Virk offered her a glass of water and continued. ‘I wouldn’t wish the level of mental and physical torture you’ve gone through even on an enemy. As of now, Pakistan is unsafe territory for you and for every non-Muslim. Besides, you are already on their radar for attacking a senior cop in uniform. They must be looking hammer and tongs for you and your husband. Hence, it was a wise decision by your husband and his cousin to shift you to India. Let’s exercise patience, even though it’s difficult for a mother to be away from her young children, and wait for new developments. I will do my best to get in touch with my contacts across the border and get updates at regular intervals.’ Virk paused because she was still sobbing. But there was a hint of appreciation on her tearful face. He looked at the lance naik who immediately placed a table between the two. The major unfolded a map and circled a spot before continuing with his monologue.

‘Ma’am, this village here called Tunda on the Indian side of Kashmir is closest to where you last stayed in Pakistan. It’s inhabited by a healthy mix of fine people such as Kashmiri Pandits, Muslims, Sikhs and has a few Ladakhi families too. If you agree, we will make arrangements for your stay here. Effectively, it would be closest to your home in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. Hopefully, you’ll be able to establish a channel and communicate with your family across the border. Who knows what the future has in store for you? But with this arrangement, we are hoping to establish communication with your loved ones. By the grace of the Almighty, you might be able to reunite with them in the near future.’ Bibi glanced at the map but couldn’t figure out anything except black lines drawn in a zigzag pattern on a large green sheet. Virk understood her predicament. He pushed the map aside, prompting the alert lance naik to grab it midway. ‘I suggest that you rest here at the military camp for a couple of days. I shall drive you to the village and show you around. If you want, we could also show you a few houses vacated by people who shifted to Pakistan.’ Major Virk paused to see her reaction.

Left with no other choice, Bibi nodded and shut her eyes. Drop by drop, tears rolled down her pink cheeks. She was helpless, vulnerable, but by the grace of God there was help and she was safe even amongst strangers. Virk stood up. The sound of movement made Bibi open her eyes. The major took a step back and saluted again. ‘We will make arrangements for your stay. Lance Naik Bharat Kumar will be here at your service if you need anything. And I live just a short distance away. You are absolutely safe. We will visit Tunda village day after tomorrow.’