Love Me Like You Do

Quitting Wine

The next day they went ice fishing. The group arrived at the frozen lake, where the sunlight shimmered on the icy surface, promising a day of excitement and bonding. The seasoned guide welcomed them, stressing the importance of caution due to varying ice thickness.

Josh and Daniel, enthusiasts of fishing, eagerly seized the opportunity. With the augers in hand, they ventured to find the optimal fishing spots, while Kate, Gia, and Shivi stood at a safe distance, eager to witness the adventure unfold.

Shivi, always conscientious, expressed her concern about the ice's thickness. The guide reassured her and emphasized the need to be vigilant and measure the ice's thickness before proceeding to a new spot.

Josh and Daniel carefully checked the ice, ensuring it was safe for fishing. The sound of the augers soon echoed as they drilled the holes, and the family watched with anticipation, knowing that this would be a day they'd fondly remember.

Though Josh was doing fine, Shivi's eyes had deep concern regarding his safety, which was evident in her eyes and Kate clearly noticed it.

As the holes were prepped and the fishing lines cast, they all huddled together in a cozy spot, sharing stories and laughter while the sun climbed higher. The guide shared tales of remarkable catches and the magic of ice fishing, further heightening their excitement.

Hours passed, and the thrill of the catch became more palpable. Suddenly, Josh's fishing rod twitched, and the adventure truly began. With Shivi, Gia, and Daniel eagerly looking on, he skillfully reeled in a fish, a glistening prize from the depths beneath the ice.

Amidst cheers and smiles, they admired the catch and later released it back into the lake, grateful for the experience and the memories they had made together.

As they sat at the table for lunch, they engaged in casual conversation. Suddenly, Josh had a mild cough, and Shivi's immediate reaction was to reach out and hand him a glass of water, even though it was right in front of him. While he sipped on the water, she smoothly pulled a tissue from the box and handed it to him, all while continuing her conversation with the others. There was no obligation for her to do these things, and Josh certainly wasn't a child who required such care. However, it wasn't a matter of fulfilling a duty as a partner; it was driven by her genuine concern for him.

Shivi had initially feared she would always feel uncomfortable around her in-laws, but to her surprise, she found herself enjoying their company. She felt as comfortable with them as she did with Josh. When Kate ordered wine for everyone, the waiter placed a glass in front of each person except for Gia. Shivi politely declined the wine.

Josh chimed in, showing a deep understanding of her preferences, "She'll have an orange juice with no sugar and no ice."

Shivi turned to him, pleasantly surprised that he knew her so well. The waiter acknowledged Josh's request, and he was about to pour wine into his glass. However, Josh placed his hand over the wine glass, signaling to stop. He then looked at Shivi once more and said, "Maybe make it two orange juices."

Shivi raised her eyebrows in astonishment, and Daniel and Kate paused in their meal, sharing a surprised look.

Still gazing at her, Josh softly said, "I don't know if I'll be able to give you the gift you asked for, but I promise I will try my best."

Shivi turned crimson. In the past, she had blushed when he got physically close to her, but this time, it felt like he was not just getting close to her body but possibly touching her very soul with his sweet gesture.

Daniel interjected with a teasing tone, "Seriously, you're giving up on wine?"

Josh replied with determination, "Well, I'm trying."

With her wine glass in her hand, Kate teased, saying, "You should, Josh. Shivya is right. I completely support her, unless she's pressuring me to do the same."

Laughter filled the room.

Daniel continued the light-hearted banter, saying, "Anni, if you ever think about telling it to me, maybe start seeing me as a brother-in-law and forget you ever tied a Rakhi."

The room erupted in laughter once more. Shivi looked at Josh, and her eyes spoke volumes, her love for him multiplying fivefold. She knew how significant this decision was for him. An Italian giving up wine was like a child giving up chocolate. She squeezed his hand, which rested on his lap.

She then took her phone and texted him, "I love you."

Josh read the message, chuckled, and said, "You know you can say it aloud in front of my family. It's not a secret. You've broken all your boundaries and traveled miles to an unknown place, and they know it's because of love."

Shivi looked into his eyes, kissed him on the cheek, and said, "I love you."

Josh replied, "I love you more, sweetheart."

Everyone in the room felt happy seeing their affectionate exchange, and they continued to chat about various topics. At one point, Josh's fork fell to the ground, and as he bent down to pick it up, Shivi discreetly placed her hand at the edge of the table to prevent him from accidentally hurting his head as he bent. Kate observed every behavior of Shivya and understood how naturally caring she was around him.

*****

As the time came for Josh's family to leave, Shivi couldn't hold back her tears. She was sobbing like an Indian bride during her "Bidaai" ceremony. This was the first time she experienced unconditional love.

Josh couldn't help but wonder if it was her family or his family that was departing. Shivi hugged everyone and handed Kate a paper with a list of ingredients for the hair oil and also the detailed process to make it.

Shivya said amid her tears "I am going to miss every one of you. I really don't know what I can give you back for the affection you guys are showering. This is more than I deserve. I am very lucky to have all of you.

Kate rubbed her back and said "Shivya you are much more amazing than you think. In my eyes you are flawless. You are beautiful, good-hearted, sweet, and loving. And most of all, you care about Josh in a way even I can't do. Here on I just need to worry about two other kids. This kid got his life sorted. We are lucky to have you. And never ever think you don't have anyone. This family of yours will always be there for you. I promise. "