The Credit Cards

In 'The Credit Cards' by Shahazada Basunia, a romantic encounter unfolds under the light of a lone, frigid moon as it sails through thin clouds. Imroz Ahmed leads Avni Paul down a sloping path, holding her hand, while she remains silent, her wide-open eyes scanning their surroundings. They sit before a temple, their faces glowing in the moonlight as if they were a full moon of the season, and swear to spend their lives together.

Avni, however, speaks in fear, pleading with Imroz not to betray her, confessing she would commit suicide if he changed his mind about marrying her. She reminds him that despite their different castes, they fell in love ignoring orthodox beliefs and superstitions. The story captures the intensity of their secret love and the anxieties that accompany a relationship crossing societal boundaries.