Moving Ahead

Part 2

Akshara sat in her living room, watching Abhir play with his new Lego set. It had been a week since they had dropped the bombshell on him, revealing that Abhimanyu was his real father. To her surprise, Abhir had taken the news remarkably well. In fact, he had embraced the idea wholeheartedly and now insisted on calling Abhimanyu "Daddy."

As Akshara observed their interactions, she realized that Abhimanyu seemed to be thriving in his newfound role as a father to Abhir. He was attentive, patient, and genuinely devoted towards him. She glanced over at Abhinav, who sat beside her, talking about how they will get a new renter in the homestay once Abhimanyu moves out. Unlike Akshara, he seemed to be okay with the bond developing between Abhir and Abhimanyu. Ever since she had confessed her love for Abhinav in front of everyone, he had stopped getting insecure about Abhir which is surprising for her. It was as if he saw Abhir's connection with his biological father as a way to bridge the emotional and physical gap between Akshara and himself.

Though things appeared calm on the surface, Akshara couldn't shake off her confusion. She missed the familiar banters and teasing exchanges she and Abhimanyu were having. The indifference she had once shown towards Abhimanyu was now directed solely at her. Akshara couldn't help but feel a pang of longing for the playful banter and lighthearted moments they were sharing since Abhimanyu came to Kasauli. Now, it seemed like they were mere strangers, living under the same roof but emotionally distant.

Lost in her thoughts, Akshara noticed Abhir running towards her, a wide smile adorning his face. He clutched his Lego creation tightly in his hands.

"Mumma, look what Daddy and I built!" he exclaimed, his eyes filled with excitement.

Akshara forced a smile, her heart torn between joy for Abhir's happiness and a sense of melancholy for what had been lost between her and Abhimanyu. She couldn't ignore the ache in her heart, the longing for the connection she once had with Abhimanyu. She mustered up the strength to play her part, to be the supportive mother Abhir needed.

"That's fantastic, Betu!" she replied, ruffling his hair gently. "You and Daddy make a great team."

—----

Akshara lay in bed, staring up at the ceiling, her mind filled with a whirlwind of emotions. That night, as Abhir decided to sleep with his real father, Abhimanyu, Akshara couldn't help but feel a mix of relief and confusion. It was a decision she had encouraged, hoping it would provide her and Abhinav with the much-needed space Abhinav seemed to crave. Yet, the conflicting emotions left her feeling unsettled.

As she lay there, she realized that she didn't feel comfortable enough with Abhinav to share a bed like a normal husband and wife should. It bothered her, and she wondered why they couldn't bridge this physical distance and how long can she avoid this. They had been through so much together, this is what she wanted but something seemed to have changed ever since Abhimanyu has apologized to her for every hurt he has caused. Her thoughts kept drifting back to Abhir and Abhimanyu, their interactions filled with warmth and love. Akshara couldn't deny that watching them together made her heart swell with joy. It was a dream she had nurtured years ago, to see Abhir and Abhimanyu, playing, laughing and being each other's confidants.

Abhimanyu's impending departure added another layer of complexity to her emotions. He had bought a house nearby, wanting to stay close to Abhir. The fact that he was making such efforts tugged at Akshara's heart, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of loss knowing he would soon be gone from their daily lives. It was as if the bond that had connected them during his stay here was slipping away.

Yet, Akshara constantly reminded herself of the reasons why she and Abhimanyu were not together anymore. She recalled the pain, the heartbreak, and the betrayal that had led them down separate paths. She loved Abhinav, her husband, and she knew he deserved all her love and attention. It was a constant struggle, reminding herself of their commitment to each other.