone.

“Please don’t take out your anger on Mala – it was I who asked her for help…” the “Ex-Wife” says to her “Ex-Husband”.

_________

The man looks at his “Ex-Wife”.

“I need some time to think. You please go and sit in Mala’s office. I will come there and tell you my decision…” the man says to his Ex-Wife.

The woman – the man’s “Ex-Wife” – she leaves the man’s office.

_________

The man sits in a chair – he closes his eyes – and thinks about the whole thing.

15 minutes later – his decision made – he picks up the intercom and calls Mala.

Mala picks up the intercom at the other end – and speaks.

“Hello, Sir…” Mala says on the intercom.

The man speaks firmly to Mala on the intercom.

“Listen Mala – please tell her to take Pooja and go away – I cannot look after Pooja…” he says.

“Sir – your wife has already gone away…” Mala says to the man.

“She is not my wife…” the man says angrily.

“Sorry. I mean your “ex-wife” – she has already gone away…” Mala says.

“That’s good…” the man says.

“But – your daughter Pooja is here in my office…” Mala says.

“What…?” the man asks, surprised.

“Yes, Sir – your “ex-wife” – she left Pooja here with me – and she went away alone. She has even left Pooja’s bags here. She told me that you were taking her to Delhi with you. I have already booked Pooja’s ticket on your flight….” Mala says to the man.

“Who told you to do that…? I am not taking that girl with me…” the man says.

“Sir – your daughter is so cute – she is such a darling – I am bringing her to you – you will love her so much – I am sure you will take her along with you…” Mala says to the man.

__________

Three hours later – the small girl called Pooja – full of innocence – she sits with her father in the car.

And – the two of them – father and daughter – they travel to Mumbai Airport to catch the flight to Delhi.

__________

VIKRAM KARVE

Disclaimer:

This story is a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the story are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

Copyright Notice:

Link to my original post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve: http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2017/08/inappropriate-love.html

This Story is also posted in my writing blog at urls: https://karve.wordpress.com/2017/08/23/inappropriate-love-a-story/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2019/02/07/encounter-with-ex-wife/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2018/01/13/a-story-of-inappropriate-love/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2020/12/04/a-man-a-woman-and-their-daughter-2/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/03/21/man-woman-and-daughter/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/07/15/a-man-his-ex-wife-and-their-daughter/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2022/06/09/a-man-a-woman-and-their-daughter-3/ etc

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Posted in writing | Tags: blog, children, custody, divorce, fiction, life, love, marriage, parenting, pune, remarriage, single, story, veteran, writing | Leave a Comment »

“Trial Divorce”

March 2, 2024

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TRIAL DIVORCE

STORY BY VIKRAM KARVE

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I looked at the lock on the door.

It was the same lock.

My husband hadn’t bothered to change the lock.

Why should he have…?

He probably didn’t realize that I had a key.

Or maybe — he knew.

When I had left — 3 months ago — I hadn’t given him the house-key that I normally kept in my purse.

He hadn’t asked for the key.

Maybe — he had forgotten.

Or maybe — he wanted me to have the key.

I inserted the key in the lock and turned the key.

The lock opened.

I slid the door handle and opened the door.

I shouldn’t have opened the door to his flat.

In fact — I shouldn’t have come to his flat at all.

It was a violation of our “contract”.

I had broken the cardinal rule of our “Trial Divorce” agreement.

We had agreed that we — my Husband and I — we would remain absolutely “incommunicado”– for six months.

Yes — we had promised to each other — that — for a full 6 months — we would remain out of each other’s lives — totally out of contact — offline and online.

And then — if our “Trial Divorce” was “successful” — we would take a final decision.

Actually — I had no intention of breaking the “Trial Divorce” pact.

It had happened due to sheer chance — serendipity.

I had not planned to stay in this city.

I was just passing through — in transit — but my flight was delayed — and — I missed my connecting flight — so — they booked me on the next flight to my destination.

This flight was scheduled to leave after 12 hours — late in the evening — so — they took me to a hotel to relax for the day.

Believe it or not — but — coincidentally — my husband’s house was located right opposite the hotel.

________

(Technically — it was still my house too — since I had not formally divorced my husband)

________

Through my hotel window — I could see the balcony of our flat.

I could not resist the temptation.

It was 10 o’clock in the morning.

And — it was a Wednesday.

Most likely — my husband wouldn’t be home.

He would have left for office before 9 AM — and — he would return late in the evening.

And suppose he was home…?

Well — I decided to take a chance.

I could always check the lock on the door — and — if the door was unlocked — I would rush back.

I opened my purse — the house key was there — in the inside pocket — where I had kept it three months ago — when I had left my husband’s house.

I thought about it.

If he wasn’t home — I wouldn’t meet him — so — strictly speaking — it wouldn’t be a “breach” of our “Trial Divorce” contract — since — there would be no “contact” between him and me.

So — I walked across the street — I took the lift to our flat.

I was relieved to see — that the house was locked — and my husband was not at home.

I opened the lock — I entered the house — and — I looked around the living room.

It was exactly as I had left it — three months ago.

Everything was “spick and span” — as always.

He liked “spit and polish” — and everything was clean, dusted and shining.

I walked towards the bedroom.

I opened the bedroom door.

I looked around the bedroom.

The room — the bed — everything was neat and tidy — as before.

I opened the cupboard.

Everything was in its right place.

Of course — my clothes racks were empty.

_______

(since I had taken all my clothes with me when I had left)

_______

And — in their place — he had put his shirts there — neatly folded.

_______

I checked the bathrooms — absolutely spotless and clean.

It was evident that he was living all alone.

There was no “scent” of a woman.

He was in love with his loneliness.

He did not want his loneliness to be “polluted”.

Yes — he had kept his loneliness absolutely pure — idyllic — blissful.

_______

I closed the bedroom door.

I went into the kitchen.

Everything was in its place.

Utensils had been washed and neatly stacked.

He liked to cook his own food.

He did all the house work himself.

And — it was obvious — that he was doing so now.

Nothing had changed.

I thought about it.

The living room, the bedroom, the kitchen — this was the home of a self-sufficient man — he did not need a wife.

I opened the fridge — the kitchen cabinets — everything neat, clean and orderly.

In the side cabinet — I saw the bottle of Single Malt Whisky.

The Whisky bottle was unopened.

It was good to see that he hadn’t started drinking again.

________

(My husband had quit drinking around 10 years ago)

________

He had bought the bottle of whisky from the “Duty Free” Store at the Airport after our Europe Tour six months ago.

Yes — it was on that same fateful tour when we realized that we were not “made-for-each-other”.

We always knew that we were “incompatible” — but — it was on this Europe Tour that we had our “epiphany”.

Our children had married and settled abroad — our “familial” obligations were over — we were still in our 50’s — and — it was right time for us to go our separate ways.

So — we decided to give it a try.

You must have heard of “Trial Marriage” — where a couple tries to discover whether they can live with each other.

We decided to have a “Trial Divorce” — to see whether we could live without each other.

After all — we had been married for 30 years.

And yes — the “Trial Divorce” seemed to be succeeding.

I was happy to be alone — in love with my loneliness — and — he seemed to be happy to live alone and enjoy his solitude too.

I looked at the unopened bottle of Single Malt Whisky.

I wondered why he had bought it.

Was it just to buy something “duty free” — just for the sake of it…?

Would he give the Single Malt Whisky to someone — or — would the whisky bottle keep lying there in the cabinet for eternity…?

Should I take the bottle of Single Malt Whisky with me and present it to someone…?

Maybe — he would never discover that the bottle was missing.

Or maybe — he would — and complain to the cops or something.

No — No — there was no point in stirring up his tranquil life of solitude.

Also — it would be unethical.

I closed the cabinet.

I walked out of the kitchen.

I walked across the living room.

The balcony glass-door was closed.

I looked into the balcony.

The potted plants were there — freshly watered.

He must have watered the plants in the morning before his bath — as he always did.

I went into his study.

Yes — “his” study — where no one was welcome — even I was not welcome.

I looked around his study — his “sanctum sanctorum” — immaculate — neat and tidy — “shipshape”.

Everything was in its right place.

Or — was it…?

I looked again — at his desk.

Something was “amiss”.

Yes — my photo was missing.

The Photo Frame on his Desk which had my Photo — it was missing.

I opened the drawers — searched around — but I couldn’t find my photo — the one he kept on his desk.

I rushed to the living room.

I looked at the mantelpiece.

Even that photo was missing — the photo of both of us — newly wedded husband and wife — clicked during our honeymoon.

He had removed me from his life.

He had eliminated all traces of me — even my photos.

It was clear that he did not need me in his life.

I felt relieved.

Our “Trial Divorce” had succeeded.

Now — once our mutually decided six months “Trial Divorce” period was over — we could complete the necessary formalities — to make the divorce “full and final”.

__________

I looked around the house for one last time.

Then — I went out of the house — locked the door — and — I walked towards my hotel.

In the evening I boarded my flight — and — I flew to my destination.

I flew back home — to my own home.

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EPILOGUE

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FOOD FOR THOUGHT

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You must have heard of “Trial Marriage” — a live-in relationship — where a couple tries to discover if they can live with each other.

On similar lines — if a married couple intends to divorce — isn’t it a good idea to have a “Trial Divorce” — to see if the divorcing spouses can comfortably live without each other…?

_________

VIKRAM KARVE

Disclaimer:

All stories in this blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

Copyright Notice:

Link to my source post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve:http://karvediat.blogspot.com/2018/09/trial-divorce.html

Also posted earlier in my writing blog at url: https://karve.wordpress.com/2018/09/25/trial-divorce-a-story/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2019/01/18/trial-divorce-a-good-idea/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2020/12/29/trial-divorce-3/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/03/20/trial-divorce-a-story-2/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/07/03/trial-divorce-4/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2022/02/20/trial-divorce-5/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2022/11/01/trial-divorce-story/ and https://vikramkarve.medium.com/trial-divorce-4244ebe42d0f etc

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Posted in writing | Tags: blog, divorce, family, humor, literature, love, marriage, online, pune, relationships, story, veteran, wisdom, writer, writing | Leave a Comment »

“She Did Not Look Back”

January 24, 2024

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_________

“SHE DID NOT LOOK BACK”

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THE GIRL AT THE AIRPORT

Story By Vikram Karve

_________

“Hello Sir…” she said.

