Shadows of The Heart

CHAPTER 7

you will never understand the damage you did until someone else does the same to you, that's why I'm here.

~karma

***

"Who's this?" 

Aarav asks Maya, as she was showing her childhood album.

Maya: "They... they are my parents"

Aarav: "But these are your parents too. Why do they look different?" Aarav asked innocently.

"These are my biological parents" she replied swallowing the knot forming in her throat "and these are my adopted parents" she said pointing towards the two different photos.

The soft glow of the night lamp bathed the room in a warm, comforting light as Maya sat beside him, their silhouettes softened by the gentle ambiance.

Maya: "What's on your mind sweety?"

Aarav hesitated for a moment before gathering his thoughts, his eyes reflecting a mix of innocence and curiosity.

Aarav: "W-Why do you have so many parents? I have only my dad."

Maya's heart melted at Aarav's question, realizing the delicate nature of the topic for the young boy.

Maya: "Aarav, you have something very special. You have your dad who loves you more than anything in the world."

Aarav nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips as he thought about his uncle.

Aarav: "Yeah, dad is the best. He's always there for me."

Maya's gaze softened as she spoke with gentle reassurance.

Maya: "That's right, Aarav. Family is not just about who we're born to; it's about the people who love and care for us deeply."

Aarav's eyes sparkled with curiosity, wanting to understand more about the concept of family.

Aarav: "You do have a big family, Maya di"

Maya smiled, her own memories intertwining with her words as she spoke.

Maya: "My family is not very big sweetheart. But I have someone special like your dad who has always been there for me, just like he's there for you."

Aarav's face lit up with understanding, his trust in Aryan unwavering.

Aarav: "My dad does everything a dad would do."

Maya: "What do you mean Aarav? He is your dad, of course he would do everything for his son" 

Aarav hesitated for a moment, his eyes reflecting a mix of innocence and a hint of determination.

Aarav: "Can I tell you a secret?"

Maya's heart skipped a beat, intrigued by Aarav's sudden seriousness.

Maya: "Of course, Aarav. You can tell me anything."

Aarav took a deep breath, gathering his courage.

Aarav: "I know something about dad and my parents that no one talks about."

Maya's eyes widened slightly, a mix of confusion and curiosity in her expression.

Maya: "What do you mean, Aarav? What secret?"

Aarav glanced around the room as if ensuring no one else was listening before leaning closer to Maya.

Aarav: "He is not my real dad. He is my real dad's twin brother. My parents... they're not here because of a bad person. Dad doesn't like to talk about it, but I heard him talking to Grandpa once."