#MaAn: A flight of fate

||10|| The Second Chance & Nana Nani's Anniversary

As the days turned into weeks, Anupama began to notice a subtle tension in the household. Despite her father's promise to be more understanding and supportive, there were moments when his disapproval of Anuj still shone through. It was in the way Madhav would avoid making eye contact with Anuj, the terse replies, and the way he would leave the room when Anuj entered. Anupama couldn't help but feel the strain this was placing on their efforts to rebuild their family.

One evening, after dinner, Anupama decided it was time to confront her father about his lingering feelings. She found him in his study, going through some papers.

"Papa, can we talk?" she asked, her voice gentle yet firm.

Madhav looked up, a hint of apprehension in his eyes. "Of course, beta. What's on your mind?"

Anupama took a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions. "Papa, I've noticed that you're still having a hard time accepting Anuj. I understand that it's difficult, but he's trying so hard to be a part of this family. Can't you see that?"

Madhav sighed, leaning back in his chair. "Anupama, it's not that I don't see his efforts. I do. But it's hard to forget everything that happened. The pain he caused you and the kids... it's not something I can easily move past."

Anupama sat down across from him, her eyes pleading. "Papa, I know it's hard. But holding onto that anger isn't helping anyone. It's only making things more difficult for all of us. Can't you try to give him a chance? For me, for Aarav, and for Anu?"

Madhav looked into his daughter's eyes, seeing the depth of her love and pain. After a long pause, he nodded slowly. "Alright, beta. I'll try. For you and the children, I'll give him a chance."

Anupama felt a surge of relief, tears welling up in her eyes. "Thank you, Papa. That means so much to me."

---

**A Mother's Love**

The next morning, Sushma found Anuj in the kitchen, making himself a cup of tea. She smiled warmly and walked over to him.

"Anuj, can we have a little chat?" she asked, her voice filled with warmth.

Anuj looked up, nodding. "Of course, Aunty. What's on your mind?"

Sushma sat down at the kitchen table, gesturing for Anuj to join her. "I wanted to talk to you about Madhav. I know he's been... difficult. But I want you to know that I see how hard you're trying, and I appreciate it."

Anuj sat down, a sense of comfort washing over him. "Thank you, Aunty. It means a lot to hear that."

Sushma reached out and took his hand, her touch gentle. "You are like a son to me, Anuj. I've seen the love and care you have for Anupama and the children. I believe in you, and I'm here to support you."

Anuj felt a lump in his throat, overwhelmed by her kindness. "Thank you, Aunty. I promise I'll do everything I can to be worthy of your trust."

Sushma smiled, her eyes twinkling. "I know you will, beta. Now, let's focus on making this family whole again."

---

**A Special Announcement**

Later that day, Anupama gathered the children in the living room. Aarav and Anu looked at her with curious eyes, wondering what their mother wanted to tell them.

"Kids, I have some exciting news," Anupama said, her face lighting up with a smile. "In a few days, it's Nana and Nani's wedding anniversary. We're going to celebrate it as a family."

Aarav's eyes widened with excitement. "Really, Mama? Can we have a party?"

Anu clapped her hands, her face beaming. "And cake! We need a big cake!"