Chapter 17

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Prabhneet Kaur

The decision to spend the night at my brothers' house was a choice I made with a sense of relief. There was something about being in their cozy abode that instantly put my mind at ease. The familiar scent of home, the comforting presence of my loved ones, and the warm ambiance of the place all contributed to a feeling of tranquility that I desperately needed.

As I settled into the guest room, I couldn't help but appreciate the fact that my grandparents also resided in this haven of serenity. Their gentle presence and wise words always had a way of soothing my troubled soul. Their home was a sanctuary, a place where worries seemed to dissipate and the weight of the world lifted off my shoulders. It was as if their love and wisdom formed an invisible shield around me, protecting me from the chaos of the outside world.

In the embrace of my brothers' house, surrounded by the love of my family, I found solace and peace. The worries that had plagued my mind earlier in the day gradually faded away, replaced by a sense of contentment and security. It was in this haven that I could truly relax, knowing that I was in the presence of those who cared for me deeply. The decision to stay the night here was undoubtedly the right one, for it brought me not only physical comfort but also a profound sense of emotional well-being.

"Good morning, dear Prabhi Bhua!" My mischievous nephew springs onto my bed, determined to rouse me from my slumber. With a smile on my face, I plant a gentle kiss on his rosy cheek, feeling the warmth of his innocent love. Scooping him up in my arms, I cradle him against my hip, his tiny hands clinging onto me tightly as we embark on our morning adventure.

As I slowly descend the staircase, each step creaking beneath my weight, I can't help but marvel at the beauty of this simple moment. The soft morning light filters through the windows, casting a warm glow on our surroundings. My nephew giggles with delight, his laughter echoing through the house, filling it with joy and anticipation for the day ahead.

With my nephew securely nestled against me, I make my way to the kitchen, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air. The sound of sizzling bacon greets my ears, a symphony of breakfast delights. As I prepare a hearty meal for us, I can't help but feel grateful for these precious moments spent with my nephew. In his innocent eyes, I see the promise of a new day, filled with endless possibilities and boundless love.

As I entered the kitchen, the delightful aroma of spices filled the air. My two sister-in-laws and brothers were busy preparing a scrumptious meal, their laughter and chatter creating a joyful atmosphere. Meanwhile, in a corner of the room, my grandparents were engrossed in their morning prayers, their serene faces reflecting their devotion.

Excitement bubbled within me as I approached my siblings, eager to join in their culinary adventure. I wrapped my arms around them, feeling their warmth and love. "How are you feeling, princess?" lalli paji, my caring brother-in-law, asked with a gentle smile.

With a mischievous grin, I replied, "I'm much better now. In fact, I think I'm going to stay here forever!" My words elicited chuckles from everyone around, their laughter echoing through the kitchen. Deep paji, my wise brother-in-law, chimed in, "Prabh, I'm telling you, just stay with us, and we'll all be happy. This kitchen will always be filled with love and laughter."

As the morning sun cast its warm glow through the windows, my brothers beckoned me to join them in a private conversation. With concerned expressions on their faces, they gently pulled me aside, creating a sense of anticipation in the air.

"Prabh, we've all been discussing this matter, and after much thought, we believe that it would be in your best interest to return to England," Lalli Paji spoke earnestly, his voice filled with genuine concern.

His words echoed in my mind, and I couldn't help but ponder the idea. England, a place I once called home, seemed like a distant memory. Yet, in light of the current situation in New York, where safety was becoming a growing concern, their suggestion held a certain logic.

Deep Paji, always the one to offer reassurance, chimed in, "Yes, Prabh, we promise that we'll make the effort to visit you. Distance won't keep us apart." His words carried a sense of comfort, as if he was trying to alleviate any worries that might be lingering in my heart.

Perhaps they were right. England, with its familiar streets and comforting embrace, could provide a sanctuary amidst the chaos that had engulfed New York. It wasn't home in the truest sense, but it offered a sense of security that I longed for.

As the thought of Aman's impending marriage crossed my mind, a wave of relief washed over me. If he were to tie the knot soon, it would mean that the pressure to marry him would dissipate. England suddenly seemed like a haven where I could find solace and escape the societal expectations that weighed heavily on my shoulders.

Taking a deep breath, I mustered the courage to voice my decision. "Okay, I'll move back to England," I declared, my voice filled with a mix of determination and a tinge of sadness. The words hung in the air for a moment, as if the room itself was processing the weight of my choice.

As I stood there, overwhelmed by the weight of the moment, my brothers instinctively gathered around me, pulling me into a tight embrace. It was a powerful gesture that spoke louder than any words could ever express. In that instant, I felt an unbreakable bond between us, a bond that would endure the test of time.

The warmth of their embrace enveloped me, filling my heart with a sense of security and belonging. It was as if their arms were a shield, protecting me from the uncertainties that lay ahead. In that precious moment, I realized that no matter what challenges I would face in life, my brothers would always be my pillars of strength, unwavering in their support and love.

As we stood there, locked in that heartfelt embrace, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The love and support radiating from my brothers was palpable, reassuring me that I was never alone in this journey called life. It was a beautiful reminder that no matter where our paths may lead us, our bond as siblings would forever remain unbreakable, a beacon of light guiding us through both the joys and sorrows that awaited us.

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