Radhakka’s cryptic message had upset her greatly. In her heart of hearts, she knew that Anupama was not a troublemaker. But then why had her in-laws sent that telegram? She couldn’t help but feel that something was seriously wrong.It was noon when Sabakka saw her husband and Anupama coming towards the house in the scorching heat. Heaving a deep sigh, Shamanna quietly went and sat on the verandah outside the house. He looked drained and listless. Anupama walked inside without a word. Sabakka had no idea what was going on; she wanted to know why Anu had been sent home so unceremoniously. She waited for Shamanna to say something but he just leant back wearily against the wall.‘Why do you look so dejected? Has she quarrelled with her in-laws?’There was no response.‘What is the matter with you?’‘I’m hungry,’ Shamanna said at last. ‘Go and get some food ready for us. I haven’t had even a drop of water since the morning.’‘What kind of people are they? You went to visit them for the first time since the wedding and they didn’t even offer you a glass of water?
