Falling Softly

JOB HUNT

"I don't know, maa. He didn't even leave me any note or message," I said, balancing my phone on my shoulder and tilting my head to support it while I boiled water for instant noodles that I wanted to make for myself.

"You have a phone, just call him," she said to me, to which I didn't respond.

"Do you want me to call him?" she continued. My eyes widened, and I chuckled. "Noooo," I replied, not wanting to make a big deal out of it.

"Okay, tell me, what did you prepare for lunch?"

"I'm not very hungry; just making some noodles," I replied, wiping my sweat with my dupatta as I continued preparing the noodles.

"So, what did damadji take for lunch?" her voice turned slightly tense. "Don't tell me you packed noodles for his tiffin box."

My hands froze, brows furrowed in tension. The realization dawned on me, and sweat started to bead on my forehead. I placed my hand over my mouth. "Don't tell me you forgot to pack his tiffin," she said, sounding worried.

"Maa, I told you, I just woke up like 30 minutes ago."

"Poor guy! He will have to eat outside; that might affect his health. You have to take care, beta," I could hear concern in her voice.

"I know, I know. I will take care of it from now on," I assured her, feeling relieved at her understanding.

"How is the neighborhood? Are you liking it?" she asked.

"Yeah, it's okay. I haven't had much time to explore, but I like it," I replied.

It felt good to talk with my family. I made it a habit to call them first thing in the morning ever since I got married. After a while, I put my phone on charging and served myself noodles. Placing the plate in the living room, I turned on the TV and sat down to eat. To my surprise, it didn't have any cable connection. I tried to check if it supported any apps, but it was a simple TV that didn't support apps. I bit my lip in disappointment, switched off the TV, and enjoyed the noodles by myself.

The day passed by; I went out to fetch some groceries, cleaned the kitchen and living room, and then rested on the sofa with my laptop. I opened a few job portals and started registering myself on them. I also applied to a handful of companies and hoped to get replies soon.

In the evening, I sat beside the window and enjoyed the sunset, wondering at what time he might come home.

I started preparing dinner, making pulao and a vegetable salad hoping he would like it. I nearly fell off the couch when I heard the doorbell. Adjusting my dress, I approached the door. As I opened it, I saw him-his hair a bit messy, tiredness evident on his face. He stood there blank until I gave him space to come in. He placed his bag down and went to freshen up.

I served dinner and waited for him, stealing glances as he dried his face. He caught me looking and smiled; I smiled back. As we ate, he remained silent. I wanted to scream at him-why didn't you inform me earlier, and why are you so quiet all the time? But I controlled myself and took the initiative.

"So, how was your day?" I asked.

"Good," he replied, looking straight ahead and focusing on his food.

He could have asked him about my day, but I told him anyway, "I went out for groceries and later applied for a few jobs."

"You applied for a job?" His hand froze in mid-air, about to take a bite.

I was devastated; a million thoughts showered my mind. My eyes didn't blink. What! He doesn't want me to work? What the hell? Why did I say yes to this? I questioned my decision. Why? I asked myself. What is wrong with him?

His voice interrupted my inner dialogue and brought me back to the moment.

"It's just that I have an old friend who works in the same domain. I asked him to give you a referral. It's easier to get interviews through a reference," he explained.

I let out a big sigh; my head cooled down. The anxious thoughts dissolved. For a moment, I thought my life was ruined.

Thank you for reading :)