Night of 25TH

Chap 3: The Promise of Christmas Joy

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The dawn broke a resplendent tapestry of vibrant hues painted across the vast expanse of the sky. The effulgent rays of the rising sun cast a rapturous rosy glow, enveloping the surrounding landscape in a sublime radiance. Golden tendrils of sunlight reached out, illuminating the realm below in a captivating dance. Truly, it was a morning of unparalleled beauty.

The ethereal light streamed through the partially-drawn curtains, gently rousing the slumbering children in the room. Squinting their eyes and uttering soft groans, they sought solace in the embrace of their beloved mamu, nestling their faces against his chest. A light sleeper by nature, the stirrings of the children disturbed his tranquil repose. Blinded by the sun's radiant beams, he winced and squirmed several times before gradually prying open his weary eyes. With a glance at his phone, he gingerly rose from his resting place, mindful not to disturb the peaceful slumber of the little ones. Making his way to the balcony, he beheld the shimmering firmament, a reflection of the restful night he had experienced, free from the torment of nightmares. Inhaling deeply, he savoured the invigorating freshness of the morning air, preparing himself to embark upon the day ahead.

Granting the children a few more minutes of undisturbed repose, he descended to the lower floor, where he commenced the preparations for breakfast. Grateful for his mother's considerate foresight, the cupboards and refrigerator were thoughtfully stocked with wholesome sustenance, ensuring his access to nourishing provisions during her absence for she knew that in her absence he would often be too lazy to go out and buy them. After an hour's diligent efforts, he, at last, arranged the table, adorning it with the breakfast he had prepared. Ascending the stairs, he reentered the room to find the little ones nestled in serene slumber. Hesitant to rouse sleeping cherubs, their mouths slightly ajar and their bodies were strewn across the bed in a manner reminiscent of a clock striking three, it was evident that their nocturnal rest had remained undisturbed due to his protective presence. Amidst contemplation, he approached them with tender steps.

Shubman

I approached them, aware that I needed to disrupt their slumber, for I had to engage in rigorous practice sessions leading up to the upcoming series, and leaving the two little ones unattended at home was not an option. I made several attempts to rouse them, but they adamantly refused to stir. Knowing that I had to resort to drastic measures, or else they would sleep like the legendary Kumbhakarna, I let out a sigh of resignation. And then, uttering the cruellest words I could muster.

 "If you don't wake up, I will devour all the delectable cookies that Nani has so lovingly baked for you two," I declared.

They woke up before I could complete the sentence. Their countenances twisted with frustration upon realizing that it was all a ploy to rouse them from their peaceful slumber."Mamu, that's truly heartless," they cried out in a groggy chorus.

"Well, I am sorry, but you guys left me no option," I cried out in defence of my actions.

"Now why are we awake at 7 in the morning in the winter?" Ahaan muttered, wrapped snugly in his cosy blanket. 

Gazing upon them sympathetically, I replied, "I have crucial matches scheduled after Christmas, and I must practice diligently. Furthermore, I cannot leave you two alone, or else your mother will hunt me down all the way from London." 

"Fine!" the drowsy twins agreed.

"So, let us freshen up before indulging in breakfast," I suggested, a gentle smile gracing my countenance. 

"Mamu," my niece groaned, "first we are rudely awakened at the crack of dawn, and now we are expected to bathe in the chill of winter—could our day be any brighter?"Ahana's sarcasm caught me off guard, though I should not have been surprised, considering it runs in the Gill family.

"I often wonder how your mother copes with your dramatic antics," I remarked, tousling their hair affectionately. 

"Practice makes perfect, Mamu," they chimed in unison, patting my head playfully. 

Tickling the mischievous little ones, I hoisted them onto my shoulders, their laughter trailing behind us as we made our way towards the bathroom.

I won't deny that getting them ready for the day proved challenging, given their boundless energy. After attending to their morning routine and having good exercise from that, I placed my cricket kit near the couch, having readied myself for the day's activities. The three of us settled on the kitchen aisle chairs to eat our breakfast. 

I couldn't help but feel conscious, wondering if the children would like the meal."You are an exceptional cook," they both exclaimed in unison, savouring their first bites.

A wave of relief washed over me as their words reached my ears. "Thank you!" I beamed with pride. 

 "Mamu, don't you think the house appears dull?" Ahaana questioned, scrunching her nose thoughtfully. 

 "What do you mean?" I inquired, puzzled by her statement.

 "It's Christmas, Mamu; the house ought to be adorned with a resplendent tree and twinkling lights. And let us not forget about baking a cake and procuring some delectable sweets. How could you possibly overlook all of that?" Ahaan interjected, wearing a look of astonishment. 

Chucky's spirit seemed to exude from his very being as he spoke those words. My gaze softened, and a rush of emotions stirred within me as I fixed my gaze upon him, lost in the embrace of cherished memories. However, my reverie was swiftly interrupted by the gentle yet concerned shake on my hand, drawing my attention to the twins who bore nervous expressions as they observed my emotional state.

"It's perfectly alright, Mamu; there's no need for us to adorn the house. Please don't cry!" Ahaan murmured with a tinge of guilt, noticing my reaction.

I gently touched my cheeks, only to discover that tears had escaped while I was lost in reminiscence. Swiftly, I wiped them away, shook my head, and firmly clasped their little hands.

"Don't worry, we will visit the mall after our practice session to procure decorations and beautify our humble abode. I promise," I reassured them, accompanied by a comforting smile. "Moreover, we'll engage in the delightful act of baking a cake," I pledged, aiming to ease their worries. "And to add to our joy, we can indulge in a FIFA competition on the video game," I added, a wide grin spreading across my face.

"YAY!" erupted a cheer from their lips, replacing the traces of guilt with pure enthusiasm.

Well, it appears that your innocence still captivates me, compelling me to resist your adorable requests I thought thinking of a special someone.