Broken yet Together

He’s a drug addict just back from rehab. She’s a back-office clerk. They share a small apartment in a building of miscreants and criminals. Every few months, they can’t pay their bills. A few days ago, with much effort, he threw the rest of the weed and picked up a book. He started teaching kids in the neighborhood but he felt tired all the time. She would work extra shifts to make ends meet.

Today is Valentine’s Day. Vendors are selling red heart-shaped balloons on the street and couples are walking on the street. From the windows of the coffee shop, you can see couples smiling, holding hands and chatting. She worked till late in the night and walked back home. On the road was a desolate vendor with one balloon left. She smiled as she paid Rs 10 for it. She opened the door to her apartment slowly hoping not to startle him. There were candles lighted in the living room. Wine glasses were on the dining table and spaghetti on two plates. He was asleep on the couch. She kissed his head, put a blanket on him and went into the bedroom.

All relationships might not be perfect but hats off to all wonderful people making it work!