Vijayawada had been experiencing heavy rainfall for two days. Thick raindrops kept tapping hard on the roof and windows. The sound of water echoed throughout the area like a drum beating. The streets of Labbipet were filled with water and in the small lanes the flowing water was forming small ponds. The humidity in the air was so high that even breathing felt heavy. The electricity lights kept flickering and going off again and again making the flat walls feel even closer and more oppressive.

Suresh had gone to Hyderabad and Rajahmundry almost ten days ago for his wholesale business. He called only once or twice a day. Most talks were only about giving orders or payments. There was no warmth or personal concern in his calls. Swati had now stopped expecting anything more. The old closeness in their relationship had become completely cold.