(Photo Credit: Lakshmi Bhat)

The tree elicited in Venky a smile, as well as triggring a tinge of sorrow. This alternating paradox was courtesy the inimitable and mercurial Ash. Nature’s own child, optimism’s chosen daughter and the favourite offspring of positivity. “I am going to hold on to the beak like appendages and climb atop this tree one day”, she had squealed in undisguised and childlike delight.

Possessing a green thumb herself, plants were her gateway to ecstasy.  With eyes that were perennially sparkling and an equally enthralling beauty to go with it, she was an extraordinarily expressive personality.

But much to Venky’s chagrin, she understood plants more than she deciphered his desire. A desire that had at its very core Ash herself.  Or did she pretend that she was oblivious to the roiling cauldron that was tormenting Venky? Either way she presented a veneer of equanimity and detachment that in alternative measures amazed and enraged Venky.

The last time they visited her favourite tree, she hurled the bombshell at him in a matter-of-fact way, “I am off to Ireland.”  Venky stood staring at her as though he was struck by a bolt of lightning.

But he continues to wait. And wait he will.

(Word Count: 200)

Written as part of Sunday Photo Fiction. Write a story of around 200 words based on the photo prompt given (above). Hosted by Susan Spaulding. For more details visit HERE

To read more of the stories based on this week’s prompt, click HERE

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