Bonus chapter 1

The aroma of flowers with the sounds of the morning rush gave away the homely feel. The Champa flowers in tiny baskets delicately wrapped in broad leaves, the dazzling array of long streamers, as well as the color co-ordinated gajras of mesmerizing blooms were all huddled in a large basket tied to a tiny motorbike that was parked in front Ananya's home. The large basket contained many small baskets with varieties of flowers in each.

The flowers were fresh and ready to bloom. More than the colorful flowers, the smile on the flower vendor's face would stay in one's mind. It appeared that his whole life belongings were right there in that little money pouch by the handle of the bike, yet his grace and joy with the world came through loud and clear. The older gentleman was convincing Ananya to buy the other extra flowers. The flower vendor was quite lively, and they got into talking. He's the regular flower vendor in the locality. He sells his flowers commuting on his small motorbike. And Ananya was his regular customer. She bundled in a few extra Mogra (jasmine) garlands in her packet.

"How's the business, dada?" Ananya chirped, sniffing a Champa flower before nestling it in her tresses.

"Sales are much lower than ever. We are not getting sales this time, not even half of the usual business. I purchase flowers from the city flower market. But this time, I am not purchasing that much. The rates were halved." The old vendor complained.

"Why don't you sell some other things along with the flowers?" She asked.