Rashbehari Bhowmik stood in the middle of the most important moment of his life. He was giving his final presentation to a consortium of international investors. The financial closure of a multimillion-dollar deal was on the brink. As his words flowed automatically, his entire life flashed before his eyes.

* * *

Rashbehari, or "Rasu" as his family called him, was born in the industrial town of Durgapur to a middle-class family. His father led the second-largest workers' union in the steel factory, and they lived comfortably. The eldest of three siblings, Rasu was brilliant in his studies and beloved by teachers and peers alike. His parents had high hopes for him. His father often said, "Rasu, I'll spend my last penny on your education. You'll be the beacon that leads our family out of this morass."

But disaster struck suddenly. His father was murdered in a clash between rival unions. Overnight, their life of comfort vanished. His mother, a skilled seamstress, worked tirelessly to support the family, taking on odd jobs to supplement the small compensation the company provided. She sewed late into the night, bent over her machine, just so they could survive.

Despite everything, Rasu excelled. He graduated with honours, a national talent scholar. His teachers helped him pursue higher studies abroad. By his twenties, he had founded his own company. His marriage to Roopa was solid, and together they built a happy family. Their daughter, Katyayini, was the light of his life, a bright and determined young woman who, after excelling in her medical studies, was well on her way to becoming a renowned brain surgeon.

* * *

Rasu finished his presentation to a round of applause. The deal was about to be signed when his PA rushed to him, whispering urgently. Shell-shocked, Rasu let his PA take over and hurried out. His driver sped him to the most prestigious hospital in the city.

There, a senior police inspector was waiting for him. Rasu’s world shattered. His daughter had been brutally assaulted at work and was now fighting for her life after multiple surgeries. Roopa was in shock, being treated for mental trauma in a separate ward. Rasu shuttled between the two wards staring at the two most important figures in his life, both unconscious.

Hours later, Rasu was finally allowed to see Katyayini. Her body was swathed in blood-soaked bandages. His chest tightened with grief 

With tear-filled eyes, Katyayini whispered, "Papa, give me a big hug."

Rasu’s voice broke as he stammered, "Baby, I can’t even give a tinny-weeny hug. I don’t want to hurt you… You must be in so much pain."

Through her labored breath, Katyayini murmured, "Oh, Papa... A hug is always the right size."