In the suddenness of the moment – I did not recognize her.

But then – she gave me her typical vivacious smile – her eyes danced – and I knew who she was.

_________

She had been one of my brightest students.

But then – that was quite some time ago.

_________

“Of course – I recognize you…” I said, “How can I ever forget one of my best students. But – meeting you here at the airport was so unexpected – that I was confused for a moment. And – you have grown up so much – and – I too am getting old now…”

“No Sir – you still look handsome – and as young as ever. I am sure all the girls still have a crush on you – like we all did…!!!” she said naughtily.

I almost blushed.

So – to change the subject – I asked her:

“What you doing here at the Airport…?”

_________

“I am going to New York…” she said, “my flight is delayed – so I am just killing time.”

“My flight to Singapore is delayed too…” I said.

“Singapore…?” she asked.

“Yes. I am going for a conference…” I said.

“Oh…” she said.

________

For some moments – no one spoke.

Then – to break the silence – I said:

“Let’s go to the coffee shop.

We can sit and talk over there till our flights are announced.”

________

As we walked to the airport coffee shop – I thought of the young girl walking beside me.

She had abruptly left our school three years ago – after completing her 9^th Standard.

When we teachers expressed our surprise – the Principal of our school told us – that her parents wanted to shift her to an elite boarding school – faraway in the hills.

We told the Principal that she was a brilliant scholar – one of our best students – who had the potential to top the 10^th Board Exams – and she would surely bring laurels to our school by getting into the merit list.

We also argued that – even from girl’s point of view – it was not prudent to change her school and shift her just one year before the matriculation board examination.

The Principal told us that he had discussed all this with her parents – but they were adamant that the girl be shifted to a boarding school.

________

So – the bright young girl left our school – and she went away to the elite boarding school at the distant hill station.

I did not see the bright young girl again – or even hear of her – after she left our school.

________

“Sir – do you know why I had to suddenly leave school…?” the girl asked me – as we sat down for coffee.

“No…” I said, “in fact – we were quite surprised at your unexpected sudden departure from school – and that too in after your 9^th Standard – just one year before your 10^th Board Exams.”

“Yes Sir – even I didn’t want to leave school so suddenly…” she said.

“Then – why did you leave so abruptly…?” I asked her.

“My parents were getting divorced – and they did not want me around – so they sent me away to the boarding school…” she said – nonchalantly – without batting an eyelid.

“I am sorry…” I said, “that’s sad.”

_________

She looked at me and said:

“Yes Sir – it was really sad.

My parents never asked me anything.

They just decided to divorce on their own.

I felt terrible.

I did not like it at all.

It was amicable divorce by mutual consent – but no one took my consent.

Why is it – that in divorce cases – no one bothers about the children’s consent…?”

________

She had a point – a good question.

I did not answer.

________

I did not answer – because I did not know the answer to her moot question:

“Does the family court take children’s consent before granting divorce to the parents…?

Aren’t children stakeholders in a marriage…?”

________

I remained silent.

I looked at the girl.

Though I had met her parents once or twice perfunctorily at school functions – I did not know her parents that well.

In fact – I do remember most of my students – but I hardly remember their parents.

_________

I sipped my coffee in silence.

I did not say anything.

I waited for the girl to speak.

“I just don’t know why they split…” she said, “we seemed to be such a happy family together.”

“They must have had their reasons…” I said.

“Well – I think I know at least one reason now…” she said.

I just looked at her – waiting for her to continue speaking.

_________

“Sir – do you know what my father did the moment the divorce was through…? Do you know the shameful thing he did just a few days after his divorce…?” she said.

“What…?” I asked.

“My father got married to a woman half his age…” she said.

“Half his age…?” I asked, quite incredulous.

“Yes. The female was his student…” she said.

“Student…?” I said, surprised.

“You know that my father is a Professor – don’t you…?” she asked.

“Yes…” I said.

________

The girl looked at me with bitterness on her face – and she said to me:

“Yes – my father married a woman half his age.

That girl was his student.

She was doing her Ph.D. under him.

The wily female snatched him away from us.

And it was his fault too – a married man with a family getting involved with a woman so much younger in age than him.

It was terrible – a teacher and a student shamelessly getting married to each other.

Just imagine how embarrassing it must have been for me and my mother…”

_________

I was quite shocked to hear this.

So – trying to show empathy – I said to her:

“Yes – it must have been very embarrassing for you and your mother…”

_________

She looked at me for a moment and then spoke.

“That is why I had to go to a faraway boarding school for one year – till my 10^th Board Exams – to avoid all this embarrassment over here in this town – where everyone knows us…” she said.

“Oh. And you returned after your 10^th Board Exams…?” I asked her.

“Yes – to join junior college. But – do you know what my mother did when I was away at boarding school…?” she said.

“What did your mother do…?” I asked her.

“Just 3 months after her divorce – my mother too got married to a “jerk” from her office – I hate that man – he is such a crafty smooth-talking fake – a charlatan . I just don’t understand why my mother fell for that slimy scoundrel…” the girl said – with an expression of disgust on her face.

The girl paused for a moment.

Then – she said to me:

“And can you imagine that man’s audacity…?”

“Audacity…?” I said.

“Yes – this so-called “step-father” of mine – one day he politely told me that “they” wanted more privacy – so could I please go and stay with my own father for a while…? My step-father wanted me to go and stay with my Dad – my biological father…” she said.

“Don’t tell me…!” I said, trying to empathise.

“Yes – it was disgusting – my mother and my step-father – they were behaving as if they were a “honeymoon couple”. And now – my step-father wanted to throw me out of my own house. So – I asked my mother to tell her new husband to shut up…!!!” she said.

“And…? What happened…?” I asked her – curious.

“You won’t believe this – my mother just kept quiet and said nothing…” she said.

“So…?” I exclaimed.

“So – I packed my bags – and I went over to my father’s place – but it was even worse over there…” she said.

“Even worse..?” I asked, curious.

________

The girl said to me:

“Yes – things got even worse.

I told you that my father dumped my mother and married his student – this crafty woman half his age.

Now – this cunning woman had become my “step-mother”.

Though she did not say so in so many words – my “step-mother” made it quite clear that I was not very welcome – she kept giving me repulsive vibes of fake politeness – you know those terrible negative vibes – I could feel them every moment…”

_________

There was an expression of disgust on the girl’s face as she spoke these words.

_________

“That is sad – very sad…” I said.

“So I spent the next two years of junior college – my 11^th and 12^th class – shuttling between my two parents like an unwanted badminton shuttle-cock…” the girl said.

“It must have been terrible…” I commiserated.

“Yes. It was really very painful for me – so I made a deal…” the girl said.

“A “deal”…? You made a deal with your parents…?” I asked her.

“Yes. I told both my parents that I wanted to go abroad to America for my studies – and I wanted them to jointly pay for it – I told them that they must fund my entire studies and my stay abroad in the US…” she said, with a smile on her face.

“Oh…!!!” I exclaimed.

_________

The girl paused for a moment.

She had a sip of coffee.

And then – she said to me:

“You know – all of them – my Dad – my Mom – my Step-Father – my Step-Mother – all of them were delighted to hear this – that I wanted to go away from their lives.

My Father used his academic connections – and – he went out of the way to get me admission to the best university in the US.

As I said – no one wants me here – so – everyone – my very own mother – and even my so-called “step parents” – they are all chipping in money to finance my education in America – for as long as I want to study.

They are all so happy to get me out of the way….”

_________

I looked at the girl, pensively.

“Oh – so that is why you are going abroad to America…?” I said.

“Yes. I am “running away”. To a new life…” the girl said.

_________

Suddenly – her flight was announced – and she got up to leave.

“Thanks for the coffee, Sir…” she said, “it was really so nice meeting you.”

“I am sure we will meet again when you come back…” I said.

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She looked at me and said:

“Sir – I am not coming back.

There is nothing left here for me to come back to.

I am leaving behind the “debris” of my past – and – I am moving on to begin a new life over there.

I am never going to look back…”

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“All the Best. Take Care…” I said.

“You too, Sir – Take Care…” the girl said.

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Then she turned – and she walked away.

I watched the girl for a long time – till she disappeared from sight.

I thought she would look back.

I thought she would wave a last “good bye”.

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But – she did not look back.

Maybe – she did not want to look back at the depressing world – from which she was escaping forever – to make a new beginning.

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VIKRAM KARVE

Disclaimer:

Copyright Notice:

Link to my source blog post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve:http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2017/06/runaway-girl.html

This is a revised version of my story titled RUNNING AWAY (SHE DID NOT LOOK BACK) posted online earlier by me Vikram Karve a number of times on this blog – first on August 21, 2012 at url: http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2012/08/running-away.html and later at urls: http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2012/11/she-did-not-look-back-girl-with.html and http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2013/02/escape.html and http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2013/11/she-did-not-look-back.html andhttp://karvediat.blogspot.in/2015/08/blog-fiction-girl-at-airport.html and http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2016/08/girl-at-airport-story.html and https://karve.wordpress.com/2020/12/07/the-girl-at-the-airport-2/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/05/09/the-runaway-girl/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/12/07/the-girl-at-the-airport-3/ etc

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Posted in writing | Tags: blog, children, divorce, fiction, life, literature, love, marriage, online, parenting, relationships, story, writing | Leave a Comment »

Story : The Visitor

January 12, 2024

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THE VISITOR

Short Story by Vikram Karve

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Around 4 years ago – in March 2020 – as COVID cases started rising in my neighbourhood – I shut down my consulting room in Mumbai – and I “escaped” to my farmhouse – just a day before lockdown was imposed.

One morning – a man came to see me at my farmhouse.

“Sorry for barging in like this without an appointment – I intentionally didn’t call – because – I felt you may refuse to see me…” he said.

He introduced himself – he was a business tycoon – he gave me his business card.

“How did you manage to come here…?” I asked him, “there is a lockdown…”

“I managed an e-pass…” he said.

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(Well – for the “rich and famous” – normal rules don’t apply – and after reading his business card – it was evident that he was quite an influential man)

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Then – he looked at me and spoke.

“I heard that you are “No.1” in your field – I desperately wanted to consult with you – so I have come…” he said.

