Knowing His Wife

𝟒𝟐. 𝐃𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐬

No leap chapter 42.

[ Continuation of Chapter 41 ]

Yuvaani

I could see it in his eyes—the fear of losing me during the argument, and the concern for his kids. The way he conveyed his feelings with just a glance—no one else could do that. I know he's a very responsible father. He cares about his children deeply. He's never been apart from them since they were born, and his concern was how I would manage them all by myself. I'm grateful that when I took them with me, they weren't cranky, otherwise, it would have been difficult for me to handle. But I did manage them on my own.

The parent in Aarush speaks volumes. He truly seemed like the ideal father. Now, I understand why he felt so protective. If I were in his place—if I were a widow with a child and married someone else, even if my new husband was wonderful, I wouldn't easily let him take over the care of my child, especially outside the house. Indoors, maybe. But at least Aarush trusted me. He never once said, "Don't take my kids with you."

The realization hit like iron smashed on glass. I felt guilty to argue with him and doubt his intentions. Maybe he trusts me more than I do to him. I sighed and checked the time.

2:09 am.

I should sleep. I've been overthinking too much. I turned over to face him. He was sleeping peacefully, without a care in the world. Being close to him every day has shown me how good he is as a person. He takes care of his parents, looks after his kids, builds a business from scratch, and cares for me. He hugs me, kisses me, makes me feel loved and valued. A person who genuinely cares for me. My heart swelled with pride, knowing that I am his wife. I love him—perhaps even more than I realize.

Slowly, I reached out, my fingers grazing his face. I felt the light stubble on his skin, caressing his cheeks softly, trying not to wake him. He stirred a little, his eyes fluttering open.

"You haven't slept yet?" he asked in his sleepy voice which was soft and inviting.

"No," I whispered.

"I am sorry I woke you up" I added.

"Come here" he murmured.

I scooted closer, and he wrapped his arms around me. Our bodies pressed together, his warmth drawing me in like a magnet. I snuggled into his neck and kissed it lightly. He continued to caress my back, planting a soft kiss on my head. His touch lulled me into sleep, and soon, I drifted off.

___

I felt something heavy on me- when I dazily open my eyes, I say Pihu sitting on my stomach, and Aarush's hands were on her body, but he was fast asleep.

I woke him up and asked why he brought her here, to the reply he said she woke up and was crying.

I sat on bed, with my eyes half closed, and hugged her and patted her to sleep.

She cooked her baby voices and stood on my lap and put her fingers in my eyes. I instantly woke up and looked at her with furrowed brows.

"Ma" she said and smiled.

She just needs my attention, I guess.

I glanced at the clock which read 5:35 am.

"Itne jaldhi nahi uthna tha baby, sleep" I began patting her, but she swatted my hands. She didn't want to sleep.

[ you didn't have to wake up this early, baby. Sleep ]

Sighing, I got up and went to the kitchen to have water. I attached the glass to her lips, hoping she would drink. She did and looked at the surroundings.