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“The Rice Disaster and an Unforgettable Day”
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Just 15 minutes after we opened the dam, the rice were ruined. The water had gone way over the limit, and instead of a proper dish, it looked more like a curry with a few floating grains of rice. And of course, what was next? My cousin gave me a full-on lecture — one of those where you just stand silently, knowing you're doomed.
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I knew from the start that today wasn't going to be my day, so I didn’t argue. I just kept quiet and let her say whatever she wanted. And if that wasn’t enough, she took pictures of the rice and posted them on her social media — yes, seriously.
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I quietly picked up my plate and walked to my room. I sat there in silence, eating what I had cooked. And just when I thought the worst was over — boom — it was time to wash the dishes. You guessed it: I had to do that too. After all, my cousin had her exams going on, right?
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I didn’t say a word. I washed everything in silence. Then, when it was time to sleep — sleep itself decided to betray me. My cousin kept the lights on and studied, but I just can’t sleep with the lights on. So I lay there, eyes open, waiting for morning.
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Morning finally came — but it didn’t bring any peace. I made breakfast for her, and then she left for her college and university. My other cousin, Ali, went to drop her off and then headed to his own university. I stayed back alone at home, cleaning and finishing up the household chores.
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Once everything was done, I heard a knock at the door.
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It was my parents and uncle and aunt — finally back! My heart overflowed with happiness. I left everything and rushed to greet them. I hugged my mom, dad, aunt, and uncle. Then I went straight to my room, collapsed onto my bed, and fell into the deepest sleep.
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When I finally woke up, it was evening. Everyone had eaten. I was the only one awake. Even my parents were fast asleep — and honestly, they deserved it. They were tired.
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But I was starving. I rushed to the kitchen, started heating up the food… and just then, Ali walked in.
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“So, you're finally awake?” he said casually.
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I just nodded and said “Yeah,” even though I had no intention of having a conversation.
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Then he said something that hit differently.
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“I haven’t seen you since morning. My eyes have been restless all day. Finally, they’ve found peace.”
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His words made me uncomfortable — deeply. And the way he looked didn’t seem like he was in his senses either. Without saying a word, I picked up my plate, now gone cold, and rushed out of the kitchen.
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I didn’t want to be anywhere near him.
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Back in my room, I shut the door, sat down, and had just started eating — when suddenly, I noticed him standing by my window.
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In that moment, I was terrified.
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I gathered all my courage, got up slowly, walked to the window, and pulled the curtain shut — firmly.
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