"My Ex, My Landlady
her dad
....
Brother, please give me the fare," said the stranger.
rashed (ml)
How much is it, brother?" I asked
....
180 Taka," he replied.
Hearing that, I opened my wallet and started searching for money. With great effort, I managed to scrape together 122 Taka. The helper stood there, watching my struggle. I didn't know what to say to him. Then, he spoke up again.
....
Where are you going, brother?"
rashed (ml)
I’m going to Dhaka. But I don't have enough for the full fare... you can drop me off ahead," I said.
....
Arre, why would you get off? So what if you don't have the money? I’m here. You don't have to pay," the helper said kindly
rashed (ml)
I was speechless. Tears welled up in my eyes. This simple man proved that humanity cannot be bought with money. I’ve seen many wealthy people who oppress the poor despite having a lot of money, but this man was truly different.
....
What happened? Why aren't you speaking?" he asked.
rashed (ml)
Without a word, I hugged him.
rashed (ml)
You’ve helped me so much. In my life, I’ve helped many people with money. But today, when I have nothing, I asked many for help and all I got were excuses," I said
....
People are like that, brother. You find many friends during good times, but not a soul during the bad ones," he replied.
rashed (ml)
Sure. Please pray for me," I said.
....
Of course. May you fulfill your life's dreams," he replied.
Hearing him mention "dreams" made my heart ache. I had gone to Dhaka once before, filled with dreams of becoming a doctor. But those dreams were shattered by the cruel games of fate.
Four years later, I am heading to Dhaka again. But today, there are no dreams—only a desperate struggle to survive. I might never have returned to Dhaka, but I had to for the sake of my family. The burden of being the eldest son is heavy. After the father, he has to become the father figure, regardless of age. He must take responsibility; that is the rule.
My story was no different. Just as my dreams were taking flight, a sudden storm broke them all.
I’ve talked a lot; let me introduce myself as we travel.
I am Rashed, the eldest child of my parents. I have a younger brother. My father died in a road accident four years ago. Now, my mother and brother live at home. It’s for them that I’m returning to Dhaka.
After about two hours, we reached Dhaka in the afternoon. Everyone was getting off because they had a destination. But I didn't feel like getting off. I felt like staying right there because I had no destination. I hadn't even figured out where I would sleep or what I would eat.
....
After a while, the helper came back.
"What’s wrong? Won't you get down? The bus has reached Dhaka.
rashed (ml)
Yes, I'm getting down," I said
I started walking—a walk with no destination. The streets were familiar, so I didn't get lost. First, I went to the friends who once couldn't spend a moment without me.
There, I saw they were all busy with their own lives. At first, they didn't even recognize me. After I introduced myself, they did. Their behavior made my heart sink. Oh, how people change! Before, they couldn't stand not seeing me. Actually, I was wrong—back then, I had money. Today I don't, and that’s why they were struggling to recognize me.
I didn't talk to them much longer. Their words felt bitter. I walked straight out of there.
I decided I wouldn't go to any more friends; I’d start looking for work. But it was already evening. I went to the roadside and saw many people lying there. Perhaps they were helpless like me. Reality is truly harsh; there is no room for emotion here.
I lay down with them. I was very hungry, but I didn't eat. I had to save the little money I had for tomorrow. Who knows how many more days I’d have to live like this?
The next morning, I woke up and was surprised. The people from last night were gone. It wasn't even that late. Perhaps they were already out trying to satisfy their hunger. Seeing their struggle felt strangely inspiring. They don't have a thirst for millions like the rich; they are happy if they can just eat two meals a day.
I was starving, so I ate some bread and a banana from a roadside stall. Then, I set out to find a job.
I searched all day, but everyone said the same thing: "No vacancies." Besides, I hadn't completed my graduation, so it was hard to even get an interview at a company.
Evening fell again. Tonight, too, would be spent on the street.
In the rush of the city, I had forgotten about home. I forgot that someone was anxiously waiting for me. I called my mother.
....
Hello, son... you left yesterday and haven't called once. Do you know how worried I was?" my mother asked.
rashed (ml)
I was a bit busy with work, Ma. I'm new here, you know... How are you all?" I replied.
....
Yes, we are fine. Have you eaten, son?"
rashed (ml)
Yes, Ma, just finished. Have you eaten?"
