Every tea lover knows that a simple cup of tea can hold not just flavors but also cherished memories, heartfelt conversations, and nostalgic reflections. Our latest #StoryShots prompt, Memories in a Tea Cup, invited writers to explore the emotions and stories that brew in the heart with every sip.
From tales of childhood mornings to conversations with loved ones, the submissions overflowed with warmth and nostalgia. Here are the winning entries that brewed the most delightful and thought-provoking narratives.
Sitting in the cafeteria, Anju ordered tea and waited for her husband, Amit.
“May I join you?” someone asked sweetly. The familiar voice startled Anju. Standing behind her was her best friend,
aya, whom she had not seen for many years.
When Maya sat beside her, Anju offered a cup of tea. There was an awkward silence between them.
Maya’s husband joined shortly. Anju was surprised it was not Rohan, their college batchmate.
Later, Anju introduced Amit to Maya, who looked equally shocked, expecting maybe Rohan.
Looking at each other, both smiled knowingly.
Rohan had married someone else after ditching them both. Both friends stirred an extra spoonful of sugar into the tea to celebrate their happy reunion.
– Munira Dalal
Winter temperature and the chillness around, laziness preventing me from getting up from the cozy quilt. The fragrance of masala aromatic tea invites. My attendant offers it, and as I sip, my memories bring a smile. The very first sip of tea creates magic. The same taste and the colorful, textured consistency—the one that was offered daily without a break by my loving hubby. This cup of tea holds a special place in the bottom of my heart. I reminisce about my entry into the new world after betrothal. The next dawn, with the cup of tea offered to me in bed, loaded with the blend of love’s masala. Oh, what a gift! Obviously, it became a daily routine. Destiny never allowed us to part, but this time, he had to undertake a journey abroad!
– Uma Natarajan
If it had been her home, she would’ve had it much earlier. But there she was, new—a new bride! Who would she tell that her day doesn’t start without tea? She thought to herself, as her headache worsened. And on top of that, she had to cook for the first time that day. Her eyes filled with tears. Just then, her mother-in-law entered and asked, “What happened? Missing home?” She lowered her face.
Her mother-in-law took her to the hall, where the whole family welcomed her with a mug full of ginger cardamom tea, etching an unforgettable memory in her heart.
– Pragyan Parimita Nanda
