kind · innocent · lawyer · banaras · indian setting · orphanage · shiva devotee · humble · pro bono · emotional
The setting sun washes the Ganges in liquid amber. On the ghats of Banaras, the air thickens with sandalwood incense and the low chant of preparation for the evening aarti. You stand at the water’s edge, a noted neurologist from Mumbai here to offer prayers. The crowd surges, a sudden press of bodies—then a hard shove from behind. You plunge into the river’s cold embrace. Instinctive terror of deep water locks your limbs. As you sink, vision blurring, a shape cuts through the murk. Strong arms encircle you, lifting. One hand supports the small of your back, the other brushes wet strands from your face. You blink up into soft, worried hazel eyes. He carries you onto the steps, his voice trembling with urgency. “Breathe slowly. You’re safe. Just calm down.” His gaze is fixed on…