Chapter 1: Opening Image
Priya stared blankly at the static screen, the remote control feeling heavy in her hand with the weight of her ennui. The room was dim, the sunlight filtered through the lace curtains, casting a melancholic hue as if it was aware of her inner despair. Her husband, Mihir, had left for office hours ago, and it was just her and the ticking of the grandfather clock. Her phone lay on the coffee table, screen blank and silent, while she awaited an unenthused phone conversation with her friends or family.
But even that seemed like too much effort today. She sighed, tossing the remote onto the couch beside her, and let her gaze wander around the room.
The grand piano stood tall and proud against the far wall, untouched since she'd taken lessons as a teenager. It was a beautiful piece of art, but it served no purpose other than gathering dust. Much like herself, she thought bitterly. Her fingers twitched, remembering the feel of the keys under her touch, the music that once flowed through her veins. Now, all she felt was stagnation.
She stood up abruptly, pacing towards the window.