Sequel of chapter 5
Ananya, after receiving her son's approval for marriage, embarked on a heartfelt quest to find the perfect match for him. She poured over countless matrimonial profiles, meticulously examining every detail. Yet, despite her diligence, none seemed to resonate with her as the one meant for her son.
One fateful day, while visiting an orphanage to make a donation, she encountered a young woman who instantly caught her attention. The young woman was kneeling beside an elderly resident, gently wiping her hands and speaking to her in a voice filled with kindness and patience. Her beauty was undeniable—her radiant smile exuded warmth, and her eyes held an ocean of compassion.
Ananya paused, captivated by the sight before her.
“She is so beautiful,” Ananya murmured, her gaze lingering on the young woman.
The orphanage manager, standing beside her, nodded with a gentle smile. “Beautiful things are often lost to people. She was abandoned by her parents as a baby, left at a bus stand. But she has turned her life into something extraordinary.”
Ananya’s eyes filled with admiration. “She seems so selfless. Who is she?”
“Her name is Ahalya. Despite her challenging start in life, she has built a successful career as a software engineer. On weekends, she’s here, giving back to the place that gave her shelter and raising spirits with her care.”
A lump formed in Ananya’s throat. “Can I… can I adopt her?” she asked impulsively.
The manager chuckled, taken aback. “Adopt her? Are you serious?”
“I am,” Ananya replied with conviction. “I want her to be part of my family.”
“As her parents?” the manager asked, still surprised.
Ananya’s eyes twinkled with a blend of warmth and resolve. “More than that. A woman’s parents typically care for her until her marriage. But I want to be the parent who will care for her until my last breath.”
The manager looked at her quizzically. “What do you mean?”
Ananya smiled and replied softly, “I want her to be my daughter-in-law. But more than that, I want to love her like the daughter I never had. Not just as someone marrying into our family, but as someone who truly becomes a part of it.”
Later, as Ananya watched Ahalya from a distance, she gathered her courage and approached her. The young woman turned, her face lighting up with curiosity.
“Hello,” Ananya greeted warmly. “I’m Ananya Pawar.”
“Hello, Ma’am,” Ahalya replied politely, wiping her hands on her dupatta. “How can I help you?”
“I couldn’t help but notice your dedication,” Ananya began. “It’s rare to see someone so young giving so much of themselves to others.”
Ahalya smiled humbly. “This place raised me. It’s the least I can do.”
Ananya hesitated for a moment, then said, “I know this may sound unusual, but I came here today looking for something, and I think I’ve found it.”
Ahalya tilted her head, confused. “Found what, Ma’am?”
Ananya took a deep breath. “I came here looking for a daughter. My son, Ashwath, has agreed to get married, and I’ve been searching for the right person for him. After seeing you, I believe you might be the one.”
Ahalya froze, her eyes widening in shock. “Ma’am, I…” she stammered.
“Please,” Ananya interrupted gently, “don’t feel pressured. I’m not asking you to decide right now. I just want you to meet him. You’re both adults, and I trust you’ll make the decision that feels right for you.”
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THE END
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