The Brave Voice in Ram’s Heart

Nina lived with her parents and her big brother, Ram. Ram was usually cheerful until the day their neighbour, Uncle Venkat, visited with Nina’s father. Everyone laughed in the living room, but Ram’s smile disappeared. His chest felt tight. Quietly, he slipped away to his room, wishing someone would notice.

The next morning, Nina’s father became unwell. To help, Uncle Venkat offered to take the kids to school for a few days. Nina’s mother agreed, relieved.

But Ram’s fear grew louder inside him.

“Mama,” he whispered, fingers twisting his shirt, “I don’t want to go with Uncle Venkat.”

His mother frowned kindly. “Why, Ram?”

Ram swallowed hard. “My stomach feels… bad. Like something isn’t safe.”

His mother paused. She looked at Ram’s eyesworried, watery, honest. She pulled him close. Thank you for informing me. I am listening.

That afternoon, Nina came home, smiling, holding an ice cream wrapper. Then she said something small that felt big: “Uncle Venkat told me to keep a secret… or no treats.”

Ram froze. Nina’s mother’s heart thumped. She knelt to Nina’s level. “Sweetheart, secrets about bodies are never okay. You can always tell me.”

That evening, both parents sat with Nina and Ram. They spoke gently:

“Your body belongs to you. Private parts are private. If anyone asks you to hide something, touches you, or makes you feel scared - " say " NO, move away, and tell a trusted adult. Even if they promise treats. Even if they say you’ll get in trouble.”

Ram finally let his tears fall - relief, not fear.

And Nina hugged him tight. “Thank you, Ram,” she said.

Because one brave voice can keep a whole family safe.