"I'm so sorry," Yahvi exclaimed, bending down to help the young lady. "Are you alright? Shall I help you inside?" Sympathy radiated from her voice, genuine concern etched on her face.
"Don't pretend like you care," the girl yelled, her frustration evident. "Just laugh it off if you want to." She glared at Yahvi with a mix of anger and resentment.
"Hey, I didn't mean to--"
"Stop showing sympathy... I hate fake emotions!" The girl cut her off sharply. "Go away!" She attempted to push Yahvi away but, in the process, almost lost her own balance.
Yahvi, quick on her feet, grabbed the girl's hands, preventing her from falling further. The tense exchange softened momentarily as Yahvi steadied the young girl.
"Vanshi!" A woman's voice rang out, and a concerned mother rushed towards them.
"Bachcha! Are you okay? Mumma is here," she reassured, her motherly instinct kicking in.
Watching the tender interaction between the mother and daughter, a pang of envy gripped Yahvi.
She wished she could experience such care and concern from a loving mother. A sense of longing lingered in her eyes as she turned to leave.
However, the woman from earlier called out to her.
"Beta!" she exclaimed, using a term of endearment that Yahvi couldn't fathom being directed at her.
Suddenly, a gentle hand rested on Yahvi's shoulder, prompting her to slowly turn around, suppressing her emotions. "Are you alright? I saw you fall earlier as well... don't mind my daughter; she gets a little impulsive," the lady explained.
"I'm sorry, Aunty... I didn't mean to--"