Empowered

She steps out of her house, even as her mother  shoots meaning glances at the clock. It's 11 pm. She glowers, sallying out of the front door, even atom of her eighteen-year old self spelling rebellion. Her mother sighs, and gets back to the TV. It's futile to talk to her. Her daughter has a predictable counter to anything-  "Empowerment" She hoped her husband would not turn up early- that would mean another argument,  a bitter quarrel.

In the wee hours of the morning, in another part of town, he walks briskly towards his tenement. He finds his sister sprawled over her books, breathing evenly. As he enters, she wakes with a start, an expression of panic writ over her face. It’s just me- he calls out. She recovers, and looking around, goes into a fresh bout of panic as she realizes that she's lost precious hours of study. He raises an eyebrow. Exam. Tomorrow. I have another chapter to go- she frets. He shrugs.

I couldn't leave early today- she volunteers.  From the gym nearby where she cleans. It's not a great place to work in, but it pays for her evening college. And the hours are decent. What happened to you? 

A scene at the bar. Where he helps in the kitchen. A daughter-father duo. Father insists on her leaving. Daughter refuses. Angry words. A fight. Broken glass. Took him all night to help clean up the mess.

He hesitates, then asks- What's 'empowered'? The girl at the bar repeated it several times : 'I'm empowered, I'm empowered',  while refusing to leave with her father.

Her eyes brighten. Oh yes, I know.  It means strong, having power to do what you like. He frowns, confused. You mean like the trainer at your gym?

She laughs- No, not at all. Not physical power- it means ability to make your own decisions, develop your skills and be independent.

His face clears. Isn't that what you are going to college for?  To get a good job and run your life? She smiles- Yes.

He returns- That girl certainly looked like she was 'empowered' then.  I still don't see why she had to break furniture at my bar to prove that.

She shrugs, returning to her books. 

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