ds, Tanya and Amba. Determined to temporarily set aside my rumination and indulge in a pleasant afternoon in

tinged with a hint of playful reproach."Yes," I replied, "I was engaged in a protracted telephone conversation with my mom earlier today. It's been eight years since I last spoke to her.""Gracious me!" Tanya uttered, her eyes bulging with incredulity. "Has it truly been that long?" Amba exclaimed."Yes," I replied. "My parents divorced when I was twelve years old, which was ten years ago. My dad passed away from cardiac arrest two years later. Although my mom tried to reclaim me at my dad's funeral, I declined her offer. I wanted to remain close to my father's memories and legacy, so I opted to stay in Jason's care.""However, let us dispense with the discussion of my personal life for the time being," I said, while gently signaling the waiter. "Let's direct our attention to ordering some food, because I am feeling quite peckish."The waiter fortuitously appeared at our table, presenting us with menus from which we could peruse and select our preferred culinary delights. My culinary preference was for a gallinaceous dish smothered in curry sauce, served alongside a portion of rice. Meanwhile, Tanya