Love's Untold Symphony

Part 9

It had been three months since they got married. She couldn't believe how well their mix of sweet and sour moments had turned into a beautiful marriage. Before tying the knot, she had lots of doubts in her mind—would he understand her, support her singing career, and could she keep her identity a secret forever? Deep down, she knew she couldn't hide who she was forever. It was time to break out of her shell of fear, and with her clear mind and her husband's support, she felt ready for whatever the future held.

She remembered the room where they spent their first night after the wedding. It was surprising how her husband showed two sides that night—one, determined to keep their relationship not involving his heart, and the other, just wanting to be close to her. Even though she didn't object, she couldn't forget the way they looked at each other that night. What was even more surprising was how caring he was afterward. He held her close, comforting her in a way she had never experienced before. It brought tears to her eyes because she had always been alone, creating imaginary friends and living in her own world since she could remember.

Thinking about her past was something she rarely did nowadays. The pain that used to come with those memories had lessened, replaced by excitement for the future. She looked forward to experiencing childhood again, this time with her own baby. She didn't know if she would spoil her child, but she was determined to give her baby all the love and care she had longed for growing up.

Leaving the bed, she walked to the balcony, opening the sliding door to feel the chilly air. She hugged herself, enjoying the goosebumps on her skin. A smile spread across her face as she realized that her life had finally become normal. Closing her eyes, she soaked in the natural surroundings, feeling content. Suddenly, she sensed a familiar presence and felt a warm hug from behind.

"I can't ask for anything more from life," she whispered, keeping her eyes closed. The response didn't come right away; there was a pause, and the grip in her stomach tightened. She rested her head on his shoulder.

"I just want to stay here forever, wrapped in your arms, feeling secure, loved, and confident that nothing will change even after I open my eyes," she continued, genuinely meaning every word. A soft kiss landed on her head. Suddenly, her cravings interrupted her thoughts—curd rice with gulab jamuns.

"My food," she asked, turning around abruptly. Their eyes met, and instantly, she sensed something was amiss. It wasn't due to any psychological expertise but rather a pain that pierced her heart.

"Did something happen? What's going on with you?" she asked her tone alert, placing her hand on his cheek. His gaze remained fixed on her.

"Nothing! I brought what you ordered, my queen!" he replied, guiding her to a bean bag on the balcony. He swiftly went inside and returned with a plate containing two bowls—one filled with gulab jamuns, and the other with curd rice, complete with seasoning. Her mouth watered, but she resisted, sensing the underlying reason for his sudden change in mood. Seating himself on the cold floor, he turned toward her, scooping up a spoonful of curd rice and a small piece of gulab jamun, offering it to her. However, she hesitated, not accepting it.

"First, tell me what happened," she asked him.

"It's just..." He paused. "Rudru got emotional with this happy news, and he couldn't stop missing Badi-maa. I consoled him, and in turn, got emotional," he explained, laying his head on her lap. Sensing his emotions, she moved closer and settled on his lap.