“Did u hear the news about Mrs. Menon’s daughter?” Mrs.Pillai asked Mrs. Jacob excitedly.

“Yes yes, of course. There is no one left in the colony to hear it. I guess every one watched the whole drama.” Mrs. Jacob had a glee in her voice.

“Such a shame. And all of it happened on TV. I am sure the Mrs. Menon will be devastated. She was crying her heart out in the TV. I think she expected too much from her daughter. ” Mrs. Pillai also couldn’t hide the slight happiness from her voice.

“Here comes Mrs. Thambi. They stay next door to the Menons. Mrs. Thambi, the Menons are not back  yet? Or did they escape to any secret hideout?” Mrs. Jacob tried to joke.

“Yes yes, they are back. Came last night. I think they didn’t want to be seen by anyone. Haven’t opened the doors or windows since. But they are there alright. I saw Mr. Menon come out to take the newspaper. He even smiled at me. Then Mrs. Menon called him from inside and he went in closing the front door. I think he has handled the situation pretty well. But I think the girl lost one year in school also” Mrs. Thambi gave the latest news.

“Poor Mrs. Menon. Now that the girl’s studies also will be affected. Should we go there? They might need a support” Mrs. Jacob asked doubtfully.

“ No no. Let them recover from the shock first” Mrs. Pillai was firm about that.

“You are correct. It is not easy. Getting eliminated from that music reality show because of lack of SMS. And Mrs. Menon had even got new sari for the finals. She was so sure her daughter would make it. They will need some time to pick themselves up. ” Mrs. Thambi said sympathetically.

“Yes yes” everyone nodded in agreement.