Kokila Mami’s (aunty’s) Cool (773 words)

Kokila had an early dinner, afraid that the incessant rain might cause the power to be cut at any time. She had the candles ready on the dining table. Luckily, her fears seemed unfounded as there was no power cut and she could see her favourite serial till the end. It was 8 pm. 

There was a knock at the door. She wondered who could call on her at this time. After her husband’s demise, she continued to stay alone in this house. Her only daughter, who was abroad, had come to visit her old mom and left only the previous month. Kokila opened the door, keeping the safety chain intact, to see a young lady of about 35 standing there drenched in rain. Her clothes were completely wet and her hair dishevelled. 

When she saw Kokila, she said, “Sorry to trouble you. Can I stay in the portico till it stops raining? I should have left my office a little earlier.” 

It was dark outside, and she saw the lady alone. Taking pity, Kokila said, “Please come in and dry yourself.” 

The lady smiled with profuse thanks and entered the hall. Just as Kokila was about to close the door, there was lightning, and she saw in the glimmer of light a car parked outside the gate. She immediately felt she had made a mistake in allowing a stranger inside, but did not show it on her face. She gave her a towel, asking her to wipe herself while she made hot tea. She started making tea and decided not to betray her scare. In the rain, no one in the adjacent houses would hear her scream for help. Newspapers were abuzz daily with the news of old people who were alone being mercilessly killed for monetary gain, and warning against letting strangers in when alone. 

She gave the hot tea to the lady who was comfortably seated on the sofa. She looked strong and well-built woman. Kokila’s mobile was on the dining table. She wanted to get it, but did not want to create a doubt in the lady’s mind. Instead, she chose another sofa a little away from her. 

“Thanks a lot. Do you live alone? Any servants staying with you? I do not see any. Any children living with you?” she asked softly. 

“I am not alone. I have a cat to give me company. My maid’s daughter comes to stay at night. I think the rain is almost gone. Do you have far to go? Did you come by walk?” asked Kokila, wanting to test whether she would tell her about the waiting car. 

“I came by walk and will presently leave in a few minutes. I have a question to ask. You don’t know me. You are old and alone. How could you trust me and let me in?” she asked. 

“Your face looked innocent, and your bearing indicated that you are from a decent family. You were completely drenched. I did not think about anything then except to make you comfortable. I think I have not made any mistake in my judgment,” she said with a laugh.

“Oh, I am sorry, madam. You were not wise, but you have been very nice to me. I would not like to hurt you. You are like my mom. Please hand over the cash and valuables without any protest. Any attempt to draw the attention of others would invite immediate death to you. I hope you understand,” she said, like a snake hissing. 

Kokila did not lose her cool. She said, “Please do not do any physical harm. Whatever you want, take it. Let me get up and fetch the keys in a few minutes. The shock makes my head reel. Please give me just five minutes. I will cooperate with you fully.” 

In three minutes, they heard the shrill blaring of sirens from police cars and one screeching to a halt outside. The lady was struck with fear and asked whether any exit was available on the rear.

 Meanwhile, there was loud knocking on the door and a voice over the microphone that the house had been surrounded by police. As Kokila opened the door, a constable with a gun in hand walked in and asked in an amiable voice, “Where is our intruder?” The young lady was promptly handcuffed. 

When the young woman, as she was being led to the police car, turned towards Kokila with venom and anger in her eyes, Kokila triumphantly smiled at her without letting her know of the hidden buzzer under the sofa and the security arrangement made with the police.