A New Leaf

Kumar stretched his back, savoring the first breath of freedom in six long months. The sun felt warm on his face, a welcome change from the dim light that filtered through his cell window. He was finally out of jail, ready to turn over a new leaf.

“Six months for a petty crime,” he muttered, shaking his head. “All for a purse with just five hundred rupees.” The memory stunga single moment of desperation had cost him half a year of his life.

Inside the prison walls, Kumar had found solace in unexpected places. He had spent his days practicing yoga, reading from holy scriptures, and visiting the small temple tucked away in a corner of the jail. Those months had reshaped him; or so he believed. He had emerged with a promise to himself: he would be a better man.

The jailer handed him his release papers, giving Kumar a firm pat on the shoulder. “Live an honest life, make us proud.”

“I will. I promise,” Kumar said, meaning every word as he stepped outside.

Kumar was ready to face the world again, to rebuild his life from scratch. But just moments later, he collided with a man rushing in the opposite direction.

“Ow!” the man exclaimed, stumbling slightly.

“Sorry, sir,” Kumar apologized, moving aside as the man hurried away without a second glance.

Kumar’s eyes drifted down, and there it wasa small purse lying on the ground, almost hidden against the pavement. Without thinking, he bent down and picked it up.

“Stop him! He’s got my wallet!” the man’s voice rang out, sharp and accusing. Kumar’s heart sank. He spun around, eyes wide in panic, but it was too late. A guard who had seen the entire scene grabbed him, his grip ironclad.

“Back to your old habits, Kumar?” the guard sneered, dragging him back toward the gates.

“No, it’s not what it looks like!” Kumar protested, struggling against the guard’s hold. But his pleas fell on deaf ears.

The heavy iron gates slammed shut behind him, echoing like a cruel reminder of the promise he couldn’t keep. The world outside had been within his grasp for mere momentsand now it was gone.