Love in Fortnights
What once began as love in inverted schedules had now quietly become love in fortnights. Ayyira's company had revised its work-from-home policy. She now had to report to the Hyderabad office for ten days every month. Every month she packed a small suitcase, boarded the train, stayed in a hostel, worked for two weeks, and then returned to Rajahmundry, where Ram waited. Sometimes, to balance the attendance requirement, she stayed four weeks continuously, covering two months at once. They had spoken countless times about moving to Hyderabad permanently. But every conversation ended at the same place: rent, expenses, existing financial commitments. And the peaceful life they enjoyed in Rajahmundry. So instead of forcing a decision, Ayyira chose to carry the burden herself. She travelled back and forth without complaint, convincing herself that it was only for a few days every month. During one of those four-week stretches, Ram had to visit Hyderabad for office work over the weekend. Al...