....
Yes, we have. Stay safe, son."
It was painful to lie to her, but I had to. Otherwise, she would worry too much.
Four more days passed like this. I still couldn't find a job. Today, I felt very weak. I hadn't had a proper meal in five days. The money I had was long gone.
As I was walking down the street, my eyes started to close. After that, I remember nothing. When I woke up, I found myself in a hospital.
rashed (ml)
How did I get here?" I asked in surprise.
A nurse heard me and said, "You were unconscious. A gentleman brought you here."
rashed (ml)
Which gentleman? Is he still here?"
....
Yes, he is. Stay put, I'll call him."
rashed (ml)
"Assalamu Alaikum," I said.
fl dad
Walaikum Assalam. How are you, son?" he asked.
rashed (ml)
I'm okay. Why am I here? How did I get here?"
fl dad
You fainted on the street. I was driving by, saw you, and brought you to the hospital," he explained.
rashed (ml)
Oh... thank you, uncle. You've done me a great favor."
fl dad
Arre, there's no need for thanks. It's a human responsibility. If we don't help each other, what's the point of being human?"
rashed (ml)
Never mind that. Where is your home?" he asked.
rashed (ml)
Does everyone understand that, uncle?" I sighed.
fl dad
Never mind that. Where is your home?" he asked.
I went silent. What could I say? I had no place to stay. But looking at him, he seemed wealthy. Maybe he could help.
fl dad
Why did you go quiet? What are you thinking?" he asked again.
rashed (ml)
Actually, uncle, I have no place to stay. I came to Dhaka seven days ago looking for a job, but I haven't found anything yet," I admitted.
fl dad
He remained silent for a while, then asked, "How far have you studied?"
rashed (ml)
Honours second year. I couldn't finish due to family problems."
fl dad
"Oh, I see. I'll arrange a job for you. You get healthy first," he said.
rashed (ml)
I couldn't believe my ears. "Are you serious?" 😱
fl dad
Yes. I have my own company; I'll give you a job there. And I'll arrange a place for you to stay too."
rashed (ml)
"I won't diminish your kindness by just saying thank you. You are truly great. It's because of people like you that the world still exists."
fl dad
Arre son, don't say too much. I'm not as good as you think," he chuckled.
rashed (ml)
You are truly good. No one else would do this for a stranger."
fl dad
Anyway, can you do private tutoring?" he asked.
rashed (ml)
I can, a little. But why, uncle?"
fl dad
Well, I have a younger daughter. She’s in Class 9. You’ll have to tutor her. Can you do it?"
rashed (ml)
Of course I can! You’ve done so much for me; I can certainly do this small favor for you."
fl dad
I'm glad to hear that. Alright, come to my house. You'll stay there from today. Actually, son, I don't have a son. I only have two daughters. My elder daughter lives in Canada for her studies; she’s almost finished."
rashed (ml)
Oh, that’s good," I said.
rashed (ml)
Then, I went to their house with the uncle. I was stunned when I saw the building. It was huge—like a palace.
I went inside with him. After a moment, he started calling out to someone...
tutor
After a few moments, Uncle started calling out to someone.
I stood there looking at the house; it was like a royal palace. I thought to myself—it’s so hard to understand the games of the Almighty. Some people have no shortage of money, while others can’t even afford a decent meal.
Then, a lady appeared. She looked elderly
....
What happened? Why are you shouting so much?" she asked.
fl dad
Where were you? I’ve been calling for so long, and there was no response!" Uncle replied.
fl dad
Then, the lady looked at me. I glanced at her once and then kept my eyes lowered
fl dad
Who is this? Who have you brought home suddenly?" she asked.
....
"Oh, let me tell you—I found him at the hospital. This morning, while I was driving to the office, I saw him lying unconscious on the road. I took him to the hospital, and after talking to the boy, I liked him. So, I brought him home," Uncle explained.
fl dad
"Oh... you did a good thing. We don't have a son of our own anyway," she said. Then she turned to me. "So, son, what is your name?"
rashed (ml)
My name is Rashed," I replied.
....
That's a very beautiful name. Who do you have at home?"
rashed (ml)
"I have my mother and a younger brother, Auntie," I said.
....
And your father?" she asked.
rashed (ml)
My father died four years ago in a road accident," I replied.
