Here After!

11. Reflection and Insightful Learnings

Giri

As we traveled homeward, the atmosphere inside the car was filled with a mix of contemplation and curiosity. Thoughts raced through my mind about the events of the day and the challenges that lay ahead. Meanwhile, Mom remained focused on the road, her expression unreadable.

Arriving home, we were greeted by the familiar sight of our surroundings, yet there was a subtle tension in the air, hinting at the impending discussions that awaited us. As they unpacked the purchases and settled back into the comfort of our home, the quietude enveloped us, giving me a moment to reflect on the day's events and contemplate the uncertain future.

I sat on the chair, bracing myself for my mother's anger, but she completely ignored me, engrossed in a conversation with Anu, offering her advice and suggestions. I felt disconnected from their discussion, unable to grasp its content.

Observing Anu heading towards our room, I understood it was my turn. However, my mother continued to disregard me, busying herself in another room with the items she had purchased, seemingly restocking our supplies.

After a few minutes, Anu emerged, appearing refreshed. She shared a smile with me, which I returned in kind. As she headed to the kitchen, my mother appeared, casting a disapproving glance in my direction and instructing me to go to our room. Without a word, I simply nodded and obeyed, retreating to the room as instructed.

Aware of my mistake, I acknowledged the fact that my actions contradicted my mother's clear aversion to seeing me intoxicated. Although she had granted me permission to drink, it came with the strict condition that I do so only when she wasn't present. Succumbing to peer pressure today, I indulged in a couple of drinks, disregarding her wishes.

Now, as I pondered the consequences of my actions, I couldn't help but wonder how Anu would react. With these thoughts weighing heavily on my mind, I retreated to the shower, hoping to clear my head, before eventually lying down on the bed, awaiting Anu's arrival with a mix of apprehension and uncertainty.

After waiting for more than 30-40 minutes and realizing that Anu hadn't returned to the room, I decided to check on her. As I stepped out, I noticed Mom emerging from her room and heading to another room in the house. This particular room had been reserved for Gayu in the past, but it was not exclusive to her; rather, it was designated for all the ladies of the household.

This room held a special significance—it was a space specifically set up for women during their monthly cycle. The idea stemmed from my father, who wanted to ensure that the women in our family had a comfortable place to rest during this time. When I was younger, our grandmother had strict orthodox beliefs and didn't allow women to engage in any activities or even stay in the main rooms of the house during their menstruation. In response to her behavior, my father took it upon himself to renovate one of the rooms and equip it with all the necessary amenities.

He ordered special beds, and installed a TV, air conditioning, and even a mini refrigerator, ensuring that the room was always well-stocked and comfortable. His philosophy was simple but profound: women deserved proper rest and care during their menstrual cycles, and he made it his mission to provide that for his wife and daughter, setting a standard of care and respect that resonated throughout our household.

Seeing Mom replenishing the supplies earlier should have served as a clue, but now I found myself uncertain whether my assumptions were correct or not. With a heart filled with contemplation, I called out to Mom, causing her to turn back and inquire about my query. With a hint of hesitation, I asked about Anu's whereabouts.

Mom informed me that Anu was inside and encouraged her to rest. Nodding in acknowledgment, she bid Anu a good night and Mom proceeded to her room. I followed her, my mind still grappling with questions and uncertainties.

As I entered Mom's room, a sense of tension lingered in the air, overshadowing the familiar comfort of home. Mom busied herself with some tasks, her demeanor guarded yet composed. Sensing her apprehension, I struggled to find the right words to broach the topic weighing heavily on my mind.

Summoning my courage, I confessed my past actions to Mom, expressing my concerns about the potential consequences they might entail. To my astonishment, Mom listened with keen attention, concluding with a gentle reminder, "I hope you won't repeat this mistake again," emphasizing her reluctance to witness her son in such a state.

After Mom's gentle reminder, a solemn silence enveloped the room, punctuated only by the faint hum of the air conditioner. I absorbed her words, feeling a mixture of remorse and determination stirring within me. With a nod of understanding, I assured her that I would strive to learn from my mistakes and make amends.

Exiting that discussion, I cautiously broached the topic again, "Mom, what about Anu? Is she staying there because of me being drunk?" I inquired, my words laced with hesitation. Mom simply shook her head in denial and replied, "She's staying there, and your assumption is correct. I hope you didn't trouble her yesterday and refrain from disturbing her for the next three days. I trust I won't need to offer further guidance on this matter."

"Sure Mom, I'll just check her and then head back to my room. If she needs anything, please just stay with her in that room. After all, she's new here," I stated, albeit with some hesitation.

"Oh, so now you realize she's new here? Where was that brain of yours earlier?" Mom quipped in response.

"Amma, please, let's not go there anymore," I pleaded, hoping to put an end to the exchange.

With a sigh, Mom softened her expression, realizing the tension in the air. "Alright, just make sure you handle it properly," she said, her tone more gentle now.

Nodding in acknowledgment, I headed towards Anu's room, my mind filled with a mix of apprehension and determination. As I approached the door, I took a deep breath, preparing myself for the conversation ahead.

"Anu!" I called out as I entered the room. She looked up, acknowledging my presence, and shifted to sit on the bed. Taking a seat opposite her, I attempted to start the conversation.

"If you need anything, just let me know. Otherwise, feel free to ask Mom. I can ask her to stay with you," I offered.

"No, no, she's also tired. Let her rest. I can manage on my own," Anu replied, declining my offer of assistance.

Respecting her wishes, I nodded in understanding. "Alright, just remember I'm here if you need anything," I assured her with a reassuring smile. With that, I rose from the bed and made my way back to my own room. Before leaving, I leaned in and planted a gentle kiss on Anu's forehead, wishing her a good night's rest. Then, with a sense of reassurance, I left her to rest peacefully.