Rama's Labyrinth: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)

At sunrise Rama hopped out of bed. I feel like I’m eight years old again! The day I joined Goddess Sarasvati’s community and Father declared my fate as a scholar. And here I am starting lessons again. Rama sorted out her room, made a list of items she needed, dressed in a clean sari, and made her way downstairs.

The dining room was cozy and cheerful with a fireplace and white curtains. The wallpaper looked worn. Eight straight back chairs surrounded the long dining table.

Rama nodded to her new housemates helping themselves from dishes on a sideboard, but they were too busy whispering to each other to notice her. Rama picked up a bowl and a cup. The porridge looked fine but had been standing too long. There was a pitcher of milk next to the serving bowl. The tea, Rama knew from experience, would be bitter. Gathering her dishes Rama chose a place at the table near two girls giggling together quietly.