“There was no need to come all the way here – I am doing online consultations…” I said to him.

“I know – but this issue is sensitive – so – I wanted to discuss with you in person…” he said, “I will pay you whatever fees you want for your time…”

“Let’s go and sit outside on the lawns…” I said, “in these COVID days – it is better to talk in the open air – and we can maintain social distance – remove our masks – and talk freely…”

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We sat down on the garden chairs on the lawn – with a table in between – quite a distance between us.

I removed my mask and I looked at him.

“Okay – tell me about your problem…” I said to him.

I started “audio record” on my smartphone – and kept my smartphone on the table in between us.

“Are you recording the conversation…?” he asked me.

“Yes…” I said, “it will help me later to analyse and make my notes…”

“Please don’t record our conversation…” he said, “I want it to be totally private…”

“Okay…” I said – and – I picked up the smartphone – I switched it off – and I kept it in my pocket.

“I have switched off my smartphone…” I said to him, “now you can speak freely…”

“My wife wants a divorce…” he said – coming to the point immediately.

“On what grounds…?” I asked him.

“She says that I am impotent…” he said.

“Are you…?” I asked him, “You’ve never had sex…?”

“Of course – I have had sex – in fact – I have had regular sex with my wife for the last 3 years since we got married…” he said.

“Then clearly – you are not impotent…” I said, “if you want – I will talk to your wife…”

“No. No. It’s not that – she says that I am the reason that we can’t have children…” the man said.

“Oh – so your wife is saying that you are sterile…” I said, “doesn’t she know the difference between impotence and infertility…?”

“I don’t know…” he said, “she wants me to get myself tested…”

“It is very simple…” I said, “you can get a sperm count test done – a semen analysis…”

“No – I don’t want to do it…” he said.

“You don’t want to get yourself tested…? Why…?” I asked him – curious.

“I am scared that the tests may come true…” he said.

“You are scared that the tests may come true…? Do you fear that you are infertile…?” I said to him.

“Yes…” he said – matter-of-factly.

“You must get rid of your fears – get the fertility tests done…” I said to him.

“No…” he said, “suppose the tests say that I am infertile – that I am sterile and can’t produce a child – it will be a humiliating “loss of face” for me…”

“Loss of face…?” I said – taken aback.

“Yes. We come from a business community – mine is a business marriage – I must be able to produce an heir…” he said – looking anxious.

“Wait…” I interrupted him, “what makes you think that it is you who is infertile – what about your wife – has she done fertility tests…?”

“She says that we should do the tests together…” he said.

“And – you don’t want to do the tests together because you feel nervous – that the tests would show that it is you who is sterile…” I said to him.

“Yes…” he said – with a nervous expression on his face.

“Why are you so worried…? It is not your fault if your sperm count happens to be low. There is no stigma attached to infertility nowadays…” I said to him.

“You don’t know my wife – she will publicly humiliate me – and – as I have already told you – she will divorce me – and her family – they will spread all sorts of rumours – and they will demand all sorts of things – I will be ruined – everyone will know that I am impotent and infertile – not “man enough” – and my reputation would be totally tarnished in my community…” he said – looking nervous and distressed.

“Okay…” I said in a consoling tone, “I can empathise with you – I will schedule a private test for you – let’s see the results – then we will decide what to do…”

“Test…? Here…?” he looked at me apprehensively.

“Not here – we will do the tests in Mumbai – but you don’t worry – I will be very discreet – your identity will be confidential and no one will know…” I said to him.

“Okay…” he said, “don’t call on the numbers on my card – I will give you my private number – we can connect via WhatsApp…” he said to me.

He gave me his private number – and – we connected on WhatsApp.

I walked with the man to his SUV parked on the road outside my farmhouse.

He smiled a goodbye to me – he got inside his SUV – and – he drove away.

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I noticed that my neighbour was observing us – she was standing a few feet away on the road with her small daughter – a cute girl – around 6 or 7 years old.

My neighbour waved to me – and – she started walking towards me – with her daughter in tow.

I looked at the woman – she looked so chic – blue jeans, bright red tucked-in T-Shirt, fair creamy flawless complexion, jet black hair neatly tied in a bun – and – dark Ray-Ban sunglasses of the latest style.

She was a good-looking woman with smart feminine features – elegant – fashionable – chic – graceful – well-groomed.

She was “Kiwi-Indian” – an Indian settled in New Zealand.

She had come on a vacation to India with her daughter – to meet people – and now – she was stuck here – as all international flights were cancelled due to COVID Lockdown.

Instead of living with relatives in the city – she had come to live in the neighbouring farmhouse – which belonged to one of her friends.

Life was much better out here in the countryside – than in the crowded city – where you had to live cooped up in your house with all sorts of lockdown curfews and restrictions – living in fear – with “COVID Phobia” – whereas here – in the farmhouse expanse – it was much healthier and safer – and you could move around quite freely in the fresh air and natural environment.

Due to COVID social distancing – we hadn’t talked much – just a “hail-fellow-well-met” type of friendship – and a bit of “small talk”.

She smiled at me and spoke.

“You had a visitor…” she said to me – matter-of-factly.

“Yes…” I said to her.

“That man who visited you – is his name Avinash…?” she asked me.

I was quite surprised by her question – so – I just looked at her in silence – curious – wondering what to say – but before I could speak – she interrupted me.

“Please don’t get me wrong…” she said in a beseeching voice, “I was totally surprised to see him here – luckily – he didn’t see me…”

“Do you know him…?” I asked her.

“Yes – once upon a time – I knew him very well – he is the father of my daughter…” she said to me – looking into my eyes.

And then – she glanced at her cute daughter.

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VIKRAM KARVE

Disclaimer:

1. This story is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh.

2. This story is a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the story are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

3. E&OE

Copyright Notice:

Link to my original post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve: https://karvediat.blogspot.com/2024/01/the-visitor.html

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Posted in writing | Tags: divorce, fiction, humor, infertility, love, marriage, online, reading, relationships, romance, story, writing | Leave a Comment »

Short Story : Male Ego

January 6, 2024

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SHORT FICTION

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MALE EGO

Story By VIKRAM KARVE

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It was a pathetic sight.

A man was being manhandled by three men who were trying to shove him into a van.

When I went closer – I realized that the man being manhandled was totally drunk.

One of the men manhandling the inebriated drunkard was my friend – whom I had come to meet.

The intoxicated drunkard was resisting and getting violent – so – my friend gestured to me to come and help them.

I quickly walked towards the drunk man – I grabbed his neck and I pushed down his head.

“Slowly…” my friend said to me, “the bugger may die…”

The four of us managed to forcibly push the drunk man into the van.

My friend and I held the drunk man – while the other two men forced him down on the seat.

The inebriated drunkard was reeking of whisky – his body smelt as if he was sweating alcohol from his pores.

Suddenly – the drunkard started vomiting – he puked all over – spewing filthy vomit on himself – on the seat – and – on the floor of the van.

Then – he passed out unconscious – dead drunk.

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It was a disgusting spectacle – and the putrid stench of the vomit was terribly nauseating.

The situation was so repulsive and unbearable – that I got out the van – took a few deep breaths – and filled my lungs with fresh air.

My friend got out of the van – closed the sliding door – and – he gestured to the driver to start the van.

In the rear side of the van – the drunkard was comatose – dead drunk.

I felt pity for the two men who were holding the filthy drunkard covered with his stinking putrid vomit.

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After the van had gone – my friend looked at me and smiled.

“Sorry for the sordid “welcome” – let’s go up to my flat…” he said to me.

“Who is this bloody drunkard…?” I asked him.

“My neighbour…” my friend said.

“That disgusting filthy bugger is your neighbour…?” I said to my friend – shocked.

“Yes – he is my next-door neighbour – he is a bloody alcoholic – he keeps having these binges – they are taking him to rehab once again – this time – I hope they keep him there for a long time…” my friend said.

“Oh – he has been to rehab before…?” I remarked.

“Twice – but looks like it isn’t working – he had a relapse again – you saw his pathetic condition…” my friend said.

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We went up in the lift to my friend’s 9^th floor apartment.

A maid stood outside the open door of the flat opposite my friend’s flat – it was the drunkard’s apartment.

There was fear in the maid’s eyes.

The maid held out a pair of keys and spoke to my friend.

“Sir – please call me when Sahab is going to come back – till then – you keep the keys…” the maid said to my friend.

“Okay…” my friend said – and he took the keys of the drunkard’s apartment from the maid.

My friend told the maid that she could go home.

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“Let’s go and check his apartment before I lock it up…” my friend said.

We walked into the drunkard’s apartment.

In the living room – on the mantelpiece – there was a photo frame – with a photo of the drunkard and a woman.

I recognized the woman in the photo – it was Nisha.

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I picked up the photo frame from the mantelpiece.

I looked at Nisha’s photograph – intently.

My friend was observing me looking at Nisha’s photo.

“Do you know her…?” he asked me.

“No…” I said, “I was captivated by her beauty – she looks so attractive in this photo – does she look even more beautiful in real life…?”

“I don’t know – I haven’t met her…” my friend said.

“What…? You are her neighbour – but you haven’t met her…?” I asked – surprised.

“I moved in here 3 months ago – she hasn’t come here since then…” my friends said.

“Where does she live…?” I asked him.

“Well – from the little I know – she is a hotshot globetrotting investment banker – she is in Hong Kong at present…” my friend said.

“Oh – she lives abroad and her husband lives all alone over here…?” I asked him.

“Yes – it seems so – at least for the last 3 months since I shifted in here…” my friend said to me.

“So – it’s a Long-Distance Marriage…” I remarked.

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My friend looked at me curiously and spoke in an inquisitive tone.

“Tell me – why are you so interested in her…?” he asked me – with a curious look on his face.

“Oh – it’s nothing – just like that…” I said – trying to put on an innocent face.

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A few minutes later – we sat in the balcony of my friend’s apartment – drinking tea – admiring sunset – the glorious spectacle of the sun being swallowed up by the sea.

My friend’s apartment was in one of the most classy and posh neighborhoods of “SoBo” – South Bombay – or – South Mumbai – as it is now known.

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I was wondering how get some information about Nisha from my friend without arousing suspicion – when – luckily – my friend broached to topic himself.

