New Things

"Anna, please take us to my hotel," Anjali told the driver politely. But Valli interrupted immediately.

"Sorry, madam. Can you take me to my room, please?"

"Why? It will be too late now. Why don't you stay with me tonight, just once?" Anjali asked.

"I am sorry. I have to go to my room immediately," Valli insisted.

"What is so important for you at this time, Valli?" Anjali asked.

"I need to be with my daughter as early as possible," she said.

Anjali remembered Valli saying she wasn't married. By then, she had heard enough stories about the lives of aspiring actresses—how they were scammed and even raped by people in the industry. She understood Valli's situation. After a moment of silence, she spoke.

"Okay, we will go to your room and bring your child with us. Take any essential things too. You will be staying with me tonight. This…