The roads were peaceful on Monday, the fifteenth of August, as Bangaloreans enjoyed the rare three day weekend inside their homes or outside the city. I walked briskly as I turned the corner into the street on which my music teacher lived. I came to an abrupt halt at her gate with a groan. The suspicion which had been roused by the absence of sound was confirmed by the lock on the door. She was away. I should have called. I hung about in front of the gate for a few seconds, trying to change what I saw with sheer force of will. I realised then that I had nothing else planned for the next hour. It seemed like a waste to go straight back home after going through the trouble of making myself presentable. I decided to take a detour to a nearby bookstore. There was a birthday present to buy, and a visit to a bookstore is always an exciting prospect. I walked on with renewed energy. I usually keep off the main roads, preferring the quiet side streets even if I have t...