Just Another Mother

Chapter - 39

Neena was already at the coffee shop when Sujatha had reached. They both greeted each other and placed their orders first. But, after that, there was an awkward silence between them.

Neena: " I don't know how to say this... But, please don't get offended as that is not my intention. Yesterday I overheard Nakul's conversation with Vishal. I know I shouldn't have listened but, Meera was the topic, and I couldn't ignore it. I first thought of talking to Nakul, then felt you might understand it better than him.

I heard that you are not willing to accept Meera and her kids. I'm not here to force you in any way. But, can you please listen to whatever I have to say as a woman? And not from the perspective of a mother or mother-in-law? I'm sorry I might sound rude. But I don't have a healthy relationship with mine, and I don't want Meera to go through that! She had cried a lot, and I don't want her to suffer anymore!

When Meera came here, she was a naive young girl who grew up under the protective shield of her family! After meeting us. I mean me, Vishal, Susan and Chris, she used to consult with us for each and everything. She was never confident with her decisions. And then overnight, she had a huge responsibility on her shoulder! I thought just like every time she would go by other's opinion! But for the first time, I saw her deciding by herself and stood by it even when everyone was against it! Even I didn't think she was mature enough to handle them because she was a child! The kids were close to her because she was more like their friend than an aunt!

You know how motherhood is, and for Meera, it wasn't a gradual one like us. She's started it with four toddlers and two infants. She didn't even know how to hold them. I was pregnant, Sachin couldn't get a visa, her parents were not talking to her after the news, so she didn't have anyone to rely upon, and she was just 23 then! But she never let anyone see her cry or being weak. Not because she was some wonder woman, but was afraid. Afraid that the authorities will take them away if they find her unfit! With the responsibility of the kids, she had to face legal fights too! Nobody was easy on her. Everybody was skeptical! she had to face racists, blames that she is trying to gain sympathy and grab citizenship through the kids. But none of them saw how much she loved them and was fighting for them! I have seen it! I have seen witnessed her sleepless nights and financial struggles!

She didn't have to face any of it! She comes from a well-off family, and she just had to write few cheques to ensure a better future for the kids and could have enjoyed her life like any other self-earned single, 23-year-old. But she couldn't. She chose to be their shelter, and in return, accepted loneliness for herself! But I want her to be happy and have someone to lean on. For others, she might seem to be a bold, independent, single mother. But I know that it's all a facade to show her loved ones that she is fine!

Even after hearing this, you think Meera and her kids shouldn't be there in Nakul's life, then please make him leave this place. I don't want to see her and the kids heartbroken! They are getting closer day by day. So the sooner he leaves, the better!"

Sujatha: "I understand your concern and will think about it. Is there anything else?"
Neena shook her head, and after that, the conversations got redirected to random things. Later they both left the place after finishing their coffee.

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Meera has been in emotional turmoil since Nakul's parents came. Initially, she was missing Nakul as he wasn't coming for meals anymore, and she couldn't spend much time with him. When she realized it, she tried her best to keep a distance from him and not get caught by anyone!

Unfortunately, the universe was pushing her further towards him. After few days, Sujatha insisted on dropping the kids at their place after school until Meera came back from the office. Later on, she made everyone have dinner together, and kids started having extra pairs of clothes at their place. Their attachment was getting deeper day by day, which worried Meera more!
All these made her restless and frustrated! She wanted to talk with someone. But Neena and Sachin were out of the question as they both might end up spilling the beans to Nakul! She thought of getting Nisha's help as she was the sensible one! Meera had texted Nisha to call her when she is alone.

Nisha: "Hey, what happened? Are you alright?"

Meera: "Ya... I'm fine. How are you? Where's Sachin?"

Nisha: "We are good... He has gone for badminton. What about you? Where are the kids? Can't hear any sound in the background."

Meera: "Ya..they are out with Nakul and his parents. I had some work to do."

Nisha: "Oh..ok.. so? What is the matter? Why did you mention 'alone'?"

Meera: "Hmm... nothing... it's just, Nishu, I need your help. But before that, promise me that you won't say it to anyone. Not even Sachin. Please?"

Nisha: "No... I won't. I promise. Now stop making me worried and tell me!"

Meera: "Hmm... It's just that I'm a bit stressed out with Nakul and his parents around and the kids getting attached to them more. I don't know how to handle it. I'm worried about what will happen once they leave."

Nisha: "Hm... But wouldn't it be the same when Savithri aunty, Raghu uncle, or Sachin comes by? Or is it different? Wouldn't they understand like every time?"

Meera: "No... it's different. Kids started getting used to having him around all the time. But it wouldn't be the same, he will get married or go for other opportunities, and then I don't know how the kids will cope with it."

Nisha: "Hm... And what about you?"

Meera: "What about me?"

Nisha: "Meera!!!! If you want me to help you, then tell me everything."

After a deep breath, Meera continued.