Here After!

Chapter 1: His Life

A few years ago, our family was the envy of everyone when my father was alive. He was my ultimate role model, epitomizing the ideal husband and father. In my 28 years of life, I failed to find a man who could measure up to him, until a few months ago. While every child believes their father is the best, mine was truly exceptional. He not only cared for us but also set a shining example of how to live life with integrity and love. Even the heavens seemed envious of our happiness, so they took him from us, plunging us into sorrow. His loss was a devastating blow, particularly for my 15-year-old self, my 19-year-old sister, and our grief-stricken mother. We felt like mere shells, barely existing.

Yet, I vividly recall the day when my mother transformed into a different person entirely. Through sheer determination and unwavering effort, she guided us towards a new beginning. It was a rebirth for all three of us, as she ensured that every aspect of our lives remained as perfect as they were when our father was alive. She never allowed us to feel his absence, empowering us to navigate life independently, both emotionally and financially.

As I reflect on our past struggles and cherished memories today, I realize that tomorrow marks the end of solitary contemplation. From then on, my thoughts will be shared with someone who will become my other half, someone who has the right to know my innermost thoughts, and with whom I'll spend the rest of my life. While I've strived to be a devoted son and a supportive brother to my mother and Gayathri, I now aspire to be an equally caring husband to Anannya.

Six months ago, my family embarked on a quest to find a suitable bride for me, and I entrusted my mother with the sole authority to search for the perfect match, with one condition: she should bear a resemblance, in character at least, to my dear mother. True to my hopes, my mother succeeded in discovering someone who exuded the same calm and composed demeanor as her. What impressed me even more was the character of her father, who, upon our initial encounter, immediately captivated me with his demeanor, evoking memories of my own father.

During our first visit to their home, her father warmly welcomed us. His personality and demeanor resonated deeply with me, evoking a sense of familiarity reminiscent of my own father. As we conversed with her family, we learned that they were eager to arrange Anannya's marriage within a two-month timeframe to alleviate concerns about her younger sister's impending marriage, scheduled for a later date. Anitta's fiancé's impending departure to the US prompted this urgency, propelling their family into a whirlwind search for a groom for Anannya.

When given the opportunity to speak privately with Anannya, I graciously declined, expressing my preference to wait until after the horoscopes were matched. Her visible relief at my response was palpable, and as we departed, I assured them we would await further communication after the horoscope assessments. On our journey home, when my mother inquired about my thoughts, I readily encouraged her to proceed if their family consented.

My sister Gayathri seemed to intuitively understand my sentiments, remarking, "It was her father who caught your attention, wasn't it, Giri?" Though I offered no verbal response, a smile conveyed my agreement as we made our way home. From there, things progressed swiftly, with both families conducting horoscope matching and several subsequent visits, culminating in the arrangement of our marriage.

We decided on a modest engagement ceremony, inviting only close family members, given the short timeframe of our impending marriage, scheduled within two months. Despite meeting several times during this period, opportunities for meaningful conversation were limited. Nevertheless, we made efforts to stay connected through messages and phone calls, albeit hindered by our differing work schedules—I work the morning shift while she works evenings. By the time I returned home from work, she would be leaving for hers, leaving little time for personal interaction amidst managing professional commitments and wedding preparations.

Having known each other for just two months, tomorrow marks the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. These thoughts flood my mind, perhaps fueled by pre-wedding nerves. Sleep eludes me, and I fear the consequences of sleep deprivation on the big day. Seeking solace, I turn to my mother, finding comfort in her presence. Without hesitation, I seek refuge in her room, where she welcomes me with open arms as if anticipating my arrival. Drifting off to sleep, I yearn for a future filled with peace and contentment.