Heart of Two Brothers

chapter 2: The Fair's Unexpected Twist

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Priti's POV:

Today, Mom was home earlier than usual from the café. She had moved to the city a month before I did, wanting to settle things here before my arrival. I couldn't join her earlier because of my final exams in class 12th. It's always a bit complicated transferring from one school to another, especially from one city to another. But here I am now, ready to start fresh."Priti, come join me for dinner!"

Mom's voice called from the kitchen.

"Yeah, Mom, coming!" I replied, pulling on my clothes after a quick shower.

I decided to wear something comfortable yet traditional tonight. I pulled on a white top with delicate embroidery along the sleeves and neckline. It was soft and light, perfect for the warm evening. I paired it with a long, flowing red skirt that swished around my ankles as I moved. Finally, I draped a matching red scarf loosely over my shoulders. The outfit felt comfortable and familiar, reminding me of home.

Mom always insists we have at least one meal together every day. She's busy almost all day at the café, waking up early in the morning to prepare for the day's work. But no matter how busy she gets, she never fails to do her duty as a mother, making breakfast and dinner for me. I usually handle lunch when I get home, or occasionally grab something while I'm out. Still, she's very concerned about my eating habits, always reminding me not to indulge in fast food too often. You know how Indian mothers are. And honestly, she's right. I try to avoid it as much as I can, but sometimes the cravings get the better of me.

As I glanced at myself in the mirror, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of longing. It's been a month since we moved here, but I still miss Dad. I don't talk about it much with Mom, but it's always there, just beneath the surface. I shook the thought away, not wanting to dwell on it now. There was no need to open that part of my life to anyone-not yet.

I walked out of my room, the warmth of the shower still clinging to me, and entered the dining hall where Mom was already setting the table. She looked up with a smile as she placed a dish in front of me.

"Pihu, you didn't find it too difficult moving here, did you?" she asked, her tone gentle as she passed me the food.
I settled into my chair and smiled. "No, Mom, not much. There were a lot of boxes to unpack, but it's all fine now."

She nodded, her eyes briefly glancing at the wall clock. "Are you planning to go to the fair tonight? It's already 6:30."

"Yeah, I'm thinking of going early and coming back early," I responded, helping myself to the food.

Mom smiled warmly as she said, "That's nice. By the way, I made your favorite kheer tonight."

"Oooh, Mom, I love you!" I grinned, my heart warming at the gesture. "But you know you don't have to do this. I can start helping with the cooking. You're already tired from working at the café all day. I don't want you to overwork yourself.
She waved me off with a smile.

"There's nothing to bother about, Pihu. I want you to focus on your studies and your career, alright? I can manage this."

"Okay, Mom, if you say so."

We finished our dinner quietly, the room filled with the comforting sounds of clinking utensils and the aroma of freshly made food. Afterward, I grabbed my scarf and prepared to head out.

"Bye, Mom!" I called, turning to give her a final wave.

"Bye, Pihu. Come home early, alright? Stay safe," she said, her voice filled with that familiar motherly concern.