Crossroads of love: Enstranged or Adultery?

Between Worries and Warmth

Manik stepped out of the car, feeling the exhaustion of the last two hectic days at work. As he approached the front door, he took a deep breath, ringing the doorbell. Moments later, the door opened, and there stood Myeesha, beaming up at him.

Myeesha: Pa. (she exclaimed, her smile lighting up his tired face.)

Manik felt his heart swell with emotion as Myeesha threw her arms around him. He hugged her tightly, and she kissed his cheek, saying.

Myeesha: I missed you, Pa.

Manik: I missed you too, sweetheart. (Manik replied, his voice soft with affection. His exhaustion faded away, replaced by warmth and joy at seeing his daughter.)

Myeesha, still holding his hand, led him inside, chattering away. 

Myeesha: Pa, I want to eat something handmade. Will you cook for me?

Manik couldn't resist her request. 

Manik: Of course, anything for you.

As they walked toward the kitchen, Shrikant entered, greeting Manik with a nod. 

Shrikant: Manik, I need to tell you something. Prena called earlier. She mentioned Myeesha was feeling a little upset, so Nyonika and I thought it might be a good idea to take her on a short trip for a couple of days. Just to cheer her up.

Manik listened attentively, nodding in agreement. 

Manik: That sounds like a great idea. A change of scenery will be good for her.

Shrikant (continued.): We're planning to leave tomorrow. Prena's fine with it, she'll manage things here while we're away.

Manik (gave a thoughtful nod.):  Alright, that sounds good. Let me know if you need anything.

With that, Shrikant returned to his work, and Manik turned his attention back to Myeesha. He headed to the kitchen, gathering ingredients to prepare dinner for her. Myeesha watched eagerly as he cooked, and soon after, they sat down together.

Manik lovingly fed her the food, and they spent the evening talking, laughing, and enjoying each other's company. It was a peaceful, cherished moment between father and daughter.

Later that night, after their time together, Manik kissed Myeesha goodnight and they both retired to their respective rooms, content and ready for the day ahead.

****

The office was a hive of activity, but Manik was an island unto himself. He sat at his desk, a mountain of paperwork before him. His mind, however, was far away, lost in the labyrinth of his worries.

Suddenly, the door to his office creaked open, and Nandini stepped inside, holding a lunchbox. She watched him with concern. She knew Manik well enough to recognize when something was amiss. 

Nandini: Manik. (she began, her voice soft.) are you okay?

He looked up, his eyes tired and distant. 

Manik: Yeah, I'm fine. (He replied, trying to sound casual.)

Nandini wasn't convinced. 

Nandini: You've been acting a little off lately. Is it Myeesha?

Manik (sighed.): She's been upset. Dad and Mom are taking her away for a few days, but I can't help but worry.

Nandini reached across the desk and took his hand. 

Nandini: It's going to be okay, Manik. She'll be fine. A little change of scenery might do her good.

Manik nodded, but his expression remained somber.