Vertical swirls of hot steam emanated from bubbles of water. The sugar had mostly dissolved, a few crystals left glittering and melting. Grated ginger bits danced alongside the popping bubbles. She poured a spoonful of dry black tea leaves into the pot and the pot hissed back. She responded with enough milk and the pot quietened. The now-white liquid quickly changed to cream but the tea took its time to turn earthy brown. The swirls of steam returned. Her face moved inwards and her glasses fogged. She smiled. The whiff was nostalgic. Chai was an emotion, reminding her of home.
Rashmi Bhopi is a creative thinker who loves to capture moments in words, when not attending to patients and her own children. Instagram: @chaibiscuitstories