“I feel sorry for him…” my friend said, referring to his alcoholic neighbour.

“I feel sorry for his wife…” I said to my friend.

“You seem to be quite “concerned” about his wife…” my friend said with a mischievous look.

“What are you implying…?” I asked him.

“First – you were looking so adoringly at her photo – and now – you showing so much “compassion” for her…” my friend was saying – when I interrupted him.

“Shut up – I don’t even know her…” I said – in an evasive tone of voice.

“I am sure you know her – maybe she was your first love…” my friend said, playfully.

“No. No. I was just feeling bad for her – poor thing – it must be terrible to have a husband who is an alcoholic – she is suffering for no fault of hers…” I said – trying to put on an expression of sympathy.

“Maybe it’s her fault – maybe she is the root cause for his alcoholism…” my friend said, with a knowing look.

“How can you blame a wife if her husband becomes an alcoholic…?” I said to my friend.

“I am not blaming her – I am saying that she may be the “root cause” for his “drowning his sorrows” in alcohol…” my friend said.

“I don’t understand what you are implying. Is his wife promiscuous…? Is she having an extra-marital affair…? Is that the reason for his drinking…?” I said to my friend.

My friend looked at me and spoke.

“I don’t think so. From what little I know – it seems that he couldn’t cope with her success – he was not able to stomach the fact that his wife was more successful than him…” my friend said to me.

“She was more successful than him…? Is your neighbour an investment banker too…?” I asked my friend.

“Yes – they were working together – and – it seems that – career-wise – she outperformed him – though he doesn’t admit it – and he feels that his wife’s success is due to the fact that she is a woman…” my friend said, “well – that’s what I gathered from the few conversations I had with him – and a friend of his – an office colleague – who visits him once in a while…”

“Oh – does he still have a job – after all this…?” I asked, surprised.

“I think they have given him long leave – hoping he will sober up…” my friend said.

“And his wife…? Doesn’t she care for him…?” I asked, curious.

“I think she has given up on him – the colleague said that she is extremely ambitious – and – career success is her first priority – he said that she was brilliant – much more accomplished than her husband – she moved on – globetrotted all over for better prospects – she made the right career moves – and now – she had already broken the glass ceiling and reached the top of her profession…” my friend said.

“So – she has raced way ahead of him – and now – she is way above him – she is totally “out of his league” – as they say…” I remarked.

“You can say that…” my friend said, “but I think he is okay in his job too…”

“So – he is not a “failure” as such…” I said, “then – why does he feel he is a failure…?”

“Most men have a fragile ego – so they automatically interpret their wife’s success as their own failure – and then – they take solace by resorting to “remedies” like drinking for succour – thinking that alcohol will alleviate their bruised ego…” my friend philosophized.

I thought about my friend’s hypothesis and pontificated.

“So – the “moral of the story” is that – if you have a typical male ego – you must never marry a woman who is out of your league…” I said to him.

My friend smiled at me in agreement.

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Later – on my way back to my hotel – I reminisced about Nisha.

I had been most upset and extremely sad and heartbroken when Nisha dumped me.

All these years – I had felt a sense of deep regret and disappointment at Nisha’s decision to break our engagement.

Now – I felt a sense of relief that I wasn’t married to Nisha.

“It was good that Nisha and I didn’t get married…” I said to myself.

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Well – Dear Reader – I am typical “MCP” – male chauvinist with “conservative” patriarchal views – and – I have a rather “fragile” Male Ego.

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MORAL OF THE STORY

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If you are a man with a fragile male ego – don’t marry a woman who is out of your league.

You may not be able to cope with the reality that your wife is more accomplished and successful than you.

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VIKRAM KARVE

Disclaimer:

This story is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh.
All Stories in this Blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
E&OE

Copyright Notice:

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Link to my original post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve: http://karvediat.blogspot.com/2022/09/story-male-ego.html

This story is also posted in my writing blog at url: https://karve.wordpress.com/2022/09/02/male-ego/ and in my medium blog at url: https://medium.com/@vikramkarve/male-ego-a-short-story-c0722541f907 etc.

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Posted in writing | Tags: alcoholism, blog, blogging, breakup, career, depression, divorce, ego, fiction, literature, male, marriage, online, reading, relationships, short story, story, success, veteran, women, writing | Leave a Comment »

To Divorce or Not to Divorce – “CATWOE” Ethical Analysis

December 22, 2023

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TO DIVORCE – OR – NOT TO DIVORCE

Ethical Perspective

“CATWOE” Analysis by Vikram Karve

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TO DIVORCE – OR – NOT TO DIVORCE

ETHICAL PERSPECTIVE

“CATWOE” ANALYSIS by VIKRAM KARVE

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ETHICAL DECISIONMAKING

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THE STAKEHOLDER CONCEPT

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When you take a decision – do you identify all the stakeholders concerned with and affected by your decision…?

Do you consider the perspectives of all stakeholders related to the decision…?

If so – you are taking an Ethical Decision.

Here is an easy way to take Ethical Decisions – the CATWOE model.

This model can be applied universally to any type of decision – personal and professional.

As an illustrative example – I will demonstrate how the CATWOE model can be applied in taking a decision pertaining to Divorce in an Ethical manner.

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“CATWOE” MODEL

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During my professional career – I implemented many management techniques at work.

I tried my best to use the same management techniques in my personal life too.

For example – I successfully used Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to quit smoking.

I used a Project Management Technique called “Force Field Analysis” to quit drinking – and to ensure I didn’t start smoking again.

And – I have extensively used the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) “CATWOE” Model to help me understand and resolve many ethical dilemmas that I faced from time to time.

Dear Reader – let me explain the CATWOE Model in brief.

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CATWOE STAKEHOLDER MODEL

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SOFT SYSTEMS METHOLDOLOGY (SSM)

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The CATWOE model adapted from Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) is a useful decision-making technique in ethical situations which helps resolve ethical dilemma and helps you take an “ethical” decision.

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Ethical dilemma occurs due to mismatch in ethical perspectives of various stakeholders involved in the ethical situation.

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Every person (or entity) that is likely to be affected by your decision is a “stakeholder” with a moral claim on you (the decision-maker).

Sometimes – when you take a decision in a hurry – you don’t even realise how many “stakeholders” exist – who are going to be affected by your decision.

A CATWOE analysis will help you identify all stakeholders involved in a decision and analyse their respective ethical perspectives.

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CATWOE is an acronym to categorize various stakeholders:

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CATWOE

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C = CUSTOMERS – “CLIENTS” OF THE DECISION

A = ACTORS – “AGENTS” WHO CARRY OUT THE DECISION

T = TRANSFORMATION PROCESS – THE DECISION MAKER

W = WELTANSCHAUUNG – “WORLD VIEW” PREDOMINANTLY HELD

O = OWNERS – OWNERSHIP OF THE DECISION

E = ENVIRONMENT – ENVIRONMENTAL IMPOSITIONS

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To elaborate a bit:

C: The “customers” of the decision. In this context – ‘customers’ mean those who are on the receiving end of your decision. Is it clear from your definition of “C” – as to who primarily will gain or lose from your decision…?

A: The “actors” – meaning those who would actually carry out the activities envisaged in the implementation of the decision.

T: The “transformation process”. What does the system do to the inputs in order to convert them into the outputs…?

W: “Weltanschauung” – The “World View” pertaining to the Ethical Situation.

O: The “owner(s)” – those who have sufficient formal power to stop the decision.

E: The “environmental constraints” – in which the decision is being taken.

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DIVORCE

AN ETHICAL SITUATION

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Any time one human being intervenes in the life of another human being directly or indirectly – an ethical situation arises.

Ethical Situations are frequently charged with emotions.

When you divorce your spouse – you “intervene” in the life your spouse.

And – your children – your parents, relatives, friends etc. – they may be affected by your divorce as well.

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So:

Divorce is an “ethical situation”.

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In fact – in addition to your spouse – many others may also be affected quite severely by your divorce.

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Therefore:

There are many “stakeholders” that may be affected by your decision to divorce your spouse.

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Let us try to identify and categorize the “stakeholders” affected by a divorce.

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(Dear Reader – let me add a disclaimer that I don’t have any first-hand experience of divorce – so – this is “hypothetical” case study – an “illustrative example” – to demonstrate how to use the CATWOE model in reaching an “ethical” decision – after considering the perspectives of various of stakeholders. Also – the “stakeholders” – and their perspectives may vary in different situations)

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ETHICAL DIVORCE MADE SIMPLE

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CATWOE

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The Dramatis Personae in a Divorce and their Ethical Perspectives

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C – A – T – W – O – E

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CUSTOMERS

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The main “customers” in a divorce are the husband and wife who want to divorce.

Are both on the same page as far the decision to divorce is concerned…?

(This may be the case in amicable divorce with mutual consent)

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Or – do they have differing perspectives…?

(In which case the divorce may be contested entailing acrimonious litigation involving nasty court battles)

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Are there any other “customers” who are affected by the divorce – like children, parents, relatives etc…?

Or maybe – are there any lover(s) of the husband/wife – who are interested in the divorce – since the lover(s) want to marry the husband/wife after they get divorced…?

What are the perspectives of these “customers”…?

Do the children want their parents to divorce – or – are they opposed to it…?

What about the parents of the husband and wife – and their relatives and friends…?

What are their perspectives in this divorce situation…?

In this divorce situation – you may be either the husband – or you may be the wife – but – before you make your decision – you must introspect with vicarious empathy – and try to envisage, comprehend and appreciate the perspectives of all “customers” – both “primary” (you and your spouse) – and “secondary” (children, parents, relatives, friends, lovers etc.)

Perspectives may differ among “customers” – primary and secondary.

For example – a husband may want a divorce – but the wife may not want a divorce – and – vice versa.

Even among children, parents, relatives etc. – there may be various perspectives.

You may introspect and evaluate various perspectives – and assess whether they are “justified” or not.

As far as the main “customers” (husband/wife) are concerned – there are two types of divorce:

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1. “Pull” Divorce

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In “Pull” Divorce – your attraction for someone else is the reason why you want to divorce your spouse – in order to enable you to marry and cohabit with your “lover”.

You are “pulled” out of your marriage by external attraction.

