“Amma Amma… I love you… Mazhaipeyum nerathil… ”
The machine’s beep was steady. Stronger, it seemed. He leaned in close, his lips to her ear. Amma Amma I Love You -Shaan-
“Don’t leave me, Amma. I’m coming home. For good. I’ll get a job in Kochi. We’ll walk on the beach every evening. I’ll learn to make your fish curry. Just… please.” “Amma Amma… I love you… Mazhaipeyum nerathil… ”
He thought of the last time he was home, two years ago. He was on his laptop, answering emails at the dining table. Amma had placed a plate of avial and rice in front of him. He had grunted, not looking up. She had stood there for a moment, her hand hovering over his hair, as if wanting to ruffle it. Then she had pulled back. She had gone to the kitchen and turned on the radio. He hadn’t noticed her silence. “Don’t leave me, Amma