I found this under my mattress – at first I thought they were insect eggs, but the reality really surprised me.

For a moment, I was freaked out. Who would do that without telling me?

Then I remembered that my grandmother had visited a few weeks earlier. She’s always been the kind of woman who believes in quiet blessings and old ways.

That evening, I called her.

“Grandma… did you put something under my mattress?”

She chuckled softly.

“Ah, you found it? Yes, it’s kalonji. May it keep you safe. You’ve been restless lately and I thought a little protection might help.”