The room went still.

Alec stared at the phone in Salima’s hand, as if it might bite him.

The line hissed faintly.

“Alec. Are you there?” Nandini asked.

Salima held out the phone to him, but Alec hesitated.

She took his arm slowly and placed the device in his palm.

“I’ll be outside.” She smiled.

Salima swiftly shut the door behind her.

Alec carefully put the phone to his ear. “Mom?” His voice broke.

“Alec.” Nandini sobbed. “Is it really you? Please tell me I'm not dreaming.”

Alec closed his eyes, blinking tears back. “It’s me, Mom.” He said. “It’s me.”

Nandini’s breath hitched on the other end of the...