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2. “Push” Divorce

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In “Push” Divorce – some internal marital issues are “pushing” you out of your marriage – incompatibility issues, infidelity, cruelty, abuse, insanity, impotence, alcoholism of spouse etc. – which are causing irretrievable breakdown of your marital relationship – and “pushing” you out of marriage.

You are “pushed” out of your marriage due to internal marital problems with your spouse (or his/her family).

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You must ask yourself:

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Is your divorce – a “pull” divorce – or – a “push” divorce…?

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Are you being “pulled” out of your marriage…?

Or – are you being “pushed” out of your marriage…?

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Think about it.

Do you really want to breakup your marriage…?

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Think about all the other “customers” and their perspectives – before you take a decision.

In one case of “amicable” divorce by mutual consent – the divorcing parents did not anticipate the extent to which their teenage daughter would get upset by their divorce – the daughter became rebellious and wayward and took to drugs and was psychologically scarred for life.

In another case – the mother (of the divorced wife) went on a guilt trip and blamed herself for the divorce of her daughter – thinking that she hadn’t brought up her daughter well.

Where the marriage is an arranged marriage – the parents of the divorced couple may get upset.

Remember – there are a lot of “customers” who will be affected by your decision to divorce – and – there may be a lot of “collateral damage” because of your divorce.

So – you must take a soft holistic “systemic” view – before you take a final decision.

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ACTORS

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Actors include all the persons/agencies involved in the divorce process – counsellors, lawyers, family courts etc.

They too have their own perspectives.

For Example – a marriage counsellor may try to “save” the marriage.

Divorce Lawyers will try to “win” the case and get the best “deal and maximum “benefits” for their “client”.

The Family Court will have a “legal” perspective.

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TRANSFORMATION PROCESS

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This is the process which “transforms” a marriage into a divorce – the lawful procedure to split the legal bond between husband and wife.

Different countries and different religions may have different divorce procedures.

You have to consider the perspectives of the “transformation process” – under which law were you married – on what grounds are you seeking divorce – various aspects like alimony/maintenance, property distribution, children’s custody etc.

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WELTANSCHAUUNG

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Weltanschauung (World View) on Divorce will vary depending on the prevailing culture of the society to which you belong or the place you live in.

In “modern” societies – divorce is easily acceptable – and indeed – a part of life.

In “conservative” societies – divorce may carry a “stigma” – not only for the divorcees – but for their children, parents, siblings, relatives and friends of the divorcees as well.

In “dogmatic” societies – perspectives may be even more rigid, harsh and unsympathetic – maybe gender-biased too – and divorcees may even be “ostracized”.

Before you take a decision to divorce – you must consider the Weltanschauung (World View) on how divorce is perceived in your society – and introspect on the likely social ramifications of divorce – and – once you take a decision to divorce – you must be prepared for the repercussions.

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(As an aside – you may be surprised to know this – but – many years ago – in the “cantonment culture” of the military – divorce was frowned upon.

Maybe – this was due to the vestiges of the “Victorian” culture of the colonial days of the British Raj…)

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OWNER

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The “owner” is the entity who has the formal power to stop the divorce.

This depends on place to place.

Can courts stop a divorce…?

In ethnic societies – can community leaders stop a divorce…?

In some countries – can religious authorities stop a divorce…?

__________

I request experts to please throw some light on this aspect – about – who has the formal power and authority to stop a divorce.

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ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS and IMPOSITIONS

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Do you live in a modern urban metropolis or cosmopolitan city…?

Or – do you live in the “mofussil” – in a rural town or village…?

Do you live in a Joint Family…?

Or – are you a Nuclear Family living all by yourself…?

Are you financially independent…?

Is your environment safe for a divorced “single” person…?

Which country do you live in…?

Well – though “Environment” may be linked to “Weltanschauung” (World View) – there is a slight difference.

Weltanschauung (World View) is connected with “culture” – whereas – Environmental Constraints encompass other “administrative” aspects and support systems for day-to-day “ease of living” – especially for divorcees and single parent families.

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TO DIVORCE or NOT TO DIVORCE

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Once you have identified and categorized all “stakeholders” affected by your decision to divorce – and analyzed their perspectives – you will now be better equipped to take an ethical and informed decision on divorce – and decide whether:

TO DIVORCE – or – NOT TO DIVORCE

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Dear Reader:

I would love to hear your views and feedback.

Please comment here on my Blog – or on Social Media (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn etc.)

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VIKRAM KARVE

Disclaimer:

This story is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh.
All Stories in this Blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
E&OE

Copyright Notice:

Link to my source post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve: https://karvediat.blogspot.com/2020/03/ethical-divorce-made-simple-catwoe-model.html

This article has also been posted earlier in this blog (my writing blog) at url: https://karve.wordpress.com/2020/03/13/ethics-and-divorce-catwoe-model/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2020/07/27/how-to-divorce-ethically/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2020/11/19/catwoe-model-for-ethical-decision-making/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/01/27/to-divorce-or-not-to-divorce-ethics-model/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/12/08/to-divorce-or-not-to-divorce-ethical-perspective/ and https://vikramkarve.medium.com/to-divorce-or-not-to-divorce-the-ethical-aspect-ec04ce8b5f9f and https://karve.wordpress.com/2022/09/21/to-divorce-or-not-to-divorce-an-ethical-perspective/ etc

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Posted in writing | Tags: analysis, blog, catwoe, children, counselling, decision, divorce, ethics, family, HR, management, marriage, model, online, parents, reading, selfhelp, stakeholders, therapy, wisdom, writing | Leave a Comment »

Love Story : Third Time Lucky

December 21, 2023

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SHORT FICTION by VIKRAM KARVE

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THIRD TIME LUCKY

Love Story By Vikram Karve

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Mumbai (then known as Bombay) – circa 1978

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Part 1

LOVE MARRIAGE

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When my course-mate Ashok got divorced within one year of his marriage – instead of sympathizing with him – I chastised him.

“I told you not to get married to that “fleet auxiliary” – but you wouldn’t listen to me…” I said to Ashok.

“I know – I should have listened to you – I shouldn’t have got married to her…” Ashok said, contrite.

“You come from such a conservative background – I told you that your parents would never accept her…” I said to him.

“You were right – my parents did not approve of her at all…” he said.

“Despite your parent’s disapproval – you defied your parents – and you got married to her…” I scolded him.

“I was in love with her…” he said.

“Love…? If you were in love with her – why did you divorce her…?” I asked him.

“We were just not compatible…” he said.

“Compatible…!!! How could you be “compatible” with her…? Outwardly – you may act “modern” – but in your mind – you are still a “small town boy” – I told you all this – but you just wouldn’t listen to me…” I said to him.

“I wish I had listened to you…” he said.

“There is a difference between a “girlfriend” and a “wife” – especially if the girlfriend is a “fleet auxiliary” – no one marries a “fleet auxiliary” – you have a “good time” with them – and then – you get married to the “back home type” girl that your parents have chosen for you…” I said to him.

“I was so much in love with her – that I even went against my parents – and I didn’t even listen to your advice…” he said, full of remorse.

“Yes – love made you “blind” – and – she exploited you – she is a bloody shameless “nympho” – after having a “good time” with others – she trapped you into marriage…” I said to him.

“You are right…” he said, “she “knew” so many people – shipmates, course-mates – even seniors…”

“She was 5 years older to you – past her prime – and you fell for her…” I said, “she really made a fool of you…”

“Yes – I married in haste – and now – I am repenting at leisure…” he said, “next time – I am going to be careful…”

“Yes…” I said, “marriage is serious business…”

“You are right…” he said, “I took it very lightly – and I paid a heavy price…”

“What are your plans now…? I heard that you have asked for a compassionate grounds transfer…?” I asked him.

“Yes – I want to get away from this place – and – I want to move on in life…” he said, “I have asked for Vizag – it will be closer to my hometown as well…”

“All the best…” I said to Ashok, “and in case you are thinking of getting married – go in for an arranged marriage this time – and choose carefully…”

“Yes…” Ashok said – he gulped down the remains of his drink – he smiled a goodbye to me – and he left the wardroom.

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10 Years Later

Kochi (Cochin) – circa 1988

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Part 2

ARRANGED MARRIAGE

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10 years later – my ship visited Kochi (then known as Cochin)

In the evening – I walked down to the Navy Club – and – I saw Ashok sitting on the lawn – all by himself.

“You must have heard that I got divorced again…?” he said to me.

“Yes…” I said, “what happened…?”

“I don’t know…” he said, “this time I was careful – I saw so many girls that my parents had lined up for me – and then – after shortlisting the girls I had liked – I selected the girl who was an ideal wife for me – she had all the qualities that I wanted in my wife – I thought we had a happy marriage – but – one day – she suddenly just walked out…”

“That’s sad…” I said, commiserating with him.

“Yes…” Ashok said, “she was the ideal wife for me…”

“She was an ideal wife for you – but – were you an “ideal” husband for her…?” I asked him.

“What do you mean…?” Ashok said.

“You checked out the girl’s qualities – but – did you check out your own qualities…?” I said to him.

“What are you trying to say…?” he asked me.

“You were a mismatch in your love marriage – and – you were a mismatch in your arranged marriage too. You need to introspect – why do your marriages fail…?” I said to Ashok.

“You are right…” Ashok said, “I must check my own compatibility too – I will surely do that – next time…”

“Next time…?” I said, surprised.

He sure had perseverance.

There is a saying: “Third Time Lucky”.

I hoped he would be lucky the 3^rd time – and – his next marriage would be a success.

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20 Years Later

Pune – circa 2008

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Part 3

THIRD TIME LUCKY…?

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I was happily surprised to see my course-mate Ashok at a Navy Veterans Get-Together in Pune.

“It’s been a long time…” I said to Ashok, “you totally went “off the radar” – I lost all track of you…”

“I quit the Navy a few days after we met last time…” Ashok said.

“Yes – that’s what I heard – that – you had suddenly resigned…” I said, “what happened…?”

“I got a good job offer in the gulf – so – I decided to go over there – and since then – I have been globetrotting…” he said.

“That’s great…” I said, “but what are you doing in Pune…?” I asked him.

“Like you – I too have finally “retired” – and I have decided to settle down in Pune – I just came one month ago from the US…” he said.