....
I’m so sorry, son. I didn't realize; I didn't mean to hurt you," Auntie said softly.
rashed (ml)
No, there’s no need to be sorry, Auntie. You only asked the truth. Even if you hadn't reminded me, it's not something I could ever forget," I said.
....
"Yes, son, you're right. Fatherhood is truly great," she sighed.
fl dad
Alright, what have you two started?" Uncle interrupted. "The boy just came from the hospital, and you're already making him remember his father."
....
"Come, son, let's go upstairs. I'll show you your room," Auntie said.
I followed her upstairs. The house had many rooms. Auntie led me to a corner room on the top floor. The room was beautiful—very well-organized and decorated.
rashed (ml)
Thank you, Auntie. You both are truly noble. You’re letting someone stay without even knowing or recognizing him," I said.
....
"There’s nothing noble about it, son. Helping people is the duty of humanity. Besides, I liked you too; you seem like a very good boy," Auntie replied.
rashed (ml)
Please pray for me, Auntie, so that I can keep your trust," I said.
....
Yes, of course. Now, freshen up and come downstairs. I’m getting food ready for you," she said before leaving.
I sat on the bed and began to think about the last seven days. Where I was, and where I am now. I used to dream of becoming a big doctor and helping people, but I realize now that dreams don't always suit middle-class people.
Suddenly, Auntie called from downstairs for dinner. I freshened up and went down. Uncle was already sitting there. As we started eating, Uncle spoke up.
fl dad
So Rashed, when do you want to join work?"
rashed (ml)
Whenever you say, Uncle. I have no problem," I replied.
fl dad
Alright then, you’ll start the day after tomorrow. Take these two days to rest," he said.
After finishing my meal, I returned to my room. I felt exhausted. I hadn't slept well in seven days. Suddenly, I thought of those people on the street. I couldn't sleep for seven days, but they spend their whole lives like that. That night, I decided: if I ever become successful, I will do something for the people on the streets.
Lost in these thoughts, I fell asleep. I woke up in the evening to Auntie's call. I looked at the clock—it was 5:00 PM. I had slept for a long time. After freshening up, I went out and saw Auntie cooking.
....
Rashed, go to the rooftop. You'll feel better there," she said.
I went to the roof and saw a girl laughing while talking to someone on the phone. Seeing me, she stopped talking and asked
fl sister
Who are you? And what are you doing with us?"
rashed (ml)
"I am Rashed. I'm staying in your house...
fl sister
Before I could finish, she interrupted.
"Oh, I know! You're that boy my father let stay here. And I heard you're going to tutor me?" she asked.
rashed (ml)
"Yes, you heard right. What class are you in?" I asked.
fl sister
I'm in Class 9. Okay, you can go now. I’m a bit busy," she said, and immediately went back to her phone call.
Seeing no other choice, I left. After the Maghrib prayer, I called home. I hadn't spoken to my mother in two days; she must have been very worried. I talked to her and my younger brother for a long time, and my heart felt lighter.
A bit later, Auntie called for dinner. At the table, Uncle and his daughter were also there.
fl dad
"This is my daughter, Nishita," Uncle said. "She’s the one I asked you to tutor."
fl dad
So Rashed, you’ll start teaching her from tomorrow morning, if you don't have a problem?"
rashed (ml)
"No, I don't have any problem at all." Turning to Nishita, I asked, "Are you in the Science group?"
fl sister
Yes, Science," she replied shortly.
I didn't say anything more. I finished my dinner and went to my room. I prayed and went to bed. I woke up before the Fajr prayer. I didn't need anyone to wake me; it was an old habit from the village where my mother would wake me every day.
After prayers, I went to the roof to breathe in the fresh morning air. Wise people say the morning sun is more effective than medicine.
....
Later, Auntie brought me tea. "You’re starting to tutor Nishita this morning, right?"
....
"No reason... she’s just a bit stubborn. If she says anything, don't take it to heart. Just come and tell me," Auntie warned.
After finishing my tea, I went to Nishita’s room. She was talking on the phone again but hung up as soon as she saw me.
fl sister
Sir, you’ve arrived? I was waiting for you," she said.
