The Saree Behind the Silence 💃💃

Chapter 7 — The Nightdress

Scene: The Sisters' Bedroom — Late Evening

The humid weather and long hours of housework began irritating Kethan's skin. The seams of his jeans rubbed against him, especially after working in the courtyard.

One evening, he mentioned his discomfort to Padma.

She opened her cupboard and brought out a clean cotton nightdress.

"Try this at home. It is loose and comfortable."

Kethan stared at it.

"Isn't this yours?"

"I have another one. You can use this if you want."

Saroja added gently, "Only if you're comfortable. Nobody is forcing you."

After changing privately, Kethan stood before the mirror wearing a simple cream floral nightdress. His shoulder-length hair rested loosely around his shoulders.

He had expected to feel embarrassed.

Instead, he felt comfortable and unexpectedly peaceful.

Padma knocked before entering.

"How does it feel?"

"Comfortable," he admitted. "But I don't know why I'm so nervous."

Saroja sat beside him.

"Because it is new. You don't have to decide what it means tonight."

Kethan looked at his reflection.

"Does this mean something about me?"

"It might be something you enjoy. Give yourself time to understand your feelings."

When Kethan stepped into the corridor to get water, Athamma noticed the nightdress.

"What are you wearing?"

He froze.

Padma stepped forward.

"We gave it to him because it is comfortable for sleeping, Amma."

Athamma looked stern.

"Whatever you wear, don't neglect your responsibilities."

She walked away without another word.

Kethan was still nervous, but he realised that he could explore his preferences without needing to settle every question immediately.