“Where do you live in Pune…?” I asked him.

“At present I am living in a serviced apartment – but I have just bought a house – and I will be moving in there soon…” he said.

He told me the name of the township where he had bought a house – it was an exclusive cosmopolitan township – most posh and elite.

To be able to afford a house in that classy “highfalutin” township – Ashok must have done well for himself after leaving the Navy.

Ashok gave me a naughty look and spoke to me in a rather mischievous tone.

“You didn’t ask me if I was married…?” Ashok said to me – tongue-in-cheek.

“Are you…?” I said to him, “Or – did you get married and divorced again…?”

“No. No…” he laughed, “I took your advice seriously. I introspected – and I realized that I wasn’t “marriage material” – so – I didn’t get married again…” Ashok said to me.

____________

Someone called out his name – so – Ashok excused himself and he went to meet the person.

The moment Ashok had gone away – my wife suddenly appeared out of nowhere.

“Why were you talking to that disgusting man…?” she said, angrily.

“Disgusting man…? He is my course-mate Ashok. He left the Navy long ago. I will introduce you to him…” I said to my wife.

“I don’t want to be introduced to him…” my wife said, “and you better keep away from him…”

“What happened…?” I asked my wife.

“The ladies were talking about him. He is a filthy, indecent and immoral man…” she said.

“Filthy…? Immoral…?” I said, surprised.

“Don’t you know…?” my wife asked me.

“What…?” I said, curious.

“He is “living in sin” with a woman…” my wife said.

“Are you sure…? He told me that he was unmarried…” I said to her.

“That’s what I am telling you. That man you were talking to – he is unmarried – but he is “shacked up” with a woman half his age – he is a lecherous pervert – you better keep away from him…” my wife said to me – with disgust in her voice.

___________

It seems Ashik was “third time lucky”.

“Third Time Lucky” in love – albeit – not married – but “shacked up” with a woman half his age – “living in sin” – as my wife had put it.

_________

I my mind’s eye – I thought of Ashok – and – my imagination ran wild.

“Lucky Bugger – “shacked up” with a woman half his age…” I said to myself – with a tinge of envy.

_________

VIKRAM KARVE

Disclaimer:

This blog post is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh.
All stories in this blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
E&OE

Copyright Notice:

Link to my original post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve: http://karvediat.blogspot.com/2021/09/why-marriages-fail.html

This story is also posted in my writing blog at url: https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/09/29/why-marriages-fail-story/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2022/01/25/third-time-lucky/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2022/05/23/third-time-lucky-love-story/ etc

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Posted in writing | Tags: blog, dating, divorce, fiction, humor, life, love, luck, marriage, online, reading, relationships, romance, story, writing | Leave a Comment »

Story : Caring and Sharing

December 18, 2023

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CARING AND SHARING

Story By Vikram Karve

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PART 1

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45 Years Ago – Circa 1978

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Our ship was getting ready to leave Cochin (Kochi) harbour.

(Those days – Kochi was called Cochin)

A Lieutenant in uniform came running up the gangway.

He gave me a packet.

“Can you please deliver this packet to my course-mate Lieutenant “X” in Bombay…” he said to me.

(Those days – Mumbai was known as Bombay)

It was a small packet.

“Sure…” I said to the Lieutenant, “what is inside the packet…?”

“It is just some Ayurvedic Medicines for my coursemate’s wife. The name of my coursemate (Lieutenant “X”) – and his home address – everything is written on the packet…” the Lieutenant said.

“I will deliver the packet to Lieutenant “X” the moment we reach in Bombay…” I said to him.

____________

On the day we reached Mumbai – in the evening – I stood outside the flat of Lieutenant “X”.

I rang the doorbell.

A chic young woman opened the door.

She was very attractive – and – I had to make an effort to take my eyes off her.

“Good evening, Ma’am – I have got your medicines from Cochin…” I said.

“My medicines…?” she said, looking confused.

“Lieutenant “X” lives here – isn’t it…? So – you must be his wife…?” I said.

The beautiful woman smiled at me.

“Yes – Lieutenant “X” lives here – but – I am not his wife…” she said to me.

“Oh…” I remarked.

“I am so sorry…” the woman said, “it was so rude of me to keep you waiting outside – please come in and make yourself comfortable. Let me get you a glass of water…”

I entered the drawing room and sat down on the sofa.

The woman got me a glass of water and sat down opposite me.

I placed the packet I had got from Cochin on the table – and I said to the woman: “Here are the Ayurvedic Medicines for Mrs. “X” – is she not at home…?”

“No – Mrs. “X” works late – she should be home around 7:30 PM – but – don’t worry – I will give her the packet…” the woman said.

“Are you her sister…?” I asked.

“No – No…” the woman interrupted me.

The gorgeous women gave me a lovely smile.

Then she spoke to me.

“I am Mrs. “Y” – we are still waiting to be allotted our married accommodation – this house has been allotted to Lieutenant “X” – my husband Lieutenant “Y” – and your friend Lieutenant “X” – they are coursemates – so – we are “sharing” accommodation with Lieutenant and Mrs. “X” …” she said to me.

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In the 1970’s – there was a severe shortage of married accommodation in the Navy – especially in Mumbai – and the waiting time for Lieutenants was more than 2 years.

So – it was common practice for young Navy couples to share accommodation with their friends who were lucky to have been allotted married accommodation.

Also – those days – most Lieutenants were married – since it took 11 years commissioned service to become a Lieutenant Commander – unlike today – after the AVS 2006 Cadre Review Bonanza – when you become a Lieutenant Commander in just 6 years service

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Lieutenant “X” and Lieutenant “Y” were course-mates – both were married.

Having been fortunate to have been allotted married accommodation – Lieutenant “X” was magnanimously sharing his house with his coursemate Lieutenant “Y”.

I sat on the sofa opposite Mrs. “Y” and smiled at her.

__________

“Are you also a coursemate of Lieutenant “X” and my husband…?” Mrs. “Y” asked me.

“No – No – Ma’am – they must be a few years senior to me…” I said.

“Oh – so you are a friend of Lieutenant “X”…?” she said.

“No – Ma’am – I haven’t even met Lieutenant “X” – a Naval Officer in Cochin came to my ship and asked me to deliver this packet to Lieutenant “X”…” I said.

“Oh…” she said.

I looked at Mrs. “Y”.

Mrs. “Y” looked at me.

Sitting opposite me – Mrs. “Y” looked very gorgeous and alluring – and I felt mesmerized by her tantalizing beauty.

I was unnerved by the attraction I felt towards her – so I thought that it would be best for me to leave the scene.

So – I got up to leave.

On seeing me rise – Mrs. “Y” gestured to me to sit down.

“No – wait – it is already 5:30 PM – Lieutenant “X” should be home any minute…” Mrs. “Y” said.

“And – your husband – Lieutenant “Y” – he should be coming home too…?” I said to Mrs. “Y”.

“No – my husband is sailing – he will be back next week…” Mrs. “Y” said.

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The doorbell rang.

“Ah – that must be Lieutenant “X”…” exclaimed Mrs. “Y” – and – she quickly went to open the door.

Lieutenant “X” was in uniform.

He kept his scooter helmet on the rack.

Then – he looked at me.

I stood up.

I introduced myself and I told him that I had been asked by his friend in Cochin to deliver a packet to him.

I picked up the packet from the table and gave it to him.

“Oh yes – thanks a lot for getting the Ayurvedic Medicines from Cochin…” Lieutenant “X” said.

“You are welcome, Sir…” I said.

“Hey – I will just go in and change into ‘civvies’ and freshen up…” Lieutenant “X” said to me.

Then – Lieutenant “X” looked at Mrs. “Y”.

“Hey – why don’t you make some nice coffee for all of us…?” Lieutenant “X” said to Mrs. “Y”.

“Filter Coffee is already ready for you – and – I have made your favourite upma as ‘tiffin’ too…” Mrs. “Y” said to Lieutenant “X”.

“Wow – that’s great…” Lieutenant “X” said – and he went inside to change.

Lieutenant “X” changed into civvies and joined us in the living room.

After eating the delicious upma and drinking the refreshing filter coffee – I got up to leave – but Lieutenant “X” wanted me to stay for drinks and dinner.

“Hey – why don’t you stay for dinner – we’ll go for a walk on the seashore – we can have a drink at the club – by then – my wife should be back from work – you can meet her – and – we can all have dinner together…” he said to me.

“Thanks a lot, Sir – but I have to get back to my ship…” I said.

“Come on – stay for dinner…” Lieutenant “X” insisted.

“I would have loved to have dinner with you, Sir – but someone is “holding the deck” for me…” I lied.

“Oh – then you must go back to your ship – but you must come over and have dinner with us sometime…” Lieutenant “X” said.

“Sure, Sir…” I said to him.

Then – I said goodbye to Lieutenant “X” and Mrs. “Y” – and I went back to my ship.

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I could not meet Lieutenant “X” again – and the dinner never materialized – as our ship sailed off on a long deployment to the eastern seas – and midway – I was disembarked at Madras Port (Chennai) – for proceeding on transfer to a shore based instructional appointment in a ‘Stone Frigate’ at Jamnagar.

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7 YEARS LATER – Circa 1985

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PART 2

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Pune – Circa 1985

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One evening – I was walking on Main Street (MG Road) in Pune – and suddenly – I ran into Lieutenant “X”.

Lieutenant “X” recognized me.

“Hi there – so nice to see you here…” he said to me

“Delighted to see you too, Sir…” I said.

“You just disappeared from the Radar…?” Lieutenant “X” said.

“Sir – my ship sailed off to the East – then – I was transferred to Jamnagar – then – I was selected for the M. Tech. course at IIT Delhi – then – I did an appointment in Delhi – and now – I have been recently appointed as faculty in IAT Pune…” I said.

“That’s great…” Lieutenant “X” said, “I too quit the Navy a few years ago and I now work in the industry…”

He pulled out his wallet – extracted a business card – and gave it to me.

I looked at the business card.

Lieutenant “X” (now Ex-Lieutenant “X”) was a Manager in a prestigious company.

“My home address is written on the reverse of the card – I live in Aundh – and now that you are Pune – you must visit us – especially if you come to Aundh side…” he said.

“Sure, Sir…” I said – and we bid each other ‘goodbye’.

