I live right next to the place of my work. It is hardly a minute away on foot. I shifted to this new town recently, a fairly small one. Hence, I didn't like it much, but we go where work takes us.Since the day I came here, I was told by anyone and everyone I met, the colleagues, the neighbours etc, about how safe this place was.My first day at work, I was my usual self-dressed like I always have, talked like I always do, worked like I always do. But, by the end of the day, I was uncomfortable. Women just sense it, don’t we?My second day at work, I decided not to wear makeup. Maybe that would help me blend in. I could still feel the prying eyes on me.The third day onwards, I stopped keeping my hair loose. Nothing changed expect that I decided not to care. So what if they stare, the place is safe says everyone.One day I left from work, picked up some groceries and headed home. It was dark in the alley. It was a cold winter evening; the neighbours must be all cozy inside their homes, I thought to myself. I am sure the motive behind keeping the alley dark was saving electricity and planet earth! Just when I was deep in my thoughts, a bike passed by, stopped a few yards away and eventually turned around. I saw this man wearing a turban sitting on top of the bike. His face was covered. It must be the cold I thought. With groceries in both my hands, I stepped aside to let him pass. As he neared me, he slowed down. I watched his hand leave the handle and before I could make any sense of it, he grabbed my breast and pinched me so hard that I screamed in horror and pain. The neighbours were warm inside their homes. The alley was as deserted as it was. I ran after him to catch the number of his bike, but it was too dark and yes, I was petrified. I gave up. I couldn't match up to the motorcycle anyway.I reached home seething with anger, helplessness and horror. It was a small town and I could walk right past him tomorrow and not know. The thought disgusted me and tears started flowing like they'd never stop.The next morning I leave for work. The neighbors are all sitting in their front yards enjoying the morning sun. Everyone greeting like every other morning. Everyone telling me how I'd start loving it here and how safe a place it was. Good people living amongst monsters. Oblivious, proud and happy.(By Roopali Rajput)