YOU AND ME

Amina

The living room is filled with the usual chatter. Ayush sits next to me on the couch, his hand resting lightly on my knee, a subtle gesture of support. The air smells of freshly brewed tea, and the soft hum of voices creates a comfortable background as family members settle into their seats.

Ayush’s mother stands at the front of the room, her presence commanding attention. There’s an unusual spark in her eyes, and I know she’s got something planned. I glance at Ayush, sensing that this isn’t going to be a casual discussion.

“Amina, Ayush, everyone,” she begins, a smile playing on her lips. “I’ve called you all here because there’s something important I want to discuss.”

I sit up a little straighter, my curiosity piqued. Beside me, Ayush shifts, leaning forward, his eyebrows knitting together in thought.

“As you all know, Ayush and Amina never had the chance to go on their honeymoon after they got married,” she says, her voice warm and full of excitement. “And, as their mother, I feel it’s my responsibility to fix that.”

The room falls silent, and my heart drops a little. A honeymoon? Now? I’m four and a half months pregnant, and the idea of traveling doesn’t sit right with me. I glance at Ayush, who is staring intently at his mother, his lips pressed into a thin line.

“A honeymoon?” I ask hesitantly, my voice soft but confused. “But Aunty, I’m not sure this is the right time.”

Her eyes meet mine, filled with a mix of determination and affection. “I know you’re pregnant, Amina, but this is exactly why you both need to go now. Once the baby comes, you won’t have the time or energy for a trip. Trust me, my dear, I’ve been there.”

I glance at Ayush, hoping he’ll jump in, but he stays silent, his hand still resting on mine. He’s listening, but I can tell he’s as unsure as I am.

“Aunty,” I begin, choosing my words carefully, “I understand what you’re saying, but it just doesn’t feel right to travel when I’m this far along. Plus, my mother is coming next month to help with the baby and be with me during delivery.”

Ayush’s mother waves a dismissive hand, as though the matter of timing is insignificant. “Amina, I want to give you both something special before your lives change completely. You’ll be busy, exhausted, and so focused on the baby that you won’t have a moment for yourselves.”

I open my mouth to protest again, but she continues, her voice taking on a pleading tone. “Please, my heart will be at ease if you go. I’ve already made plans. The trip is close to home—a luxurious resort near Delhi. It’s peaceful, private, and the perfect place for you two to relax before everything gets hectic.”

I feel my chest tighten. She’s already made plans? I look at Ayush, hoping he’ll say something, anything to support my hesitation. But he only looks at me, his expression torn.

“I don’t know,” I say, my voice faltering. “I’m just not sure it’s the right time. Traveling while pregnant feels... risky.”

Ayush’s mother walks over to us, her eyes soft as she crouches down to meet my gaze. “Amina, I want you and my son to have these moments. You deserve them. I didn’t get to give you the chance before, and I regret it. This is my way of making up for that. Trust me, you’ll be safe. The resort is not far, and it’s perfect for a short trip.”

I can see the sincerity in her eyes, the way she’s practically begging me to accept this gift. I bite my lip, torn between my instinct to stay close to home and the desire to please her.

“Ayush,” I say softly, turning to him. “What do you think?”

He exhales slowly, rubbing the back of his neck. “Mom, we appreciate what you’re trying to do. But Amina’s right—she’s far along in her pregnancy. Maybe it’s better if we wait until after the baby is born.”