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A few days later – one evening – I happened to be in Aundh.

I remembered the brief meeting with Ex-Lieutenant “X” on Main Street.

I pulled out his business card from my wallet – looked at his residential address on the reverse side of the card – and I discovered that I was standing right below his apartment block.

I decided to visit Ex-Lieutenant “X” – and soon – I was standing outside his flat.

I rang the doorbell.

A woman opened the door.

I was stunned.

The woman was Mrs. “Y”.

Seeing the bewildered expression on my face – the woman gave me a mischievous smile.

And then – she spoke in an friendly voice.

“Yes – Lieutenant “X” lives here – and now – I am his wife…” she said to me, “welcome to our home – please come in…”

_________

Dear Reader – believe it or not – Lieutenant “X” had married Mrs. “Y”.

And now – Lieutenant “X” and Mrs. “Y” – they had become husband and wife.

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PART 3

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Later – when I reached home – I told my wife about how Mrs. “Y” had become Mrs. “X”.

So – thanks to “sharing” and “caring” – Lieutenant “X” and Mrs. “Y” – they had now become – Ex-Lieutenant “X” and New Mrs. “X”.

Later – I found out that Lieutenant “X” had not quit the Navy on his own.

But – in fact – Lieutenant “X” had been asked to resign from the Navy for “stealing the affection” of Mrs. “Y” – who was his “brother officer’s wife”.

___________

“House Mates” had become “Life Mates”.

Lieutenant “X” had got married to Mrs. “Y”.

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I wondered whether Lieutenant “Y” had got married to Mrs. “X” too – and the “spouse swap” was complete…?

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There is a saying in the Navy:

“Learn from history – or – you are doomed to repeat it…”

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And – my wife had certainly learnt a lesson from the story of Lieutenant “X” and Mrs. “Y”.

This was evident from the episode narrated below.

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One evening – a young couple came over to meet us – my Navy coursemate and his wife.

“I have come for a 3 month course to IAT Pune – and I brought my wife along – but they are not allowing my wife to stay in the Officers’ Mess…” he said.

“Yes – wives are not allowed for short courses…” I said.

“We were wondering if you could share your accommodation with us – you have got such a big house…” my coursemate said to me.

I looked at my coursemate and his wife – wondering what to say – when my coursemate’s wife spoke.

“Yes – please let us stay with you – otherwise I will have to go back…” my coursemate’s lovely wife pleaded with me – and she gave me a tender loving beseeching look.

Mesmerized by her seductive gaze – I was about to agree to my coursemate’s wife’s request to share our home with them.

But suddenly – my wife interjected.

“I am sorry – but – we don’t share accommodation…” my wife said to the lady.

“Please let us stay in your home – it is only for 3 months – I promise you that we will not be any trouble…” my coursemate’s wife begged my wife.

“I am sorry – but – as a “matter of principle” – we don’t share our home with anyone – we do not want “housemates”…” my wife said firmly with a decisive tone.

Then – my wife excused herself and she went inside into the bedroom.

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VIKRAM KARVE

Disclaimer:

This story is a fictional spoof, satire, pure fiction, just for fun and humor, no offence is meant to anyone, so take it with a pinch of salt and have a laugh.
All stories in this blog are a work of fiction. Events, Places, Settings and Incidents narrated in the stories are a figment of my imagination. The characters do not exist and are purely imaginary. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
E&OE

Copyright Notice:

Link to my original post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve: http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2016/10/housemates.html

This is a revised re-post of my story CARING AND SHARING posted online by me Vikram Karve earlier in my Academic and Creative Writing Journal Blog on 08 Nov 2015 at url: http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2015/11/sharing-and-caring-humor-in-and-out-of.htmland http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2015/12/humor-in-uniform-lieutenant-x-and-mrs-y.htmland https://karve.wordpress.com/2017/12/08/do-you-believe-in-sharing-and-caring/and http://karvediat.blogspot.in/2016/03/humor-in-uniform-care-but-dont-share.html and https://karve.wordpress.com/2019/07/25/sharing-and-caring/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2020/02/18/sharing-and-caring-love-story/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2021/01/06/sharing-and-caring-2/ and https://karve.wordpress.com/2022/02/01/sharing-and-caring-3/ etc

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Posted in writing | Tags: affair, divorce, fiction, humor, love, marriage, reading, relationships, romance, short stories, story, writing | Leave a Comment »

Story : Parenting

December 8, 2023

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SHORT FICTION

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PARENTING

Story By Vikram Karve

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PART 1

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She comes out of the College Principal’s Office – she goes to her best friend’s room – and – she tells her friend the exciting news.

“It’s a chance of a lifetime – don’t refuse…” her friend says.

“But – what about my daughter – I can’t take her with me…?” she says.

“Your daughter Nisha – she can stay at your husband’s place…” her friend says.

“My husband’s place…? Why should Nisha stay at my husband’s place…?” she says – taken aback by her friend’s suggestion.

“Where else can she stay for 6 months…? There is no place in the hostel – there is a huge waiting list – and – I don’t think she can manage living all alone in your flat – besides – it may not be safe for a young girl to live all alone too – you know how the environment is nowadays…” her friend says, “I would have kept her with me – but I live in a huge joint family – you know my situation – so – I think keeping Nisha with your husband seems the only option…”

“But – will my husband look after her for six months…?” she says – looking skeptical.

“Why not…? He is her father…” her friend says.

“But – he doesn’t know anything about her – he hasn’t met Nisha for 5 years…” she says.

“That’s because you didn’t allow him to meet her – your husband has visitation rights – but you told him that you didn’t want him to meet your daughter…” her friend says, “I am surprised how he agreed…?”

“That’s because I gave up everything – no alimony – no maintenance – no child support – I didn’t take a single rupee from him – not even my share in the house – nothing – absolutely nothing – when I walked out – I took nothing from him – I just wanted my daughter for myself – that’s all…” she said.

“It must have been painful for him – for a father to be separated from his daughter who he loved so much…” her friend says, “anyway – forget about the past – you call him and ask him…”

“Right now…? You want me to call him right now…?” she says to her friend – feeling a bit uneasy.

“You told me that the Principal wants your consent by closing hours today – so – it is better you call your husband immediately and settle your daughter’s issue…” her friend says, “you have your husband’s number – don’t you…?”

“I don’t know…” she says.

“What…? You don’t know…? Don’t you ever call your husband…?” her friend says.

“I called him around 3 years ago regarding some banking issue – I haven’t spoken to him after that…” she says.

“Look in your contacts…” her friend says, “otherwise – we can find out from somewhere…”

She looks in her contact list on her smartphone – and – she finds her husband’s number.

“It’s there – should I call him now…?” she asks her friend.

“Yes – call him right now – if you want – I’ll leave you alone…” her friend says.

“No. No. I want you to stay here…” she says – and – she calls her husband.

She hears her husband’s voice on the phone.

“Is everything okay…?” her husband asks her – he is surprised that she has suddenly called him out of the blue – and that too – after 3 years.

“Yes – all is well – how are you…?” she asks her husband.

“I am fine…” her husband says, “is there anything I can do for you…?”

“Actually – yes – I called you because I wanted your help…” she says to her husband.

“You want my help…? How much…? I will transfer it today – is it the same account…?” her husband asks.

“No. No…” she interrupts her husband, “I don’t want your money – I want to you to look after Nisha…”

“You want me to look after Nisha…?” her husband says, surprised and a bit confused.

“Yes – can you keep her with you for 6 months…?” she says to her husband.

“Six Months…?” her husband says, flabbergasted.

Her husband is baffled – because – when they split – she didn’t want him to meet their daughter – she said that she didn’t want their daughter to come under his influence – he had meekly accepted – after “hints” and “subtle threats” were given to him by her lawyer – so – for 5 years – he had not met his daughter Nisha – and now – she wanted him to look after Nisha for 6 months – it is all very confusing to him.

His thoughts are interrupted by his wife’s voice.

“I have been selected for a “Faculty Exchange Program” – I am going to New Zealand to teach at a prestigious university over there for one semester – I can’t take Nisha with me – besides – she can’t miss her college for 6 months – so – I thought it was best if she could stay with you…” she says.

“Can’t you make some other arrangements…? Maybe – in a hostel – or – you can hire a full-time maid…” he says.

“There is no time for all that – there is no place in the hostel – and – I don’t want her living all alone in the flat – it’s not safe – Nisha is still a teenager – she’s just 19 – please let her stay with you – after all – you are her father…” she says.

“Okay…” he says, “let me ask Monika…”

“Monika…? Who is Monika…?” she asks – surprised.

“She has moved in with me – we are living together…” he says.

“A woman has moved in with you…? Living together…? I didn’t know all this…” she says in a scandalized tone.

“You haven’t spoken to me for 3 years – you are happy with your career and life – you have moved on in life – and you don’t seem to be interested in us getting back together – well – I have to move on in life too – isn’t it…?” he says.

She remains silent – trying to digest the fact that her husband is living with another woman.

Then – she remembers her urgency – she has to confirm her consent to the Principal before closing time today – she has a just few hours.

So – she pleads with her husband.

“About Nisha staying with you – please tell me as quickly as possible – I will wait for your call – I have to give my consent immediately – before closing hours today – and please say “Yes” and let Nisha stay with you for 6 months – this is a life changing career opportunity for me…” she says – with desperation in her voice, “if you want – I can come there and speak to Monika – there is very little time – I am in a hurry – I have to tell the Principal today itself…”

Her husband senses her desperation.

So – he decides to say “Yes”.

“Okay – yes – Nisha can stay with us for 6 months – you can give your consent right now to your College Principal…” he says.

“But – you were going to ask Monika…?” she says – a bit wary.

“I don’t want to disturb her at work – but – you don’t worry about all that – I’ll tell her in the evening – Nisha can stay with us…” he says.

“Thank you so much…” she says to her husband – she says – feeling relieved.

Then – she hears her husband’s voice on the phone.

“I hope Nisha has no issues staying over here…” he says.

“No. No. I will convince her – she has no choice – Nisha will stay with you – she is a good girl – she will behave herself – she will be no trouble at all…” she says.

“You go ahead and give your consent – and – let me know when you are going to New Zealand…” he says.

