JOURNEY FROM YOU TO US

✦ | CHAPTER 38 | ✦

Karthik's POV 

March is ending, and today my mummy and daddy are going back to Hyderabad. And there is a gut feeling inside me that Vennela actually knows that the day after tomorrow is my birthday. Mummy and daddy were a little helpful for her to get well both physically and mentally. Finally, two to three nights of complete talks, and few sobs little encouragement and lots of support were the things she needed. 

We both dropped them off at the airport on the evening flight to Hyderabad. Our talks were emotional, they were only present with us this one month because, they were scared of me that how would I take it. One afternoon we three together talked with my parents, exactly the day after she told me about her past. 

Taking a deep breath, I looked at my parents, feeling a mix of determination and vulnerability. "Mummy, daddy, there's something I need to talk to you about. It's about Vennela and what happened."

My parents exchanged worried glances before mummy spoke. "Karthik, we've been concerned too. We know Vennela is hurt, but we feel there's more to it than just a physical injury."

I nodded, feeling the weight of their expectations. "You're right. It's not just about her injury. There's a lot more that we've been dealing with."

I started narrating everything that we talked. Their expressions were changing from understanding to feel a sense of empathy for her. They felt a lot much sorry for her. 

Mummy leaned forward, her eyes filled with compassion. "Karthik, Vennela is part of our family now. We must support her, just as we support you. She's been through a lot, and it's our duty to help her heal, not just physically, but emotionally as well."

I felt a wave of relief wash over me. "I know, Mummy, I love her so much, and I want to be there for her. But it's been difficult to process everything. I feel guilty for not knowing sooner, for not being able to protect her."

Daddy spoke up, his tone wise and reassuring. "Karthik, marriage is a journey filled with challenges. What matters is how you face them together. Vennela's past is a part of who she is, but it doesn't define your future together. You both need to communicate openly and honestly. That's the foundation of any strong relationship."

I nodded, feeling the truth of his words. "I understand, daddy. And I'm trying. I want to rebuild that trust and make sure she knows she can always come to me with anything."

As the conversation drew to a close, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for my parents' wisdom and support. We all agreed to focus on creating a nurturing and loving environment for Vennela, one where she could heal and feel secure.

Leaving my parents' room, I made my way back to Vennela, my heart filled with resolve. I knew the road ahead would be challenging, but with my parents by our side and my love for Vennela as my guide, I felt ready to face whatever came next. 

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Present

"Jagratha Mavayya garu, Athaiyya garu" she said. She held my hands. 

My Mummy made fun about Vennela's Chai, "Maa vadu Chai lo uppu veskodu, chekkera veyyu. Biyyam, okatiki 2 glasses, Kuralu jagrathaga enchuko, elago naaku telsu vedu bagha vonduthadani so don't worry" we all laughed, and Vennela hugged her and put a sad face. She was being roasted by my mother for her little poor cooking skills. Anyways I love cooking, I will cook for us. (He drinks tea with sugar, not salt. Rice needs 2 glasses for a cup. Select vegetables carefully, I assure you he cooks much better). 

After a lot of talks happened, it was time for them to get inside the airport, we assured them that we would remain here until they complete their security check and settle themselves at a place. We both found seats and anyway it was burning a lot today, Bangalore weather is cooler, but today was really hot.