SHIVANI: THE PRICE OF SURVIVAL

Shivani's first meaningful encounter with a customer began with a conversation.

The man introduced himself as Rohan, an adult who had arranged to meet her through an established contact. Shivani wore a red partywear saree, but her nervousness was more noticeable than her appearance.

Rohan noticed her hesitation.

“You seem worried,” he said. “Would you rather talk for a while first?”

Shivani nodded.

They spoke about Mumbai, the difficulties of living away from family, and the strange experience of being surrounded by people while feeling completely alone.

She did not tell him everything about her past, but she admitted that she had arrived in the city after a painful family dispute.

Rohan did not demand further details.

As the evening continued, Shivani became more relaxed. When he asked whether she would be comfortable with a hug, she agreed.

His embrace was gentle and brief.

For a moment, she remembered what it had felt like to be held by someone without fearing that the gesture would be followed by an insult or an order.

When they parted, Shivani felt an unfamiliar ache in her chest. She wanted to believe that the kindness she had experienced meant something lasting, but she understood that one encounter could not promise a relationship.

Rohan thanked her for the evening and respected the boundaries they had discussed.

After he left, Shivani sat quietly on the edge of the bed.

She had expected the first encounter to be defined by fear and embarrassment. Instead, she remembered the conversation and the unexpected warmth of a simple embrace.

She was still uncertain about sex work.

But she had learned that even in a difficult situation, respect and consent mattered.