I was surprised. What a naughty girl, I thought. She was clearly on the phone, yet she claims she was waiting for me.
fl sister
"What is it, Sir? What are you thinking? Are you angry because I called you 'Sir'?" she asked
rashed (ml)
"No, why would I be angry? I am your teacher after all," I replied.
fl sister
"Teacher, my foot!" she muttered under her breath. "I was having such a nice conversation, and he comes to disturb me by saying 'I am your teacher'."
rashed (ml)
"What did you say?" I asked.
fl sister
Oh, nothing, Sir!" she smiled innocently.
rashed (ml)
No, you said something. I didn't hear it clearly," I pressed.
fl sister
Arre Sir, forget it. Let’s get to know each other first," she said.
fl sister
So Sir... are you in a relationship?"
rashed (ml)
What? What are you saying? I am your teacher!" I said, taken aback.
fl sister
So what? Can't I ask my teacher?"
rashed (ml)
No, I don't do all that," I replied.
fl sister
What! You’re so grown up and you don't have a girlfriend? I’m about to have my third one!" she exclaimed.
rashed (ml)
I was speechless. "What? 😱 You’ve had three? At your age, I didn't even understand what love was!"
fl sister
Well, that’s your failure, Sir. You have to keep up with the times, right?" she teased.
rashed (ml)
Yeah, sure... keep it up," I muttered.
After talking for a while, I went back to my room. My head was spinning. What a girl! God knows how I’m going to teach her.
Three months passed. During this time, I became very dear to Auntie and Uncle. Now they ask for my advice on everything. It makes me feel a bit awkward, but I've developed a good relationship with Nishita too. I’m basically a member of their family now.
Tomorrow, their elder daughter is supposedly returning. Uncle asked me to go to the airport because he has some urgent work and can't make it.
So, early in the morning, Nishita and I set out in the car toward the airport...
days
Early in the morning, Nishita and I set out in the car toward the airport.
After arriving at the airport, we sat there for a long time, but there was no sign of the "Madam" arriving. I was starting to feel quite annoyed.
rashed (ml)
"How much longer do we have to sit here like this, Nishita? When will your sister arrive?" I asked.
fl sister
She’ll be here, Bhaiya, just wait a bit," Nishita replied. (My relationship with Nishita had improved so much that she now called me 'Bhaiya'.)
rashed (ml)
"Alright, let's see for a few more minutes," I said. We waited like that for another 10 minutes.
Finally, the wait came to an end. The person we were waiting for was approaching. A moment later, she came near us. She was wearing sunglasses and looked quite beautiful. Nishita ran forward to greet her sister, and I followed behind.
The two sisters talked for a long time. She was returning to the country after five years; so much love had accumulated for her sister. I looked away, watching the busy crowd at the airport—everyone was preoccupied with their own lives.
A moment later, Nishita called out to me.
"Bhaiya, come here! What are you doing over there?
rashed (ml)
I walked over to them. "Oh, I was just standing there since you two were talking," I said.
fl sister
Well, let me introduce you to my sister," Nishita said.
I saw that she was talking to someone on the phone. Hearing Nishita’s call, she hung up and walked toward me.
rashed (ml)
Hi, I am Rashe—e—ee..."
I started to say, but the words wouldn't come out. And why would they? This was Onita—my ex-girlfriend.
I saw Onita look at me, and she seemed shocked too. Perhaps she never imagined this would happen either.
I quickly composed myself; otherwise, Nishita would suspect something. I spoke again.
rashed (ml)
"I am Rashed," I said.
onita(fl)
"I am Onita. I’m afraid I don't recognize you," Onita said coldly.
rashed (ml)
Actually, I stay at your hou—use..." Before I could finish, Onita cut me off.
fl sister
"What’s wrong? Why are you stammering?" she asked.
fl sister
Nishita chimed in, "Arre Apu, Rashed Bhaiya is my teacher. He stays at our house and tutors me. He's very good
For a few moments, Onita looked at me with a strange gaze, as if she wanted to devour me right then and there. I quickly spoke up
rashed (ml)
Nishita, let’s go now. It’s already quite late, and I have some work to do," I lied, fearing things would get more awkward if we stayed.
On the way back, I didn't say a single word. The two sisters chatted and laughed the whole time. I just kept looking at Onita. I loved her so much, but I was forced to leave her due to my circumstances. Onita also glanced at me a few times.
