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The sun had barely risen, and Shubman Gill was fast asleep, nestled in his bed. The soft morning light crept through the curtains, casting a warm glow on the room. His sleep was abruptly interrupted by a small hand shaking his shoulder.
"Daddy, wake up!" Manvi's voice was muffled but persistent.
Shubman jolted awake, disoriented. "Huh? Did I oversleep? What time is it?"
Manvi shook her head, her little face slightly crestfallen. "No, Daddy. It's not that. Today's just the parent-teacher meeting, and it starts at 11 a.m. Our teacher said we need to come with both our parents."
Shubman's heart sank when he noticed the sadness in Manvi's eyes. He understood why she was upset—she had to bring both parents, but she only had him. The absence of her mother was a glaring void that Shubman felt acutely.
Before Shubman could respond, Manvi's small voice broke through. "Can we take Ashwini with us? She helps you with everything, and she's like a mom to me."
Shubman's heart ached at Manvi's request. He nodded, trying to keep his voice steady. "Okay, sweetheart. I'll call Ashwini after you've had your shower."
Manvi's eyes brightened slightly, and she scampered off to the bathroom. Shubman sighed, running a hand through his disheveled hair.
He glanced at the clock—there was just enough time to get Manvi ready and call Ashwini before they needed to leave.
After ensuring Manvi was scrubbed clean and dressed in her school uniform, Shubman picked up his phone and dialed Ashwini's number. The call connected after a few rings.
"Hey, Ashwini," Shubman said, trying to sound casual. "Manvi's got a parent-teacher meeting today. She's hoping you can come with us. Can you make it?"
Ashwini's voice was warm and gentle. "Oh, hi Shubman. I'm actually at the temple right now. I'll be done in a little while. If you can pick me up, I can come with you."
Shubman glanced at the time. "Alright, we'll head over there. I'll come get you before the meeting. Thanks, Ashwini."
As he ended the call, Shubman glanced at the clock again. It was almost 10:00 a.m. He turned to Manvi, who was eagerly waiting by the door. "Let's go get Ashwini, then we'll head to the school."
