The Bookworm

She remembered her mother’s words.

“Study and score well or else you will be left behind.”

True to her mother’s word she complied with all the terms and conditions related to her studies which ensure she is the class topper. Staying up late to complete her school homework and the weekend extra coaching classes made her feel like a robot who was set to only explore the books instead of exploring what is out of the pages.

Sometimes there were extra books which her parents bought and pass it to her saying practice makes perfect. Their obsession towards claiming that their daughter is the best made her crazy but she couldn’t express it to either of her parents since both always found their passion in communicating with clients through their gadgets and office work. There was no worth talking to her parents especially her mother who would take account each minute which goes unproductive.

She misses her grandmother very much. Her grandmother treated the only heir of the family preciously and showered love unconditionally. Whenever she misses her grandma a lot she would cover herself with the blanket which she quilted on her own and presented on her 12th birthday. That day, she covered herself with the blanket and fell asleep. She was carried away into a weird dream.

Everywhere she turned were piles of books. She was underwater and saw goldfishes swim by blowing away air bubbles. As much as she wanted to enjoy the water which she finds solace at times, she wondered why she was asleep underwater. Since she was so much into books, she started looking through the piles. She came across a journal with the name “ROSE”. Then it stroked her that it belongs to her grandmother.

She flipped through the book but there was nothing instead she found a letter and opened it.

Dear Lily,

I know your heart is fragile now and you won’t understand your parent’s actions. Though I do agree with your conscience whereby they don’t give you the freedom you deserve. All your enjoyment are cut out and replaced with books. Teenagers find time to watch a movie and follow their heart but your parents don’t allow you. Please don’t blame your mother for her actions because she grew up this way due to my upbringing. I always asked her to be focused and she did and brought the family to a better state. She’s just scared you’ll be left out in this world and that’s the main reason she avoids being a friend to you. She wants you to get used to this strict demeanor so that you won’t make fool of life. It’s a tough world out there. Little one, I know you want to be carefree and wild but remember running away from home is not a solution. Talk to mom and definitely; she’ll be ready to hear. Explain to her your wants and dreams and get both your parents blessing. I’ll always love you my precious diamond. 

                                                                                      With Luv,

                                                                                                                                                                  Your Grandma Rose

She woke up with guilt and a tear stricken face. She was surprised that her grandmother knew her plan of running away. Tomorrow is an important day. Her exam results will be out and there is going to be a long lecture on pursuing medicine which has been happening since she was a child. She understood it’s time to tell her parents she is no longer the little princess with a tutu who just nods her head but a girl who wants to follow her dream.

The next day, her parents followed her to collect the results and they were happy knowing that she had scored well even though it was not straight “A” ’s, they were happy it was enough to enter medical school. Throughout the journey back home she was very much adamant about her decision talking to both her parents but she was a little nervous. Once they reached home, her mother started out as she thought.

“So, Lily the admission closes….”

“Mom, please listen to me before you proceed with your lecture.”

Both her parents were in ultimate shock but she continued.

“I love books but not those which just states facts but those which has a little adventure and fantasy as well. I want to be carefree for once instead of being stuffed with notes and continuous assessment. My passion is to write and I want to create my own story; not write a story which is planned and awaits execution. I want it all to be by me. I’m not wise as you, dad, or grandma but I know that I can make the right choice. Please trust me and allow me to fly to my preferred destination instead of tying my wings. I will survive out there on my own, please believe me.”

She didn’t know she was holding her breath till she finished the speech which she practiced many times in front of the mirror.

“I don’t know what to say… If that’s what you want then go ahead. I’ve nothing to say.” , said her mom and walked away.

Her father came to her with a smile.

“I’m happy that you know what you want in life. Go ahead and follow your dreams. Don’t worry about your mother. She’ll get over it.”, said her father.

She was thankful that someone understands her and hugged her father.

Lastly, the day for her to leave to the University of her Choice came and all her bags were waiting outside. Her father was arranging them in the car. She waited for her mom to come but she didn’t turn up. So she thought of walking up to her room and say goodbye to her mom. She knocked softly and opened it when she heard a “Come in”. She was shocked to see her mom dressed up to send her off.

“Just give me a minute and I’ll be ready Lily.”

“Mom…I"

“I know I didn’t talk to you for the past weeks. I was this girl who followed whatever my parents say since they know what’s best. I couldn’t feel what it is it like to raise our opinions. I had a very strict father and a mother who follows whatever he says though I don’t blame her since she was just being a good wife. You know old times, where there was no going against what is told by mighty people like my father. In these past weeks, I realized today’s world requires many passionate people to colour this world uniquely and changes are definitely shocking but gradually I’ll adapt to it. If I never make the first move, then I’ll be hindering the entire upcoming generation from following their wildest dreams. So, Lily, you will always be my princess and I’ll accept you and love you with all my heart. You have my blessings and I’m sure you will be a terrific writer.”

Lily hugged her mother with tears. Hand in hand both mother and daughter walked out towards the car. Once, she entered the car Lily happily announced to her father.

“You know what dad; I think I lastly found my best friend.”

Her father nodded with a smile and all of them travelled with loud music banging instead of the normal silence and book reading ritual. Lilly was positive that her grandmother would be smiling from above.

“Thanks, grandma.”, she whispered looking up.

THE END.

Picture : Google images