When we arrived home, Uncle and Auntie were overjoyed to see Onita. They ran to her and hugged her tight.
fl dad
How are you, Ma? Did you have any trouble getting here?" Uncle asked.
onita(fl)
I'm fine, but why didn't you come to pick me up? I was really angry!" Onita pouted.
fl dad
I had some urgent work, Ma, and your mother couldn't leave the house alone.
fl dad
Why, was there any trouble? I sent Rashed, after all," Uncle said.
onita(fl)
, no trouble. Anyway, let me go freshen up first. We’ll talk later; I’m exhausted," Onita said.
I went back to my own room. I didn't know what to do. Of all the places, I ended up staying at my ex-girlfriend's house! From Onita's behavior, it seemed she was very angry with me. And she had every right to be. She loved me deeply, and I had cheated her—or so it seemed, because I had no other choice at the time. I knew I had to explain everything to her.
I freshened up and performed my Asr prayer. My heart felt a bit lighter afterward. A little later, I went to the roof—something Nishita and I did almost every day.
But today, I saw Onita standing there, talking to someone. Seeing me, she stopped talking. I walked toward her.
rashed (ml)
How are you, Oni?" I called out. (I used to call her 'Oni' affectionately.)
Hearing my voice, Onita didn't say a word. She just walked downstairs. I called her several times, but she didn't listen. I felt terrible and stood there with a heavy heart.
fl sister
"What’s the matter, Bhaiya? Why are you standing here alone?"
rashed (ml)
Just standing... I like it here," I replied.
fl sister
Why, Bhaiya? What happened? Did you fall in love or something?" Nishita teased
rashed (ml)
Arre no! What are you saying? Is that all you think about?"
fl sister
Well, what else is there, Bhaiya? That’s what’s happening everywhere these days," Nishita laughed.
rashed (ml)
Yeah, I guess. By the way, Nishita... is your sister married?" I asked tentatively.
fl sister
"No! What are you saying? She just finished her studies. But Apu didn't go abroad just for studies; we forced her to go," Nishita said.
onita(fl)
"Why? What happened?"
rashed (ml)
"Why? What happened?"
fl sister
Don't even ask, Bhaiya. Apu loved a boy very much, but the boy was bad. He cheated her and left. Apu was completely broken. So, Abbu sent her abroad so she could forget everything," Nishita explained.
rashed (ml)
I was stunned. "Oh... I see. Do you know the boy?"
fl sister
No, Bhaiya. But if I ever found him, I’d slap him, even if I'm younger! How could he play with a girl's heart like that? Since then, I haven't loved anyone either, fearing they might be like him," Nishita said firmly.
rashed (ml)
Anyway, let’s go downstairs," I said.
We went down, and I went to my room to pray. I felt like a criminal today. I had truly done wrong by Onita. I lay down for a while; my head was throbbing with pain. After a while, Nishita came to call me for dinner.
At the dining table, I saw Onita sitting there. She looked at me once.
fl dad
"So Ma, your studies are over. What do you plan to do now?" Uncle asked Onita.
onita(fl)
"I want to join your office from tomorrow. I want to stand on my own feet first," Onita replied.
fl dad
Why stand on your own feet, Ma? You're getting older. It would be better if you got married now," Uncle suggested.
onita(fl)
No, Baba. First I will establish myself, then I’ll think about marriage," Onita insisted
fl dad
Alright, as you wish. So, you're joining the office tomorrow?"
onita(fl)
"Yes, I’ll join tomorrow."
By the way, I haven't officially introduced you. This is Rashed. He stays with us and is a very good boy. He handles almost all the office work now. He's very responsible," Uncle said, pointing at me.
fl dad
By the way, I haven't officially introduced you. This is Rashed. He stays with us and is a very good boy. He handles almost all the office work now. He's very responsible," Uncle said, pointing at me.
onita(fl)
Yes, I heard from Nishita," Onita said briefly.
fl dad
Good. Then tomorrow, you and Rashed can go to the office together. I have to leave a bit early," Uncle added.
onita(fl)
Okay, Abbu," Onita agreed
After dinner, I returned to my room. I was thinking of how to ask for Onita's forgiveness. Then I realized—her room was right next to mine. I decided to go to her room and apologize.
I went to Onita's room and saw her using her phone. Seeing me, she stood up and walked toward me...
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