Pathu sat by the window, her gaze drifting over the familiar landscape. The world outside was vibrant and alive, yet inside, she felt a void, a silence that pressed heavily against her heart. It had been three days since Shri Dhanya had left for the hostel, and the absence of her daughter's laughter was a constant reminder of the change.

Pathu stirred her tea, her thoughts wandering to the small table where Shri Dhanya used to sit, her feet swinging as she peppered her mother with questions. The kitchen, once filled with chatter and curiosity, now seemed too quiet. Memories flitted through her mind, each one a reminder of the lively energy that had filled the space.

Pathu walked to the doorway of her daughter's room, pausing to take in the sight. The room was neat and orderly, devoid of the usual chaos of toys and books. Her fingers brushed against the pink blanket on the bed, the fabric soft beneath her touch, her heart aching with longing for her daughter's presence.

Pathu picked up her phone and hesitated, her thumb hovering over the screen. She typed a message, her heart heavy with the weight of distance. "How is everything, my love? I miss you so much." The response came swiftly, a balm to her aching heart. "I'm doing good, Mama. The hostel is fun! I miss you too!"

Pathu noticed a book on Shri Dhanya's desk, a small note tucked between the pages. She unfolded it, her eyes scanning the familiar handwriting. "Mama, I love you to the stars and back! I'll always be with you." Tears welled up in her eyes, warmth spreading through her chest as she clutched the note to her heart.

Pathu lay on her daughter's bed, the note clutched in her hand, her heart lighter than it had been in days. "I love you too, my darling," she whispered to the quiet room. In that moment, she realized that Shri Dhanya was never truly far away; her love was a constant presence, a light that filled the empty corners of their home.