“Yes. Yes. I will go right now to the Principal and give my consent – I think I’ll have to leave next week – they said they would fast track the visa etc. – I will call you once my travel plans are finalized…” she says.

“Keep me updated…” he says.

“Yes – and – thank you so much…” she says.

“It’s okay – she is my daughter too…” he says.

__________

After the call is disconnected – she puts the smartphone on the table – and – she smiles at her friend.

“He agreed…” she says to her friend.

“I heard…” her friend says.

“There is a woman who has moved in with him – someone called Monika…” she says to her friend.

“I heard…” her friend says.

She gives her friend a surprised look and questions her.

“You knew that a woman has moved in with my husband…? And – you didn’t tell me…?” she says to her friend in an accusing tone.

“It was just rumors – and – I thought you would get upset…” her friend says, “forget about all that and think of your future – the “Faculty Exchange Program” in New Zealand will be a big boost for your career…”

“I’ll go to the Principal’s Office and give my consent…” she says.

“Aren’t you going to tell Nisha…?” her friend asks.

“I’ll tell her later…” she says.

“I think it’s better you tell her now before you give your consent – you never know how teenagers will react…” her friend says.

“Okay – I’ll speak to her at lunchtime…” she says.

“No. You better speak to Nisha right now. I will bring her from the classroom. You sit here and rehearse what you are going to say to her…” her friend says.

Ten minutes later – her friend arrives with Nisha.

“Congratulations…” her daughter Nisha says to her – and she hugs her lovingly.

“You told her about my selection for “Faculty Exchange Program” in New Zealand…?” she questions her friend.

“Yes – and – I told her about the other thing too…” her friend says.

“Don’t worry, Mamma – I will stay with Papa…” Nisha says to her.

She feels relieved.

She thought it would be so difficult to convince Nisha to stay at her father’s place – especially as he has a new partner now.

But – Nisha seems to have agreed so easily.

She wonders how her friend managed to convince Nisha so easily.

She feels grateful to her friend.

Then – she wishes she could have told her daughter herself.

While she is experiencing these conflicting emotions – she hears her friend’s voice.

“Come on – go to the Principal’s Office and give your consent – then – you will have to do the paperwork for your visa etc…” her friend says with urgency in her voice.

She goes to the Principal’s Office and gives her consent for the “Faculty Exchange Program” in New Zealand.

________

In the evening – her husband and his girlfriend Monika come to her flat.

She looks at her husband’s live-in partner Monika.

Monika looks ordinary – very ordinary – a podgy unpretentious looking homely woman – in short – she is a “Plain Jane”.

She feels disappointed – her husband could have chosen someone much better than this pedestrian woman.

The woman called Monika smiles at her – and speaks very politely.

She wonders if it is genuine or just fake courtesy.

Her thoughts are interrupted by her husband’s voice.

“Call Nisha…” he says, “I want to see her – and I want Nisha to meet Monika…”

“Yes…” she says to her husband – and she calls her daughter Nisha from inside.

She wonders how her daughter will react – meeting her father after five years – and – if Nisha will accept Monika – her father’s girlfriend.

Her daughter Nisha comes into the room and smiles at her father and his girlfriend Monika.

She observes that the three of them – her daughter – her husband – and her husband’s girlfriend – they are decorous to each other – cordial – but not very friendly.

A daughter meeting her father after five years – it may take some time for the ice to melt.

But it seems Nisha has accepted the situation.

They talk about Nisha’s college – her routine – and – her husband and Monika says that they will be most happy to have Nisha stay with them.

One week later – she is on her way to New Zealand – with Nisha settled in her husband’s house.

___________

PART 2

__________

SIX MONTHS LATER

__________

She arrives from New Zealand six months later – her flight arrived in the wee hours of the morning – she takes the Airport cab from Mumbai reaches Pune – she asks the driver to drive via her husband’s house – so – she can pick up her daughter Nisha and take her home.

___________

It’s 8 AM in the morning when she reaches her husband’s house.

Her husband, his girlfriend Monika and her daughter Nisha are having breakfast.

“Come on, Nisha – finish your breakfast quickly and go get your bag – the taxi is waiting outside…” she says to her daughter Nisha.

“I am not coming with you…” Nisha says.

“What do you mean “I am not coming with you”…? I had told you to pack your bags and be ready – and I will be picking you up in the morning on my way home…” she says to her daughter.

“I have decided to stay here…” Nisha says.

“You have decided to stay here…? What nonsense are you talking…?” she shouts at her daughter Nisha – then – she gives her husband a questioning look and asks him, “what is all this…?”

Before her husband can answer – her daughter Nisha interrupts.

“You don’t ask him…” her daughter Nisha says to her, “it is my decision to stay here…”

“When did you decide…? I have been talking to you every day from New Zealand – you never told me anything…” she says to her daughter.

“I knew you would be very busy focusing on your work – so – I didn’t want to upset you…” her daughter Nisha says.

“You can’t decide these things – I am your mother – you will have to come with me – get your things quickly – the taxi is waiting…” she says to her daughter – emphatically.

“I am not coming with you – I am staying here…” her daughter says – unequivocally.

“You have to come with me – you have no choice…” she shouts at her daughter.

“I am an adult now – you can’t dictate terms to me any longer – I will decide for myself – and – I have made my choice – I want to live with my father…” Nisha says.

“But why…?” she asks her daughter.

“I like it here – my father is such a nice person – and Monika is so friendly – she is not a control freak – like you…” Nisha says.

“Control Freak…? I love you so much – I have given you the best of everything – I look after you so well – and you are calling me a “control freak”…?” she says angrily to her daughter.

“You are so domineering – living with you – I felt suffocated. Here – with Papa and Monika – I feel free…” Nisha says.

___________

She trembles with anger on hearing her daughter’s words and raises her hand to slap her daughter – when she hears her husband’s voice.

“Cool down – you go home now and settle down – we will talk later…” her husband says.

“No – I am taking my daughter with me right now…” she says assertively.

But – her daughter Nisha is defiant.

“I am not coming with you – I told you I want to stay here – and we are getting late – I have to go to college – and – they have to go to work – to their offices – you please go…” her daughter Nisha says firmly – and she goes inside.

____________

She feels faint – the ground slipping below her feet – and – she senses her husband’s hand on her arm – supporting her.

“You go home and relax – we’ll sort this out later…” her husband says.

She observes his husband’s partner Monika looking into her coffee mug – sipping coffee – as if she hasn’t seen anything – or heard anything.

She feels shattered – defeated – hapless – overcome by a sense of despair – as her husband guides her out of the house towards the waiting taxi.

_______

PART 3

_______

A FEW HOURS LATER

_______

She and her best friend – they sit on a bench in a secluded place in the expansive university garden – and they have a discussion – about her daughter, her husband, her marriage.

“Nisha called me a “control freak”…” she says to her friend.

“It’s okay – you were too attached to her – you tried to monopolize her – let her be – she is at a difficult age – and she is an adult now…” her friend says.

“Monopolize…? I love her so much – I wanted her to do well in life – and – as a single parent – I had to be careful – so – I was a bit strict – that’s all…” she says.

“A child needs the love of both parents – you deprived her of that – I feel you hastily walked out of your marriage – you could have been less rigid…” her friend says.

“So – you are blaming me for everything – you are saying it is my fault that my marriage broke up…” she says – feeling hurt.

“Please try to understand me correctly – I am not saying it is your fault that you and your husband split up – but then – you could have been a bit accommodating – isn’t it…?” her friends says.

“I could have been “accommodating” …? What do you mean…?” she asks her friend.

“He told me you were too dominating – you always imposed your will on him – and – he said he felt suffocated in the marriage…” her friend says.

“My husband told you…? When did he tell you all this…?” she asks – irked.

“After you two split – I met him once at the airport – he seemed relieved that you had walked out on him…” her friend says.

“You met my husband behind my back…? And – you didn’t bother to tell me…?” she says – upset and extremely annoyed with her friend.

“Was there any point…? You are so headstrong…” her friend says.

“Headstrong…? How dare you call me headstrong…? Just because I am gracious to you – that doesn’t give you the license to say anything you want about me, make nasty comments and cast aspersions about my personal life…” she shouts angrily at her friend, “Who the hell do you think you are…? I will not tolerate such slander from lowlifes like you – do you understand…?”

Her friend seems taken aback and hurt by this outburst.

“I am sorry – I will not talk to you again…” her friend says – and – her friend gets up and walks away.

__________

She sits on the bench in the garden – all alone.

Her husband is gone – her daughter is gone – her best friend is gone.

She has no one now.

Never before has she felt so lonely – so alone.

__________

EPILOGUE

__________

While she sits in the park – feeling depressed and lonely – her friend calls up Monika.

“You did well…” she says to Monika, “Nisha seems very happy with you…”

“Yes…” Monika says, “how is her mother…?”

“She is fretting and fuming all alone – you don’t worry about her…” the friend says to Monika, “now that you have her daughter Nisha on your side – you can go ahead with your plans – I think he will agree…”

“Yes – I will try to convince him – thank you so much – everything is working out so nicely – he loves me so much – and – Nisha is such a friendly girl – she seems to have accepted me. You know – that’s what he was afraid of – what would be his daughter’s reaction if he got remarried…? So now that everything seems okay on that front – hopefully – it will be wedding bells soon…” Monika says.

“Don’t forget to invite me for your wedding…” the friend says.

“Of course – but – you listen – your friend – Nisha’s mother – she shouldn’t know that you and me knew each other – I think we need to keep our friendship under wraps for some time – at least till the wedding…” her friend says to Monika.

“You don’t worry about her – she has broken up with me – and – I am never going to speak to her again…” the friend says.

__________

VIKRAM KARVE

Disclaimer:

Copyright Notice:

Link to my original post in my Blog Academic and Creative Writing Journal Vikram Karve: http://karvediat.blogspot.com/2023/05/short-fiction-story-parenting.html

This story is also posted in my writing and medium blogs at URLs: https://karve.wordpress.com/2023/05/21/parenting/ and https://vikramkarve.medium.com/story-parenting-c3a499dcb569 etc.

____________

Posted in writing | Tags: blog, blogging, children, divorce, family, fiction, life, love, marriage, online, parenting, reading, single, story, women, writing | Leave a Comment »

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